Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission vs Harley-Davidson Sportster S (2026)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmissionstacks up against the Harley-Davidson Sportster S. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch TransmissionHarley-Davidson Sportster S
Model year20122026
Price$16,500
Engine1237 cc1250 cc
Horsepower121 hp
Torque129 Nm127 Nm
Weight228 kg
Seat height32 mm753 mm
Fuel capacity4.9 L11.8 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed6-speed manual
Front brakesDouble disc. 6-piston callipers, C-ABS and sintered metal pads Dual 320mm discs
Rear brakesSingle disc. 2-piston calliper, C-ABS and sintered metal pads Single 260mm disc
Tires120/70-ZR17 / 190/55-ZR17 160/70-17 front, 180/70-16 rear

Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission vs Harley-Davidson Sportster S — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission brings its published horsepower, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster S counters with 121 hp at 228 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: