Honda VTX Series

The Honda VTX series is a line of Honda V-twin cruiser motorcycles inspired by the Zodia concept shown at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show. The Honda VTX 1800 was introduced in 2002 , and a smaller 1300 cc version was introduced in 2003. At the time this bike was introduced the Honda VTX 1800 engine was the largest displacement production V-Twin engine in the world, with the largest pistons ever produced for a car or a motorcycle. This title didn't last long however as the displacement race still continues today. There are several differently styled models available for each displacement class.


Features

The VTX series has a muscular looking body, it is quite long and low to the ground featuring significant rake and trail. The 1800 puts out 120 ft·lbf of torque at only 3500 rpm and 106 bhp @ 5000 rpm, making the VTX series one of the more powerful production V-twin motorcycles of its time.

On the VTX 1800, Honda updated its linked braking feature, instead of having the usual separate hand and foot brakes, the hand brake operates two-thirds of the front pistons while the foot operates the other third in front and all the rear via a proportioning valve. The throttle is updated with Honda's new Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system, using a vacuum sensor within the first ten percent of opening to more precisely meter torque, until the standard throttle position sensor takes over.

The VTX 1300 uses standard unlinked brakes, with a single large front disk. The 1300 also uses a carburetor unlike the fuel injected 1800, and therefore is much simpler in terms of design. Although the engine is similar to the 1800, it is not just a smaller bore/stroke but a different design.


Criticisms

The VTX series has a small back seat and provides few luxuries for passengers. It also features a soft suspension with short travel which fails to smooth bigger bumps despite mitigating mild roughness. The VTX also has an unusual key placement.