2007 Honda VTX 1300c User Review
Recently I have been disappointed in how hard it has been to really find an online review with any real content. Usually the reviews that people find when they spend just a few minutes of time online are written by a hired copy writer with the intent to gain profit. I would like to offer up a few reviews here and there on things I purchase or use. The following is for the motorcycle listed in the title of the article. To warn you, it really won’t have a ton of critical and negative information since I have love almost everything about the bike.
The Size
I was initially pretty worried about getting a bike with such a large motor, largely in part because of the sheer weight which drops in at 641 lbs. and the possibility of having too much power. When I started test driving them though, it was immediately apparent that Honda did an excellent job of balancing everything to make the bike extremely smooth and easy to handle. If you stand the bike up straight to move it with out starting it, or just take it out on a ride, you will notice it feels like a much lighter motorcycle than it really is but with the benefit of actually weighing more. Yes, there are a lot of benefits to having a bike that weighs more. Freeway driving is more solid even in windy conditions; pot holes and debris are less likely to affect steering, passenger weight effects handling less, etc. This is the largest motorcycle I have ever driven, but I have gone on plenty of rides on smaller bikes and have had absolutely no problem adjusting to the total 1312 cc’s my VTX has.
I am 6′4″ and really wanted a bike I fit on well because I feel so ridiculous on 750’s and 1100’s, like riding a 12 year old kids BMX bike. Personally I think I am still just a tad too tall for the bike, but nothing an adjustment on the handle-bars and foot pegs won’t fix. The turning radius isn’t quite as good as an 1100cc (Sabre) or 750cc (shadow) but still turns and corners quite well. The seat is only 27.46 inches off the ground so the ride is comfortably low to the ground but not too low. I test drove a Yamaha V Star 1100, V Star 1300, Kawasaki Vulcan, Honda Sabre 1100, and Honda Spirit 1100.
The Power
Riding this bike has been more enjoyable than any other bike I have ever driven. The 1312cc liquid cooled 52-degree V-twin comes with a SOHC valve train with three valves per cylinder. It has a 5-speed transmission, and power gets from the motor to the road over a drive shaft, rather than a chain. When I request power from the motor it gives me plenty, even at 110 MPH there is plenty of response still left. What is even more impressive, is when I was cruising in 3rd gear at about 40 mph and just floored it to get comfortably ahead of a car, the motor sent enough power to the rear tire, the bike actually peeled out. Peeling out from, just from speeding up while I was already going a decent speed . . yeah. . . plenty of power (which can still be used in moderation of course). Honda makes excellent vehicles and motorcycles, and the 2007 Honda VTX 1300c is definitely one of their best. Very low maintenance needed. The rear suspension has dual shocks that have 5 position spring pre-load adjust-ability, and using a tool kit built into the bike adjusting between these 5 positions is a breeze which is nice for the different comfort ride I want for free way use or taking a passenger on a ride.
Regardless of motor size, braking power is a huge requirement on any street motorcycle. My VTX 1300 has a 336mm disc brake with twin-piston calipers in the front, and 296mm disc brake with a single-piston caliper in the rear. Stopping and braking control isn’t a problem for me at all with these massive brakes. I really have been quite impressed with the response and maintained control when I need to make a quick stop.
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The Style
The 2006 and 2007 line of Honda VTX 1300 models have three variations. The 1300R, 1300S, and 1300C. Each model from each year has its own line of color options on top of styling variations which is found in fender designs, rim size and designs, and handle bars. All three bikes have the same size of rear tire (15″ rim), but the front tire on the R and S are 17″, while the C has a sporty 19″. Like I was when I first test drove the VTX 1300, anyone who is used to riding smaller bikes will immediately notice how wide the gas tank is. Definitely not as big as the Honda or Kawasaki 1800 series bikes, but still wide none-the-less. Since styling is the only real difference between the three different 1300 models, my personal styling preference was to get the 1300c. I entertained the other models initially, but there isn’t a question any more that the C has better rims ( pretty frigging hot cast wheels as opposed to spokes that come on the S which I am not a fan of at all ), better handle bar styling, better color options- I got the Pearl Dark Blue on my 1300c, and much, much more attractive fenders.
The Bad
Two small hex-screws fell off the bike with in the first 20 miles of riding it. One is on the Odometer/Gas Tank plate and caused a horrible rattling noise. The noise was actually pretty annoying since I put 300 miles on it in the first 24 hours. The other screw was one of the two that held my license plate cover on, so not a big deal. They were both fixed on the first business day after I bought it. The headlight is pointed more up rather than down currently, and the speedometer is off a little bit. Monarch Honda in Orem, UT where I bought it offered to adjust the headlight, also not really a big deal. The speedometer though is a little annoying, and Monarch bike-techs said there was nothing that can be done. I intend to prove that statement false.
If you are considering getting a used 2006 or 2007 Honda VTX make sure the initial owners did the 600 mile tune-up. This is extremely critical. It’s not just doing the valve adjustment new bikes need, it’s removing and changing the oil that gets pretty full of metal filings caused by a new motor wearing in. Even if that was ignored and the oil was changed around 2000 or 3000 miles, plenty of damage was probably caused with the metal-filing-full oil that should have been swapped out. Not really my problem since the Odometer actually read “0 miles” when I drove it off the lot.
The 2007 Honda VTX 1300 Review Rundown
I really enjoy how smooth it drives. The Pearl Dark Blue looks amazing out on the road. The cornering and turns are great compared other 1300cc bikes, or ones close to it in size. The Passenger seat is a little narrow but I plan on getting a new one soon enough. There is lots of Chrome from front to back. Driver seat is comfortable and well positioned. Everyone driving around their 750’s and 800’s regardless of if it’s a Harley, Honda or whatever always turn their head and gawk. Stock pipes aren’t loud, but are big, beautiful and add a lot more chrome. They (the exhaust) seem to really be a trouble spot on collecting light scratches and that nasty chrome rust stuff that looks like brown spots. I decided to buckle down and really learn how to repair them, and wrote a tutorial on How To Repair and Remove Scratches from Chrome Exhaust. Owning your motorcycle for longer than just the summer time is pretty common. This Honda VTX is my first motorcycle, so I also spent some time learning how to prepare my motorcycle for winter weather and storage.
Check Out Honda Motorcycles Official Website for more info.
Check out my wallpapers of this picture. You can click on the image to be taken to the wallpaper versions of this picture.
-jon
Yeah, this bike sounds like a monster, just what I’m looking for. However I’m a short guy, only 5′5″. Will this bike be too big for me?
5′5″ is a little short for this bike. Your feet might barely touch, but I would recommend going to a dealership and sitting on one. If you have some weight and can handle 650 lbs it might not be too bad. The Sabre or one of the Shadows is probably more in your area.
[…] These are just some quick photo’s of the motorcycle I just bought. It is 2007 Honda VTX 1300c. It literally had 0miles on the odometer when I bought it on March 17th. It has a 1312cc motor size, liquid-cooled v-twin motor. It’s a beast. I did a 2007 Honda VTX 1300 User Review which is basically, what it says it is. I reviewed this bike and will continue to update my feelings on it as I drive it around more. […]
Your review is pretty much on target. The speedometer is off about 4 miles per hour off, it is actually slower than it reads. The rear seat is a little narrow and is hard as a rock but mustang seats has a fix for that one. The same issues came up for when I went and started looking for my bike. I started looking at the Sabre but the VTX 1300c just had a better feel and look to it. The major thing that I have a problem is that there is like a alternator high pitch noise while driving and a buzzing electrical noise while I brake, but Honda says that it is normal. I guess louder pipes can solve them too? but over all, even though Honda riders gets talked about by Harley riders about not buying a American bike, they too admit that the VTX 1300c model is a real nice looking bike. And I also bought mine a hell of a lot cheaper than a Harley, about $9000 cheaper.
Harleys are so much just about the name.
The people that give me the hardest time for not getting an American made Harley- don’t even own a bike.
I like the Sabre a lot though, I almost got one.
I looked at the mustang seats but I am not a fan of metal studs and thing on the leather. Just straight plain black.
A great review, I just purchased my 2006 VTX1300R and will take it in for it’s 600 mile tuning this week.I have been nothing but pleased with this bike and I agree with all of you, for the price, it is hard to find something that looks better.
Some things that I have noticed; I hear noise from the front breaks, it sounds like they are rubbing maybe there just needs to be a calibration here. Also, it feels like I can go 40 miles an hour in 5th gear, the bike does not seem to labor to get up to 80mph or anything but it does not seem that powerful, maybe I just have not hit the throttle hard enough yet.
The bike is pretty comfortable but I have thought about putting a different seat on it. I came across one the other day that is a little wider and adds an inch in height, I am also so 6′5″ so this may be worth looking into.
Thanks for the review.
I was seriously looking at getting a 2006 as well, but they are on short order out here in UT, and it wasn’t too much more on my monthly plan to get an 07. Not to mention the color is amazing.
I still haven’t gotten new seats. I just still can’t find a decent one with out studs or metal of any kind anywhere. The exact same as the stock one, but more comfortable with a better passenger seat.
The brakes on mine make a fair amount of noise as well. It is quite normal. If you don’t have anything to compare them with- test drive another one at a dealership and get a feel for the sound.
Concerning your speed and throttle adjustments. I can easily go 40 MPH in 5th, but usually down shift if I want immediate power. From 65 mph to 130….. I have pretty excellent response. If you are still breaking in your motor, seriously throttle it up and get some speed quite often. Wear it in well so the Valve adjustment does it some good, not to mention to get more crap off the motor and into the oil so when it is changed you are less likely to still get bad oil farther down the road.
There are two sides to the argument of “breaking in a motor”. The research I found showed not to break it in, but to drive like I normally or plan to.
Thanks for commenting.
-Jon
Thanks for the quick feedback and the tips on breaking in the motor, I have also looked for more information about it. The dealer told me not to go above 70, I have read other reports where they say max it out as much as possible.
Anyway, I have had it up to 80 and that is about it but I usually don’t “cruise.”
Mark
I took it out for a few miles for casual riding before I just had to put it to the test. I took it to 125 mph on the 12th, 13th, and 14th miles. Since then it has been varied between casual around town and just . . . well more than posted speed limits.
It has a lot of power. Hopefully you get to use all of it. I put a few hundred miles on it the first few days and made sure I enjoyed pretty much every single mile.
I bought the 05 and invested another 3500 dollars into it. I have nothing bad to say about this bike, except that it has way too much plastic chrome on it and not enough dealers out there to offer alternative chrome.
The exhaust note was too weak almost anemic, Bought some Hard Kromes and now has a better bark. Cornering on this bike is excellent. I have to admit that this bike has a better quality to its motor than a Harley. Power wise its a bit on the sluggish side. My friend’s 1983 Yamaha Venture 1200 waxes mine. A Suzuki Volusia can keep up with the bike. But hey thats what it is NOT about. I hit 60 in 5 years, my wife wants the touring Harley. That could be our destiny. Right now this motorcycle is alright.
Jim,
Thanks for your comment on the Honda VTX Review. I have heard a few interesting arguments about the quality of motors between Honda and Harley. Mostly the people who stand on the Harley side of that argument are actually more just the kind of people who think everything they own should be “Made in America”.
The plastic chrome is hard to deal with. I am trying to find parts to cover up the parts that aren’t even chrome, then maybe I will look at replacing out the fake with the real deal . .
-Jon
The speedo being off drives me nuts; please let me know if you come up with an answer.
~ Joshua
I just bought an ‘06 1300c. I am very impressed with this bike overall. My ‘97 Suzuki intruder 800 had more get up and go but was a rougher ride. I have had a 1200 Goldwing also and believe it or not but this 1300c rides much smoother than the air ride I had on the Goldwing. I am dissapointed with the stock sound a bit though. I plan on fixing that soon. All in all I am pleased and would recomend this bike to anyone. It is definitly a sexy bike. Also for anyone who has concerns about the nosie they hear when they brake, It is normal. Just about any bike you ride you will hear your brakes. Some louder than others.
To all those who are thinking about buying a Harley instead, ask your HD buddies how often their bike is in the shop. LOL. Sorry I don’t mean to sound bitter, I have an uncle who is a die hard HD fan and has 2. Every time he rides he has to get towed into the shop. But yet he swears every other bike is inferior.
By the way you have the best review out there. keep up the good posts.
Toby, Thank you for the comment. It’s great to hear about another satisfied VTX owner who also wants to tell people about. I also appreciate the compliment on the review I did.
I used to have quite a fair opinion about Harleys, but the die hard fans kind of turned me off, not to mention I have really found quite a nice bike with this Honda VTX I have.
Enjoy your rides, and may you never lay your bike down.
-Jon (areallygoodname)
I too had a great opinion about Harley’s untill the die hards turned me off. I think the only reason I would buy one now is for the sound. I am a VTX’er forever now. I see you are in UT. I work in St George. If you ever want to schedule a ride me and my friend from work are always looking to take a road trip.
You be safe.L8r
Jon,
Have you modded or added new pipes yet? I modded mine today and let me tell ya I now have no complaints about the sound or power. I did the Clayton Root Mod and I seem to have alot more get up and go and it sounds like a beast now.
Just got a 2006 1300 c love it. Being only about 5′9″ I still feel extremely comfortable and enjoy the seat placement. I would love to get those pipes rumbiling though. Is it possible to just drill holes in the baffles, and if I do is there need to re-jet it?
Hi Paul,
Check this site out. http://www.vtxcafe.com/view.php?pg=pipes There are sound clips of different exhaust and also of the clayton mod. I Did the clayton mod on mine which is drilling 7 1/2″ holes in the outer most plate in the exhaust. It sounds awesome and I get complments all the time. It definitly makes the bike sound like it looks, MEAN.
I want a vtx 1300c. I ust sold my ACE 750, anyway I sat On one and I am about 5′10, my legs are short and was wondering if I can move the front controls on this bike so I can reach them better.
You can not only move the controls closer, you can get new handlebars, and/or more comfortable seat which if you get the right one will will move you closer to the front.
For anyone that is interested in current actual purchase prices, I am picking up a leftover 06 VTX 1300C in State College, PA tomorrow. $8,045.00 including tax, registration, everything. I agree with the posted review at the top. This is one beautiful looking bike. Mine is Dark Red.
Don’t go for the Honda finance deal however. It’s a low payment sure, but it’s an interest only payment that ends up keeping you in debt by almost the same amount that you paid for two years! If you finance the entire thing you’re looking at a payment of $165.00. No way around it unless you put money down.Insurance is $240/yr.
Hope this helps…I’ll post a review after I ride it for a few days.
5 year loan by the way. ($165.00)
I’m in love. Picked up my bike yesterday. Great balance and unbelievable power in all gears. Parked it next to a Harley this morning and had to smile.
John,
Congrats on getting the new bike. If you can afford it, a full fluid change and filter change would be a good thing. It’s hard to trust how well a bike was supposedly maintained. Have fun riding.
-Jon
I just can’t understand why the Harley riders seem to think that they own a ‘real’ motorcycle and all the rest save for the British bikes are plastic toys.
After owning 4 Honda’s I still maintain they have the better motors. I could be wrong though with the evolution motor for Harleys. (Now twin cam).
What really bugs me is this so called wave from the motorcycle brotherhood. Many times our club have been looked down upon for our Japanese bikes. Seldom do they wave at us. Our club has 20 riders in it and not one Harley rider would join. They are exclusive I suppose.
Personally I will stick to my VTX 1300. I am looking at a Honda ST 1300. Streamlined.
Its the attitude from these ’superior’ Harley beings that pis a lot of us off. But hey what can we do, they get all the attention on the big screen as well as from the outlaws.
Yes sport bikes are a godsend. Sent to us to make Harley look like a bunch of plodders. The road needs more variety. I still am entertaining the notion of buying a mountain bike to lose my biker beer-belly and follow the prophecy of Al Gore. Decisions…..
[…] The motorcycle featured in this picture is my personal bike, where I have written a Honda 1300 VTX User Review on recently. […]
Looking to buy a 2007 VTX 1300. I have heard the 2005’s have a horrable “clunk” going into gear. Is that still the case in 2007s?
Rob… the 2007 still has a pretty decent noise when switch gears. Sometimes I hear it, and sometimes I don’t. It actually became worse after a recent clutch cable adjustment I had done. Probably because I had it adjusted to respond sooner than it was originally when I would pull on it.
I bought a black 2005 VTX 1300 in May of ‘06 and got a sweet deal as it was built that day and so it had 0 miles on it!! Out the door cost with taxes and everything was just a few bucks over $8K. I have since added Saddleman leather bags, Memphis shade windshield with black bottom (removable for city riding in less than 60 seconds), cruise control, sissy bar and soon to be adding a mustang sport touring seat. My FAVORITE addition is the one I put on this March, the Vance and Hines Cruzer pipes. Good and rumbling to turn heads and make plenty of noise, but not the eardrum breaking pops on the loudest of bikes. I have not problems and love this bike, its stunning looks and the ease of riding it is second to none. Sure, it has the clunk when dropping into first gear, but I knew that going in as ALL the reviews stated that I view it as a good thing as I KNOW its going into first and don’t get surprised with it being in too low of gear. I do not have any of the rattles, but do hear the front brake “rubbing” noise as I slow down.
Does this bike get LOTS of looks? Yep. Does it ride like a dream? Yep. Did I get it to look and sound awesome for about $10K brand new? Yep. I have put 5000 miles on it the first year and have I loved every mile.
By the way, this is my first bike. I tested others, but this one was IT. I am 6′0 and 250 and it carries me and a passenger with no problem. My top speed on this bike is right at 110. Sounds like the 2007 must have upped the top end.
Hope ya all enjoy your bikes. Keep the rubber side down and the metal side up!!!
I bought an ‘05 1300C with about 7000 miles on it. I love the bike, but here are the issues I’ve had with it, and any suggestions would be helpful!
First, I’ve always had issues starting it. On cold mornings I’d pull out the choke and start it up. After about 15 seconds the engine would just die and absolutely refused to start up again. A few hours later I’d go give it another shot and it would start right up! The dealer couldn’t find anything wrong with it at all.
Then an uninsured motorist pulled out in front of me and I was in an accident. Nothing too serious, but I used it as an excuse to get new louder pipes, so I went with the Vance & Hines Big Shots and a Kuryakin hyper charger. That was 2000 miles ago and it’s been riding great and the old starting problem seemed to be fixed, it was reversed actually! Now it has problems starting when it’s hot outside or when I’ve been driving it for a bit and stop, it takes forever to start up again, and this is trying a variety of things from no throttle at all to opening it up. Nothing works. Now today I just got home from a ride, picked up some gear and went out to start it. It refused to even try to turn over the first couple of tries, just a click and nothing. when it finally did turn over and start up I found fuel being spit out of my hyper charger!! I took it straight to the shop and they’re going to look at it. I’m thinking since it’s all of these problems with starting maybe they’re all related. Any ideas?
Other than that, when it’s running it’s a sweet sweet ride. Braking is a little more difficult, I have to really lean on that front brake to stop. It corners very well and is very comfortable. I love the wide handlebars and the quick response from the throttle, even at high speeds. Just disappointed with these problems I’m having, all within the first year! It also pulls to the right, but I’ve read that problem from a lot of others and I’m never riding with my hands off the bars anyway, so no biggie at all!
Ride on:)
-Razz
Just put a deposit on an ‘06 VTX 1300C, candy orange, Switchblade windshield and saddle bags. The bike is mint, less than 1000 miles. It’s going to be a BIG change from riding my ‘88 Honda Hurricane 1000 (which I still own) but I’m lookin’ to start doin’ some cruisin’ with the wife on back…
I don’t pick it up for a week, as the guy needs to get the title. Will post my thoughts afterwards. Thanks for all these great posts.
Ken
I purchased my ‘07 VTC1300C (Green) about 2 weeks ago. I bought it for my vacation home in Maui. It has plenty of power even with 2 people (I’m , 6′1, 230 and my girl is 5′7 120. It handles quite well. I prefer the handeling over the 1800. The only down side that I can find is the seat (there are plenty of after market seats) and the pipes (so quiet you can hear a mouse fart). I have been riding for over 30 years. I have owned many bikes over the years. I currently own a Harley 04 Heritage Softail. (I love my Harley as it screams F.U. in 13 different languages), a custom show bike (100K+ invested) and a 99 Valkyrie.
There is no question that Jap bikes are better built than American bikes. The VTX is smooth, reliable has fantastic handeling and is quite fast (0-60 in 5.3sec -and if I want real speed Ill get a crotch rocket and kill myself). The VTX does not try to be a Harley. I’ve owned several Harleys and they do break (a lot). That’s part of the Harley/American Bike mentality. For any bike to be truely efficient it has to be liquid cooled. Harley finally got it with the VROD. But the VROD is a swift departure from all other Harley’s. Different strokes for different folks. I just love bikes and the VTX1300 has a great balance of what cruising is all about. Smooth, fast, easy handling, comfortable, affordable (less than half the price of a Softail) and much better engineered than any Harley (other than the pricey VROD).
I love the V-Rod. I would buy one if I could afford it. I own a 1988 Honda Magna with 62,000 miles on her. The bike is nearly 20 years old and I have never had a problem. I am the second owner. I have had the bike for 8 years and have put 44,000 miles on it. I have never had a tune-up and I replace the spark plugs every couple of years. I try to remeber to change the oil every season. My bike runs better and faster than any Harley I have encountered (except a V-Rod which I have yet to run up against) of both friends and strangers.
I have sat at intersections where a group of HD riders, pull up, look at me rev their big bikes, not acknowledge my bike and then try to run away from me. Never happens. My tired old bike is always the winner. At the next light they ask what the hell it is?
I do love the way harleys look. Very classy. Something about them is glorious to behold. Artwork in motion.
Hondas are only just now coming of age in the custom world, but they are out there and when are done right they will compete with any custom Harley, Big Dog, or Victory. By the way, I really like Victory’s too.
I ride regularly with Harley riders and they are cool people.
Most HD riders are cool, but a bit too biased towards HD for thier own good. Too narrow minded when It comes to anything else.
But if they will take the Honda challenge they will give respect where respect is due.
My HD friends are amazed at my 1988 Magna’s Power and looks and absolute reliability in spite of my high miles and low mainteneance I have done. Usually, one breaks down every ride, this really is not good. So I don’t ride much with them anymore becuase I was tired of wasting our afternoon waiting on some ole lady coming with the truck and trailer or tools (becuase you can’t leave your bike on the side of the raod and ride on with a friend, that wouldn’t be cool.
I am bragging here about Honda’s superior engineering over Harley superior style and image. Yes Honda has a lot of plastic, I do hate that.
And yes Harley builds great loking and unique bikes.
But a few HD riders I know actualy owns 2 bikes. They own a Japanese bike for long huals and riliability and a HD for prestiege.
Not one of these guys can keep up with me, ride as comfortably for as long periods of time at hig speeds or trust thier bikes enough for long rides!
That says a lot to me.
So if you want to show off your bike, buy and ride a Harley. you’ll get bigs crowds walking around your bike saying, “Oooooohh, Ahhhhhhhhhh!”
But if you want to ride, care free, a bike that won’t break, and looks good too…a bike that will out perform, outlast and not break the bank…get a Honda, or a Yahaha, even better yet try the new Hyosung GV650 Aquila/Avitar.
I have a friend who was a Harley/Buell salesman when I was in the market for a bike, he worked at one of North Carolina’s biggest HD dealerships.
He told me, “Stay away from Harley unless you have a lot of patience and money” and “I could never sell to a friend”. That is sad. But it helped me discover Honda.
He started selling HD because he loved the looks and saw them everywhere (in the States)
but he told me he heard more complaints and saw more unsatisfied customers than he could deal with he had lost confidence in the HD product line.He said that every salesman at the dealership agreed with him and said,’Sell them, but don’t own them!”
so, if you like to work on your bike, and expect it to need high maintenacne and you are willing to sacrifice ride time for show time then get a Harley.
One last thing. I met a guy who owns a VTX 1300c and a custom Fatboy. When he travels any long distance he rides the Honda because he isn’t afraid of breaking down and doesn’t fear theft (someone stealing his bike).
He said when he travels with the Harley, he trailors it to the destination and rides locally so he’s never far from tools, trailor, or lodging.
I don’t know how he deals with that dichotomy but he does, he loves both bikes. He trusts the Honda, and says it is a nice dependable ride, but shows off the Harley.
with a customized VTX 1300c you can do both, and that’s what I think I will do one day but until then I will ride my faithful Magna even if I have to wait ’till she hits 100,000 miles!
I am looking at a (2006) vtx1300c (new) for 7300 right now-could someone give me an idea of what thir gas mileage is? I am getting around 43 with my 1100 spirit.
Thanks
John,
I live in Bellefonte PA and just purchased a 1300 c from track N trail. If you’re looking for pipes, i highly recommend the Bub Jug Huggers. People ask me all the time if it’s a harley.
I have a 07 1300 C mith 300 mi. and I,ve been getting 45m.p.g.
I pick up my new 06 VTX1300C in the morning great fathers day gift got a great deal at 7800 at teds in alton Ill I am stoked.. great review makes my pick feel all the more better.
Now I hope I rember how to ride one …LOL been a while
I’m looking at the 1300Rand had a few questions for the bloggers. I’m 6′3″ 280Lbs is this bike comfortable for the bigger guys? I haven’t test drivenyet but was curious about the actual sound of this bike. I’ve read refrence that it is “quiet” and I thnk also inferred that it “sounds like a Harley”.
I like the Harley sound but not their prices. Does the VTX 1300R have the same characteristics “idle” as a Harley?
Thanks
How’s this bike as a first bike for a first time rider. Taking my MSF course this weekend and I don’t want to buy too low, nor too big. I’m a decent sized guy at 5′ 8″, 210 lbs and am more concerned with the weight of and being able to maneuver the bike than the power. Thanks!
I just bought my 06 vtx 1300c yesterday. only got to put 60 miles on it since I was up for 36 hrs. straight, but I really love it. Handles better than my last 2 bikes and alot more fun. Think I will be doing the clayton root mod really soon since I can’t afford the new pipes yet.
JLH,
This bike is pretty comfortable as far as over-all bike size for someone your weight. But that usually is achieved after a $100 seat upgrade. The stock seats are supposedly not that comfortable with bigger guys.
The sound stock isn’t that loud, neither are harleys stock. If you go back to my post about the bike, there is a guy who posted a link to audio clips of this bike using different mods and pipes. If you get a harley, you are still going to have to get pipes just like the honda if you want a loud sound.
http://areallygoodname.com/2007/03/21/2007-honda-vtx-1300c-user-review/
What did you mean does the IDLE have the same characteristics… Does the VTX sound the same when you are sitting at a red light as a harley does?
No… paying an additional $10,000 for the name is never worth it. I am getting $600 pipes for my VTX… and it will make even the Harley guys go deaf.
RL…
Congrats on the purchase. I hope you love it. That was a great deal.
-areallygoodname
I did the Clayton Root mod Monday. I love the way that it sounds given the price..have gotten many compliments on the bike and the sound. I recommend this to anyone else who is on my condition and can’t afford new pipes yet.
Just too the plunge and bought the 07 1300c in black. Got a 3-year warranty free and Honda is also offering $500 towards the price of the bike (Bonus Bucks). Great bike and I can’t wait to ride after these Georgia storms passing over Jacksonville pass.
Alvin, Here’s my answer to your questions. My wife and I just finished our MSF course this past weekend, June 9 & 10. Honda (mostly) 250’s. Great course.
I am 5′ 9″ and weigh 185. I can’t bench press a wet roll of toilet paper. I bought a 2007 VTX 1300R. Love it!! I can handle it just fine and until two weeks before the class had *never* ridden a motorcycle. No, I cannot stop my new VTX on a dime like I could the little 250’s in class. But, it is significantly lighter than the VTX.
I’ve heard stories and you probably have too, (probably even know somebody) of people who have purchased 500’s and in six months they’ve traded up (in size). I decided to just start with something I could end with.
My wife is going to pick up her new (2007) Honda Shadow Aero 750 within the next couple of weeks. That is probably all she’ll ever need or want but, that’s her choice.
Sorry this is so long-winded but, when I read your questions and saw that we are about the same size, I couldn’t help but responding. My opinion, get the VTX 1300R. You can handle it.
Have fun and always drive for the other person. I always expect the worst from the 4 wheeled people on the road and, unfortunately, I am rarely disappointed.
Be safe.
Mikey.
Thanks Mikey. I think we may posted very close to the same time. I did purchase the 1300C - the rebates and cash back and a free helmet made it a sweet deal. My neighbor has a Yamaha 1100 Custom and he’s been over to my place no less than five times in the past week admiring the bike.
On another note, what do you guys pay for insurance yearly for a bike like this. Not sure if the quotes I’ve been getting are normal (and I have a clean driving record) but I’m getting about $600-750/yr. Sound about average?
What a great review site for the VTX, much better than anything else I’ve read. I am about to purchase an NEW 06 VTX 1300C, looking at the charcoal grey color. If I had the money I would just get the 1800C in yellow! I like the yellow and its too bad it doesn’t come on the 1300’s. So for insurance I’m considering Progressive or Geico- ANY suggestions for a good and affordable ins company for moto’s?
Just a sidenote, I was looking at getting a used bike, and found one that I loved-however the owner wouldn’t budge when I asked if he’d consider selling. It is a 02 Suzuki Intruder 1400. Cool looking bike but not as sleek as the 1300C. I like the 1300C versus the 1300 R or 1300S because it clearly isn’t trying to be or look like a Harley! Its just tough, sleek and sexy!
@Glenn, Thanks, I am glad you liked the review. I loved the Charcoal on the 2006 model, it was my second choice behind the Pearl Navy Blue that I ended up getting.
Insurance? Geico is good, but isn’t cheap, that is who I am with: Maybe I should do a review on insurance companies.
I already replied to Alvin’s question about insurance cost in an e-mail: but mostly, anything over $400 is kind of expensive insurance unless your record is out of control
Greetings!
I’m now the proud owner of a 2006 VTX1300R - what a nice bike!
My primary complaint: It seems to lack power and ‘clatters’ a lot - especially under load (i.e. going uphill, accelerating, etc.). Remember how older cars would sound when using low octane fuel and the valves would make a racket? The dealership told me these bikes are known for a very noisy valve train . . . Anyone know what causes this or if it’s even normal?
My speedo is off too - about 5 mph. The assembly had a vibration at about 2900 RPM initially, but the dealership put nylon washers between the assembly and mounting hardware and the problem’s gone now.
Anyway, I like the bike and and enjoy riding with my wife.
rb
Hey everyone - in continuing to take Jon’s review off topic, I thought I’d recommend to everyone (experienced or not) to consider taking the MSF rider course. I started the course on Thursday and ended today, Sunday.
I believe this course it well worth the investment and everyone in the class agreed, even those that didn’t pass the exercise drill at the end of the course. A handful pf experienced riders said that course helped them break out of old ‘bad’ riding habits.
Start here…
http://www.msf-usa.org/
Hi, just got a Black VTX 1300C for Father’s day also. It is a 2006 brand new. I love the bike but want more out of the exhaust…. Any bad thing about the Clayton Mod?? Any help is greatly appreciated!!
Thanks
Hey, why all the insults back and forth about honda vs hd vs whoever? The VTX is a nice bike - enjoy it! As somebody who has owned BMWs, Kaws, Hondas and now 2 HDs, I can tell you that each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Buy what you like, but don’t trash the others.
For example, I had an older airhead boxer BMW that is still in great shape 30 years after riding it off the showroom floor. I currently have a 16yr old HD that’s wonderful - and has retained its value incredibly - plus the fact that is has about zero plastic and will still be in exactly as great shape both mechanically and cosmetically 10 years from now. I’ve got a newer Road King that is incredibly comfortable on very long trips but equally fun around the town. Oh, and I ride mine. I don’t just look at them. 70 miles a day back and forth to work. Only been stranded once - broken spokes.
I find that people throwing stones at other types of bikes usually don’t know anything about them, and base their mistaken impressions on old wives tales.
Ride the bike. Support your fellow riders. Enjoy yourselves and keep your yappers shut about how unreliable or crappy other bikes are unless it’s YOUR other bike.
Hey
I currently own a Suzuki SV650 (sport bike). I love it for what it is, a lean and agile street fighter. However, like other people in the world, there are two sides to us. My sport bike side is satisfied, but my cruiser side is wide open and wanting more. I’ve been seriously considering the VTX 1300C, but have also been looking at the Yamaha Warrior. I’m well aware that the Warrior is quite a bit more bike (both money wise and power wise). Is the fact that the 1300C is carbeurated hurt it’s throttle response? I’m used to fuel injected bikes. One last question…. Have you or anyone else experienced heavy vibrations at free way speeds in the handle bars? I’ve read reviews, mainly from magazines, that these vibrations exist on this bike.
Never felt any handlebar vibrations on my bike.. it’s smooth… and super clean on the freeway. No semi-passing winds blowing me over, no shaking or anything.
If you ever come upon a bike that does though, since stock handlebar grips usually suck anyway (i replaced mine), there are anti-vibration mods and specialized grips that really don’t cost much more.
The only Honda I have ever ridden with a major need for anti-vibration grips was a 2005 Sabre.
Remember, you don’t “drive” a bike, you ride it. Like a horse man! Driving is for cars.
Also, you said at 6′4″ 1100’s feel too small for you. My GPZ 1100 is much higher off the ground then this Honda 1300. Depends on the type of machine. Short guys, and gals can ride cruisers.
Ron
I own A 1300 and the top end noise is driving me nuts i am worried that something is wrong I love the bike ,the power ,the way it handles but hot and under load it is noisey does anyone know a way to make it quiter .I did the clayton mod to my pipes it help some Iremoved the smog pump and bought the lpates to block off the heads .I have readjusted my valves it helped some but when i ride double pulling a hill and it is hot the motor is noisey.would a little thicker oil help .HELP!!!!!!
ya I went for a cruise with me wife and stopped at a roadhouse where some harley’s were parked. One young guy came from his harley and told me that my pipes were too loud and that only harleys have the distinction of having the ’sound’. Another young harley punk came over and started hassling me as well so I went into fighting horse stance and dropped both of them at once. We then buggered off quick. So it just goes to show that some of these posers who think they are tuff because they own a harley can’t cut the mustartd with a dude with Gulf kenpo black belt training
Ya the war is definitely on between them and us
Wow. The war is on? Gulf kenpo? I thought this was about bikes. There are a**holes everywhere and frankly you’re part of it. Lots of people with HDs get along with everyone else. Lots of people with Hondas don’t.
Again, there are “punks” who ride harleys and “punks” who ride other bikes - including “punks” who brag about how tough they are. Until they all shut their pie holes and start acting like adults we’ll continue to see this idiotic behavior.
my point is as a vet they (harley riders in particular), insinuate that I am less patriotic because I own a japanese motorcycle and a honda accord. This is the issue that heats up between people.
I always thought that the Japanese are our best allies against the war on terror and have troops in Iraq. even sonny Barger the most infamous harley outlaw vacations in Japan and givers kudos to the japanese technology.
I really enjoy my 2005 Honda vtx 1300 custom and think it is one of the best bikes i have ever owned. Not wanting to be a shit disturber here its just thatI think its high time that a percentage of these harley riders and there is a lot of them need to smarten their attiude and realize that Japanese or Italian or Germans motorcycles are as equal as theirs. HOw many times haven’t you heard ” Why didn’t you buy a harley, and why did you buy a foreign product, when in reality the foreign product are made here in the USA and that japanese people are on our side against terrorists that endanger our freedoms and democracy including the right to ride or drive any vehicle you want. JIhad would soon put restricitions on all of you in short notice oh ya!
Hello all
I’m 46 and haven’t been on a bike in 20 years, but my last bike was the CB1000 that my wife and toured around the west coast of British Columbia for years. When the kids came along there went the bike ( lol) Anyways, I want to get back on again and am in the market. I am leaning towards Honda because of my past experience with them and am checking out the VTX1300C. I would be cruising on the highway mainly and like the weight and power. I am 6.2 and 215 lbs so I would think there would not be any handling issues? Any comments or feedback would be appreciated. Thanks, from Alberta, Canada
How about the pegs hitting on turns ?
I’m looking to sale my 1100 spirit, and buying a VTX 1300 C
Power and cornering difference.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello again from Alberta.
I’ve been researching quite abit on the 1300 and was down at one of the dealers in town today and talked with the sevice biller as well as some patrons who owned a 1300s and a 1300c. The service biller actualy preferred the 1100 shadow because he felt it had more torque and he had ridden both quite often. The two owners of the 1300’s loved them and preferd their model over the 1100. Some of the responses here at this sight talk about top end valve noise under load and handle vibration. Should I be concerned?, because today’s trip further cloudied my decision. But, all parties there said I have to sit and ride both choices and pick the bike that just feels right to me. Do you all agree with that approach? Not going to purchase untill next Spring and have taken the bike program from the DMV to refresh myself. Thanks for the emails back, they are very helpful.
Ive just bought a 1300 c , and the metal from the breakin does not sound good. the dealer that serviced my baby at 900 miles( icould not stay off of it) did not set the valves. Do i need this done. I am a 1100 miles in 3 weeks. Your review i dead nuts right on right down to the head light. you know your machines any help would be great
How’s it going guys? Great Review!
I took my MSF course last march/april, and have been riding since. I’m 19, so probably a youngin’ compared to you guys. To fit my age, I rode a 1994 Katana last year, and then purchased a 1990 ZX-10 this season. My father rides a Kawasaki Vulcan 1600, and my brother has a Victory 8-Ball.
I sold my zx-10 this week, after a eye-opening long distance ride. I was sore half way to our destination, while my brother & father where enjoying every moment of it.
I absolutely love the Victory’s, and for 3k more, I could probably own a used one. However, I can’t afford it. I went bike shopping last weekend, and instantly fell in love with a 2006 Honda VTX 1300C!…candy orange of course. It stood out amongst the rest…The bike had 10k miles on it, and they were asking $8600. I’m a lightweight, but at 6′2″, and I loved the way the bike felt. I love how low the engine sits to the ground, compared to my ZX-10, which seemed as if it were at the highest point. The V-Star was also rather comfortable, but I love the VTX styling.
Well, needless to say, I found a leftover 2006 VTX 1300C (Candy Orange…of course!), for $8400 at my local bike shop(It’ll take them about 2 weeks to receive it from another dealership). However, I need to wait until Monday to see if Honda changes their promotion. I sure hope they don’t as It’ll be tough to afford even now.
As for the insurance…I couldn’t be happier with the quote I received through Foremost Insurance Company. $617! It may seem like a lot, but for my age, and a new bike…that’s AMAZING. Geico, Progressive, and Bikeline were all around $1200-$1600. Some were even over $2000. In fact, this insurance company beat the price I was paying for my ZX-10 through Progressive.
Just some questions before I wrap this up…
-The bike sits very low, has anyone encountered a problem while turning? I was afraid that the pegs may scrape the ground, causing a big mess.
-Have you ever had a problem running low on fuel, without a fuel gauge on the bike?
-How is city driving on the bike?
Well, I’m blank for questions…I’ll be sure to ask them as they come to me.
Take care, and ride safe!