Honda VTX 1300

Honda have announced the impending sale of a new member of the VTX cruiser family, the VTX 1300, and released the following details.

An all-new 1312cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin engine delivers effortless, rumbling power while two-axis primary balancers smooth away unpleasant vibrations.
Deeply valanced front and rear fenders, chrome-hooded headlight, broad fuel tank with tank-mounted instruments, semi-swept handlebar and floorboards with heel-and-toe shifter create a classic retro style that sets the VTX apart from the competition.
Rider comfort is enhanced with comfortable ergonomics and a firmly padded saddle featuring a low, 686 mm seat-height.
Staggered dual exhausts produce a pleasing, throaty exhaust note.
Traditional spoke wheels and a fat, 140/80-17 front tire gives the VTX a commanding profile.
A complete line of bolt-on accessories and appearance items is available.
Large under-seat tool tray.
The black resin seat pan/rear fender located under the seat cowl has been designed to position the battery and electrical components forward for optimum mass centralisation.

ENGINE/DRIVETRAIN
A 1312cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin that delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque with ample power for passing and relaxed cruising.
Newly designed powerplant features a single-pin crankshaft to accentuate the VTX's engine character.
Dual two-axis primary counter-balancers minimise harsh engine vibration without eliminating the powerful pulse feeling transmitted by the VTX's traditional V-twin design.
The engine mounting system uses carefully matched hangers to eliminate unwanted vibration, while preserving the powerful character of the V-twin engine.
Each three-valve cylinder head features two 31mm intake valves and a large, 40mm exhaust valve to produce optimum flow for the incoming air/fuel charge.
Simple-to-service screw-and-locknut valve clearance adjusters.
38mm constant velocity (CV) carburettor offers crisp throttle response at all engine speeds.
Electronic control unit (ECU) provides 3D ignition maps for each cylinder, creating ideal spark advance settings for superb rideability.
Coolant-heated carburettor improves rideability and ensures smooth operation in cold conditions.
Two spark plugs per cylinder for efficient combustion at all engine speeds.
A unique dry-sump oil system utilises a closed-crankcase design and places the oil tank inside the gearbox case. The result is a freer-revving engine for improved power, and a lower engine height, allowing optimum rider ergonomics and a low, 686 mm seat height.
Handsome chromed two-into-two exhaust system produces a deep exhaust note.
Radiator with cooling fan maintains consistent engine temperature for optimum performance and long engine life.
Maintenance-free automatic cam-chain tensioners.
Reliable electric-starter system.
Sturdy clutch utilises a rubber clutch-centre damper to assure smooth and quiet gear shifting.
Five-speed transmission with carefully selected gear ratios for relaxed cruising and exciting roll-on performance.
Shaft final-drive system provides smooth, low-maintenance operation.
New driven flange design at the final-drive gear eliminates final-drive noise and wear and simplifies rear wheel installation.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
Massive tubular steel frame contains the engine's power and gives the VTX a long, low, classic stance.
Large, 41mm extended front fork provides 130mm of plush yet responsive travel.
Dual chromed rear shocks provide 94 mm of wheel travel and feature an advanced internal valve system for a comfortable ride.
Front disc brake features a twin-piston caliper with a large-diameter 336mm stainless steel rotor. Combined with the rear single-piston caliper and 296mm stainless steel rotor, they provide excellent stopping power.
Traditional spoke wheels, with a fat, 140/80 tire on the 17-inch front wheel, give the VTX a classic profile. A beefy, 170/80-15 rear tire puts the VTX engine's power to the ground and provides exceptional traction.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Specially designed rider and passenger seats for all-day touring comfort. Rider's seat boasts a low, 686 mm seat height for confidence during low-speed manoeuvres.
Handsome tank-mounted chrome housing features a speedometer, odometer/tripmeter and indicator lights for the turn signals, high beam, neutral indicator, oil pressure and coolant temperature.
Electric speedometer with easy-to-read classic numerals uses an electronic speed sensor in the transmission, which eliminates the front-wheel-mounted speedometer cable. This contributes to a clean, uncluttered look.
Extensive chrome finishing of engine parts includes cylinder head covers, valve inspection covers, airbox cover, left crankcase cover, clutch cover and left-rear engine cover.
Distinctive chrome-hooded headlight housing features a powerful, 55W/60W halogen bulb with a computer-designed multi-reflector for superb lighting in all conditions.
New laid-back handlebar design provides a comfortable, upright riding position.
Comfortably padded large-diameter handgrips with polished aluminium handlebar switch housings and triple-clamp assembly.
Floorboards with heel-and-toe-shifter.
18 litre fuel tank for extended cruising and touring range.
Reliable 364-watt alternator.
Durable, maintenance-free 14-amp-hour battery.
Handlebar switches and controls use internationally approved ISO graphic symbols.
Convenient push-to-cancel turn signal switch.
Ownership includes one-year complimentary Membership in the Honda Rider's Club of Australia.

ACCESSORIES
It is anticipated that the following accessories will be available in Australia at the time the VTX1300 is released. Windscreen, Chrome Light Bar, Deluxe Chrome Rear Carrier, Deluxe Chrome Backrest With Pad, Deluxe Chrome Backrest/Rear Carrier Mounting Brackets, Saddlebags, Saddlebag Mounting Bracket, Chrome Front Fender Tip.

ARRIVAL DATE & PRICE
The VTX1300 is due for release in Australia in August. At this point in time a recommended retail price has not been set.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: VTX1300S
Engine Type: 1312cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Bore and Stroke: 89.5mm x 104.3mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Valve Train: SOHC; three valves per cylinder
Carburetion: 38mm CV
Ignition: Solid-state digital with three-dimensional mapping, two spark plugs per cylinder
Transmission: Five-speed
Final Drive: Shaft
SUSPENSION
Front: 41mm fork; 130mm travel
Rear: Dual shocks with five-position spring preload adjustability; 94mm travel
BRAKES
Front: Single 336mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear: Single 296mm disc with single-piston caliper
TYRES
Front: 140/80-17
Rear: 170/80-15
Wheelbase: 1669 mm
Rake: (Caster Angle): 32.0°
Trail: 144mm
Seat Height: 686 mm
Dry Weight: 300 kg
Fuel Capacity: 18 litres, including 3.8 litre reserve
Colors: Black & Pearl Orange
Price: TBA