Honda Vtx1300
The Honda Vtx1300 has a top speed of 175 km/h, produces 68 hp and weighs 295 kg. Motoryk rates it 8/10.
The Honda VTX1300 was introduced in 2003 as a more accessible companion to the larger VTX1800, targeting riders who wanted classic cruiser styling with a manageable yet powerful V-twin engine. It was offered in multiple variants including the VTX1300C (custom), VTX1300R (retro), VTX1300S (spoke wheels), and VTX1300T (tourer), giving riders significant style options within the same platform. Produced until 2009, the VTX1300 was praised for its strong low-end torque, reliability, and value, becoming a popular choice in the heavyweight cruiser segment.
68 hp
Power
108 Nm
Torque
295 kg
Weight
175 km/h
Top Speed
6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Rock-Solid Reliability
The VTX1300 is powered by Honda's bulletproof 1312cc V-twin engine, known for lasting well over 100,000 miles with basic maintenance. It's widely considered one of the most dependable cruisers ever built.
Watch for Carb Issues
Earlier models (2003–2004) can develop carburetor clogging problems, especially if the bike sat unused with old fuel. Always inspect for rough idling or hesitation, and budget for a carb clean if buying used.
Strong Resale Value
The VTX1300 holds its value exceptionally well due to Honda's reputation and the model's loyal following. A well-maintained example rarely depreciates drastically, making it a smart used-market buy.
Generations & Specs by Year
VTX1300C introduced with 1312cc V-twin, shaft drive, retro cruiser styling, various sub-models added over run.
"Honest, heavy cruiser that earns its reputation slowly."
The VTX1300 doesn't flatter you immediately — 295 kg of shaft-driven iron demands respect at parking lot speeds, and that 700mm seat fools you into thinking it'll be nimble until you try to U-turn on a tight street. But get it rolling and that 1312cc V-twin pulls with genuine authority from 2,500 rpm, a fat, satisfying grunt that feels earned rather than electronic. Shaft drive means zero chain maintenance and smooth highway miles, though it introduces enough drive-reaction lurch in stop-go traffic to remind you it's there. After 20,000 km I'd call it a honest, unhurried bike — not exciting, not cutting-edge, just deeply competent in the way Honda does better than almost anyone.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"Bulletproof, torquey cruiser that punches well above its used price."
$4,000-$7,500 usedThe VTX1300 is Honda doing what Honda does best — building something utterly bulletproof and wrapping it in chrome. That 1312cc V-twin pulls hard from virtually nothing, and the torque curve is so fat and usable you'll rarely need to rev it past 4,000rpm in normal riding. It's genuinely comfortable for long days in the saddle, and the ergonomics suit a wide range of body types without modification. Used examples are everywhere, which keeps prices honest. Look for bikes that haven't been dropped — lots of these lived their lives as weekend showpieces, so finding clean ones isn't hard. Check the carb on pre-2007 models if it's been sitting; they gunk up fast. The C, R, and S variants offer different bar and seat configurations, so ride each before committing. The elephant in the room is weight — 670lbs wet makes slow-speed maneuvering genuinely stressful for newer riders. It's also firmly a cruiser, so don't expect canyon-carving capability. But as a relaxed mile-eater? Practically unbeatable at this price point.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Honda Vtx1300 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
Hard starting, rough idle, fuel smell near carb
Dragging rear brake, uneven pad wear, heat smell
Oil residue on fork tubes below seals
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Very reliable, bulletproof engine, minimal serious issues
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Honda Vtx1300
Honda Stateline 1300
Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 1500
Yamaha V-star 1100
Honda Vt1100 Shadow
Honda Vtx1800
Compare Honda Vtx1300 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Honda Vtx1300 vs Honda Stateline 1300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Vtx1300 vs Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 1500
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Vtx1300 vs Yamaha V-star 1100
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Vtx1300 vs Honda Vt1100 Shadow
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Vtx1300 vs Honda Vtx1800
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Honda Vtx1300 Guides
More from Honda
View all Honda models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Honda Vtx1300? +
Carburetor gumming from ethanol fuel sitting: Hard starting, rough idle, fuel smell near carb (moderate) | Rear brake caliper seizing from neglect: Dragging rear brake, uneven pad wear, heat smell (moderate) | Fork seal leaks on high-mileage bikes: Oil residue on fork tubes below seals (moderate)
Is the Honda Vtx1300 a good motorcycle? +
Bulletproof, torquey cruiser that punches well above its used price. Rating: 8.0/10. Best for: Relaxed touring riders wanting reliable, uncomplicated V-twin. Avoid if: New riders or anyone craving sporty, agile handling.
What is the horsepower of the Honda Vtx1300? +
The Honda Vtx1300 produces 68 hp @ 5,000 rpm, with 108 Nm @ 3,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 175 km/h.
Is the Honda Vtx1300 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Honda Vtx1300 is a reasonable choice for new riders (68 hp is manageable), weighing 295 kg. Relaxed touring riders wanting reliable, uncomplicated V-twin
Is the Honda Vtx1300 reliable? +
The Honda Vtx1300 has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 3 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.
Is the Honda Vtx1300 good for daily use? +
Relaxed touring riders wanting reliable, uncomplicated V-twin Fuel: 6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L).
How fast is the Honda Vtx1300? +
The Honda Vtx1300 reaches a top speed of 175 km/h, producing 68 hp at 295 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Honda Vtx1300? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Honda Vtx1300, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/honda/vtx1300/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
