Honda VTX Retro 1300 (VTX1300S) reviews

I've been riding for 20+ years and this past spring got onto a VTX1300C after riding all the competitors bikes in this class. The VTX put a smile on my face like my former '83 V65 used to. It's what I expect from a cruiser bike and unlike other reviews I've read feel there needs to be some little vibration if it's to be a true cruiser. If I wanted a perfect ride I'd look at the Wing. The vibration is minimal, power excellent and looks are head turning! One downfall is I feel the shifting could be quieter but it's still no different than any of the other bikes I test took for a test ride. My biggest gripe would have to be accessories costs greater than that of Harley! Show less

Bought the bike while taking a cruise on my 1100 Shadow. I saw it, compared others in the shop and felt it was the best value. I still feel the same way. I wish it had dual front brakes and a bit quicker power launch but it is a cruiser I guess. Pipes could have a bit more rumble but the chrome on the dark red looks good. Seat is not comfortable for longer rides either driver or rider. Show less

My first bike ever! I wanted to start with something smaller but with a guy my size, the salesman suggested this one. I was very impressed with the style so I sat on it (litterally and figuratively) for a while before buying it. The bike has a low center of gravity and is easily balanced. So much power yet easy to manage - even for a first-timer! I love it. Show less

Well I have had this bike for a few weeks and had the opportunity to ride it a few times. My first tank was 42 mpg. Not bad for a machine that still needs to be broke in! Other than the quiet pipes I love it. I added the Ultimate Low Rider Seat, the neo back rest and performance windshield and it looks awesome! I have had people drool over it and they were upset that they bought a smaller bike and paid the same amount! Show less

After shopping for 2 years for the perfect bike, I found a sweet deal on a 3 yr. leftover '03 1800R. I know, how lucky is that? I had looked at several makes and models but being a man of large stature, the 1800 fit better by far. The performance is unsurpassed. I've only put 5k on it but haven't had the first worry about anything to do with the reliability or quality of the bike. And for comfort, amazing. It's great for the big boys out there. If I had 5 thumbs, they would all be up for this one. Show less

I've had several different bikes in my life. Bought a Goldwing last year (1982 Model) thinking that was what I needed. Wrong. The wind reeks havoc with those things. Bought a 750 Aero, and traded a month later. Bought the 06 1300S 3 weeks ago. Wow, what a bike. This is by far the best bike I've ever ridden. It's big, but it is very well balanced. Once you ease out on that clutch, the fun begins. It actually is easier to handle than the 750 was. It is so smooth that everyone I've let ride it says that's what they want. They can keep the Harleys. With the twin cylinder engine they have, all they need is a good set of pipes. Show less

I purchased this bike in the summer of 2006 while on home leave and had it shipped to Switzerland. It set idle in a crate for 4 months and when it arrived and was uncrated, it immediately started without any resistance. The bike handles with ease and has a quick response on the open rosds and in city traffic. I have not experienced a problem riding in higher altitudes. Show less

I bought my 2004 VTX 1300 used in early April 2007. It only had 1497 miles on it when I picked it up! It's a great bike but I'm not crazy about the plastic chrome and the motor sounds like it has a little rattle in the front. I don't know if this is normal or not! Over all, it has plenty of power and rides great. Show less

I bought a 2005 VTX. I love the ride of this cruiser. It has plenty of torque and the ride is solid. I enjoy riding this bike on long trips. Very comfortable and plenty of power. I have added the windshied, champion hard bags matching color of bike and back rest. I have other accessories added to bike. Love the chrome look on this bike. Great overall bike. Show less

I am a 55 year old new rider. This is my second bike. I started with the Honda 600 VLX and ended with this beauty. I love the power and comfort of this machine. I intend to enjoy it for many years to come. I have got over one thousand miles on it. Thanks Honda! Show less