Honda VTX1300

A wide range of riders adapted comfortably to the riding position, thanks to the low-rise handlebar and flexibility of the floorboards. Few found a sweet spot on the saddle, however, because the seat is contoured so that almost no backsides fit it comfortably. Petite riders might adapt. We expect the aftermarket to quickly provide remedies for this, which is the only significant comfort shortcoming of the 1300S. You'll also feel a bit of vibration, though few riders felt it intruded, even on long rides. The suspenders--dual preload-adjustable dampers in back and covered 41mm legs in front--do an admirable job of absorbing large pavement jolts, but the ride gets a bit choppy over smaller seams and cracks.

Although the whole package looks nearly identical to the 1800...there is a tremendous difference in feel.

Honda claims 76 horsepower at 5000 rpm for the VTX1300. (Our tester cranked out 60.3 hp at 5000 rpm and 77.4 foot-pounds of torque at 3000 rpm on the SuperFlow dyno.) Acceleration is comparable with the stronger 1100s (such as the defunct Virago). Power flows smoothly from just off idle, with plenty in hand for top-gear passing on the highway. Throttle response is smooth and predictable. The gearbox and clutch work smoothly, but there is a bit of lash in the drivetrain, which can induce some lurching in throttle transitions. Indeed, chassis jacking with throttle changes is much less noticeable than on the 1800. In a class where sound can be as important as performance, the single-crankpin layout of the engine joins with carefully tuned intake and exhaust systems to produce a solid exhaust note and a traditional cruiser cadence. We like it.Heavy bikes with a single front brake usually mean lethargic stops, but Honda has teamed what is probably the biggest brake rotor (13.2 inches) of any cruiser with an effective two-piston caliper to produce strong, straight stops with good control. The pedal for the rear brake is bigger than that of many cars, but it is easy for most feet to cover and the brake provides good power and control.

If you like the lines and flourishes of the VTX1800 retro model, the 1300 will be every bit as pleasing. The detailing is just as well executed even though you are paying more than $4000 less. The bike comes from the same Ohio facility as the 1800, and the paint and chrome are just as smooth and thick as on the bigger bikes.At $8999, the 1300 is much more affordable than the 1800, though it's just as roadworthy and even more civilized and refined. The VTX1300S arrives with 30 accessories in 12 categories (there is, for example, a choice of passenger backrests). You don't get the bragging rights to the biggest V-twin on the planet, but the VTX1300 is a bike we think more people will enjoy riding.