I have 192,000 on my 2002 1800C. Only adjusted the valves. No engine work and original clutch. Fuel pump went out at 150,000 miles. Still stout and runs great. It has pulled a trailer a lot.
You should contact Honda about that. I recall them giving a new accord to someone who drove their old one a million miles. I suspect a bike with 200k is even more rare.
My Harley blew a trans and numerous other problems at 22,000 miles. Bought a '07 VTX 1800f and love it. I'm expecting the future owner to get 250,000 or more as this bike will certainly outlive me. H.O.N.D.A. - Harley Owners Need Dependable Alternatives. 😀
That is why I only buy Japanese motorcycles they are 💯% engineered correctly Honda is the king of motorcycles they use the best mathematics when it comes to engineering Harley-Davidson just slams a bike together and says that's good enough. Well that ain't good enough for me but a Honda is because at least you get way way way more bang for your buck I value my money so Honda is the only bike for me. My VTX 1800 also has 45,000 miles on it and it runs like it is just getting broke in. I also rode a Honda gold wing man that is like riding on air it's so smooth and quiet you know that bike will out last anything on the road.
All Honda motors are built to be bullet proff and economical over long time periods. The HTT 35 Honda Weed eater I bought new 20+ yrs go still starts on 2nd pull everytime. It has more low end torque than all the high dollar 2 strokes gets more work done with less gas. 11:27 It's been abused, neglected left out in the weather, has always started.
3rd owner 2002 VTX 1800 retro. Bike was a show bike and 1st owner drove it all over the country and had all the maintenance records. Kid you not mileage was 463,000! WHAT! Drove like a dream and sold it for what I out into it. Thanks for the vids partner! Keep-em coming!
Honda make great cruiser, I am from Australia and I bought my vtx 1800 in 2008, new. To this date December 2017, the mileage on mine is 178,600 kilometres with is 110,977 miles...........only item I have replaced on a service was a steering bearing. Ofcourse brake pads and filter s
Honda bikes are overall fantastic, my distant relative in Vancouver(Canada) has a 01-03 Goldwing GL1800 with over 400k KMs on original engine and transmission. My 07 VTX1300 has 114k KMs, bought it at ~95k KMs. I LOVE Honda motorcycles
Absolutely LOVE my VTX! It's a 2005 1300 Retro. I just rolled it over 70,000 miles. I got it in 2012 and it had about 15,000 miles on it. The guys I take it to to work on it say it's one of the bikes they see with higher mileage. I try to ride it as much as possible during the winter months. And this winter out here in the eastern US has been pretty decent. Lack of snow has been nice. Just this work week for me, all days riding. Saving the miles from the POV!
80,000 on my 2007 1800. Strong as ever. By the way, your since of humor at the beginning of your video is hilarious! More importantly, your scripture reading is awesome!
Since everyone's bragging, I got my 2002 Honda VTX 1800 for $2400 with 37k miles. However, here's the kicker! Came with chromed wheels, vine hines big shots, corbin seat (with stock) sissy bar, oversized luggage, windshield, with kyuryakyn's hypercharger, grips, throttle boss, levers, and digital tachometer. Stock turn signals removed for inline low profile after market signals. Lastly, custom gunmetal grey matte paint job. She's a keeper.
I had picked up a 2008 VTX1800F with 2753 miles. sat new for 3 years in the dealership before it was titled in 2011. its like brand new !!!! love it so much I even started a channel because of it
I have a 2003 box 1300. In 2011 here in northern nj a storm named Irene came they. I lived on a river and it flooded. My bike was completely submerged for two days. It took ten oil changes and empty the headlight and ignition switch but now has 35,000 mi and still runs great.
Hey VTX 1300 Retro was introed in 2003 after the VTX18. Have seen two with high mileage in FL. One had 200K miles the other over 300K miles. Both started up instantly and ran great. The only thing done to both was normal maintenance and tires of course. Bought a used 2003 VTX 13 retro with 50 K miles on it. Serviced the hell out of it and it runs sweet. My son used that one. Riding a Fury but looking for a VTX 1800 and considering buying one with low mileage. Not ever giving up the Fury! You can't have too many rides right! Things you need to do to any Honda that requires a manual valve adjutment is do them early and or as recommended. After 3 or four lash adjustments they seat great and stabilise only requiring clearance inspection.
The F had dual exhaust, different tail light, different wheels, different tank it had no seam on the bottom like the C, and a digital speedo on the tank, the C speedo was mechanical on the bars. The R and S and T were bigger finders with R had Rims the S had Spoke wheels the T was with Bags and windshield Factory. The N had a round rear fender. I wished they still made the 1800 it was a awsome bike, i dont like the new 1300 styles but i do like the older 1300 styles. Hope this helps.
I'm from Canada and knew a retired gentleman that would put an average of 250,000+ kms on a Goldwing. He had a new one every 5yrs. Drove it all summer up here and took it to the US and drove it the rest of the year. So yeah, Honda bikes last forever.
I've had a VTX in the past and was gonna get a Rocket 3 recently. I'm gonna spend a lot less $ and grab another 1800 VTX. They are just great bikes at a great price with good power.
My ZG1000 rolled the odo over for the second time... about 35k miles ago. That's 235k+ miles. I'm just now looking at opening up the engine for the first time to refresh it. Motorcycles can last forever if you take care of them.
Hardest part of putting high miles on a VTX1800 is having to stop for fuel 8 times a day. At 75-80mph I get about 34mpg with a 4.1 gallon tank. I dubbed my Nashville trip the Midwest Gas Station Tour.
I don't understand how a 1.8 liter bike can only achieve 34mpg when I had an '01 Dodge neon with a 2.0 4cyl and often got 32 on the freeway at 75mph. Must be aerodynamics...
My vtx gets about 31 mpg around town, a little highway. My vmax , lucky to get 25 mpg the way I ride. My Hyundai Sonata, 2.0 turbo, 4door, 40 mpg highway, may be 35 city.
I have the blues too. 97 VS 1400 (3.4 gallon tank). My first bike. What are they thinking? Can I custom order a tank for my or any bike? Ty in advance Twos
I recently picked up an '05 1300c with 15k on it, dressed it how I like it and now I'm obsessed. Found out it was only half full of oil and ran flawlessly. Changed the oil, and now she purrs like a kitten. I've never even had to choke it. Always fires right up. Awesome machine!
@chadmulligan5629 Yeah, I sold my V Star in order to get my VTX. I added a few things since then. Saddlemen seat, Boss Audio system, Viking bags, LED signals and headlight bulb, footboards, highway bars....
A shovelhead needs a top end at 45K a bottom end at 85k on average. My 72 has over a 100K on the bottom end after s full rebuild in 1989 my 72 FLH did 80k before I did the top end in 2021. I take good care of my bikes but thats about what to expect out of older Harleys so if you don't do your own wrenching a Honda may be for you.
I got a 1800 vtx retro 2007, I also got a Victory highball and a oldskool bobber 71ironhead. I have owned other rides as well. The retro so far till present day has not broke down, never over heats as it has a massive air/liquid cooled engine. I live in Dixie land Fl. No matter how cold or how hot it gets here, the VTX gives me no troubles at all. The only thing I did to it so far, is normal maintenance routine, changed tires, do regular oil changes, fill coolant when needed ( if ever needed ) This bike is a beast and I absolutely love it. Each one to they're own. Almost any bike will last if you take care of it and give it routine maintenance, etc. But hands down, the VTX will last you over 200,000 miles easily. I met a guy at our local Flea market, he has a 2002 VTX with over 120,000miles and still runs likes it's new!
That bike will run literally forever if the oil is changed and the fuel system is kept clean. We had a Honda Civic in the family that was traded in with 410,000 miles on it. It ran the same as it did when we bought it used for my youngest daughter🙏🏻 with 212,000 miles on it. Keep the oil changed, wash the exterior to get the road salt off of it. What can you say about a company that makes such bulletproof products. So the way I see the comment about “ geez it has 45,000 miles on it” Ugh....... it’s not even broken in yet. That bike looks brand new from what I can see, I probably wouldn’t live long enough to see that engine fail and that’s the truth. If I had the bread, I would buy that bike from Sean in a heartbeat. Of course, it’s now July of 2018 and the video is a year old but it’s the point I’m making right?? Awesome video Sean , Thanks as always!! Peace 🙏🏻✌🏻
I had a 1997 Honda VFR750 when I sold it to a friend it had 58k miles. He rode it to 70k then traded it in. It still ran really good. No issues. Simple basic maintenance and she was a runner.
I think it may be possible for Honda sport bikes like the VFR V4 engines to do 300000 miles if well looked after. Oil/filter changes on time and long trips helps a lot.
I'm about to buy a pre-owned VTX 1800. I have zero qualms about buying a 35K Honda model of any kind period! I've owned 2 Goldwings with high miles and never had a breakdown of any kind. I've also owned 2 Harley's that were new models that broke down on me on a few different occasions ruining my trips and days. I also say this to anyone that wants to go there when it comes to the Harley vs. Honda argument....I don't want to feel like I was holding on to a rackety jack hammer and forced to endure insane decibel levels of engine noise for 500+ miles, just to get off of it always smelling of gas and completely exhausted. When in fact, I can get off ANY honda cruiser and feel like one should cruising long long miles on a purring powerful beast, that got me where I needed to go, without feeling tired or smelling like gas. I felt like I was wrestling a high octane 3 headed level boss monster the whole time on a Harley. This is why Harley sales are declining all over the globe, and will continue to do so, until the electric bikes finally take over. One should enjoy a cruiser for being able to just do that....Cruise. Im a Honda customer for life. There is nothing cool or intimidating about having or not having a Harley anymore. Just be comfortable.
I have no problem buying a Honda VTX (1800 or 1300) with more than 30000 miles. I bought my 2002 VTX 1800R (VIN # suggests it was #357) at 34000 miles. Now at 55000 and still going strong. Also currently own a couple VTX1300Rs, and another 1300 before that. A friend of mine rode his 2007 VTX1300R to over 100000 miles just maintaining oil, tires, and brakes, and then sold it to a mutual friend who has put on another 15000 with no issues. My first bike was a 2006 Honda Shadow 750T which I sold it to a friend when it reached 40000 miles. I have done two 10000 mile rides in the past decade - first on my Shadow, and then on a VTX1300R. I rode them hard but my only issue was tire wear. I bought another Shadow after that at about 14000 miles (just broken in), which I've recently sold to a friend. The point is you can sell your supposedly high mileage Honda to a FRIEND. That says a lot. (I've put up quite a number of motorcycling videos on my channel.)
Which you like best 1300 or 1800? Be curious to know differences between the two as far as trips, fuel economy handling / feel heavy or not - In the market & also looking at older Roadstars -
It is all relative to the size of the engine, so for a 1.8L or even for a 1.3L engine, it is not that high. Plus this is a Honda so the only other thing I would look at is how the bike was handled/maintained. Even though a Rebel or Shadow is a Honda too, if the bike in question is like 750cc or smaller, then yeah 45K miles would be very high.
I had 45k on mine when I sold it (wished I hadn't) and it was running like the day I bought it. My friend has over 90k on his and it's still running strong. The motors are bullet proof. Fork seals and water pumps are their Achilles heel.
Which one did you have Gabby, the VTX1800? It used to crack me up to think that those bikes had a much bigger engine than the Honda Civics back in the 90s.
@ Turco949. I had a 2003 VTX 1800 C model. The first VTX were out in 2002. My friend I referred to still has his 2002 VTX 1800 C model with 90k miles on his and he claims he'll never sell it. The VTX 1800 C model was later replaced by the 1800 "F" I believe. The VTX 1300's came out a few years later and out sold the 1800's. I could never understand that because the 1800 had infinite more power and was a much nicer bike in my opinion. My 1800 was an absolute beast. To this day, it's still the most powerful V-twin I've ever ridden. That motor was special. I ride a 2017 Street Glide with the Milwaukee 8 now and it doesn't even compare to my VTX.
I currently ride a Fury which is pretty much a VTX1300 with a custom look. for my riding style and needs, 1300 is plenty big with a lot of power. 1800 would probably be better for touring or long distance riding but 1300 would be sufficient too plus riding the 1300 around town is a blast. 1800 would be a bit too heavy and bulky for my taste. Fellow riders with HDs always pick on me in a "friendly" way but we all know I could smoke every one of them without even trying, any day of the week. To me though, it is not about power but it is the vibe I get from the bike. My other bike is a V-Strom, arguably one of the most bullet-proof motors and it does most anything well but doesn't excel in anything but very reliable and powerful. Still, it is not as fun as the Fury, or the NightHawk 750, or the VMax I had before. Different strokes for different folks, you know? Ride Safe!
Given that both style engines are treated fairly, a sportbike engine will last much longer because they are balanced better (a necessity to rev higher) and typically more cylinders so a smoother load on the gearbox unlike the hammering pulses a large v twin makes.
You're right, the hammering isn't good. But the metal isn't hitting metal, there is a fluid film between the parts, so really there is no additional wear at all on the gears or shafts, those parts don't actually wear, unless you have lubrication problems or overfill the oil and get foaming oil. The bad thing about a V-Twin is the extremely high piston speeds. Long stroke engines have super high piston speeds, and so they need to be driven at lower RPM. The Hayabusa is a long stroke engine with 2.6" stroke, and the VTX-1800 has a 4.40" stroke! Motorcycles have awful gear ratios, and they cruise at way too high of RPM, which I think is designed to cause maximum engine damage. The cruisers like the VTX-1800 are the only bikes that have a proper overdrive and low RPM cruising, but some don't have an overdrive.
My buddy had a VTX 1800 for years and rode it in every state except Hawaii..... He finally sold it with over 75k miles on it..... Mine currently has 20K on it...... You will love these bikes.......
Thanks to you Sean ive in the process of buying a 2006 VTX 1800 Wouldve considered the 1300 but thanks to Jons Garage was convinced on buying the Stryker ( Raider was my 1st Choice then the Warrior) but Stryker was cheaper and had a lot of good reviews. Cant wait to ride it , had considered chucking a windshield or fairing and bags on as a tourer - still might but will eventually trade my stryker for a XVS1300 or possibly a VTX1300 and turn either into a tourer Love your channel and the fact you own Harley's but still give great reviews on your test rides for these older metric bikes
Bought my 07 1300 with 54000 on it. The previous owner laid it down as well so i bought it pretty cheap. I put 23000 on over the summer, winterized it, sat for 4+months and it still runs amazing. These bikes are solid
I have a 2007 honda vtx 1800f2 with 138090 miles on it. Runs great but developed a cam chain rattle, had to replace chains and new valve seals while i was in there. Only regular maintenance besides that. Now thats a bike!
I bought a 30 year old 500 cc Honda with 20,000 miles on it. I put another 50,000 and went to Sturgis twice on it before an electrical part gave out Honda didn't make anymore. Super reliable machine and I loved every minute of it.
I recently sold a VT600C with 40k miles on it, which doesn't sound impressive BUT previous owner had a speedometer cable broken for some time and he did a couple of tours while it wasn't working. And who know did any of the previous owners unwind the speedometer a bit just to sell it easier. It was running perfectly for my 4 years of ownership.
Just picked up a 2006 VTXS3 23kmiles $2700. 2-tone black n tan and or gold type color. Not a scratch. Not sure if I can flip it. I wanna keep her, she's awesome. Needs a set of tires next spring but LOVE IT! WOWSERS
A good friend passed away last year at 52 I ended up buying his VTX 1300R with all types of extras and only 8,500 miles on it. Previously I had 3 rice rockets and this bike was a little scary at first because it’s completely different than race bikes but it’s smooth and powerful I do like it. Thank you for all the videos.....Joshua 24:15
People talking about high mileage on a motorcycle make my neck twitch. 45K on a 15 year old bike means the bike was barely ridden at all. Anybody ever heard of lot rot?
James Woodard much rather have a bike that’s been ridden then one sitting. Gaskets dry out among other things after sitting for periods of time and you end up with more Problems
Let me tell you I lost my Kawasaki to the Sandy storm here in NY. My close friend sold me his garage kepted 2008 VTX 1800 with only 3K miles on it (This is due to he had 3 bikes at the time) And man this is one of the best bikes I ever owned. I am only @ 6,700 miles as of today. Luv this bike If something where to happen to this bike I would buy another one in a heart beat. I only ran into a couple of machanical issues (As any bike would) totally dependable; even my Harley friends give me props on this bike.
We have early 90's Honda 300 4trax ( four wheelers ) that I couldn't even begin to guess how many miles that are on them. One was my father-in-laws that he learned to ride on, his son, my wife and her sis learned to ride on it. I have used it for 15 years all over the Ozark mountains. And my daughters are now learning on. I suspect my grandkids ( none as of yet ) will learn on this machine too. Honda's are just hard to kill, even if you are trying to kill em lol.
as my wise uncle once said. my great name will go only in a great machine. Soichiro Honda.... it will bent but mostlikely won't break. the sexiest curves you can find in a iron horse belong to the shadow line cruisers. long live HONDA
Mentioned that I had one at a local dealer while there for something else. Guy behind the counter says "We just had one of those in here for an oil change last week. 220K on it, running just fine." 45K is nothing for these if you take care of them.
I bought a 2002 Honda VTX 1800 had 8500 miles on it was brand new ran like a champ Honda you say I have a 1976 Honda CB750 with 62,000 miles on it fires up on the first kick every time
This Honda don't need VTEC yo . If any of the VT series of bikes aren't capable of 200,000 miles I would be stunned . The VT 1100 ACE was the 1100 that Harley sued Honda over . So in true Honda fashion they switched from a single crank pin to a dual crank pin 3 valve and made it even better . I think I'm going to buy used VTX with 30 or so thousand miles .
Went for a ride once with the GF, got passed by a d-bagged an his GF on a crotch rocket. They were at about a100mph. The VTX 18 was quiet a surprise for him getting passed back. Together we are around 400lbs. I def saw 120mph before I let it out.
Jared Harrison if the spoart bike was going 100mph thats just chill cruising speed one handed grip. he was in a chill mood. my little cbr600rr can hit 170mph no problem. these go from 0 to 100mph in under 4 seconds. this is why im looking to get a vtx because im a speed junkie.🤪
I saw one advertised on craigslist in Redding California that had a purported 156,000 miles. It was claimed to be running great except for a coolant leak. It looked good too.
I have 03 vtx 1800cc r, 24000, also have a Harley, it's really just how the bike is taken care of, Harley can go the distance just like any other bike, so stop downing the American bike, this is America's bike, Yes they are priced to high for sure, i hope they change that at some point
Mine has 63,000 factory everything. Outside of fluids and plugs it’s completely stock. Burns zero oil, and the oil is just as clean at 100 miles as 62,000 miles. It’s like the oil never gets dirty.
Honda bikes are overall fantastic, my distant relative in Alberta has a 01-03 Goldwing GL1800 with over 400k KMs on original engine and transmission. My 07 VTX1300 has 114k KMs, bought it at ~95k KMs. I LOVE Honda motorcycles
I just got rid of my 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic after 2 years. I loved the bike and it's comfort along with Kawasaki's hint of obnoxiousness that made it fun to drive. I bought a 2003 Honda VTX 1800 with 16K miles to replace it and the comfort level along with the cool sound just isn't there. Of course, every time I twist the throttle all that is forgotten because having a bike a couple of seconds faster in the quarter is awesome. Any advice on maintenance, etc to make the VTX give me a few years of trouble free service?
02 1800C 25K miles still feels brand new. All I do besides consumables is adjust valves. There is no substitute and no real competition for a Honda engine (even a 110ci).
Sportbike engines are typically clapped out and noisy at 50k. Not always tho it depends on the maintenance and oil change intervals. Short stroke high rpm = short life.
Got 85,000 miles on my 13s, laid it down at 80mph ten years ago. Hit a deer at 50mph 8 years ago. Didn’t have to replace anything but makeup and rouge. Still runs like a crop duster. Yeah, great scooter! Uh huh!
I have 192,000 on my 2002 1800C. Only adjusted the valves. No engine work and original clutch. Fuel pump went out at 150,000 miles. Still stout and runs great. It has pulled a trailer a lot.
That’s insane. Fantastic
You should contact Honda about that. I recall them giving a new accord to someone who drove their old one a million miles. I suspect a bike with 200k is even more rare.
That’s amazing! Glad to know I have TONS of life left in my 1800F, bought it with 12k miles 3 months ago. Absolutely amazing bike
I see one on market place for with 18k miles and lots accessories. Asking $2700. I'm considering buying it to flip.
Is it still running?
My Harley blew a trans and numerous other problems at 22,000 miles. Bought a '07 VTX 1800f and love it. I'm expecting the future owner to get 250,000 or more as this bike will certainly outlive me. H.O.N.D.A. - Harley Owners Need Dependable Alternatives. 😀
That is why I only buy Japanese motorcycles they are 💯% engineered correctly Honda is the king of motorcycles they use the best mathematics when it comes to engineering Harley-Davidson just slams a bike together and says that's good enough. Well that ain't good enough for me but a Honda is because at least you get way way way more bang for your buck I value my money so Honda is the only bike for me. My VTX 1800 also has 45,000 miles on it and it runs like it is just getting broke in. I also rode a Honda gold wing man that is like riding on air it's so smooth and quiet you know that bike will out last anything on the road.
@Thomas B it’s sad, but you are %100 correct
All Honda motorcycles are built to last the motors are bulletproof long live the Honda motorcycles
All Honda motors are built to be bullet proff and economical over long time periods. The HTT 35 Honda Weed eater I bought new 20+ yrs go still starts on 2nd pull everytime. It has more low end torque than all the high dollar 2 strokes gets more work done with less gas. 11:27
It's been abused, neglected left out in the weather, has always started.
3rd owner 2002 VTX 1800 retro. Bike was a show bike and 1st owner drove it all over the country and had all the maintenance records. Kid you not mileage was 463,000! WHAT! Drove like a dream and sold it for what I out into it. Thanks for the vids partner! Keep-em coming!
Awesome
Honda make great cruiser, I am from Australia and I bought my vtx 1800 in 2008, new. To this date December 2017, the mileage on mine is 178,600 kilometres with is 110,977 miles...........only item I have replaced on a service was a steering bearing. Ofcourse brake pads and filter s
Honda bikes are overall fantastic, my distant relative in Vancouver(Canada) has a 01-03 Goldwing GL1800 with over 400k KMs on original engine and transmission. My 07 VTX1300 has 114k KMs, bought it at ~95k KMs.
I LOVE Honda motorcycles
Found an 08 in 2018, with 5000 miles, what a steal.
Bought a 02 1800c and now has 120,000 kilometres
@Josh Furner Damn right. I enjoyed mine. I'm grabbing a 1800 soon! Be safe.
03, 24,000.00 runs like new
155,000 plus miles on my 02 1800. Still going strong.
Absolutely LOVE my VTX! It's a 2005 1300 Retro. I just rolled it over 70,000 miles. I got it in 2012 and it had about 15,000 miles on it. The guys I take it to to work on it say it's one of the bikes they see with higher mileage. I try to ride it as much as possible during the winter months. And this winter out here in the eastern US has been pretty decent. Lack of snow has been nice. Just this work week for me, all days riding. Saving the miles from the POV!
I have a 2002 1800c with 12,000 miles on it. This gives me a ton of optimism for longevity 😊
Uhhh.... even a bicycle will last 12,000 miles
80,000 on my 2007 1800. Strong as ever. By the way, your since of humor at the beginning of your video is hilarious! More importantly, your scripture reading is awesome!
@Ricardo Morin maybe 2? I quit doing them around 20,000 miles.... years ago! my bike now has 93, 800.
Since everyone's bragging, I got my 2002 Honda VTX 1800 for $2400 with 37k miles. However, here's the kicker! Came with chromed wheels, vine hines big shots, corbin seat (with stock) sissy bar, oversized luggage, windshield, with kyuryakyn's hypercharger, grips, throttle boss, levers, and digital tachometer. Stock turn signals removed for inline low profile after market signals. Lastly, custom gunmetal grey matte paint job. She's a keeper.
45k?? Please....2002 1800C with over 100k miles. Love my ride.
I will hit 100k this summer. I’m at 95k right now. I had Zero issues with it.
Pete Meehan ..I know plenty with over 100,000
2002 Honda CBR 954 RR Fireblade with 88k mile and solid as a rock.
I had picked up a 2008 VTX1800F with 2753 miles. sat new for 3 years in the dealership before it was titled in 2011. its like brand new !!!! love it so much I even started a channel because of it
I have a 2003 box 1300. In 2011 here in northern nj a storm named Irene came they. I lived on a river and it flooded. My bike was completely submerged for two days. It took ten oil changes and empty the headlight and ignition switch but now has 35,000 mi and still runs great.
Jack Walsh thats the power of Honda VTX
I bet it's gonna end up in some shi*&ole like Poland or smth.
45k is too much for a harley, 45k is just breaking in the engine in a VTX
2005 VTX1800r with 67,700 miles and it still runs great. I can see this bike lasting 120-130k easily with some care
Hey VTX 1300 Retro was introed in 2003 after the VTX18. Have seen two with high mileage in FL. One had 200K miles the other over 300K miles. Both started up instantly and ran great. The only thing done to both was normal maintenance and tires of course. Bought a used 2003 VTX 13 retro with 50 K miles on it. Serviced the hell out of it and it runs sweet. My son used that one. Riding a Fury but looking for a VTX 1800 and considering buying one with low mileage. Not ever giving up the Fury! You can't have too many rides right!
Things you need to do to any Honda that requires a manual valve adjutment is do them early and or as recommended. After 3 or four lash adjustments they seat great and stabilise only requiring clearance inspection.
I purchased my Honda vtx because I like to ride,not repair my bike,my decision was based on experience nothing else
The F had dual exhaust, different tail light, different wheels, different tank it had no seam on the bottom like the C, and a digital speedo on the tank, the C speedo was mechanical on the bars. The R and S and T were bigger finders with R had Rims the S had Spoke wheels the T was with Bags and windshield Factory. The N had a round rear fender. I wished they still made the 1800 it was a awsome bike, i dont like the new 1300 styles but i do like the older 1300 styles. Hope this helps.
I'm from Canada and knew a retired gentleman that would put an average of 250,000+ kms on a Goldwing. He had a new one every 5yrs. Drove it all summer up here and took it to the US and drove it the rest of the year. So yeah, Honda bikes last forever.
I've had a VTX in the past and was gonna get a Rocket 3 recently. I'm gonna spend a lot less $ and grab another 1800 VTX. They are just great bikes at a great price with good power.
My ZG1000 rolled the odo over for the second time... about 35k miles ago. That's 235k+ miles. I'm just now looking at opening up the engine for the first time to refresh it. Motorcycles can last forever if you take care of them.
Lonestar Cruzer my Connie has 82k
She's just getting broken in then =)
My 04 vtx1300s. Has 54 k. Great condition. Got it for 25. And runs strong. I'm glad I didn't waste money on a harley
First time watching your videos and I must say I’m happy to see it start with a verse! ✝️
Hardest part of putting high miles on a VTX1800 is having to stop for fuel 8 times a day. At 75-80mph I get about 34mpg with a 4.1 gallon tank. I dubbed my Nashville trip the Midwest Gas Station Tour.
thomabb Agreed. The tank was way too small for that engine.
I don't understand how a 1.8 liter bike can only achieve 34mpg when I had an '01 Dodge neon with a 2.0 4cyl and often got 32 on the freeway at 75mph. Must be aerodynamics...
Along with the small tank on this bike, it desperately needs a sixth gear. I can get 38-40 riding 55-60, but I will get run over on the interstate.
My vtx gets about 31 mpg around town, a little highway. My vmax , lucky to get 25 mpg the way I ride. My Hyundai Sonata, 2.0 turbo, 4door, 40 mpg highway, may be 35 city.
I have the blues too. 97 VS 1400 (3.4 gallon tank). My first bike. What are they thinking? Can I custom order a tank for my or any bike? Ty in advance
Twos
81,000 on my 2005 vtx1800c and going strong. Will rebuild when the time comes.
I recently picked up an '05 1300c with 15k on it, dressed it how I like it and now I'm obsessed. Found out it was only half full of oil and ran flawlessly. Changed the oil, and now she purrs like a kitten. I've never even had to choke it. Always fires right up. Awesome machine!
Still running good?
@@chadmulligan5629 like a Swiss watch. I am taking it this week for a valve adjustment. It's never been done.
@@Bugkiller08 hell yea. I'm torn between a vstar or vtx. Think you made up my mind for me
@chadmulligan5629 Yeah, I sold my V Star in order to get my VTX. I added a few things since then. Saddlemen seat, Boss Audio system, Viking bags, LED signals and headlight bulb, footboards, highway bars....
@@Bugkiller08 glad to hear it. Keep the shiny side up!
A shovelhead needs a top end at 45K a bottom end at 85k on average. My 72 has over a 100K on the bottom end after s full rebuild in 1989 my 72 FLH did 80k before I did the top end in 2021. I take good care of my bikes but thats about what to expect out of older Harleys so if you don't do your own wrenching a Honda may be for you.
I got a 1800 vtx retro 2007, I also got a Victory highball and a oldskool bobber 71ironhead. I have owned other rides as well. The retro so far till present day has not broke down, never over heats as it has a massive air/liquid cooled engine. I live in Dixie land Fl. No matter how cold or how hot it gets here, the VTX gives me no troubles at all. The only thing I did to it so far, is normal maintenance routine, changed tires, do regular oil changes, fill coolant when needed ( if ever needed ) This bike is a beast and I absolutely love it. Each one to they're own. Almost any bike will last if you take care of it and give it routine maintenance, etc. But hands down, the VTX will last you over 200,000 miles easily. I met a guy at our local Flea market, he has a 2002 VTX with over 120,000miles and still runs likes it's new!
That bike will run literally forever if the oil is changed and the fuel system is kept clean. We had a Honda Civic in the family that was traded in with 410,000 miles on it. It ran the same as it did when we bought it used for my youngest daughter🙏🏻 with 212,000 miles on it. Keep the oil changed, wash the exterior to get the road salt off of it. What can you say about a company that makes such bulletproof products. So the way I see the comment about “ geez it has 45,000 miles on it”
Ugh....... it’s not even broken in yet. That bike looks brand new from what I can see, I probably wouldn’t live long enough to see that engine fail and that’s the truth. If I had the bread, I would buy that bike from Sean in a heartbeat. Of course, it’s now July of 2018 and the video is a year old but it’s the point I’m making right??
Awesome video Sean ,
Thanks as always!!
Peace
🙏🏻✌🏻
I had a 1997 Honda VFR750 when I sold it to a friend it had 58k miles. He rode it to 70k then traded it in. It still ran really good. No issues. Simple basic maintenance and she was a runner.
I think it may be possible for Honda sport bikes like the VFR V4 engines to do 300000 miles if well looked after. Oil/filter changes on time and long trips helps a lot.
There’s a CBR600F4i on TH-cam with 300K miles, he did do long trips too.
Have had my 2008 VTX 1800R a little over a year and love it, very fast bike and rides nice. Only 24000 miles and its still like new
That's high miles for the Harley-Davidson but not for Honda
I heard a harley dealer guy tell me that HD actually doesnt think the engine is worth more than 75000 miles without needing to be overhauled.
I ride a hd and agree with you
my buddies got an ultra classic 103 with 96k miles
a buddies with a sporster 1200 with 79k
and I got a softail with a 110 with 58k
Just rode my 03 CBR 600rr from San Francisco to San Diego on the 1 with 83k miles on her without a hiccup! still running amazing. Honda is the best!
I'm about to buy a pre-owned VTX 1800. I have zero qualms about buying a 35K Honda model of any kind period! I've owned 2 Goldwings with high miles and never had a breakdown of any kind. I've also owned 2 Harley's that were new models that broke down on me on a few different occasions ruining my trips and days. I also say this to anyone that wants to go there when it comes to the Harley vs. Honda argument....I don't want to feel like I was holding on to a rackety jack hammer and forced to endure insane decibel levels of engine noise for 500+ miles, just to get off of it always smelling of gas and completely exhausted. When in fact, I can get off ANY honda cruiser and feel like one should cruising long long miles on a purring powerful beast, that got me where I needed to go, without feeling tired or smelling like gas. I felt like I was wrestling a high octane 3 headed level boss monster the whole time on a Harley. This is why Harley sales are declining all over the globe, and will continue to do so, until the electric bikes finally take over. One should enjoy a cruiser for being able to just do that....Cruise. Im a Honda customer for life. There is nothing cool or intimidating about having or not having a Harley anymore. Just be comfortable.
I have no problem buying a Honda VTX (1800 or 1300) with more than 30000 miles. I bought my 2002 VTX 1800R (VIN # suggests it was #357) at 34000 miles. Now at 55000 and still going strong. Also currently own a couple VTX1300Rs, and another 1300 before that. A friend of mine rode his 2007 VTX1300R to over 100000 miles just maintaining oil, tires, and brakes, and then sold it to a mutual friend who has put on another 15000 with no issues. My first bike was a 2006 Honda Shadow 750T which I sold it to a friend when it reached 40000 miles. I have done two 10000 mile rides in the past decade - first on my Shadow, and then on a VTX1300R. I rode them hard but my only issue was tire wear. I bought another Shadow after that at about 14000 miles (just broken in), which I've recently sold to a friend. The point is you can sell your supposedly high mileage Honda to a FRIEND. That says a lot. (I've put up quite a number of motorcycling videos on my channel.)
Which you like best 1300 or 1800? Be curious to know differences between the two as far as trips, fuel economy handling / feel heavy or not - In the market & also looking at older Roadstars -
Someone said 45k miles is high miles on a Honda VTX? Are you serious? That's nothing for Honda.
It is all relative to the size of the engine, so for a 1.8L or even for a 1.3L engine, it is not that high. Plus this is a Honda so the only other thing I would look at is how the bike was handled/maintained. Even though a Rebel or Shadow is a Honda too, if the bike in question is like 750cc or smaller, then yeah 45K miles would be very high.
I had 45k on mine when I sold it (wished I hadn't) and it was running like the day I bought it. My friend has over 90k on his and it's still running strong. The motors are bullet proof. Fork seals and water pumps are their Achilles heel.
Which one did you have Gabby, the VTX1800? It used to crack me up to think that those bikes had a much bigger engine than the Honda Civics back in the 90s.
@ Turco949. I had a 2003 VTX 1800 C model. The first VTX were out in 2002. My friend I referred to still has his 2002 VTX 1800 C model with 90k miles on his and he claims he'll never sell it. The VTX 1800 C model was later replaced by the 1800 "F" I believe. The VTX 1300's came out a few years later and out sold the 1800's. I could never understand that because the 1800 had infinite more power and was a much nicer bike in my opinion. My 1800 was an absolute beast. To this day, it's still the most powerful V-twin I've ever ridden. That motor was special. I ride a 2017 Street Glide with the Milwaukee 8 now and it doesn't even compare to my VTX.
I currently ride a Fury which is pretty much a VTX1300 with a custom look. for my riding style and needs, 1300 is plenty big with a lot of power. 1800 would probably be better for touring or long distance riding but 1300 would be sufficient too plus riding the 1300 around town is a blast. 1800 would be a bit too heavy and bulky for my taste. Fellow riders with HDs always pick on me in a "friendly" way but we all know I could smoke every one of them without even trying, any day of the week. To me though, it is not about power but it is the vibe I get from the bike. My other bike is a V-Strom, arguably one of the most bullet-proof motors and it does most anything well but doesn't excel in anything but very reliable and powerful. Still, it is not as fun as the Fury, or the NightHawk 750, or the VMax I had before. Different strokes for different folks, you know? Ride Safe!
Given that both style engines are treated fairly, a sportbike engine will last much longer because they are balanced better (a necessity to rev higher) and typically more cylinders so a smoother load on the gearbox unlike the hammering pulses a large v twin makes.
You're right, the hammering isn't good. But the metal isn't hitting metal, there is a fluid film between the parts, so really there is no additional wear at all on the gears or shafts, those parts don't actually wear, unless you have lubrication problems or overfill the oil and get foaming oil. The bad thing about a V-Twin is the extremely high piston speeds. Long stroke engines have super high piston speeds, and so they need to be driven at lower RPM. The Hayabusa is a long stroke engine with 2.6" stroke, and the VTX-1800 has a 4.40" stroke! Motorcycles have awful gear ratios, and they cruise at way too high of RPM, which I think is designed to cause maximum engine damage. The cruisers like the VTX-1800 are the only bikes that have a proper overdrive and low RPM cruising, but some don't have an overdrive.
One of the members of my club had 187000 miles on his bike before he bought a new Indian ( Honda quit making VTX , dumb move.).
I put over 62,000 on my VTX-1800R before I had to get rid of it. Never had a single problem with. Fixing to buy another one this week, I hope.
My Shadow 1100 had almost 60k miles on it when I got hit. I put about 5k of those on it myself in six months
My buddy had a VTX 1800 for years and rode it in every state except Hawaii..... He finally sold it with over 75k miles on it..... Mine currently has 20K on it...... You will love these bikes.......
After watching this video, I got an 1800n last spring, great bike! Full of power, great price, looks great it’s a GOOD TIME. Thanks SRK
Thanks to you Sean ive in the process of buying a 2006 VTX 1800
Wouldve considered the 1300 but thanks to Jons Garage was convinced on buying the Stryker ( Raider was my 1st Choice then the Warrior) but Stryker was cheaper and had a lot of good reviews.
Cant wait to ride it , had considered chucking a windshield or fairing and bags on as a tourer - still might but will eventually trade my stryker for a XVS1300 or possibly a VTX1300 and turn either into a tourer
Love your channel and the fact you own Harley's but still give great reviews on your test rides for these older metric bikes
Bought my 07 1300 with 54000 on it. The previous owner laid it down as well so i bought it pretty cheap. I put 23000 on over the summer, winterized it, sat for 4+months and it still runs amazing. These bikes are solid
I really love the scriptures. God bless you and your family, brother.
Agreed! Without God we are nothing!
@@indiespot2024 seriously?
I have a 2007 honda vtx 1800f2 with 138090 miles on it. Runs great but developed a cam chain rattle, had to replace chains and new valve seals while i was in there. Only regular maintenance besides that. Now thats a bike!
Best Cruiser ever built. My 2002 1800C has never had a problem.
Just bought a 1300 VTX with 35k on it, thing sounds great and runs great. Looking forward to putting more miles on it
I bought a 30 year old 500 cc Honda with 20,000 miles on it. I put another 50,000 and went to Sturgis twice on it before an electrical part gave out Honda didn't make anymore. Super reliable machine and I loved every minute of it.
I recently sold a VT600C with 40k miles on it, which doesn't sound impressive BUT previous owner had a speedometer cable broken for some time and he did a couple of tours while it wasn't working. And who know did any of the previous owners unwind the speedometer a bit just to sell it easier. It was running perfectly for my 4 years of ownership.
Just picked up a 2006 VTXS3 23kmiles $2700. 2-tone black n tan and or gold type color. Not a scratch. Not sure if I can flip it. I wanna keep her, she's awesome. Needs a set of tires next spring but LOVE IT! WOWSERS
Ck out my last video, love it
A good friend passed away last year at 52 I ended up buying his VTX 1300R with all types of extras and only 8,500 miles on it. Previously I had 3 rice rockets and this bike was a little scary at first because it’s completely different than race bikes but it’s smooth and powerful I do like it. Thank you for all the videos.....Joshua 24:15
People talking about high mileage on a motorcycle make my neck twitch. 45K on a 15 year old bike means the bike was barely ridden at all. Anybody ever heard of lot rot?
James Woodard much rather have a bike that’s been ridden then one sitting. Gaskets dry out among other things after sitting for periods of time and you end up with more Problems
I have about 54K miles on my 05' VTX 1800F. I know there are other great bikes out there, but I just want my VTX. #Hondarules
The father is pleased when you quote scripture. Obey acts 2:38
36k on a 1800R. Feels like when new. As long as you keep your maintenance on time it will last for a long time.
Let me tell you I lost my Kawasaki to the Sandy storm here in NY. My close friend sold me his garage kepted 2008 VTX 1800 with only 3K miles on it (This is due to he had 3 bikes at the time) And man this is one of the best bikes I ever owned. I am only @ 6,700 miles as of today. Luv this bike If something where to happen to this bike I would buy another one in a heart beat. I only ran into a couple of machanical issues (As any bike would) totally dependable; even my Harley friends give me props on this bike.
I have a 2004 Honda Shadow, Aero with 19,000 miles on it. Still runs great. Dependable as hell.
We have early 90's Honda 300 4trax ( four wheelers ) that I couldn't even begin to guess how many miles that are on them. One was my father-in-laws that he learned to ride on, his son, my wife and her sis learned to ride on it. I have used it for 15 years all over the Ozark mountains. And my daughters are now learning on. I suspect my grandkids ( none as of yet ) will learn on this machine too. Honda's are just hard to kill, even if you are trying to kill em lol.
Good video,I saw the vtx 1300 video now I know the 1800 is for me thanks
Love my 2002 VTX 1800R 43000 miles and it rides like new
i just picked up an 03 vtx 1800 with 24k miles, love the bike and hoping to double that by the end of summer
as my wise uncle once said. my great name will go only in a great machine. Soichiro Honda....
it will bent but mostlikely won't break. the sexiest curves you can find in a iron horse belong to the shadow line cruisers. long live HONDA
Hell, my Suzuki Volusia 800 is rocking 50k and she’s still running strong
Mentioned that I had one at a local dealer while there for something else. Guy behind the counter says "We just had one of those in here for an oil change last week. 220K on it, running just fine." 45K is nothing for these if you take care of them.
piquat1 maybe 45k is serious for cars 1.8 but not for vtx 👊
Thanks for your scriptures, Shawn! Love the VTX 1800's! thanks for sharing!
45000 miles is nothing for a well maintained Honda!
I had one of the first 1800 Retros off the line. It had 12k when I had to sell it due to a divorce. It was still breaking in.
I bought a 2002 Honda VTX 1800 had 8500 miles on it was brand new ran like a champ Honda you say I have a 1976 Honda CB750 with 62,000 miles on it fires up on the first kick every time
I had over 50K on my 1800R when I sold it, and the only money spent was for regular maintenance. Still wishing I had it back.
It's not broken in yet man. The retro model is that one, which I own also. Keep fighting the Good fight.
I have a VTX 1300 that I turned into a bobber and I have 26k miles on it and it still runs great.
Iv'e got a 2007 honda vtx1300R with 73,000 miles and it still runs good.
I have a ZX14R, looking at adding a vtx 1800 to cruise / commute on. They look like good bikes
Nice invisible screen. I think you forgot it was there when you reviewed your jacket. Nice one.
This Honda don't need VTEC yo . If any of the VT series of bikes aren't capable of 200,000 miles I would be stunned . The VT 1100 ACE was the 1100 that Harley sued Honda over . So in true Honda fashion they switched from a single crank pin to a dual crank pin 3 valve and made it even better . I think I'm going to buy used VTX with 30 or so thousand miles .
124,000 Miles and counting, just changed the oil and it runs like butter!.. You'll get there one day junior ;)
Bought a 2003 1800 R with 9,500 miles on it last month. Hoping mine lasts to 124,000!
Went for a ride once with the GF, got passed by a d-bagged an his GF on a crotch rocket. They were at about a100mph. The VTX 18 was quiet a surprise for him getting passed back. Together we are around 400lbs. I def saw 120mph before I let it out.
Jared Harrison if the spoart bike was going 100mph thats just chill cruising speed one handed grip. he was in a chill mood. my little cbr600rr can hit 170mph no problem. these go from 0 to 100mph in under 4 seconds. this is why im looking to get a vtx because im a speed junkie.🤪
I saw one advertised on craigslist in Redding California that had a purported 156,000 miles. It was claimed to be running great except for a coolant leak. It looked good too.
I really love the gauge cluster.
I had a 1995 Honda shadow spirit 1100cc had 100,000 miles on it no problems yet still talk to the guy who bought it still runs great
I have 44 thousand and change on my 03 vtx 1800 C. Still going strong 💪🏿
I have 03 vtx 1800cc r, 24000, also have a Harley, it's really just how the bike is taken care of, Harley can go the distance just like any other bike, so stop downing the American bike, this is America's bike, Yes they are priced to high for sure, i hope they change that at some point
Mine has 63,000 factory everything. Outside of fluids and plugs it’s completely stock. Burns zero oil, and the oil is just as clean at 100 miles as 62,000 miles. It’s like the oil never gets dirty.
my brother has a 02 goldwing gl1800 with 102k miles.
Honda bikes are overall fantastic, my distant relative in Alberta has a 01-03 Goldwing GL1800 with over 400k KMs on original engine and transmission. My 07 VTX1300 has 114k KMs, bought it at ~95k KMs.
I LOVE Honda motorcycles
jcperform- sunny Fl 216,000 never apart,..no valve adjustments 2002 1800 c Rotell T-6, Walmart filters
Never valve adjustment? How?
i got 60k on mine still purring like a huge kitten
I just got rid of my 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic after 2 years. I loved the bike and it's comfort along with Kawasaki's hint of obnoxiousness that made it fun to drive. I bought a 2003 Honda VTX 1800 with 16K miles to replace it and the comfort level along with the cool sound just isn't there. Of course, every time I twist the throttle all that is forgotten because having a bike a couple of seconds faster in the quarter is awesome. Any advice on maintenance, etc to make the VTX give me a few years of trouble free service?
Look to Castrol oil, ..?
I'm looking to buy a 1 owner Honda maintained 40K miles... All chromed out... Bags, detach shield... Aftermarket his hers seat (ultimate seat).... 4500.00
Thoughts?
Thanks for posting firstly love all bikes I am a Harley-Davidson man not that it matters but I know if Honda makes it you can't go wrong
02 1800C 25K miles still feels brand new. All I do besides consumables is adjust valves. There is no substitute and no real competition for a Honda engine (even a 110ci).
You don't even need to change the oil just keep going. Real question is what will go further Yamaha roadstar or vtx 1800?
Sportbike engines are typically clapped out and noisy at 50k. Not always tho it depends on the maintenance and oil change intervals. Short stroke high rpm = short life.
Is there another video with the timer? Asking for a friend 👀
Love my 08 vtx 1800, and 2013 Raider, both have windshields. Won't ever put one on my 92 Vmax, glad they look ok on the cruisers, though.
Man 45,000 miles it’s just starting to get broke in good!
Got 85,000 miles on my 13s, laid it down at 80mph ten years ago. Hit a deer at 50mph 8 years ago. Didn’t have to replace anything but makeup and rouge. Still runs like a crop duster. Yeah, great scooter! Uh huh!
'03 1800c with 54k miles. Just replaced all fluids, brakes, tires....ready for another 54k without any issues.
About to cross 77k miles on my 2002 VTX1800C2. And looking forward to 700k
02 1800c here... bought it with 10k miles on it 2 years ago. Only has 12.3k right now but I guess I have another 125 years worth of life in it