HONDA VTX1300R (2007-2008) Specs, Performance & Photos

The VTX1300 series began in 2003 with the VTX1300S model fitted with a V-twin engine in a traditional cruiser bodywork. Unlike its larger VTX1800 siblings, the smaller machines have a standard unlinked braking system.

In 2004, Honda released another version of the VTX1300S. The 2004 VTX1300C Custom was a lighter and shorter version with cast-alloy wheels, a drag-style handlebar, and without floorboards and heel-and-toe shifter like the S model.

In 2005, VTX1300S and VTX1300C were joined by the retro VTX1300R machine that combined a traditional cruiser style with cast aluminum wheels and tubeless tires instead of the wire-spoke wheels of the S model.

In 2008, the Japanese maker launched the Honda VTX1300R, a cruiser machine that followed the same steps as its predecessor, without any significant modifications, except for a restyled exhaust system with bullet-shaped mufflers for a custom look and color options, such as Black, Pearl White, and Metallic Blue.

The suspension was carried from the previous models, with a 41 mm telescopic fork on the front and dual chromed shock absorbers with spring preload adjustability on the rear end for optimum suspension and handling.

The 2008 Honda VTX1300R's braking system comprised a dual-piston caliper with a 336 mm disc on the front and a single-piston caliper with a 296 mm disc on the rear wheel for strong stopping power.

The power output of 74 hp at 5,000 rpm and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) torque at 3,000 rpm was unchanged and was delivered by a 1,312cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine fed by a carburetor.