HONDA VTX1300S (2005-2006) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2006, Honda released the VTX1300S, a cruiser motorcycle part of the VTX series, manufactured in 2003 as a smaller, more maneuverable machine with a lower seat height than the VTX1800 line, which allowed a more comfortable riding position for riders of all sizes.

Compared to its larger VTX1800 siblings, the VTX1300S packed a similar liquid-cooled V-twin engine, which came in a completely new design. It was designed around a single-pin crankshaft, requiring two counterbalancers for fewer vibrations.

Also, the smaller machine packed a traditional braking system instead of the linked unit on the larger models, a carburetor instead of a fuel injection system, and a five-speed transmission with a cable-operated clutch.

In addition, the 2006 Honda VTX1300S packed a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, profoundly valanced front and rear fenders, chromed engine and cylinder head covers, a slash-cut chromed exhaust system, bullet-style turn signals, and wire-spoke wheels, enhancing its retro style.

The bike featured the same suspension as its predecessors, with five-way spring preload-adjustable shock absorbers on the rear and a traditional telescopic fork on the front, offering optimum suspension performance and handling.

Also, the braking performance was carried from its predecessors, with a dual-piston caliper engaging a 336 mm disc mounted on the front wheel, while the rear was handled by a single-piston caliper and a 296 mm disc.

The 2006 Honda VTX1300S took its muscles from a 2,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin powerplant fed by a carburetor, boasting 74 hp at 5,000 rpm and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) of torque at 3,000 rpm.