Where are Honda motorcycles headed?

[Hardway]

Most all of us here are Honda enthusiasts, but many here are parting or have parted company with Honda. Is Honda looking to attract a new group of buyers and leaving a percentage of their existing customers to look elsewhere for models that suit their preference?

This quote by Tombstone seems to reflect the sentiment many have expressed.

Tombstone wrote:
Quote:
C'MON HONDA! Jeez! When I first started riding, YOU were the premiere motorcycle brand out of Japan. YOU introduced America to its first superbike (CB750K0), its first luxery dresser (GL1000 Goldwing), and an assortment of other firsts. YOU set the bar for the industry. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED?!?!? Please Honda...I'm begging you...impress us like you once did...amaze us like you so often did...present something that will bring us back into the fold.

We like Hondas because they produced models we liked and we chose to purchase due in part to their quality and price as well. Their innovation in new models seems to be going in a direction that is contrary to what many on this board want, me included.

I wanted a VTX 1800 full blown factory tourer with all the bells and whistles like many others here. I haven't gone to HD for the full blown v-twin tourer like others here because I wanted water cooling. The new Kawasaki v-twin tourer will probably get my cash. The 1800 F model should of had a 240 rear, but Suzuki took a good portion of those folks with their M109. Instead of improving the reliable VTX1800 in these two areas to keep sales of the bike rolling along for example, Honda has now simply discontinued a great bike. Looks like Honda is keeping the 1300 engine platform (including the new Fury) while HD and the others are increasing engine size and power. Also, it seems to me a new chopper model is a few years too late, albeit lacking in power and rear tire size compared to a perceived chopper by many to boot.

There are other examples of this lack of improvement and leadership in their other bike models as well, but I don't want to make this post a book. The other metrics have jumped at filling many market voids and making improvements the customer wants. Is Honda innovating in the right direction? The DN-01 is one example. Honda models can't be all things to all motorcyclists, but it does seem they are abandoning some of their base customers. Just saying.

[TorqueLover]

Honda is more concerned with their Automobiles, Motorcycles are not a priority.

[Nicksterdemus]

impress us like you once did...amaze us like you so often did...present something that will bring us back into the fold.

Team up w/Mazda and slap a triple rotor in the beast. Forgetabout the chopper coz I'd like a little handling and call it the Tempest...

[manwithplan46151]

Im not seeing that many have parted company with Honda....This site is full of honda 1300's and 1800's.. I am not seeing complaints.. I am seeing good things about them. I for one could have bought and paid cash for any bike I wanted. I chose the honda 1800 N model for price, reliabilaty,and looks over all the rest...and I looked around. But thats just me. Im thinking this is not a good place to bash Honda. Thats just my 2 cents.

[srkr]

Im not seeing that many have parted company with Honda....This site is full of honda 1300's and 1800's.. I am not seeing complaints.. I am seeing good things about them. I for one could have bought and paid cash for any bike I wanted. I chose the honda 1800 N model for price, reliabilaty,and looks over all the rest...and I looked around. But thats just me. Im thinking this is not a good place to bash Honda. Thats just my 2 cents.

:agree:

:thumbup:

Shane
:joke:

[Trackman]

Im not seeing that many have parted company with Honda....This site is full of honda 1300's and 1800's.. I am not seeing complaints.. I am seeing good things about them. I for one could have bought and paid cash for any bike I wanted. I chose the honda 1800 N model for price, reliabilaty,and looks over all the rest...and I looked around. But thats just me. Im thinking this is not a good place to bash Honda. Thats just my 2 cents.

Exactly right. Who cares if Honda doesn't make what someone wants.
If I get tired of mine I will sell it. Some one else will be glad to have it.
We don't b**tch if GM doesn't make the car we want, we go to the other guy that does. Some folks are acting like they have this deep loyalty to Honda and can't have a bike if Honda doesn't make the one they like.
There are plenty of choices amongst all the manufacturers.
Just as long as it isn't an HD.:yikes: OOps, did I say that:oops:

[Nicksterdemus]

They're heading wherever they're being lead. That's sad coz Honda was the premier Pacific Rim motorcycle company. They have the best fit and finish, yet they chose a cookie-cutter pseudo chopper, following others, as their new/cutting edge scoot. It's almost as if they "discovered" an Easy Rider DVD several years after other companies offered their factory version of what should nevah be offered by the factory in the first place. I take that back coz it's probably giving them too much credit. They probably saw the similar, ripped scene in Starsky and Hutch. Sadly, this is what happens when small companies become conglomerates. They move like snails @ a turtles pace. They dropped the beloved Valkyrie coz it was competing against their flagship the Wing. They've done the same w/1800. The 1300 was cheaper, lighter, more nimble and it had the single pin crank. It was the perfect, sterile environment to introduce noobs into the wonderful world of scoots. Your Wild Hogs version of bad to the bone @ an affordable price. A 15-1600 motor would've been a nice touch for a little more pull, howevah there's no excuse for continuing to use the heavier, power robbing shaft drive. They're pretty much boolit-proof. To the point of the rear-end outlasting several motors, but that isn't the point. Once upon a time you dialed in ya scoot by adding or subtracting a few teeth on the rear sprocket or a major change might allow one tooth deviation on the front sprocket. In a day and age when camshafts have been turned by flexible belts successfully for years there's just no excuse for not offering the same. Harleys seem to have no problem w/belt drive. It would've been nice to have seen an 18 w/belt drive, 8-10" shorter wheelbase, less rake for a little more nimble package, lightweight alloy wheels, frame, swingarm w/mono shock. Yep, I can see a solo version coming in 75-100 lbs lighter w/6 speed. Time to wake up and smell the coffee. When are ya'll gonna build Das BlitzeWankel?

[oasysco]

I think we're all somewhat frustrated with Honda... EFI on low end models for EU, but not the US; abandoning the super-cruiser market to Suzuki/Yam/HD; refusal to switch to belt drive on any model (except maybe their scooters); no 240mm on any model; lack of stock and optional features on cruisers like Harley has.

But it's hard to deny Honda's reliability and punch for the dollar (if you can wrangle a decent deal, that is). Plus, the VTX's do look pretty cool stock.

Still, I think Honda is more concerned with racing when it comes to MCs and of course, their auto business.

[cannonfl]

Honda has a lot of R&D going on ... Don't let the Fury fool you. Besides, we haven't even seen the Fury yet.

Transmission
http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2008/11/honda-developing-dual-clutch-m.html

V4 Concept Model
http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2008/10/honda-shows-bizarre-v4-concept.html

V4 Production News
http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2008/11/honda-commits-to-2010-v4-model.html
Honda may be reviving their oval cylinder engine design once again. Why oval cylinders, you ask? It allows for the use of 8 valves per cylinder as well as 2 plugs per cylinder, In doing so Honda is able to get power levels comparable to an 8-cylinder, but without the size and weight of an 8-cylinder engine.

Variable Cylinder Management
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/05/28/honda-motorcycles-to-get-variable-cylinder-management-and-more/

Honda builds a NEW motorcycle plant
http://www.autonews24h.com/Auto-Industry/Honda/2669.html

[Markx]

Im thinking this is not a good place to bash Honda

Where else can we have an honest discussion about Hondas. This is a proper place. We all like Hondas so if we are frustrated why not vent here. I am very disapointed that the 1800 will be discontinued. I will look elsewhere for my next bike. I like big bikes, don't want a Goldwing maybe a Triumph, Victory or (hate to say it) HD. Got a couple of more years in my VTX before I think about another bike though.

[jthree]

Im not seeing that many have parted company with Honda....This site is full of honda 1300's and 1800's.. I am not seeing complaints.. I am seeing good things about them. I for one could have bought and paid cash for any bike I wanted. I chose the honda 1800 N model for price, reliabilaty,and looks over all the rest...and I looked around. But thats just me. Im thinking this is not a good place to bash Honda. Thats just my 2 cents.

You may not see people switching just yet but it's early days. Try buying your 1800N next year. I for one have progressed through smaller bikes (including a 1300C) up to an 1800C and do not want to be forced to go down 500cc just to stay on a Honda. I'm 6'4" and 250Lb and so need a bigger bike otherwise I just look stupid on it. Don't get me wrong, I have always been a Honda guy and still think they make the best bike for the $$ but I'm not sure dropping the 1800 series was a smart move. I will give the M109 a serious look when it comes time to trade.

Cheers

Jthree

[OvErKiLL{N99}]

denial is ugly!!! honda dropped the ball with the VTX series way before the plant in maryville even announced closing.

what have they honestly done with the 1800 since 02, other than changing fenders and colors, add a windshield and bags.

NOT MUCH AT ALL!!!!!



Honda let their v-twin cruiser customers down, they don't care about you and they care little about the cruisers anymore, it is cars, jets and robots.

honda is sucking and sucking big time.

[Nicksterdemus]

That R&D is great if it makes it to the market in which you have an interest. I would've loved the 1800 in a V-4. I like what Suzuki did w/V-twin, 4-V and a little faster revving. I'd like to see a gasoline/Hydrogen dual fuel, triple rotor, naturally aspirated, Wankel cruiser from hell in a 500lb package pushing about 125hp. Mazda has made quite a few advancements over the years on the fancy, kraut two-stroke. Suzuki's RE5 Rotary from 1974—1976 is a dinosaur compared w/what technology is available today. They tend to be thirsty, but what a power to weight ratio. I don't want a bike that sounds like a Harley. I want a cruiser that handles well, is light and nimble, affords the room for bags, has low-end grunt second to none and carries it well to about 8,0000 rpm. Is that asking so much?

[OvErKiLL{N99}]

That R&D is great if it makes it to the market in which you have an interest. I would've loved the 1800 in a V-4. I like what Suzuki did w/V-twin, 4-V and a little faster revving. I'd like to see a gasoline/Hydrogen dual fuel, triple rotor, naturally aspirated, Wankel cruiser from hell in a 500lb package pushing about 125hp. Mazda has made quite a few advancements over the years on the fancy, kraut two-stroke. Suzuki's RE5 Rotary from 1974—1976 is a dinosaur compared w/what technology is available today. They tend to be thirsty, but what a power to weight ratio. I don't want a bike that sounds like a Harley. I want a cruiser that handles well, is light and nimble, affords the room for bags, has low-end grunt second to none and carries it well to about 8,0000 rpm. Is that asking so much?

oh yeah if you want it from Honda that is asking wayyyyy too much. :mrgreen: mazda........wtf?

[Ericthered]

Love my vtx and plan on keeping it for a long time. That being said I'd rather have a V4 cruiser8)

[Hal @ Honda Direct Line]

Maybe part of the comments were created by my original guesses as to what the Fury could really be. Honda has always had problems selling the VTX1800 in larger volumes than the VTX1300. For the average rider the 1300 offers more that meets what they want. I am sure Honda has done their test-marketing and have based their decision on what will work best in the marketplace.

[Yoidaho]

My thought when subjects like this come up...
If it was possible to have top dogs of Honda Motorcycles
read this forum would they listen? I'd hope so... :dontknow:

I figure that when I wear my boy out, there will be an
older one out there that someone took care of and never rode
it much. Of course there might be another model by then
that twirls my skirt.

I'd really like a dual sport...~M :mcrider:

[SailorKane]

Problem is, we all have our pet ideas. But a large MC company like Honda pours tons of $$ into R&D before manufacturing the bike and needs sales volumes to justify the cost. So they have to strike some middle ground that lots of people will buy. The marketing people are the main link from the customer to the designers and the final available bikes represent the compromise between marketing and manufacturing.
Even these few posts go in all directions. I think we all probably agree that Honda has less innovation than we would like. But I can't see it changing materially.

[Rlee1031]

I think all the hubbub is much to do about nothing. in reality how many of you are really looking at buying a bike this year or the next. I bought my 06 1300c because it meets my long term needs and I expect it to last in the 5 to 10 year range.

So in reality do I care what Honda comes out with or fails to hit in the motorcycle market with. No not really.

Because in the end when my 1300 is ready for replacement I will do the same I did on that purchase, research the manufactures that make a scoot that meets my long term needs at that time and gives me the biggest bang for the buck with a great low maintenace record and great price. If that scoot has a Honda sticker on it cool if not thats cool too.

But thats at least 5 years out so I will worry about that then.

[OvErKiLL{N99}]

Problem is, we all have our pet ideas. But a large MC company like Honda pours tons of $$ into R&D before manufacturing the bike and needs sales volumes to justify the cost. So they have to strike some middle ground that lots of people will buy. The marketing people are the main link from the customer to the designers and the final available bikes represent the compromise between marketing and manufacturing.
Even these few posts go in all directions. I think we all probably agree that Honda has less innovation than we would like. But I can't see it changing materially.


then explain the steroid moped they call DN-01 :rolleyes::dontknow:

[Nicksterdemus]

There's the Wing for the high end cruiser and now there's the one size fits all 1300. The Valkyrie was the power cruiser that looked like a bike instead of a piece of molded Tupperware and it was executed. Along comes the 1800 and receives the same treatment. Honda doesn't appear to have a problem offering inexpensive crotch rockets.
Where's the power cruiser? Fine, build a raked chopper. Now build me a power cruiser where I can sit upright and throw it into a corner reasonably well. Let's see some new fangled V-4 Saber technology.
It's sad that there's no real options offered.
It would be kewl if they offered a limited edition performance cruiser.

[black hills]

It's the usual Honda strategy. Build something that set a new standard, then do nothing for 10 or so years:roll:. When you you suppose that 1300cc V-5 Interceptor is going to debut????:D

[Bassdude404]

Team up w/Mazda and slap a triple rotor in the beast. Forgetabout the chopper coz I'd like a little handling and call it the Tempest...
That name won't work....Trademark infringement law would be violated....GM/Pontiac owns it, and probably won't be letting it go for a motorcycle.....

[Trackman]

Now build me a power cruiser where I can sit upright and throw it into a corner reasonably well. Let's see some new fangled V-4 Saber technology.
It's sad that there's no real options offered.
It would be kewl if they offered a limited edition performance cruiser.

Sounds like something I want. I used to a have an 1983 1100 v4 Magna.
It got discontinued but the 750 version went on until 2002 and became a
lower seated v4 version of what we call a cruiser today. I always wished Honda had continue the 1100 on in the same way. Perhaps even moving the ST1300 engine into it. I would still like a smooth running v4 cruiser.
Why not have the VTX with an engine option? Surely it wouldn't be that much to put an existing models engine in another existing model.
An easy way to offer another bike.

[harcosparky]

Most all of us here are Honda enthusiasts, but many here are parting or have parted company with Honda.


You "live" in the Honda community so to speak. You hear about people leaving Honda and going elsewhere. How often have you seen people leave others and come to Honda. If you look they are out there.

I am one, I came from Suzuki ( 2000 VZ800 / 2006 DL650 ) and now own two Honda VTX's 06 1300R 06 1800N.

When people leave Honda and go elsewhere, they may learn of problems 'elsewhere'. Some will leave because XYZ has a 2000cc Cruiser and Honda only goes up to 1800. OH MY!!! :lol:

People change brands all the time, looking for something different. Maybe a bigger motor to help boost an ego, who knows. I ride Honda for it's RELIABILTY ...... to date I have been 100% satisfied with Honda. Can't say the same for Suzuki - poor design on the 2000 VZ800 , Fuel Injection problems of the 2006 DL650. Who knows all the reasons? :dontknow:

A lot of negativity is coming out over a new Honda ... " The Fury " ... now think real hard on this .... people are bashing a bike they have NEVER SEEN / NEVER RIDDEN! :lol:

That's FUNNY! :lol: :lol:

[X'N]

Not only do I think that honda is dropping the ball in the cruiser market I think they have dropped it in all motorsports. The engine size in the fury will likely prevent me from buying one, but I understand why they did it. If I were looking for a new bike it will not be with honda I think I got the best thing honda has offered since they dropped the Valkarie... Good luck honda :roll:

[Nicksterdemus]

Fuel Inj 1312cc liq cooled 52 degree v-twin engine

5 spd shaft

Wheelbase 71.24 in"

Rake Caster Angle 38.0 Degree Total 32.5 frame

Seat hght 26.69 in"

Fuel Cap 3.4 gal

Frt Tire 90/90-21 Rear Tire 200/50-18

Curb Weight 663 lbs

========================
I've seen enough of the blurry pics along w/these stats.
It's gonna weigh around 90lbs less have come up short 'bout 480cc, give or take.
What are they hiding in the shadows, training wheels?
Jato rockets?
20lb drums of NOS?

[GeminiII]

In my opinion....
Since Honda likes to discontinue their bikes....
and has a long list of fine motorcycles that are no longer available....
they might as well go ahead and discontinue the Fury too....
even before it's released and offered for sale.

It won't last 2 years, if that, before it'll be discontinued, mark my word.
The blurry image, hype and little statistical info Honda has offered
is sufficient enough for me to know already....
The Fury Is One Honda Motorcycle I Would NOT Buy !
Neither would I buy a Goldwing, the one bike Honda seems very comfortable in keeping.

I'm thinking Honda really wants to be just an automobile company.
Even the Goldwing is looking more and more like an auto on two wheels.
Honda may eventually become a one motorcycle company if they don't get their act together and learn what people want in a motorcycle.

Seems 3 out of the 4 Hondas I have bought and would buy again have been discontinued.
Thanks Honda - Great Job http://www.vtxoa.com/forums/images/smilies/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Nicksterdemus]

It would seem that Honda has a formula and if they don't sell enough they scrap ya, hoping the now new line will have a surge of new buyers. What's hard to understand w/Valkyrie& the 1800 is that they didn't do squat to keep them alive in terms of performance. Honda likes to brag n boast about the crotch rocket technology, yet where is the weight saving and performance in the power cruiser? The 1800 is a slug in corners. It needs to drop @ least 75lbs, the rake needs to be 27-28.5 and it should've used existing 4-V head technology pushing the redline to 6K @ 95-100 RWHP thru a belt or chain drive. They have sacred cow Tupperware bagger. Now they're gonna have the factory "chopper."
Build a real power cruiser instead of some/another bloated in between model. Hell, ya built the concept/factory chopper in the Rune. The front end was a work of art, yet it was pricey and folks were afraid that parts wouldn't be readily available due to it's limited production. Dump the old double steel tubing frame & swingarm. Start from scratch. Instead of making a limo sized model try shortening the frame a little. We'll adjust to solo or riding smaller broads.

[bigsmoke]

Someone stated that they purchased the 1800 N because of looks and price. In addition someone else stated that the 1800 F should have had a 240 :agree:.

Here's my 0.02. The Zuke M109R is knocking Honda upside the head. Now I've riden both a 1800 F and a M109R. I have to say Zuke all the way (i just made a rhyme :mrgreen:). Plus why by a F or C and pay another 2000K-3000K for a 240 when you can save that and another 400 bills and get a Zuke that only needs a lil chrome. Honestly, the only reason I have a 1300 C is because this is my first bike and I could not afford the M109R, Yam Raider, or the Victory Hammer. Honda is slippin in their pimpin. And what the PUCK is the deal with this DN-01 trash, 14,600K for a alien looking oversized scooter. An then they want to introduce a chopper, too little too late. What heppened to the new concept 1800, now that is a quantam leap in the right direction.

[marang]

I just can't believe their doing away with the V-Twin 1800 :yikes: freakin' awesome engine.

If they would've scraped the Goldwing in the first few years of excistence they'd never have what they have today with it. Why not do the same with the X 1800.

[Nicksterdemus]

Oh the humanity! I can't stand to look as the once great Honda airship starts to crash and burn! Why did you foolishly proceed w/reckless abandon? WHY?

http://www.trentu.ca/academic/history/Hindenburg.jpg

[Nicksterdemus]

Ah! It's—it—it's a—ah! I—I can't talk, ladies and gentlemen. Honest: it's just laying there, mass of smoking wreckage. Ah! And everybody can hardly breathe and talk and the screaming. Lady 1800, I—I—I'm sorry. Honest: I—I can hardly breathe.

http://i.usatoday.net/news/_photos/2007/05/06/hindenburg-medium.jpg

[New York Reaper]

I am going to hold on to my beast forever. Dollar for dollar the best V-Twin ever built.
Hey they just became a classic.

Ride Safe
REAPS

[Nicksterdemus]

Viva ******! Till the day I die! Party on! Crank it up, time to get the Led out!
I hope I remembered to change my depends...

http://steelturman.typepad.com/thesteeldeal/images/2007/12/05/worlds_biggest_motorcycle_monster_b.jpg

[jgalfo]

I agree that the VTX 1800 was a history making motorcycle, that Honda had trouble selling.

think of the big 3 automakers in the '70s bigger engines and then, the gas crisis.

the cars from Japan with their fuel efficiency entered and grabbed the market.

nevermind the current downturn in gas prices, fuel is still getting scarce world wide and will be expensive again.


Honda will look very forward thinking for their choice now to make smaller engined motorcycles for the masses. ( the goldwing will become a limited quantity niche market)

aren't all automobile companies going this way now?


only time will tell


John

[tom cat]

I think the bike market for all but dirt bikes and crotch rockets is going to be stale for a long time. Lots of good used bikes on the market and those who bought em are getting too old to ride.
I love my 1800C but I think there are only so many in the world who want this kind of bike, as with the Valks, great bike but just not enough sales to keep the lines running at a profit for long.

[ReRide]

Well, I predict that when Honda figures the time is right, they will introduce the next generation replacement of the 1800 vtx, whatever that may be.

[Phideaux]

Honda seems to have accomplished several things with the Fury; the use of Fuel Injection on the 1300cc power plant, and belt drive to allow the use of wider rear tires.

Honda is also moving the manufacturing site from the USA to elsewhere; most likely Asia. Lower labor costs, much less government regulation to deal with and it opens up the sales to Europe via lower transportation costs.

It makes a little more sense that during the move, the 1300 VTX will be revamped to have the FI and belt drive. If the 1800 survives, it will most likely be the recipient of the belt drive as well.

That's just my $0.02 worth . . .

[locodude]

I'm beginning to wonder if the Fury even exists.

[Hal @ Honda Direct Line]

Honda seems to have accomplished several things with the Fury; the use of Fuel Injection on the 1300cc power plant, and belt drive to allow the use of wider rear tires.

Honda is also moving the manufacturing site from the USA to elsewhere; most likely Asia. Lower labor costs, much less government regulation to deal with and it opens up the sales to Europe via lower transportation costs.

It makes a little more sense that during the move, the 1300 VTX will be revamped to have the FI and belt drive. If the 1800 survives, it will most likely be the recipient of the belt drive as well.

That's just my $0.02 worth . . .

Belt drive on the Fury? Not happening. You are getting the photos mixed up.

[Phideaux]

Belt drive on the Fury? Not happening. You are getting the photos mixed up.

I must admit that I haven't been keeping up that well. I don't recall any of the fuzzy photos showing it to have a shaft drive, but someone said that there's a "wide" rear tire; perhaps I've jumped the shark thinking that Honda may have decided to go with belt drive in order to accommodate the bigger rear tire.

Anywho, we'll see . . .

[sspawn27]

Well here's my 2 cents worth. I've looked back into my rides and the rides of friends, Honda has usally come up with something great. The CB750 was everywhere even 20 years after. The V4s were great bikes I owned 4 of them and even 18 years old they were still around and amazing bikes. But they didn't have the V-twin sound that was sweeping the scene. The VTX is one of the most popular bikes out there and it's not just Honda that make it that way. Try buying aftermarket stuff for a V65 Magna, or my buddies 900 Kawi, there is very little out there. Thumb through the " post your bike picts" The VTX is way above everyone else and all the other manufactures jumped in to make cruisers for the masses.
Take a look at some of the newer models the M109 was to fill a gap "big tire" , Vstars "crusier", Kawi "crusier". Now there is a glut in the market everyone has a V-twin crusier. Take a look at the newest models the Victory bagger looks like the space shuttle ready for lift off, the new Buell looks like it came out of Batman's cave same with the DN-01.

The point that I'm trying to make is that right now the amount of new riders is huge thanx to TV. Honda can still hold a good amount of that market with the 1300 VTX, they are trying to hit more of the "I could be a rider" market. Scooters have become a big thing in the last 2 years I think the DN-01 is the next step for the scooter riders. In the end we may have to hang on to our X for alittle while, but I'm sure that Honda will have something for us. :popcorn:

[Hal @ Honda Direct Line]

I must admit that I haven't been keeping up that well. I don't recall any of the fuzzy photos showing it to have a shaft drive, but someone said that there's a "wide" rear tire; perhaps I've jumped the shark thinking that Honda may have decided to go with belt drive in order to accommodate the bigger rear tire.

Anywho, we'll see . . .

200 rear tire on the Fury. Hows that for a big tire?

How does a 300 Avon look on my M109 that we just finished?

http://i365.photobucket.com/albums/oo97/HJG-DLP/DSC_0095.jpg?t=1229653980

http://i365.photobucket.com/albums/oo97/HJG-DLP/DSC_0102.jpg?t=1229654072

[Madness_MC]

...Honda likes to discontinue their bikes... Valkyrie and Valk Interstate, the VF45/VF65 Magna/Sabre and even the old CB750/900/1100F line are prime examples of great bikes gone bye-bye. :-?

...and has a long list of fine motorcycles that are no longer available... And that is EXACTLY why most serious aftermarket manufacturers won’t commit R&D to develop serious (engine/ignition/fuel system) parts for Honda motorcycles!!! :yikes:

...they might as well go ahead and discontinue the Fury too.... even before it's released and offered for sale. ...It won't last 2 years, if that, before it'll be discontinued... Shades of the Valkyrie Rune (and good riddance, too !!! Can you say FUGLY ???) :oops:

...Neither would I buy a Goldwing, the one bike Honda seems very comfortable in keeping...I'm thinking Honda really wants to be just an automobile company.. And if you’ve read your Honda history books, they started out as a motorcycle company, then they expanded into the automobile market. Anyone else remember the very first Honda Civics powered by the 450cc motorcycle engines???

... Even the Goldwing is looking more and more like an auto on two wheels... The arse end of them looks like a Honda Accord/Acura. However, that cuts down on manufacturing costs when they can share tail lights and “sheet metal” that way.

So enough with my pi$$in’ and moanin’. Honda apparently does not pay attention to the buying public once it introduces a model. They’ll produce it until the sales numbers won’t support a profit on the model line OR unless they need to dump it to allow their latest “love child” to bloom. If Honda kept producing the Valk and Valk-I, sales of the expanded (and very profitable for Honda Corp) GL1800 line and the intro of the RUNE(d) and VTX1800 lines would not have done what the bean-counters wanted down on the bottom-line. The Rune(d) bombed real fast, so (thankfully) it had only a 2-year run because demand wasn't there for a turd on 2 wheels.

Once the bike manufacturing goes completely to the new Japanese plant, how long do you think they will keep producing ANY VTX models (or any bikes designed for the American market, for that matter, other than the GL and CBR series).

Best of luck to us all. We might as well enjoy our X’s as long as we can. In 5 years, we’ll all be riding Yamaha RoadStars or water-cooled H-Ds any way !!! :evil:

[Madness_MC]

Well here's my 2 cents worth. I've looked back into my rides and the rides of friends, Honda has usally come up with something great. The CB750 was everywhere even 20 years after. The V4s were great bikes I owned 4 of them and even 18 years old they were still around and amazing bikes. But they didn't have the V-twin sound that was sweeping the scene. The VTX is one of the most popular bikes out there and it's not just Honda that make it that way. Try buying aftermarket stuff for a V65 Magna, or my buddies 900 Kawi, there is very little out there. Thumb through the "post your bike picts" The VTX is way above everyone else and all the other manufactures jumped in to make cruisers for the masses.



Take a look at some of the newer models the M109 was to fill a gap "big tire" , Vstars "crusier", Kawi "crusier". Now there is a glut in the market everyone has a V-twin crusier. Take a look at the newest models the Victory bagger looks like the space shuttle ready for lift off, the new Buell looks like it came out of Batman's cave same with the DN-01.

The point that I'm trying to make is that right now the amount of new riders is huge thanx to TV. Honda can still hold a good amount of that market with the 1300 VTX, they are trying to hit more of the "I could be a rider" market. Scooters have become a big thing in the last 2 years I think the DN-01 is the next step for the scooter riders. In the end we may have to hang on to our X for alittle while, but I'm sure that Honda will have something for us. :popcorn:

SSpawn -

You appear to have forgotten a few items, as have the rest of us. All of the major Japanese bike manufacturers had been making "cruisers" since the 80s - Honda had the Magna (500 to 1100 cc), and VT line (250 to 1100 cc) and nearly every one was water-cooled; Yamaha had the Virago line from the early 80's and held onto that line until the V-Star and RoadStar lines got well established in the late 90s/early 2000's (- the V-MAX still lives !!!); Kawi has had the Vulcan line in slightly modified and fattened-up form(s) (including and Indian-wanna-be - the Drifter) since the late 80's, and Suzuki has had the Intruder/Marauder/Boulevard (evolution at its finest ???) line since the mid-80s.

The biggest hit on 2 wheels currently is not the VTX (and it never has been !!!) - it is the Yamaha Road Star / V-Star line-up. Look at any bike magazine. The VTX is only covered because they have to spread around coverage to each manufacturer. Kawasaki and Suzuki get even less coverage than Honda.

As far as customized and performance-enhanced bikes - I'd almost bet that there are 25 V-Star/RoadStar bikes for every 1 VTX (1300 or 1800) that makes it into the magazines, even for the V-Twin "Metric of the Month" column. Hell, there's even more Honda ACE 750s than there are VTXs in the magazines !!!

People will buy what they see plenty of. Aftermarket manufacturers put R&D dollars into the bikes that they see more interest in. Besides - the Yamaha factory supports customization and performance enhancements and provides a line of factory-supported parts - Look at Broward MotorSports, Barons, Jeff Pellegi and several others. You can see that Honda really hasn't put any effort into "customization support" other that some puny-spirited wheel and paint options and calls them a "Spec Option". What a let down.... :cry:

[Balrog]

Where is Honda headed?

Who knows??? No one knows. Unfortunately, it seems that Honda doesn't know either.

I am surprised by the upcoming release of the Fury model. Honda is waaaay too late in releasing this model. A chopper??? Good lord, why a chopper? The chopper craze is dead.

I am of two minds with this bike. On one hand. I feel that Honda is screwing themselves with this bike. With the flood of new and used VTXs on the market. Why would anyone pay the 12-13K (speculative price) for this bike? Particularly when you can get a really fun bike like the VTX at rock bottom prices.

On the other hand. (WARNING.. Overly optimistic scenario ahead.) If this bike is visually appealing to the masses. Then, 12-13k is a steal for a reliable chopper. What are people paying for entry level POS choppers now? 20-30K??? Honda may sell a few of this model. (Like I said, this is an overly optimistic scenario.)

Realistically though, it doesn't seem that this bike has anything over the Yamaha Raider. So far, the Raider seems to be a better value. It will be difficult to measure until we actually see this bike. For most people. A motorcycle is a toy. With the worsening economy, everyone, will be belt tightening. Gone are the days of easy credit and using your home as an ATM machine. I just don't see how the Fury can sell given the economy and changing trends motorcycling.

Many people, (not on this forum), bitch about Honda producing Europe only models. Many loyal Honda enthusiasts want to get their hands on some of the bikes that have been available only in Europe. Since Honda is essentially consolidating all big bike production at their new plant in Japan. Why not bring some of those European models to the US???

Honda doesn't have to flood the U.S. market with European models.

Speaking of flooding the market. Unless Honda can effective manage it's inventory. We will continue to see these new model births followed by a quick death. The Rune was the epitome of over production. Originally, Honda announced that only 1600 would be made for one year. But, they made more and expanded the model to 2005.

Honda could save money by producing a consistent set of models for worldwide consumption and bring some exitement back to motorcycling in the United States.

I would like to see the following models in the US.

http://z.about.com/d/motorcycles/1/0/y/9/-/-/HondaCB1300SuperFour.jpg
Honda CB1300


http://z.about.com/d/motorcycles/1/0/5/A/-/-/HondaCB1300SuperBolDOr.jpg
Honda CB1300 with fairing

http://z.about.com/d/motorcycles/1/0/J/7/-/-/HondaCB1100F_profile.jpg

Honda CB1100f prototype (Rumor has it that this bike will make it to production.)


http://www.gizmag.com/pictures/1434_19040553045.jpg

Honda's X-Wing luxury touring concept prototype surfaced in Tokyo in 1999. (Never made it past a non-working prototype.)

Here is the write up. "From the press kit - "Speeding down Europe's autobahns like a wind from the Alps, this near future sports tourer is powered by an exceptionally smooth running V6 engine. It's adjustable fairing provides superb aerodynamic performance, and it's elegant shape proves the maxim that form does indeed follow function. Featuring a next generation Combined Brake System + ABS, an electronically controlled Traction Control System, a multifunctional navigation system and an internet capable display monitor, and a two-way rider/pillion communication system, this machine is a showcase of state-of-the-future motorcycle technology. Safe, clean, efficient, and comfortable, the X-Wing raises tandem touring to truly new levels of elegance and performance."

Although this bike never made it to production. It appears that Honda played it safe, and took some of the styling cues from the X-Wing and used them in the ST1300.

[Damnation]

I was hoping that honda would make a street glide type of bike using the 1800. I was holding off getting a new bike I guess I'll have to try to find an 1800n before they are all gone. The 1300 to me is like the 883 sportster a chicks bike. I hope thqat the fury is bigger than the 1300 if not i guess I'll go back to Harley.

[race66]

I was hoping that honda would make a street glide type of bike using the 1800. I was holding off getting a new bike I guess I'll have to try to find an 1800n before they are all gone. The 1300 to me is like the 883 sportster a chicks bike. I hope thqat the fury is bigger than the 1300 if not i guess I'll go back to Harley.

hmmm....

you were hoping for an 1800 honda "street glide type" of bike, but will go to harley because the fury chopper d/n have a larger engine?

you know the fury is a chopper right?

:joke:

a street glide is not a chopper.

chopper type bikes-
the hd rocker C is closer to the fury, except for the whacky floating rear assembly and the goofiest passenger seat you ever saw- and it starts at $19,500. But it does have a 240 rear tire and it has a bigger (air cooled) motor (96 cu vs 80 cu) but weighs more.

you can get the plain jane rocker for a couple grand less. might be your best bet.

but if you want a street cruiser, you can't go wrong with the 1800n when compared to the street glide MSRP starting at $ 18,999.

the new leftover 1800N will be about half that price, it won't have all that stuff (bat wing fairing, bags, etc) hanging on it though. It'll look a hell of a lot better and be WAAAY more powerful. But some folks don't care about that.

you can buy alot of bat wing and bags for the difference.

buy what YOU like. :D

[Tiny]

hey i am looking to add saddlebags to my 03 1800C, what brand do you have on yours and how do you like them?
Tiny



Most all of us here are Honda enthusiasts, but many here are parting or have parted company with Honda. Is Honda looking to attract a new group of buyers and leaving a percentage of their existing customers to look elsewhere for models that suit their preference?

This quote by Tombstone seems to reflect the sentiment many have expressed.

Tombstone wrote:
Quote:
C'MON HONDA! Jeez! When I first started riding, YOU were the premiere motorcycle brand out of Japan. YOU introduced America to its first superbike (CB750K0), its first luxery dresser (GL1000 Goldwing), and an assortment of other firsts. YOU set the bar for the industry. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED?!?!? Please Honda...I'm begging you...impress us like you once did...amaze us like you so often did...present something that will bring us back into the fold.

We like Hondas because they produced models we liked and we chose to purchase due in part to their quality and price as well. Their innovation in new models seems to be going in a direction that is contrary to what many on this board want, me included.

I wanted a VTX 1800 full blown factory tourer with all the bells and whistles like many others here. I haven't gone to HD for the full blown v-twin tourer like others here because I wanted water cooling. The new Kawasaki v-twin tourer will probably get my cash. The 1800 F model should of had a 240 rear, but Suzuki took a good portion of those folks with their M109. Instead of improving the reliable VTX1800 in these two areas to keep sales of the bike rolling along for example, Honda has now simply discontinued a great bike. Looks like Honda is keeping the 1300 engine platform (including the new Fury) while HD and the others are increasing engine size and power. Also, it seems to me a new chopper model is a few years too late, albeit lacking in power and rear tire size compared to a perceived chopper by many to boot.

There are other examples of this lack of improvement and leadership in their other bike models as well, but I don't want to make this post a book. The other metrics have jumped at filling many market voids and making improvements the customer wants. Is Honda innovating in the right direction? The DN-01 is one example. Honda models can't be all things to all motorcyclists, but it does seem they are abandoning some of their base customers. Just saying.

[race66]

200 rear tire on the Fury. Hows that for a big tire?

How does a 300 Avon look on my M109 that we just finished?



http://i365.photobucket.com/albums/oo97/HJG-DLP/DSC_0102.jpg?t=1229654072


very sweet!!:congrats:

[Travelin' Man]

My 2 cents on this Honda debate/discussion; Over my 30 years of riding I have ridden motorcycles from Suzuki ('75 TS75, '91 GSF400 Bandit), Yamaha ('81 XJ550 Maxim, '86 XVZ13D Venture Royale), and Honda ('83 GL650 Silverwing Interstate, '83 VF100C Magna V65, '98 GL1500SE Goldwing, '03 GL1800 Goldwing, '03 VTX 1800C), I now ride a 2008 Victory Vision. I have found that Honda does indeed manufacture the best motorcycles in regards to quality, fit, finish, and reliability (although I still regret getting rid of my Venture Royale, that was a sweet and reliable touring bike). That said, the reason I have left the Honda fold is as others have already stated, Honda is out of touch with the motorcycle community and appears not willing to do anything to enhance it's sales here (as opposed to Europe) when faced with serious competition from ALL the other manufacturers, including H-D and Victory. I waited for a factory fully dressed VTX 1800, with stereo, cb, electronic cruise control, ect., along the lines of the Valkyrie Interstate and when Honda finally introduced a VTX 1800 Tourer it was a joke. I needed the narrow width the v-twin engine arrangement with floorboards for my comfort on long rides (myknees could no longer take the Goldwing's foot position) but I loved the amenities I had with my '03 Goldwing, thus, when let down by Honda yet again, I went looking elsewhere. The first thing I did when I decided on the Victory Vision was to research the reliability of their engine platform, quality of manufacturing, and customer satisfaction; what I found was that when people switch to the Victory brand, better than 80% of those people buy another Victory for their next purchase due to their experience with the brand............... That looked like how it was in the old days 10 years ago or so for Honda, so guys that run Honda need to start paying attention. If Honda were to come out with a big v-twin powered luxury touring bike I would come back to the fold in a heartbeat. :doorag: