Whether you’re into retro styling, appreciate custom bikes, or can’t live without a windscreen and saddlebags, Honda has a 2009 VTX1300 ready for you to enjoy. All models are based on a 1312cc V-Twin so although the performance figures are the same, the distinctive styling variations aren’t.

2009 Honda VTX1300

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2009 Honda VTX1300
  • Engine/Motor: liquid-cooled 52o V-twin
  • Horsepower: 74 hp @ 5,000 rpm
  • Torque: 123 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
  • Transmission: Five-speed
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

 

Introduction


As we already gotten used to, Honda is here to offer the pleasure of riding under a variety of forms represented by the 2009 VTX1300C, VTX1300R and VTX1300T models, the corresponsive characteristic words for each one of these being street-rod, classic and touring.

Although 2009 brings only a range of new colors for each model individually and the engine is the consecrated 1312cc, liquid-cooled, 52-degree V-Twin, the market can’t get enough of these models and neither do we.

The 2009 Honda VTX1300C is more of a boulevard cruising motorcycle as it features, footpegs, two-into-two, bullet-style mufflers, custom cast wheels (19-inch up front) and bobbed fenders, making it easy to distinguish and damn attractive as well. Chrome is of the essence on this model.

With its deeply valanced fenders, pullback handlebars as well as floorboards and heel-toe shifter for greater long haul comfort, the 2009 Honda VTX1300R stands as an incursion in the classic days of motorcycling where chrome and impeccable looks were as important as acceleration and comfort.

As for the 2009 Honda VTX1300T, this is simply a retro model fitted with windscreen, saddlebags and passenger backrest.

History


Entering the new millennium, Honda found itself indeed recognized also as a cruiser motorcycle manufacturer, but their most representative model was the middleweight Shadow. They had to get seriously into business with the cruiser lineup and they had to do it fast. The results soon came in the form of the VTX1800 (2002) and the VTX1300 (2003). This last is also the model that concerns us.

Back in 2003, there would have only been the Honda VTX1300S or “R” in today’s terms. This was powered by the now beloved 1312cc V-Twin engine developing 74 hp at 5,000 rpm and 123 Nm at 3,000 rpm. There was a disc brake for each wheel and a shaft drive for the rear one. Four colors were available: Black, Illusion Blue, Pearl Orange and Candy Red.

The Honda VTX1300S carried on for 2004 and the colors available were Candy Red, Pearl Dark Blue, Metallic Silver and Black, but an entirely new addition to the lineup was the VTX1300C. This performance-custom was inspired on the VTX1800C and was fitted with stylish cast wheels, cut down fenders and shorter dual exhaust while taking over the engine from the “S” model. The colors available for the new addition were Candy Red, Pearl Orange, Metallic Silver and Black.

By 2005 three models formed the VTX1300 lineup, the R, S and C. The most notable difference between the latest model (the retro one) and the S was the presence of retro-style cast wheels on the first and standard spoked wheels on the second. The all-new 2005 Honda VTX1300R was available either in Candy Red, Magenta Metallic, Metallic Silver or classic Black while on the 2005 Honda VTX1300S Candy Red and classic Black colors were joined by Magenta Metallic and Metallic Silver. The custom model simply carried on being produced with no technical changes, but featuring Bright Blue Metallic and Titanium paintjobs.

In 2006, Honda kept the same formula for the VTX1300 lineup, but did add some new colors: Bright Blue Metallic, Metallic Silver and Candy Black Cherry joining classic Black on the R/S models and Candy Black Cherry, Dark Grey Metallic and Candy Orange joining classic Black on the C.

For the VTX1300R and S, 2007 brought Metallic Blue, Dark Red Metallic, Titanium and Black while the 2007 VTX1300C saw Dark Red, Pearl White, Pearl Dark Blue, Pearl Bright Green and Black.

Honda ended production of the S model starting 2008 and oriented on improving the R & C models. They got restyled two-into-two exhaust system with bullet-style mufflers for a classic, custom look, stylish chrome side covers as well as new ranges of colors. Black, Pearl White, Metallic Blue were for the R model and Metallic Black, Metallic Silver, Candy Red, and Pearl Yellow for the S one.

2008’s big addition was the Honda VTX1300T. This was yet another proper Honda way of exploiting the great V-Twin engine which didn’t brought any change. Features such as the stylish custom windscreen, 24-liter capacity leather saddlebags, chrome backrest and stylish chrome side covers as well as the Black, Metallic Silver, and Metallic Red color schemes make sure that the Touring model stands out from the crowd.

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Competition


In such an important market segment, Honda simply made sure that it would be in for leadership as Star motorcycles may not have a custom model to offer, but do successfully sell the V Star 1300 and V Star 1300 Tourer models as alternatives to the R and T Hondas. They go for modern, classic styling, but the heart of both these models is a 1304cc, liquid-cooled, V-Twin; SOHC, four-valves per cylinder engine fed through a fuel-injection system which makes it stronger pulling than the carbureted Honda V-Twin. They also use belt final drive instead of shaft as quiet operating and easy replacing is considered simpler that oil changes and longer life. The Tourer adds an adjustable windshield, leather-covered hard saddlebags and passenger backrest.

Suzuki’s Boulevard lineup is quite offering and, from it, we can distinguish the 2009 Boulevard C90, C90T and M90. This last is a custom with style and performance to back it up. With a 1462cc, liquid-cooled, OHC, V-Twin engine that is also fuel-injected all three models are equally capable of powering their masses, but the new Boulevard M90 is definitely the most outrageous looking of them all and fits the performance cruiser characteristics perfectly. The Boulevard C90 is as classy as you get from Suzuki and the C90T is simply an extension of the simple model as it adds the well known extras.

Kawasaki starts and ends with the Vulcan 1500 Classic which is not even new for 2009. Still, it competes with the VTX1300R and actually proves more capable than the Honda as it is powered up by a 1470cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four-valves per cylinder engine.

Honda won’t go for fuel injection as no retro bike ever had that and they plan on being as original as possible which in our opinion makes them unique, not left behind.

Exterior


But no matter how powerful, competitive or innovative a bike would be, its style is what sets it apart and in this case, we’re working with three different ones. For starters, there’s the Honda VTX1300R, a machine that properly blends the old with the new as it features smooth flowing lines over a modern piece of V-Twin engineering. Best characterized by the deeply valanced front and rear fenders, retro-style cast wheels and pullback handlebars the R stands for comfort and bling bling. The colors available on the 2009 Honda VTX1300R are Metallic Silver, Metallic Black and Bright Blue Metallic.

And so does the Honda VTX1300T which looks like a fully accessorized “R” model. The extra parts are the windshield, leather saddlebags and passenger backrest. Available in Dark Red, Titanium and Black, the “T” is more of a serious piece of machinery.

The  headlight, signal lights and instruments housings to cylinder-head cover, air-cleaner cover, left and right engine sidecovers as well as the rear shock covers are chromed on the “R” & “T” models, and that’s just to give you a short brief.

But if custom is your style, Honda offers probably the best looking custom bike of the category. The Honda VTX1300C is definitely a motorcycle for those who want to stand out as the custom cast wheels covered in stripped-down fenders, the one-piece seat and the unique 2009 colors (Titanium, Dark Blue Metallic, Metallic Red and Black) contribute at creating that original look.

The chromed elements are exactly the same as in the case of the first two models except the fact that the sidecovers are painted on the models that aren’t Black painted.

Price


The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices vary pretty much from model to model. And so we have the cheapest one (and the best looking, in my opinion), the VTX1300C coming with a $9,899 base price. Advertised with an MSRP of $9,999 is the 2009 VTX1300R model while the Touring marks $11,299, being the most expensive on in the VTX1300 lineup.

Conclusion


With the 2009 VTX1300, Honda shows once again knowing to sell virtually the same product in different shapes and styles even though technically, as we saw, it isn’t superior at all, but per contra, it doesn’t fall in the fykes of fuel injection.

Have it Custom, Retro or Touring and it will stand either for modernity or for a reinvention of the past.

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SPECIFICATIONS

 

Model: VTX1300C / VTX1300R / VTX1300T

 

Engine and Transmission

 

Engine Type: 1312cc liquid-cooled 52o V-twin

Bore and Stroke: 89.5mm x 104.3mm

Compression Ratio: 9.2:1

Valve Train: SOHC; three valves per cylinder

Induction: Single 38mm constant-velocity carburetor

Ignition: Digital with three-dimensional mapping, two spark plugs per cylinder

Transmission: Five-speed

Final Drive: Shaft

 

Chassis and Dimensions

 

Suspension Front: 41mm fork; 5.1 inches travel

Rear: Dual shocks with five-position spring preload adjustability; 3.6 inches travel (VTX1300C) / 3.7 inches travel (VTX1300R & T)

Brakes Front: Single 336mm disc with twin-piston caliper

Rear: Single 296mm disc with single-piston caliper

Tires Front: 110/90-19 (VTX1300C) / 140/80-17 (VTX1300R & T)

Rear: 170/80-15 (VTX1300C) / 170/80-15 (VTX1300R & T)

Wheelbase: 65.45 inches (VTX1300C) / 65.7 inches (VTX1300R & T)

Rake (Caster Angle):     32.0o

Trail: 149mm (5.9 inches) (VTX1300C) / 144mm (5.7 inches) (VTX1300R & T)

Seat Height: 27.46 inches (VTX1300C) / 27.35 inches (VTX1300R & T)

Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons, including 1.0-gallon reserve

Curb Weight: 678 pounds (VTX1300C) / 710 pounds (VTX1300R) / 748 pounds (VTX1300T)

 

Other

 

Colors: VTX1300C: Titanium, Dark Blue Metallic, Metallic Red, Black

              VTX1300R: Metallic Silver, Metallic Black, Bright Blue Metallic

              VTX1300T: Dark Red, Titanium, Black

 

Features

 

New for 2009

 

  • VTX1300C colors include Titanium, Dark Blue Metallic, Metallic Red and Black.

  • VTX1300R colors include Metallic Silver, Metallic Black and Bright Blue Metallic.

  • VTX1300T colors include Dark Red, Titanium and Black.

     

  • Unique VTX1300C Features

     

  • Custom cast wheels give a performance-custom profile.

  • Minimalist front and rear fenders complement the VTX's street-rod styling.
  •  

    Unique VTX1300R Features

     

  • Deeply valanced front and rear fenders, chrome-hooded headlight, broad fuel tank with tank-mounted instruments, semi-swept handlebar and floorboards with heel-and-toe shifter create a classic retro style that sets the VTX apart from the competition.

  • Stylish chrome sidecovers.

  • Retro-style cast wheels.
  •  

    Unique VTX1300T Features

     

  • Stylish custom windscreen for rider and passenger touring comfort.

  • Leather saddlebags with 24-liter capacity provide ultimate touring convenience.

  • Chrome backrest for passenger comfort.

  • Exclusive Tourer badging on front fender.
  •  

    Engine/Drivetrain

     

  • 1312cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, with ample power for passing and relaxed cruising.

  • Powerplant features a single-pin crankshaft to accentuate the engine's character.

  • Dual two-axis primary counterbalancers minimize harsh engine vibration without eliminating the powerful pulse transmitted by the VTX's traditional V-twin design.

  • The engine mounting system uses carefully matched hangers to eliminate unwanted vibration, while preserving the powerful character of the V-twin engine.

  • Three-Valve Dual-Plug Combustion Chamber.

  • Easy-to-service screw-and-locknut valve-clearance adjusters.

  • Single 38mm constant-velocity (CV) carburetor offers crisp throttle response at all engine speeds.

  • Electronic Control Unit (ECU) provides 3-D ignition maps for each cylinder, creating ideal spark-advance settings for superb rideability.

  • Coolant-heated carburetor improves rideability and ensures smooth operation in cold conditions.

  • Unique dry-sump oil system utilizes a closed-crankcase design and places the oil tank inside the gearbox case. The result is a freer-revving engine for improved power and a lower engine height, allowing optimum rider ergonomics and a low 27-inch seat height.

  • Two-into-two exhaust system with bullet-style mufflers for a classic custom look.

  • Radiator with cooling fan maintains consistent engine temperature for optimum performance and long engine life.

  • Maintenance-free automatic cam-chain tensioners.

  • Sturdy clutch utilizes a rubber clutch-center damper to ensure smooth and quiet shifting.

  • Five-speed transmission with carefully selected gear ratios for exciting roll-on performance.

  • Shaft final-drive system provides smooth, low-maintenance operation.

  • Drive-flange design at the final-drive gear eliminates final-drive noise and wear and simplifies rear-wheel installation.
  •  

    Chassis/Suspension

     

  • The engine's power is harnessed by a massive tubular steel frame that gives the VTX a long, low, classic stance.

  • Large 41mm extended front fork provides 5.1 inches of plush yet responsive travel.

  • Dual chromed rear shocks with five-position preload adjustment feature an advanced internal valve system for a comfortable ride.

  • Front disc brake features a twin-piston caliper with a large-diameter 336mm stainless-steel rotor, and rear disc brake features a single-piston caliper with a 296mm stainless-steel rotor; together they provide excellent stopping power.
  •  

    Additional Features

     

  • Specially designed tank-mounted chrome housing features a speedometer, an odometer/A&B tripmeter and indicator lights for the turn signals, high beam, Neutral, oil pressure and coolant temperature.

  • Electric speedometer with easy-to-read classic numerals uses an electronic transmission speed sensor, which eliminates the front-wheel-mounted speedometer cable. This contributes to a clean, uncluttered look.

  • Extensive chrome finish of engine parts includes cylinder-head covers, valve inspection covers, airbox cover, left crankcase cover, clutch cover and left-rear engine cover.

  • Distinctive, chrome-hooded headlight housing features a powerful 55/60-watt halogen bulb with a computer-designed multireflector for superb lighting in all conditions.

  • Handlebar design provides a comfortable, upright riding position.

  • Comfortably padded, large-diameter handgrips with polished-aluminum handlebar switch housings and triple-clamp assembly.

  • 4.8-gallon fuel tank for extended cruising and touring range.

  • Reliable 364-watt alternator.

  • Durable, maintenance-free 12-amp-hour battery.

  • Convenient push-to-cancel turn-signal switch.

  • Transferable one-year unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

  • Assembled in Marysville, Ohio.

  • Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda USA - certified unit by an individual retail user in the United States qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Riders Club of America.
  •  

    Honda Genuine Accessories - VTX1300C

     

  • Windscreens/Lightbars: Custom Windscreen, Boulevard Screens (two styles: Clear and Tinted), Sport Screen, Chrome Lightbar, Chrome Spotlight Visors.

  • Leather: Saddlebags (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Touring Bag (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Front Pouch (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Tank Belt with Pocket (two styles: Studded and Plain).

  • Backrests and Rear Carriers: Chrome Backrest with Pad (two styles: Tall and Low), Deluxe Chrome Backrest with Pad, Deluxe Chrome Backrest Trim with Emblem, Chrome Rear Carrier, Deluxe Chrome Rear Carrier, Chrome Backrest with Pad (Tall, Sport-Custom), Chrome Backrest with Pad (Low, Sport-Custom), Chrome Backrest Trim (Tall, Sport-Custom), Chrome Backrest Trim (Low, Sport-Custom), Chrome Rear Carrier (Sport-Custom), Chrome Passenger Grabrails.

  • Chrome: Chrome Allen-Bolt Inserts (three sizes: 5mm, 6mm and 8mm), Chrome Driveshaft Cover, Chrome Horn.

  • Billet: Master-Cylinder Cap (four styles: Fluted, V Design, Neo-Retro and Chrome), License Plate Frame (three styles: Fluted, V Design and Neo-Retro), Clutch Cover, Timing Cover, Swingarm Pivot Cover Set, Countershaft Cover Trim, Driveshaft Bolt Cover (three styles: Fluted, V Design and Neo-Retro), Dipstick.

  • Additional Accessories: Digital Audio System, Cycle Cover
  •  

    Honda Genuine Accessories - VTX1300R

     

  • Windscreens/Lightbars: Custom Windscreen, Lower Wind Deflectors, Boulevard Screens (two styles: Clear and Tinted), Sport Screen, Chrome Lightbar, Chrome Spotlight Visors.

  • Leather: Saddlebags (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Touring Bag (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Front Pouch (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Tank Belt with Pocket (two styles: Studded and Plain).

  • Backrests and Rear Carriers: Chrome Backrest with Pad (two styles: Tall and Low), Deluxe Chrome Backrest with Pad, Deluxe Chrome Backrest Trim with Emblem, Chrome Rear Carrier, Deluxe Chrome Rear Carrier, Adjustable Chrome Backrest with Pad, Chrome Backrest with Pad (Tall, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest with Pad (Low, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest Trim (Tall, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest Trim (Low, Neo-Retro), Chrome Rear Carrier (Neo-Retro), Chrome Passenger Grabrails.

  • Chrome: Front Fender Trim, Front Fender Tip, Front Fender Ornament, Chrome Rear Fender Trim, Chrome Solo Seat Rear Carrier, Chrome Seat Rail Trim, Chrome Allen-Bolt Inserts (three sizes: 5mm, 6mm and 8mm), Chrome Driveshaft Cover.

  • Billet: Master-Cylinder Cap (four styles: Fluted, V Design, Neo-Retro and Chrome), License Plate Frame (three styles: Fluted, V Design and Neo-Retro), Clutch Cover, Timing Cover, Swingarm Pivot Cover Set, Countershaft Cover Trim, Driveshaft Bolt Cover (three styles: Fluted, V Design and Neo-Retro), Dipstick.

  • Additional Accessories: Digital Audio System, Cycle Cover.
  •  

    Honda Genuine Accessories - VTX1300T

     

  • Windscreens/Lightbars: Lower Wind Deflectors, Boulevard Screens (two styles: Clear and Tinted), Sport Screen, Chrome Lightbar.

  • Leather: Saddlebags (two styles: Studded and Fringed), Leather Touring Bag (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Front Pouch (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Tank Belt with Pocket (two styles: Studded and Plain).

  • Backrests and Rear Carriers: Chrome Backrest with Pad (Low), Deluxe Chrome Backrest with Pad, Chrome Rear Carrier, Deluxe Chrome Rear Carrier, Chrome Backrest with Pad (Tall, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest with Pad (Low, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest Trim (Tall, Neo-Retro), Chrome Backrest Trim (Low, Neo-Retro), Chrome Rear Carrier (Neo-Retro), Chrome Passenger Grabrails.

  • Chrome: Front Fender Trim, Front Fender Tip, Front Fender Ornament, Chrome Rear Fender Trim, Chrome Solo Seat Rear Carrier, Chrome Seat Rail Trim, Chrome Allen-Bolt Inserts (three sizes: 5mm, 6mm and 8mm), Chrome Driveshaft Cover.

  • Billet: Master-Cylinder Cap (V Design, Neo-Retro), License Plate Frame (V Design, Neo-Retro), Clutch Cover, Timing Cover, Swingarm Pivot Cover Set, Countershaft Cover Trim, Driveshaft Bolt Cover (V Design, Neo-Retro), Dipstick.

  • Additional Accessories: Digital Audio System, Cycle Cover.