Ride of the Week: Darcy’s Honda VTX 1800 Retro

Our Ride of the Week for June 1, 2012 is Darcy P’s 2002 Honda VTX 1800 Retro. When researching this motorcycle, a certain theme immediately became apparent. Certain adjectives were used repeatedly to describe the VTX 1800. Words like “big”, brawny”, “muscular” and “massive” evoked very clear imagery. As one reviewer put it, “This is a kick a$$ and take names motorcycle.”

Once we look a little closer, it becomes quite obvious that when Honda decided to introduce a big-bore, V-twin cruiser, they weren’t messing around. The centre piece of the VTX is its hulking 1795cc engine which sports massive 4″ pistons and 3 valves per cylinder. The pistons, cylinders and connecting rods were largest that Honda had ever produced. At the time, this was the largest V-twin motorcycle engine on the planet. This unit delivers 106 horsepower and 120 feet-pounds of torque. Counter-balanced cranks keep vibration to a reasonable level. Electronic fuel injection makes for smooth, consistent throttle response.

The large engine wasn’t the only justification for the VTX’s edgy persona. This chrome laden cruiser is truly larger than life. The large frame, forks, gas tank, wheels and exhaust all contribute to this being a real head-turner. The low-slung riding position looks to be practical and is reportedly very comfortable on long rides.

As you can see below, it looks like Darcy has taken remarkable care of this beauty. He uses AMSOIL Advanced Synthetic 10W-40 Motorcycle Oil in the engine/transmission. He tells us that this oil offers cool engine operation and very smooth shifting.

 

Would you would like to submit an offering as our Ride of the Week? Just send us a photo and short blurb on any type of vehicle that you enjoy and that others may find interesting. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, etc. are applicable. Your full name and location will be omitted. Feel free contact us at “info-at-oildepot.ca”.