vtx 1800 or valkyrie interstate

[hunterspappaw]

im thinking of trading my 99 interstate for a 03 vtx 1800 .the valky has 36000 miles and the vtx has 22000. the guy offered me a grand to boot. both bikes are in very good condition. what  kind of differences can i expect. the valky seems very top heavy when my wifes on the back and its kinda scary when wheelin around at slow speeds and stopping. my other bike is a yamaha royal star 1300 and when shes on the back i hardly notice the weight difference. just need some opinions on what to do. any feedback would be greatly appreciated thanx stan

[BigAl]

Give me your Valkyrie.

Buy the VTX.

At least I would appreciate the better bike.

Does that help you at all?

VTX is a Harley wannabe.

Get a real Harley if you want a Harley.

Keep the Valk if you want a superior ride and power.

[eric in md]

damn a wannta be ?? i dont think so vtx will do any thing better then a harley.    but getting back to the question keep the valk  . if it only has two spark plugs it anit s--t..   luv ya big al mean it buddy

[..]

Have you taken a 25 mile plus ride on the VTX on roads you like to ride?

[BigAl]

Eric i have had v-twins with 4 spark plugs.

Plugs don't mean much to a ole salt like me.

I will ride a scooter if I have too.

AL

[eric in md]

lol me too my buddy has a yuma this a blast. hope to stop down there to see you boys in a couple weeks .. your buying dinner buddy . and im hungry. 

[Kingbee]

I had a friend with a VTX 1800.  We traded bikes a few times.  His bike felt small like a Shadow, but heavier than a Valk, and top-heavy to boot.

[The Anvil]

I think the VTX1800 is a fine bike. Is it a Harley clone? Yeah, it totally is. That it's more than a match for a Harley performance-wise is besides the point; it's still aping on Harley.

Would I trade a Valk IS for a VTX1800? No way in hell, not even with the cash incentive. VTX's are a dime a dozen and in a few years you'll be able to get an 03 for a song.

[Gear Jammer]

My son's got a VTX 1800, and a work buddy too.  I've ridden both several times, and I wasn't impressed     .  In fact, my son's wanting to get a GW now  ???.    I'd keep the IS without a doubt. 

[Hoser]

I think the VTX1800 is a fine bike. Is it a Harley clone? Yeah, it totally is. That it's more than a match for a Harley performance-wise is besides the point; it's still aping on Harley.

Would I trade a Valk IS for a VTX1800? No way in hell, not even with the cash incentive. VTX's are a dime a dozen and in a few years you'll be able to get an 03 for a song.

And once again I am forced to agree with the Anvil.  I must be gettin senile.       Hoser

[The Anvil]

I think the VTX1800 is a fine bike. Is it a Harley clone? Yeah, it totally is. That it's more than a match for a Harley performance-wise is besides the point; it's still aping on Harley.

Would I trade a Valk IS for a VTX1800? No way in hell, not even with the cash incentive. VTX's are a dime a dozen and in a few years you'll be able to get an 03 for a song.

And once again I am forced to agree with the Anvil.  I must be gettin senile.       Hoser

"getting"??? 

[fudgie]

I think the VTX is far more top heavy. Maybe a CT will help your low speed maneuvers. Did mine.

[PAVALKER]

What model VTX 1800 did he offer?  What options and accessories come with it?  I had an 02 VTX1800 Retro since 02 (sold earlier this year), and four years ago I picked up my 99 Valkyrie Interstate, which I intend to keep for a long time.  My GF didn't ride with me on the VTX, she preferred the Valk hands down, and I ultimately chose the Valk over the VTX as well.  The VTX1800 Retro is similar in size and power to the Valk (same size tires too),  I think the 1800C model seems smaller for some reason, but it's not actually (shorter due to fenders only).  The VTX is a good strong bike but is just not the same as the Valk IMO.  I do not agree that the VTX is a so called "Harley Clone".... just because it is a V-Twin... that would be like saying all V-Twins are "Harley Clones".... just not so.  


I would not do it... but to satisfy your own curiosity, take the VTX for a ride and also with the bride and see for yourself.

[BF]

I've seen alot of VTX 1800's in the 4500 to 5000 range.  I'd think your I/S is worth alot more than that.  I wouldn't trade the guy myself.  If you want something else, I'd sell the I/S and look around for a Standard or Tourer.  Without the trunk and fairing, they're gonna be alot less top heavy than an I/S.  

However, before you do anything, take a ride down to your local Honda shop and see if they have any VTX 1800's laying around that they'll let you take a ride on first before you make decision one way or the other.  

[rocketray]

the vtx 1300 is a better bike than the 1800-sometimes less is more!!  also my 140 # wife on her vtx r can drop me-230 #- like a bad habit on a 60 mph roll-her bike has the baffles out and a stage 1 jet kit-I have the viking headers and needles and a dyna 3000.

[Nickster]

1800 is a nce bike.  But it aint no Valk. 

[PAVALKER]

the vtx 1300 is a better bike than the 1800-sometimes less is more!!  also my 140 # wife on her vtx r can drop me-230 #- like a bad habit on a 60 mph roll-her bike has the baffles out and a stage 1 jet kit-I have the viking headers and needles and a dyna 3000.

Gonna raise the BS flag on this one...sorry...     the VTX1300 is not necessarily a better bike than the 1800... the 1800 will pull away from a 1300 in a flash.  The 1300 is smaller, and somewhat easier to maneuver in slow parking lot riding.   If her VTX1300 can drop your Valk with just a hundred pound difference... you need a tune up.      The 1300's are nice bikes too, neither better nor worse than the 1800s, just different and smaller.  The newer VT1300 series has fuel injection the older 1300s are carb'd.   

It could be that the OP does need a smaller bike, but I would recommend he and his bride take em for a test ride.  I would be willing to bet that he will more than likely want to keep the Valk rather than trade for the VTX (of course just the idea of something new and different could override everything else).   

[Trynt]

Had them both. The VTX felt quicker and lighter, but rode rougher and had limited suspension travel. It was less stable over rough roads. They are a good bar bike. If you ride distances you'll miss your Valk. I traded the VTX and kept my Valk. BTW the VTX does have 4 plugs.

[fiddle mike]

I think the VTX1800 is a fine bike. Is it a Harley clone? Yeah, it totally is. That it's more than a match for a Harley performance-wise is besides the point; it's still aping on Harley.

Would I trade a Valk IS for a VTX1800? No way in hell, not even with the cash incentive. VTX's are a dime a dozen and in a few years you'll be able to get an 03 for a song.

And once again I am forced to agree with the Anvil.  I must be gettin senile.       Hoser

Jap V-twins are so far beyond H-D's 75 yr-old design I don't know how they can be characterized as a "clone" (or, copy, or wannabe). 
.
A very large Austrian friend wanted me to test drive his 2L VTX because he felt it was handling strangely.  He'd been spending a lot of time riding his GL1800, if that tells you anything.  The bike handled like a wheelbarrow compared to my Valk standard.  I'd trade the I/S for a standard and leave the VTX alone.
.
.

[DarkMeister]

I would characterise some issues as being 'all in one's head' - at least in my case. The 'top-heavy' bit. Prior to the IS, I had a Venture RS and a couple of BMW LTs. Found them truly top-heavy, esp. the RSV. Scary at low speed turns. Yet, I never consider the IS top-heavy. The center of gravity or something is much better then the other big bikes I had. I simply feel comfortable, confident and...dunno; balanced? But like I said, it could all be in my head because the bike just feels 'right'. Should she ever keel over my tune might change but at this point I just don't think of her as top-heavy.

[Jabba]

You're on a VALK board... so you shouldn't be surprised at these answers.

I concur with them all.  I took a VTX 1800 on a 60 mile test ride once... back in '03.  Grabbed the wife... went back to the dealer.  I liked it.  Until the dealer had a Valk prepped for me when I got there.  He KNEW I was interested in a Valk.  We got off the VTX and onto the Valk, and I didn't make it out of the parking lot before I KNEW the Valk was a lot better for US.

8 years later... I have 2.  a Standard AND an IS.  Find someone with an STD to ride and see the difference.  I'll bet you can find someone to trade you your IS for a STD and $1000 in a flash.

Jabba

[BIG--T]

As a guy that currently owns both a Valk & VTX 1800, I'll just add my $.02.

My 1800R is top heavy while barely moving and the V-Twin naturally is not as smooth as a Valk, but way smoother than a Harley! It does have 4 plugs and FI. They are both 8' bikes and have plenty of room. Of course the VTX is narrower and the I don't have to spread my legs as wide for the highway bar. I do love the riding position on the R with the floorboards. As far as being a Harley clone or wannabe- I don't think so. When people think twin, why do they think HD?? How about Indian since they were first in 1901!! I've had Harleys and would have bought one if I wanted.

I bought my Valk probably for the same reasons as most- Unique, beautiful, smooth as silk, handling, & power. Someone talked about value, it's dropping fast on both except the I/S. Parts and accessories are cheaper and plentifull for the X bc 08 was the last year and harder and more expensive for my Valk since 03 was the last year.

What can I say? They are two different animals and I love them both- my problem is when jumping from one to the other, the switch is on the opposite side which can be embarrasing when people see ya trying to start it ..but no switch!

My advise to the poster is to ride both 50+ miles, and don't forget the twisties. Also go to this Tech board and the  vtxoa.com tech board. Oh and if you ride 2 up, be sure to take her with you.

 I know I'll get flamed for this but I got flame retardant drawers on but truth is truth!
My VTX  WILL   out run my Valkyrie, but I didn't buy her for speed anyway.

[The Anvil]

As far as being a Harley clone or wannabe- I don't think so. When people think twin, why do they think HD?? How about Indian since they were first in 1901!! I've had Harleys and would have bought one if I wanted.

Because Indian hasn't been viable for many decades. They may be again someday, but right now? That said, I guess it's a little bit of an Indian clone too. For that matter, even the Valk borrows a little bit from the heavyweight cruiser styling points made famous by H-D. None of that makes them bad bikes. Emulating something successful is a smart business move really.

And when I said it was a clone, I did not mean the engine (though there ARE elements of H-D in that too) but I rather meant the bike as a whole.

And the VTX is a bit top-heavy due to that tall engine. But I didn't find it unmanageable and once underway (like the Valk) it handles nicely.

Someone also mentioned the 1300 being a better bike. In some ways I agree, but it depends on the rider and what they're looking for. Personally I'm a big guy who has no issue with heavy bikes so I'd go for the 1800 first. But were I smaller? I night very well choose the 1300.

[BIG--T]

As far as being a Harley clone or wannabe- I don't think so. When people think twin, why do they think HD?? How about Indian since they were first in 1901!! I've had Harleys and would have bought one if I wanted.

Because Indian hasn't been viable for many decades. They may be again someday, but right now? That said, I guess it's a little bit of an Indian clone too. For that matter, even the Valk borrows a little bit from the heavyweight cruiser styling points made famous by H-D. None of that makes them bad bikes. Emulating something successful is a smart business move really.

And when I said it was a clone, I did not mean the engine (though there ARE elements of H-D in that too) but I rather meant the bike as a whole.

And the VTX is a bit top-heavy due to that tall engine. But I didn't find it unmanageable and once underway (like the Valk) it handles nicely.

Someone also mentioned the 1300 being a better bike. In some ways I agree, but it depends on the rider and what they're looking for. Personally I'm a big guy who has no issue with heavy bikes so I'd go for the 1800 first. But were I smaller? I night very well choose the 1300.

They still make the Indian but there off an on. I think they tried a come back in 2000-03 and before that, but don't last long. I've wanted an Indian ever since I was 6 yrs old and seen that beautiful Indian Chief! But wouldn't trust them now, besides they start at $35K!

I'm glad you clarified the clone part since I hear "V Twinkies" on here a lot. That was one main reason I bought my 6 cyl Valk, I love to be different! I am 6'3 and 270 lbs so I have no problem with the 1800 but they are some guys under 6' that ride them. Come to think of it, I've NEVER seen a woman ride one yet! Not to say they can't cause I've seen some big women! Lol. Yes the 1300 is more nimble and handles better but the power is not there. My son has an 09 Streetglide and we switched bikes (VTX)for the first time Friday night and his felt so light with a low center of gravity I literally took 2 fingers on both grips and flipped her from left to right like a rag doll! Sweet bike with pretty good power for a 98ci- but no comparrison to an X or Valk. Now I know why they call it a SG- a great handling bike and fun to ride but he can have the payments!! Lol

[sandy]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

[The Anvil]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

[BIG--T]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

Thanks for that Sandy. Your're absolutley correct in your info. I don't like the term "clone or wannabe". I've had several Harleys over 40 years of riding and if I wanted an HD, I would buy one. BTW, I just read your post and I didn't know the 1100s were dual pin. Wasn't it a Shadow that HD sued Honda with a single pin crank that sounded so much like an HD??

[BIG--T]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

So ALL CRUISERS are clones then!!  Those dang HD clones!!!!

[designer]

I've owned both, VTX 1800 and Valkyrie.  I've put more miles on my VTX then my Valkyrie, but she's catching since I traded the VTX for the Valkyrie.  With the 1800 final drive you'll find the VTX is jumpy at takeoff and low speed throttle ones.  Has a tendy to Chug below 2K RPM's, but the fuel injection is a delight.  It accepts a car tire with few modifications (if any depending on the tire).  Riding position is different and the ride is different, You can swap components like the VTX1300 final drive and gain some smoothness and top speeds since it has a taller gears.... (two more teeth if I remember right).  The 1800 is a nice bike.  The VTX1800T is more like a valkyrie with the bags and all. 

[BIG--T]

I've owned both, VTX 1800 and Valkyrie.  I've put more miles on my VTX then my Valkyrie, but she's catching since I traded the VTX for the Valkyrie.  With the 1800 final drive you'll find the VTX is jumpy at takeoff and low speed throttle ones.  Has a tendy to Chug below 2K RPM's, but the fuel injection is a delight.  It accepts a car tire with few modifications (if any depending on the tire).  Riding position is different and the ride is different, You can swap components like the VTX1300 final drive and gain some smoothness and top speeds since it has a taller gears.... (two more teeth if I remember right).  The 1800 is a nice bike.  The VTX1800T is more like a valkyrie with the bags and all. 

I've had mine for a few years now and mine takes off smooth with the 1800 final. I guess it's all in working the clutch. Yea it will chug under 2k and might lose some teeth! My entire tank shakes if I'm under 2k in a higher gear....sure ain't no Valk! lol  But Its not good to let one lug anyway. I bought my R with the Honaline windshield and bags and can't tell the difference.

[RainMaker]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

I agree with Anvil on this.  IMHO, any V-Twin is a HD Clone, water cooled or otherwise.  I also would pick Harley if I ever wanted to buy a twin.  Which I don't. 

[franco6]

Couldn t help putin my .02 . but no-one mentionned the honda st1300 .lighter ,faster ,more nimble than any of the bikes mentionned before.used by more police around the world than any other bike. its also a great traveler .4 cylinders, fuel injected,(45 mpg) drive shaft,will take a ct . If ever I replace the tourer or the st1100 it will be for the 13.

[BIG--T]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

I agree with Anvil on this.  IMHO, any V-Twin is a HD Clone, water cooled or otherwise.  I also would pick Harley if I ever wanted to buy a twin.  Which I don't. 

Ok a Harley is an Indian clone! If you agree with Anvil you agree that a Valk too is a clone. Read what he said about the style- not the engine. If you pick a Harley you must  not want  a power cruiser.

[bg]

i have both bikes also...........00 I/S and 03 1800R
valk is heavy, vtx is very windy on the freeway and no fun to ride for long periods at fway speeds.
if i could only have one it's a no brainer for me............valk.

[The Anvil]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

So ALL CRUISERS are clones then!!  Those dang HD clones!!!!

To a degree they're all trying to capitalize on Harley's appeal. Even the Bonneville America (actually ESPECIALLY the Bonneville America, despite the fact that it's a parallel twin) so yeah, to a degree they're all aping H-D's territory.

And let's just dispense with the Indian argument, it's ill-informed. The original Indian MC corporation went out of business back in 1953 when motorcycles were viewed by most civilized people as transportation for troublemakers with a rare utility benefit. Indian eventually came back using HARLEY CLONE ENGINES. So even Indian is trying to capitalize on H-D's success. That may change now that they're in the Polaris fold, but we'll see.

[designer]

Another Thread derailed..... Hunter I hope you got the infomation you was looking for.

[BIG--T]

i have both bikes also...........00 I/S and 03 1800R
valk is heavy, vtx is very windy on the freeway and no fun to ride for long periods at fway speeds.
if i could only have one it's a no brainer for me............valk.

Great we have the same bike- mine os an 03 R.  I only have a standard  so I can't compare to an I/S. Is the I/S top heavy like the X? I don't understand what you mean about "windy on the freeway". Do you have a fairing on the X? I have done 500 miles a day quite often pretty easy. Now let me say I contribute that to my Ultimates bc the stockers were like riding on a concrete block!

[BIG--T]

Couldn t help putin my .02 . but no-one mentionned the honda st1300 .lighter ,faster ,more nimble than any of the bikes mentionned before.used by more police around the world than any other bike. its also a great traveler .4 cylinders, fuel injected,(45 mpg) drive shaft,will take a ct . If ever I replace the tourer or the st1100 it will be for the 13.

Well first of all IMO, the ST1300 looks too much like a crotch rocket for me. But this post is about a man trying to decide about trading the I/S for a VTX 1800. I have one and just giving my honest opinion.

[The Anvil]

Couldn t help putin my .02 . but no-one mentionned the honda st1300 .lighter ,faster ,more nimble than any of the bikes mentionned before.used by more police around the world than any other bike. its also a great traveler .4 cylinders, fuel injected,(45 mpg) drive shaft,will take a ct . If ever I replace the tourer or the st1100 it will be for the 13.

Well first of all IMO, the ST1300 looks too much like a crotch rocket for me. But this post is about a man trying to decide about trading the I/S for a VTX 1800. I have one and just giving my honest opinion.

Kinda Fuji Apples to Granny-smith. Both motorcycles, but still pretty different. Hell, if you wanna start suggesting stuff that's more nimble or faster than either the Valk or VTX we could be here all day.

[BIG--T]

VTX isn't an HD clone. The VTX is a dual pin crank, 2 plugs per cylinder water cooled bike. It has overhead cams and a unit engine/trans drive system with a shaft drive. A Yamaha RoadStar is closer to a Harely. Air cooled, belt drive, single pin crank, etc.

They're both clones actually. Similarities in mechanical details are not what makes them clones. It's the styling. 

Harley and Indians were always in direct competition until Indian went out off business in the 50s. Pull up so old pics from 1903 to the 50s and they look very similar to me especially with the bid buddy seat 30's-50's.  Now is a different story. The $35,000 and up Indians are all  S&S. A buddy of mine has a gray Scout....all S&S!

So ALL CRUISERS are clones then!!  Those dang HD clones!!!!

To a degree they're all trying to capitalize on Harley's appeal. Even the Bonneville America (actually ESPECIALLY the Bonneville America, despite the fact that it's a parallel twin) so yeah, to a degree they're all aping H-D's territory.

And let's just dispense with the Indian argument, it's ill-informed. The original Indian MC corporation went out of business back in 1953 when motorcycles were viewed by most civilized people as transportation for troublemakers with a rare utility benefit. Indian eventually came back using HARLEY CLONE ENGINES. So even Indian is trying to capitalize on H-D's success. That may change now that they're in the Polaris fold, but we'll see.