VTX 1800 Trade...

[Paxton]

BACKGROUND:
My cousin owns 4 bikes, including a 1500 (?) KZ Vulcan; a '02 VTX 1800 and a '04 GL1800-Ruin (RUNE) w/2K miles.  
They are all super clean.

I own the '00 Valk and my beloved 77 GL1000- CAFE Racer...  

Him and I've been teasing for the past two years about a trade on the VTX. All this teasin' over the telephone.
Last week I learned that he needs a good reliable car, so we're finally talking turkey on a swap for my 1990 Supercharged Roadster
w/55K original miles.  ???

My motivation for a trade stems from the fact that I have a "parts car" (for the Roadster), which is taking half the space
in my already small garage.

I don't need another Motorcycle, but this potential swap would alleviate my lack of space problem. If the parts car is gone on the deal,
as it must, then I'd have space for all three bikes in the garage... and the wife's car will be happy to take her rightful place
in there too.  

Well, today my Cousin' showed up unexpectedly at my garage door... riding the VTX. At first sight, WOW! she's super clean
and loaded with Bling,  
including three sets of pipes. She's, indeed immaculate.  

At any rate, I had him pull up into my garage and park the VTX next to the Fat Lady. He then agreed to take my car home w/-him...  
He'll let me know by next weekend whether he wants to trade. His "lack-of-interest-look" tells me that he's tempted...
It's just my hunch. He has a bad poker face!

I think he was shocked when I told him to leave the VTX in my garage but to take the keys with him...
Talking 'bout showing lack of interest (on my part)!

Well, he finally drove home in my Roadster (100 miles away). After he left, I went to the garage for some quiet contemplation
and uncontrollable droolin.'   unbeknown to me, he did leave the keys for the VTX.

After comparing both machines side-by-side, yes, the VTX is beautiful... but she isn't a Valk... not by a long shot.
As far as I am concerned, nothing compares to the Valkyrie...  

So, after all, I am not impressed w/-the VTX. Notwithstanding, I must do something 'bout space. So, if he's on for the trade,
within 10 days I might add the VTX to the stable. Mind you, I have never ridden a VTX. I wonder how it compares to the Valk
on an actual ride.

Somebody out there, am sure owns both a Valk and an 1800 VTX. I'd like to learn 'bout your comparative experience. ???  

These days I clock 'bout 1K miles per year on each of my two babes... and a combined 5K miles per year on my five 4-wheel toys.  

I predict that when I croak, somebody in the family is going to inherit these immaculate babes. So, I instructed the wife
to distribute my ashes by placing them on each bike's saddlebags! She said that she would not want to screw up the bags!

That aside, the wife welcomes the trade.   She wants her garage-space back!
And the beat goes on.

Your thoughts and comments are welcome.  

"I had planned to live forever, but am having second thoughts."

[9Ball]

what year VTX?

I test rode one at Sturgis in 2005...only about 20 miles on the ride circuit but enough to know I didn't want to own one.  Ended up buying a new '05 Midnight Warrior instead...which got sold to buy a new '07 Rocket 3 after a test ride at the Honda Hoot in 2007.  Those darned test rides always do me in.

My Wife has a VTX 1300R that she bought new in '05.  I've ridden that one enough to know I don't care for it either.  It's easy to work on for maintenance though as I do all the wrenching on it.

I'm not sure the resale on the 1800s is very good....

Good luck with your decision.

[Slick]

As an owner of both, I say go for it. When I bought my I/S two years ago I was convinced that I would sell the VTX. Long story short, they both still reside in my garage. The Valk gets most of the ride time, but it's nice to hop on the X when the V-Twin bug strikes me, and it never fails to put a big smile on my face.

Yes, they are two very different machines, but both do what they do VERY well-

As far as value goes, an 02 1800 seems to be bringing about four grand in todays market-

[PAVALKER]

I had an 02 1800 Retro which is different than an 1800 Custom or a Neo, or an F model, so without knowing it's hard to say.  I like the Retro or Neo, not a big fan of the C or F.... they are different.  All are nice bikes but not a Valkyrie.    I still have the Valkyrie.... sold the VTX earlier this year.

[Paxton]

Here it is... 2002 Honda VTX1800R2 RETRO CAST: Odometer Reading: 23,455 original miles.
http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/2002/Honda/VTX1800R2-RETRO-CAST-1795cc/Standard-Equipment.

VTX Photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg#

I appreciate the input. I want more comments. 
Thanks!

[big d]

i still have an '03 1800r. in the recent past it has not been ridden much due to no bags on her and i also have two i/s's, one of which is super valked. dont make the mistake that it will ride like the valk, IT WONT, AND DONT TRY TO COMPARE THE TWO. it will handle completely different. looks like a few mods are done to it similarly to mine. this winter i plan on putting painted hard bags on her so it will make it easier to ride around and not have to rely on the wife stashing my stuff on her bike.will i get rid of her, prolly not unless honda comes out with their proto type bagger using the modified 1300. after all why should i get rid of it, it still puts a smile on my face with it's power and ease of riding and comfort. i will be putting miles on her each year. and yes i would not hesitate to take her cross country as she is comfortable. she even gets descent fuel economy at around 45-48 mpg at 75 mph. mine has been paid for for years. if the cost of insurence is not a problem then do it and enjoy. good luck with the decision.

[Oss]

dont own one but took one on the half hour loop highway and back roads at americade

Its no valk in that you cant walk away in any gear

But once moving it was smooth and powerful but not the same

 IMHO bigd nailed it  the bike is nice, different ride, about the same weight but better mileage from the reports I have seen  I have an interstate so it didnt interest me I need the luggage and trunk

Too bad he didnt have the 1600 bmw to trade

[Bronson]

If the keys are in the VTX, get on and ride it! No amount of opinions will tell you as much. I hope to ride as many different bikes as I can in my lifetime. I learn from each one. JMHO.
Bronson

[jarid]

Just two weeks ago I traded my decked out 2003 1800 R for a stripped down 1998 valk,no looking back ever, the valk is a superior machine in every way.That is not to say the VTX is a bad bike it is a great bike just no valk.

[PAVALKER]

Here it is... 2002 Honda VTX1800R2 RETRO CAST: Odometer Reading: 23,455 original miles.
http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/2002/Honda/VTX1800R2-RETRO-CAST-1795cc/Standard-Equipment.

VTX Photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg#

I appreciate the input. I want more comments. 
Thanks!

Sounds like you have yourself talked into it... and want us to talk you out of it.  I know what a VTX Retro looks like... had one.  Now how about some pics of this Roadster he wants in trade?

[Paxton]

PAVALKER;
You might be absolutely right. Speaking for myself, one's mind often times is out of sink with one's emotions.

'Bout the Roadster, it has been in storage for several years now. Once per month I "rotate" vehicles just to exercise them... 
Sorry, no Roadster photos at this time.

IF I do get the VTX, I would jump at a straight trade for another Valk in comparable condition and say, under 35K miles.
I'd go for a Standard or a Tourer. The I/S is a beautiful machine but I find it too decked up for my needs. Also, I'm a feeble Solo rider.

Let's just say that Am not the man I used to be, in more than one-way. Not by a long shot! 

“Every time I start thinking the world is all bad I begin to see people out there havin' a good time on a motorcycle,
and it makes me take another look.”
Steve McQueen

[Paxton]

Ok. I went to the garage and fired up the VTX... freakin' loud. I mean loud!  I agree that loud pipes save lives but
my hearing can't afford to get worse. I am used to riding super-quiet Gold Wings and BMW's. 

BACKGROUND:
The other day I was out on the street washing my GL1000 CAFE Racer.
When done, I started it and let her idling to shake up excessive water. It isn't as loud as the Valk, and it is way quieter than the VTX. 

TOO LOUD?
At any rate, a Cop showed up at my garage door and informed me that "unidentified neighbors" had called to complaint 'bout the motorcycle noise. 
At all this, the GL1000 was still outside on the street.

My garage door is about 30 feet from where the bike was parked, in front of my house. Neither the Cop or I could hear it running.  ???
Frankly, I thought that it had shut off. But, when we reached her, she was still idling!
The Copper could not believe that the neighbors had called about the low-noise level, as the bike is fairly quiet by comparison. 

The copper asked that I twist the throttle. So, I did. As he listened to her, he said; "... someone around here does not like motorcycles..."   
He then left shakin' his head. 

VTX 1800 Summary:
1. Both tires are shot; especially the rear one. Whether we trade, Cousin and I agreed that it is going Darkside.
2. It is way too loud for anyone. (Any baffles for these pipes?) I can't make up the stamped Brand name... looks like Motus... Mozzus?
3. It leans further and it is heavier than the Valk!
4. I do not like that the pipes are both on one side, unlike the Valk.
5. Am not crazy about the Cherry-Red-Color... I would have liked Dark Blue or Black... however, the wife prefers the color that it is.
Both my current machines are Black.

Here are some new pics from 2 hours ago. : https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg#

Well, if we close this deal, the beautiful pipes, (see new photos) would have to be swapped, even before the first ride.
The bike would come w/-a set of Cobra Pipes and the OEM pipes, as well.

My hunch is that the Cobra pipes would be just as loud and my only choice might be to retrofit the OEM pipes.

"When I die, I want to go like my grandfather, in his sleep, unlike all the passengers in his car, who died screaming their heads off!"

[big d]

paxton, if worried about the lean of the bike put a kickstand pad on it. rivco still sells them. as far as retro-fitting the pipes they are plug and play. f.y.i. my wife loves riding my vtx. and as far as the extra pipes, sell them on the vtx board. stop letting your nerves get in the way and just leap. good luck. let us know the decision.

[Paxton]

big d
Thanks for your comments... Actually, I've been ready to leap since PALVARKER busted me! 

The ball is now in my Cousin's court. As always, we're playin' "chicken... " We've been horse-trading since we were kids.

In the end, one of us gets what he deserves!! 

[jarid]

There are some fixes for the vtx that will make it tolerable.but it will never compare to the fat lady!
If you get it I have some pointers.if you are interested

[Bronson]

Since you already ride a Valk, it sounds like the vtx would just sit. It sounds like you succeeded in talking yourself out of it. I think I agree with you.
Bronson

[Paxton]

Well, I just exchanged emails with my cousin, the owner of the VTX. It sounds like we are trading this weekend.  
I might appear hesitant, but only because I subscribe to the "it ain't over until it's over" mantra.

Cousin's bringing more accessories such as crash bars, pegs, bike cover and the OEM pipes.
I love the pipes that are on her, but she's simply too loud for my neighborhood.
I hope to find baffles and quiet them pipes down. Meanwhile, I'll retrofit the OEM's.

All three Ladies have spent the week together; undisturbed in my messy garage.  
If I don't jinx it, I think that the title will be in my name by early next week.

You might have seen her updated photos in this link: https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg

I'll keep you posted

[Paxton]

Yup. We are gettin' together tomorrow to exchange accessories and sign the ownership titles.
He takes my Roadster + $K's in add-ons.  I keep the VTX. 

I finally rode this beast today. I was surprised at how much lighter it feels as compared to the Fat Lady.
After all, I decided to keep the loud pipes...

The rear tire is shot! I did not twist the wrist much 'cause of safety concerns.
I'll be going DARKSIDE with the same c/t that am running on my Valk. I need to research the "correct" c/t size...
and whether any mods are required for c/t installation... like in the Valk. ???

I also need to replace the front tire. I had read 'bout a couple of members that installed a rear tire mounted backwards
in the front of their Valk. I'd like to hear pros & cons on this issue.

Finally, it appears that the forks and both wheels on the VTX 1800 are identical to the Valk's. I can't wait to replace the tires.
I want to ride it hard! It is, indeed, a beautiful machine. It has $2.5K in accessories. It rides like new... but it ain't no Valk, really.
It's just another Cruiser... err... and I am keepin' it!

PHOTOS: https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg

"He, who dies with the most toys, still dies."
???

[BIG--T]

i still have an '03 1800r. in the recent past it has not been ridden much due to no bags on her and i also have two i/s's, one of which is super valked. dont make the mistake that it will ride like the valk, IT WONT, AND DONT TRY TO COMPARE THE TWO. it will handle completely different. looks like a few mods are done to it similarly to mine. this winter i plan on putting painted hard bags on her so it will make it easier to ride around and not have to rely on the wife stashing my stuff on her bike.will i get rid of her, prolly not unless honda comes out with their proto type bagger using the modified 1300. after all why should i get rid of it, it still puts a smile on my face with it's power and ease of riding and comfort. i will be putting miles on her each year. and yes i would not hesitate to take her cross country as she is comfortable. she even gets descent fuel economy at around 45-48 mpg at 75 mph. mine has been paid for for years. if the cost of insurence is not a problem then do it and enjoy. good luck with the decision.

I totally agree, I also have an 03 1800R and I haven't rode it in about a month (as the Valk is addictive)  til the other day and she did put a smile on my face like a cat eating briars! As you know you have to know how to use the throttle and I just forgot. I have a MTC clutch shimmed all the way that transfers all the power to the rear wheel. Thursday I finally decided to crank her up and go for a spin, left out the drive onto the street and pulled the front wheel up about 3 feet scaring the crap out of me bc I wasn't meaning too!!

Yep they are 2 different animals both unique in their own way. I have no problem going cross country except not with the stock seat...it's like riding on a concrete block for me! Lol!

http://vrcc.photostash.com/vrcc_32669/S6300895.JPG

[BIG--T]

Yup. We are gettin' together tomorrow to exchange accessories and sign the ownership titles.
He takes my Roadster + $K's in add-ons.  I keep the VTX. 

I finally rode this beast today. I was surprised at how much lighter it feels as compared to the Fat Lady.
After all, I decided to keep the loud pipes...

The rear tire is shot! I did not twist the wrist much 'cause of safety concerns.
I'll be going DARKSIDE with the same c/t that am running on my Valk. I need to research the "correct" c/t size...
and whether any mods are required for c/t installation... like in the Valk. ???

I also need to replace the front tire. I had read 'bout a couple of members that installed a rear tire mounted backwards
in the front of their Valk. I'd like to hear pros & cons on this issue.

Finally, it appears that the forks and both wheels on the VTX 1800 are identical to the Valk's. I can't wait to replace the tires.
I want to ride it hard! It is, indeed, a beautiful machine. It has $2.5K in accessories. It rides like new... but it ain't no Valk, really.
It's just another Cruiser... err... and I am keepin' it!

PHOTOS: https://picasaweb.google.com/103917731019176896112/2002HondaVTX1800R2RETROCAST234KOgMi?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPSotjJz5iVRg

"He, who dies with the most toys, still dies."
???

Hey Paxton, Let me know when you ride it hard and let me know what you think!

[big d]

glad you didnt listen to the nay sayer's. ride her and enjoy

[Slick]

glad you didnt listen to the nay sayer's. ride her and enjoy

Gettin ready to head out on mine-

[BIG--T]

glad you didnt listen to the nay sayer's. ride her and enjoy

Gettin ready to head out on mine-

Hang on Slick!!! 
Ride safe.