Inzane 17

Cycle World Mag wants your opinion of new Valkyrie

Started by CycleWorldEdit, Fri 11, Apr 2014, 10:21:52

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Willow

I think the Goldwing Valkyrie and the F6B are fine marketing plans to attract buyers looking for the Goldwing performance and reliability without the fully loaded Goldwing.  I do think they needed to price them a slight bit less.

I do think it was a mistake for them to reuse the Valkyrie name.  Doing so brings on an unfavorable comparison, appearance wise, muddying the sales presentation.

Too much plastic covering for me.  It should do well with the market at which it's aimed.   

Fla. Jim

[quote  I've just returned from riding the new "Valkyrie," which is hardly recognizable as the motorcycle you and I love so much.
As expected, it works very well mechanically.  But styling? What are you guys thinking?
[/quote]

First Jamie welcome to our club. We are indeed honored to have you here. But realy, styling compared to what... the original?  Honda is making some insect looking bikes for reasons that elude myself.  But then I'm an old fart 63 yr old and I am still in Love with my Baby. The new "GoldWing Valkyrie" Just does not measure up.


Popeye

If I was to get another Valkyrie, I'd look for another 2000 Blue/Silver Interstate.  Said it before, I think
the new Valkyrie is just butt ugly, in my opinion.

I'm one of those that went dark side, ride a Harley now.  

I would not spend the money on the new Valkyrie.
A man stands tallest when he stoops to help a child.

Heros wear dog tags, not capes

MarkT

Quote from: Willow on Fri 11, Apr 2014, 19:50:16
I think the Goldwing Valkyrie and the F6B are fine marketing plans to attract buyers looking for the Goldwing performance and reliability without the fully loaded Goldwing.  I do think they needed to price them a slight bit less.

I do think it was a mistake for them to reuse the Valkyrie name.  Doing so brings on an unfavorable comparison, appearance wise, muddying the sales presentation.

Too much plastic covering for me.  It should do well with the market at which it's aimed.   

Willow is dead right.  Exactly my impressions.  I'll keep my 98 Standard bought new in '97.  She and I have been through a lot together.  She will last as long as I can ride her I'm sure, at 62.  Have a 02 GW for touring, while Deerslayer is preferred for local rides.  I need to freshen up the forks and surrounds, starting to look dingy from sand hits.  I can't see spending more than I did for my new ABS GW for a stripped-down GW misnamed the same as my beloved Deerslayer.  Besides if I'm going to tolerate a lot of plastic which impedes wrenching and customizing I want all the toys I'm paying for.

Vietnam-474 TFW Takhli 9-12/72 Linebckr II;307 SBW U-Tapao 05/73-4

8Track

#44
Hi Jamie,

I am 45, live in Australia and ride a '99 Valk standard. I am a serious contender for the new Valk when it hits our shores.

I really like the styling of the bike for the most part. I believe it looks awesome all the way from the front wheel to the rear of the rider's seat. From there back it looks like they just gave up and said anything will do.

Get yourself a photo of the bike side on. Cover the rear guard/wheel with your hand and look at the rest of the bike  - awesome! Then cover the front of the bike, showing just the rear guard/wheel section - horrible!

They need to redesign the back so its in harmony with the rest of the bike. It wouldn't be hard to do. Perhaps if they made some panniers for it that continued the fluted grille look of the side radiators, that would fix it up quite a bit.

Cheers,

Mark

Wetrudgeon

Jamie:
Rode a '99 Standard for a number of years(Triumph RIII now).  Consider the Valk the best overall bike Honda has ever manufactured; and arguably the best overall bike anybody has ever manufactured.

Intrigued by the photos of the new one, but yet to see it.  The "numbers" look good and it will likely be comfortable for a short little squirt (5'7").  Not yet sure about the looks, but 1.8 liters and ABS cannot be wrong.

By the by, always enjoyed your writing.

We trudge on.

Six Guns

Jamie,

  Here are some photos from the past:
Jamie, LaMont and other VRCC members.

Jamie, LaMont and other VRCC members.

Jamie, LaMont & Tigger (Rest in peace).
99 Valkyrie Interstate VRCC Member # 17,369


Big Al of Tennessee

#47
Quote from: Popeye on Fri 11, Apr 2014, 22:38:38
If I was to get another Valkyrie, I'd look for another 2000 Blue/Silver Interstate.  Said it before, I think
the new Valkyrie is just butt ugly, in my opinion.

I'm one of those that went dark side, ride a Harley now.  

I would not spend the money on the new Valkyrie.

I ride a Harley now, a Touring Model.

I believe the NEW Valk, is just meant to be a fast naked cruiser, kinda like a V-Rod, which will smoke a Valkyrie.

But none the less it is meant for those that like wind, short trips, and twisty adventures.

Smart move by Honda because they have the comy tourers, Like the Gold Wing and F6B.

I believe they got it right in reflection.

How many people are running cut down windshields on the Valks they have to get wind.

Joe, Carl, Gordon and others come to mind. They are suffocating with lack of air. So the naked valk

with a set of soft bags would do nicely on a overnighter.

New Valk is fine.

By the way I helped a Valk member last night at a wrenching party, so there I am still interested in the Valk as a motorcycle of interest.

Pizza was served and Root Beer.
GOD SAVE THE UNITED STATES from the democrats is my prayer.



Valkahuna

Jamie,

Thanks for soliciting our input on the new Valkyrie. I'm not sure that most of us are qualified to give anything other than very biased opinions. We love our "Retro Styled" Valks. That's why we ride them even though there are so many other choices out there. I am soon to be 66, been riding for 50 years, and I don't think for one moment Honda considers me (or many others of our group) to be their target market. While some of us are financially in position to buy what we want, most of us have outgrown "crotch rocket type" motorcycles long ago. To me, the new Valkyrie is a modified crotch rocket, and not for me.

What we are all forgetting is that while most of us are fanatically loyal to our Valkyries, that was not enough to make the Valks a financial success for Honda, or they would still make them . For an example, go no further than comparing the GW and the Valks. In my opinion, Honda was not trying to recreate our Valkyries at all, it was just a name they owned, and enough time has passed that using it would not mean much to most (other than us) and those that do remember the name will only associate it with the vague memory that it was powerful. So, for Honda, mission accomplished.

I am fortunate enough to own three different brands of motorcycles, and of those I think the Valkyrie does the most things best. By the way, I have cast a few longing glances at the new F6B, and seeing one with some custom touches at GOTF only reinforced those thoughts. But even it was missing the trunk, which for me with my riding habits , is still a deal breaker.

The key thing is to wake up breathing! All the rest can be fixed. (Except Stupid - You can't fix that)

2014 Indian Chieftain
2001 Valkyrie I/S      

Proud to be a Vietnam Vet (US Air Force - SAC, 1967-1972)

Momz

I'll be brief,.....The new styling of the Valkyrie SUCKS!!!!

ALWAYS QUESTION AUTHORITY! 

97 Valk bobber, 98 Valk Rat Rod, 2K SuperValk, plus several other classic bikes

BF

Quote from: Momz on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 10:55:34
I'll be brief,.....The new styling of the Valkyrie SUCKS!!!!

Ditto.   :cooldude:

I like the refererence to Honda making bikes that resemble insects.  They sorta do.  Either insects or some kid's Transformer toy. 
I can't help about the shape I'm in
I can't sing, I ain't pretty and my legs are thin
But don't ask me what I think of you
I might not give the answer that you want me to



~ Timbrwolf

#51
....Have not laid eyes on or thrown a leg over one... yet...


. ...first glance at the pics Ive seen, it appears to be a motherless child with the
heart of a lion.. .




. ...no windshield....bags orrrrrrrrrr. . . ....damn woman....what color are your eyes ?  ..  :coolsmiley:
. . . ...I saw a werewolf at Trader Vics. . . ...his hair was perfect...

Clark

Quote from: Dave Ritsema on Fri 11, Apr 2014, 12:13:36
You are seriously missing out.  ;)



From her writings I have found her to always have been a fan of the Valkyrie and this is from a very accomplished writer and journalist that has ridden more motorcycles than any of us can even dream about.  :cooldude:
what was the question again?

BnB Tom


  I think if Honda had christened it with a different name, it would have been greeted with a little less animosity.

The new Valkeryie looks to be a 'Sport Cruiser' (heavy on the 'Sport').

  If the Valkers wanted an 1800 cruiser, they'd opt for a Wing.

I think Honda wanted the 'New Valk' to be more of a bad-a$$ sport bike.  After all, look at their promo video.  Burning rubber!! 

  Sure, our Valks can smoke a tire.  And horse power is ALWAYS good to have in your pocket.

But most of the Valkers I know enjoy the power but more than that the unique look and its ability to take you cross country without beating you up.

   I STILL want to see one/sit on one/ride one when they get to my dealer.

Oh.  And BTW.  Since everybody is looking for an age fit.  I'll be 72 this summer.  ;)


Fla. Jim

#54
Quote from: ~ Timbrwolf on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 12:18:42
. ...no windshield....bags orrrrrrrrrr. . . ....damn woman....what color are your eyes ?  ..  :coolsmiley:

Believe that would be Hazel  :cooldude:


miscott

Hi Jamie
  Nice to meet you.
I bought my 98 Standard 2 years ago to get back into riding after an almost 30 year hiatus.
I used to ride dirtbikes when I was still young enough to believe I was invincible. I'm 56 now, and got my Valk because I was looking for a cruiser that had that old school, retro styling, but was big enough to not make me feel like I was riding another small bike. I'm almost 6'3" and was looking for something with enough power to haul around my 245lbs without having to worry about hills or headwind slowing me down.
The first time I saw a Valkyrie was the one I bought. Love at first sight! The first thing I noticed when I saw it was the old school cruiser styling of it.  I really liked that. The next thing I noticed was the size of it! When I sat on it, I didn't feel like it was to small for me.  And it came with a nice looking windshield and saddlebags, with lots of possibilities for customizing, to make it MY Valkyrie. (she gettin there!)
  I look at the new valkyrie and the first thing that pops into my head is crotchrocket. A BIG one, but still...
I think Honda really missed the mark with this in that, if the crotchrocket set is who their marketing this to, they should have NOT tried to breed it into a so called Cruiser crossover. If I wanted to go that route, I'd buy a Wing.
  If Indian and Harley can build a modern retro cruiser and still turn a profit, why in the world couldn't Honda? The market's obviously still there for them.
If I ever give up my Valkyrie, I'd be looking to replace it with one of the new Indians.
  But then, my opinion and a quarter used to get you a cup of coffee!


                 



jimmytee

Quote from: miscott on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:36:28

 If Indian and Harley can build a modern retro cruiser and still turn a profit, why in the world couldn't Honda? The market's obviously still there for them.
If I ever give up my Valkyrie, I'd be looking to replace it with one of the new Indians.
 
Harley can sell anything to the cool aid drinkers that still resembles what they have always made, and Indian, much the same. You can't lose sight of the fact the original Valkyrie did not sell and was cancelled. Why would it be smart to repeat that endeavor for the sake of some old riders who, by their own admission, have bought their last bike? As much as I love the old Valkyrie, the market obviously was not there.
"Go sell crazy somewhere else,we're all stocked up"

Bighead

Quote from: jimmytee on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:49:25
Quote from: miscott on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:36:28

 If Indian and Harley can build a modern retro cruiser and still turn a profit, why in the world couldn't Honda? The market's obviously still there for them.
If I ever give up my Valkyrie, I'd be looking to replace it with one of the new Indians.
 
Harley can sell anything to the cool aid drinkers that still resembles what they have always made, and Indian, much the same. You can't lose sight of the fact the original Valkyrie did not sell and was cancelled. Why would it be smart to repeat that endeavor for the sake of some old riders who, by their own admission, have bought their last bike? As much as I love the old Valkyrie, the market obviously was not there.
Jimmy I had a dealer tell me that honda x'd out the valk much because of price said their thinking was anyone that was going to spend that on a bike would just buy a GW. Do t know if true or not but he had nothing to lose or gain telling me that.
1997 Bumble Bee
1999 Interstate (sold)
2016 Wing

BF

It was competition for their flagship bike...the goldwing and cut into it's sales.  Plus, Joe Boyd wasn't around to keep it alive.

The Valk sold...we've all bought one, folks are still looking to find and buy one.  It sold....just not in the mega numbers that Honda wanted.
I can't help about the shape I'm in
I can't sing, I ain't pretty and my legs are thin
But don't ask me what I think of you
I might not give the answer that you want me to



98pacecar

Seems like a misuse of the name to me.  :(

Like lots of peeps have previously said, it looks like they built it fer,,,, the younger crowd.   8)

Not us,,,, dinosaurs...     ;)

There won't,,, be one in my garage.    :coolsmiley:




jimmytee

Quote from: Bighead on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 17:05:52
Quote from: jimmytee on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:49:25
Quote from: miscott on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:36:28

 If Indian and Harley can build a modern retro cruiser and still turn a profit, why in the world couldn't Honda? The market's obviously still there for them.
If I ever give up my Valkyrie, I'd be looking to replace it with one of the new Indians.
 
Harley can sell anything to the cool aid drinkers that still resembles what they have always made, and Indian, much the same. You can't lose sight of the fact the original Valkyrie did not sell and was cancelled. Why would it be smart to repeat that endeavor for the sake of some old riders who, by their own admission, have bought their last bike? As much as I love the old Valkyrie, the market obviously was not there.
Jimmy I had a dealer tell me that honda x'd out the valk much because of price said their thinking was anyone that was going to spend that on a bike would just buy a GW. Do t know if true or not but he had nothing to lose or gain telling me that.
That wouldn't seem to hold true because I seem to remember 2-3 years after the 2003, there were still new 2003 models waiting to be sold.
"Go sell crazy somewhere else,we're all stocked up"

Hoser

The F6 B with a taller shield and dual backrests is more Valkyrie-ish, (I just invented a word), to my 99 Tourer, which is the handiest of the three models, but it will never look this good.  And welcome aboard.  Hoser  ;)
I don't want a pickle, just wanna ride my motor sickle

[img width=300 height=233]http://i617.photobucket.com/albums/

Bighead

Quote from: jimmytee on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 18:26:06
Quote from: Bighead on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 17:05:52
Quote from: jimmytee on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:49:25
Quote from: miscott on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 16:36:28

 If Indian and Harley can build a modern retro cruiser and still turn a profit, why in the world couldn't Honda? The market's obviously still there for them.
If I ever give up my Valkyrie, I'd be looking to replace it with one of the new Indians.
 
Harley can sell anything to the cool aid drinkers that still resembles what they have always made, and Indian, much the same. You can't lose sight of the fact the original Valkyrie did not sell and was cancelled. Why would it be smart to repeat that endeavor for the sake of some old riders who, by their own admission, have bought their last bike? As much as I love the old Valkyrie, the market obviously was not there.
Jimmy I had a dealer tell me that honda x'd out the valk much because of price said their thinking was anyone that was going to spend that on a bike would just buy a GW. Do t know if true or not but he had nothing to lose or gain telling me that.
That wouldn't seem to hold true because I seem to remember 2-3 years after the 2003," there were still new 2003 models waiting to be sold.
Yeah that is basically what I wax sayin price too high is why he said they didn't sell as they should. How many GW's you see sitting around 2-3 years not sold?
1997 Bumble Bee
1999 Interstate (sold)
2016 Wing

Tropic traveler

#63
Welcome to our cult Jamie! As a three Valkyrie owner  :o I think that will tell you how much I love the"classic" Valkyrie. I figure that my demographic is one of those older guys, 56 {or girl in the case of my 50 y.o. wife} that wanted a large cruiser/tourer like the traditional Harley, but....... we just weren't willing to put up with the inadequacies of an air cooled two cylinder. Plus even though we are Tampa Bay Bucs fans we prefer to not dress up like pirates which seems to be the case with "traditional" American bike owners.  ;D ;D
Enter the Valkyrie Tourer. Spot on, nearly perfect for us.

I know that even with my well above average mechanical abilities eventually we will be looking for replacements for our beloved Valks. I paid MUCH attention to the F6B upon it's intro & despite the "it aint never gonna happen" attitude of a lot of our members here, I had the feeling that a new Valkyrie was on the way. Turns out I was right.
Like many others here I am not particularly happy with the "angry insect" look of the new Valk but from what I've seen that appears to the prevalent style from the Japanese makers on a lot of vehicles.
Specifically concerning the new Valk, the rear fender is hideous, makes the tire look like it isn't centered in the fender. I understand the practical use of the side mounted radiators both about performance & keeping production costs down but jeez, they could have tried a little harder to make it look better.  :o
I have always admired the performance & reliability of the 1832cc Honda flat 6 & even after trying out the Triumph R3 for a year & a half I have found nothing measures up to the Honda flat 6.
Bottom line is unless something changes the looks of the new Valkyrie for the better I will be replacing my Valk with an F6B despite my aversion to fixed fairings, yuck.
While checking out the new Hondas at the big tent in Daytona last month I was quite smitten with the new CTX 1300. A definite possibility for the wife, lighter than her Valk & the F6B or new Valk as well.
We WILL be test riding the new Valk, F6B AND CTX 1300 in the near future!

Our two babies.  ;)

The one that started my obsession!  :cooldude:
'13 F6B black-the real new Valkyrie Tourer
'13 F6B red for Kim
'97 Valkyrie Tourer r&w, OLDFRT's ride now!
'98 Valkyrie Tourer burgundy & cream traded for Kim's F6B
'05 SS 750 traded for Kim's F6B
'99 Valkyrie black & silver Tourer, traded in on my F6B
'05 Triumph R3 gone but not forgotten!

James III

 :cooldude: With the bike photos posted in this thread alone, anyone would have to admit that our Valkyries do hold a timeless appeal. Great looking machines folks!
James

Raider

I'll keep my 99 until they come out with an Interstate model.  I'm like one of the previous posters- I just want mine updated.

Earl in Pensacola

Lots of responses, so here is my opin. "It's Butt Ugly"!!!  Yea, because it's a Honda, it's likely a very good bike, but it's butt ugly!  I feel like it is Honda's way of finally killing off the Valkyrie.  They want it out-of-the-picture (out-of-the-line-up) because the Valkyrie was cutting into the Goldwing pie and the GW pie is already a worldwide recognized and respected bike and GWRRA is a major asset for Honda!!  JMHO

Highbinder

It's not actually a new Valkyrie, it's a new style of motorcycle, being introduced under the old patents of the Valkyrie, just like the Rune was when it came out...to keep the expenses down on bringing in a new line it is not uncommon for them to do it under a patent from a discontinued line....Like they did with the Sabre a few years back, the old Sabres the V-45's and V-65's didn't look anything like the new Sabres, just used the patents....So in my opinion it's not a Valkyrie but just a new style motorcycle going under that name....which I have no interest in.. :)

jimmytee

Quote from: Earl in Pensacola on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 21:13:47
Lots of responses, so here is my opin. "It's Butt Ugly"!!!  Yea, because it's a Honda, it's likely a very good bike, but it's butt ugly!  I feel like it is Honda's way of finally killing off the Valkyrie.  They want it out-of-the-picture (out-of-the-line-up) because the Valkyrie was cutting into the Goldwing pie and the GW pie is already a worldwide recognized and respected bike and GWRRA is a major asset for Honda!!  JMHO
Where do you come up with this stuff???? :uglystupid2: The way that Honda kills off the Valkyrie is by bringing it back?? :roll: The Valkyrie was already dead for over 10 years. Yes there are a lot of folks here that don't like it, but read ALL the comments. There plenty here that do like it.
"Go sell crazy somewhere else,we're all stocked up"

hubcapsc


How many GW's you see sitting around 2-3 years not sold?

Every year there are plenty of Goldwings sitting around unsold. Google "leftover goldwings"...

-Mike

Crazyhorse



Jamie,

I would like to thank you for the years you have contributed to the motorcycle world. I have enjoyed the many ride reports you gave to us. I have been riding for 50 years. My grandmother took me to the honda dealer when I was eleven and bought me a CB160 Honda. This was the beginning of a great adventure in motorcycles. I own 3 Valkyries and of the many motorcycles I have had the pleasure of owning none of the others can compare. As for the new Valkyrie it does not appeal to me but then I have never been fond of naked sport bikes. I would buy the new F6B if Honda had included a cruise control, reverse and chrome wheels.


Big Al of Tennessee

Quote from: BF on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 11:04:51
Quote from: Momz on Sat 12, Apr 2014, 10:55:34
I'll be brief,.....The new styling of the Valkyrie SUCKS!!!!

Ditto.   :cooldude:

I like the refererence to Honda making bikes that resemble insects.  They sorta do.  Either insects or some kid's Transformer toy. 

Don't hold back, let er rip tator chip.
GOD SAVE THE UNITED STATES from the democrats is my prayer.



Big Al of Tennessee

Honda has used the Interstate Name at least 3 times.

Valkyrie, 3 times, if you include the Rune.

Harley uses names over and over.

Triumph the same way.

SO this is just a new rumination of the Valkyrie. At least they are trying.

If you want a Hot Rod Tourer, it's Gonna be the F6B.

STX 1300 would be my pick. If I was picking.

I SHOULD SAY BAGGER BUT I AM TIRED OF THE WORD BAGGER.
GOD SAVE THE UNITED STATES from the democrats is my prayer.



therapist

I have yet to see the new Valkyrie in person, but have mixed emotions when I see pictures.  As much as I have loved owning my standard since 2001, I have to admit that as I get older and less healthy, the weight is starting to get to me a bit.  I also used to love spending most of a day cleaning and polishing her (I pamper my ladies), that is getting a bit old because of failing knees and back.  If the new Valk was much lighter, I may have been interested.  All good things must pass, and I am sure young people will be more receptive to the new look. 

Always enjoyed your reviews, Jamie.

cmawest

i gotta agree with the majority, I think (as the rune was) this is a half hearted attempt by Honda to appease the valk owners. oh for the days when mother Honda listened to the owners, that's the whole reason the wing is the bike it is, they listened to us.

HONDA !!! WE WANT A CRUISER MADE OUT OF METAL THAT LOOKS LIKE WHAT WE ARE RIDING WITH THE 1800 FUEL INJECTED ENGINE AND MAYBE THE SINGLE SIDED SWING ARM TO MAKE TIRE CHANGES EASY.

what is so hard about that ? guys listen, the reason so many of us have kept these bikes since 97, and own more than one, and belong to forums like this one is because we love the bike. damn ! why won't you people listen to your owners ??

Jamie, I am 60, very good looking with a very athletic build. retired military with a pot load of income, should you ever consider an older and wiser guy. i'll help you sell that rune and buy a good standard. he he !

Chrisj CMA

OK......Ill add my .02 (not that anyone cares) but anyways...

The bike itself is ok for what it obviously was designed for.  A sporty around town "hot rod"  I agree with the comments that the biggest problem is that Honda calls it a Valkyrie.  I would like to own one, but it would never be able to replace my '97 in form or function



The big problem with marketing this bike to the VRCC crowd isint really the amount of plastic or the new fangled design.  Its the fact that (at least starting out) its hard to imagine NECESSARY options like bags and passenger comfort items or a decent windshield .

I think its obvious that someone with a vision went to great lengths to produce the original Valkyrie.  If the same sort of vision was used to create a bike that could fill the Valkyries' "shoes" even though it looked quite different I think, then, and only then could many of us approve of it being a new Valkyrie.

In other words (to me) its not a Valkyrie because it cant haul a passenger and haul a weeks worth of stuff with any style.  I dont need  a motorcycle that is only good for being first to the bar.

Soften that rear fender, add some cool new hard bags and make some room for a passenger to feel at home and it would be a different story.....a fine windscreen on top of that and many of us would be riding it NOW.

JMHO

cookiedough

nothing new for me to add:  too much plastic,  taller windshield,  more aftermarket accessories,  taller, more comfy rear passenger backrest, and add some chrome to show off that sweet 1832cc engine vs. covering it up with all that darn cheap plastic.  Then you got something.  Still wouldn't pay over 15K even new but maybe in 10 years or more when my Valk wears out (I doubt it will be 20 years though),  the used pricing will be under 10 grand so can afford one.

ONLY good thing over our Valks is bigger, more powerful engine, fuel injection, and ABS braking.  Styling as it sits is not my cup of tea without being accessorized. 

I'd buy a good used 2002 thru 2006 goldwing for 10-12 grand vs. paying 17-19K used for the new Valk or F6B. 

Six-Cylinder Hooligan

Hi Jamie,

I'll throw my $.02 worth in, too. I'm probably not the norm for a Valkyrie rider because I started out on Goldwings... An '86 Interstate when I was 25 years-old. That bike was a real workhorse and pulled sidecar duty through 6 pretty harsh Ohio winters for me. During the spring & summer months it went back to being a 2-wheeler & did commuter, grocery-getter, vacation get-away duty. During that time, I also had a Honda Shadow 1100 & an ST 1100 in my garage. The Wing was by far the most versatile ride in my stable.

After a ride to Alaska (on the ST 1100) in '02 I got bit by the adventurer-tourer bug. Shadow got totaled (10 days prior to AK trip), ST was sold (divorce mostly b/c of AK trip) & the 1200 began to suffer from the use & abuse as well as healthy doses of road salt. It was time to move on... To a Suzuki 650 V-Strom. Had always been a Honda guy but they didn't have anything to fit my needs & wants at that time. Funny thing is, they still really don't today either.  :-\

Missed having a Wing so bought an '07 with NAV, ABS, Comfort & Premium audio. Nice bike but didn't really impress me for the $$$ spent... Nav was useless but had to added in order to get ABS (which i really wanted). Stock rear shock was shagged out @ 15k miles. Less lean angle than my old 1200 had, ect, ect. Sold it during a lay-off a few years ago and never really looked back. Became a one-bike man for the first time in years.

Well apparently the V-Strom doesn't make a good hood-ornament for a Dodge Charger but it tried it anyway last May... Totaled. One bike-man to NO-bike man was not an option! Just so happens that my Bro in Law was selling his 2000 Valkyrie Interstate & I needed a bike... Transaction was made and I became the owner of a Legend!

OK so to the point here... I'd always wanted a Valk but couldn't justify it. Back in the day used to log +20k miles every year. Figured keeping the thing in tires would've been a PIA. Got into the ADV tourer thing later on & liked doing more with less. The Interstate has kind of brought me back around to two of the things I used to really enjoy... Cruisers (LOVED my 1100 Shadow!) & older Goldwings. As refined & powerful as the 1800 was, I never connected with it. It felt more an appliance than a motorcycle. My 14-year old Valkyrie feels & looks like a motorcycle should-IMO.

Today's "Valkyrie", not so much. I'm familiar with the power-train so I'm sure it's a beast but those looks just WOW!  :o Bleeech! Another swing & a miss from Honda to go along with no cruise-control offered on either the F6B or the CTX1300.  Probably could add the CTX into the "WTH were they smoking when they designed this" column as well.

As things stand now for this rider if/when it comes time to add another bike to the garage, it'll be an offering from Victory that gets the nod- either a Cross Country or Vision.

WAKE UP HONDA... You're losing longtime riders!

Cheers!
-Art





8Track

I think its pretty clear here that most Valkyrie riders are dudes who like classic Americana but are after greater performance and sosphistication than the traditional V-twin bikes on the market offer.

The new Valkyrie offers a desirable improvement in performance and sophistication over the old Valk but has abandoned the classic Americana vibe in favour of a futuristic Judge Dredd type aesthetic.

The motorcycle market hasn't really shown a reliable precedent when it comes to market segments embracing futuristic design in the cruiser segment, so Honda seems to be really going out on a limb with the new Valkyrie.

Personally I think Honda's cruiser line-up these days looks like a ship without a rudder. They need to build cruisers with historic Honda DNA in them. Make a Valkyrie with the 1800 fuel injected motor with classic american styling and also bring back the V4 based Magna cruisers using the VFR800 and VFR1200 motors. These are the things that Honda pioneered and innovated with, and these days would make worthy alternative for the traditional minded yet discerning cruiser rider.

I like the new Valkyrie a lot, but would like it much better if it looked like a Valkyrie.

Serk

Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

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