Honda VTX 1800 F: Specs, Background, Performance & More

Owning a cruiser motorcycle is fun, but getting to customize your ride greatly enhances the riding experience. Honda advertised the same concept for its VTX 1800 F lineup. We can only imagine what the heads and engineers at Honda were thinking. Perhaps something along the lines of, “Let’s imagine that we are the riders and modify the bike the way a sporting rider would.” The result was a best-selling cruiser motorcycle hailed as the “King of Performance Cruisers.”

After 14 years, the bike is still considered one of the best cruisers of all time, still being high in demand. The second-hand market has seen an influx of buyers wanting to grab the best bargains on used Honda VTX 1800 F models.

Read on to find out why Honda VTX 1800 F is such a favorite among motorcyclists!

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1. A Brief History of Honda VTX 1800 F

Inspired by the Zodia concept displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, Honda launched its VTX 1800 lineup in 2002. The aim was to produce a family of performance-oriented cruisers for its target audience. The VTX 1800 cruisers took the market by storm with their muscular yet low-profile, plus the radial tires on cast alloy wheels with a twin-spoke design. Honda rightly claimed that the VTX 1800 cruisers were the most powerful V-twin motorcycles as they were capable of producing 159 Nm of torque at 3000 rpm and 101 hp at 5000 rpm.

Honda’s VTX 1800 engines were known for their unprecedented 1795 cc displacement and held the title of “largest displacement production in the world.”

The first member of the Honda VTX 1800 series, the Honda VTX 1800 C, gained immense popularity and was quickly followed by other variants in 2002. These included the Honda VTX 1800 R, and the VTX 1800 S. In 2004, the VTX 1800 N was introduced to the market. In 2005, Honda decided to focus more on the sporty element of its motorcycles. Other than that, no big changes were made. Honda simply revived the classic lines of the bike and added sporty upgrades to it.

An employee of Honda explained the sport cruiser concept - applied to the Honda VTX 1800 F - in an interview:

“Our goal with the F-type was to design the VTX in the same way that a sporting rider would modify his bike.” - Martin Manchester, Project Director at Honda Research Americas (HRA).

Manchester further added:

“We also wanted to make the bike look lighter and shorter. The larger 18-inch diameter rear wheel and low profile tire help accomplish this, together with the smaller, upswept fender.”

To complete the “sporty cruiser” look, the HRA team equipped the VTX 1800 F with a short two-into-two staggered exhaust with straight-cut muffler tips. Honda made sure to consider the impact on the environment before launching its VTX 1800 F bikes. All of the California models were designed to meet the emission standards of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and used an ECU-controlled, close-loop emissions-controlled system. They consist of two oxygen sensors to deliver a consistent and accurate air/fuel mixture. The two exhaust catalyzers were also installed to reduce the discharge of hazardous air pollutants, including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, etc.

Just like its other VTX siblings, the Honda VTX 1800 F was available in three distinct build variations: Spec 1, Spec 2, and Spec 3. The VTX 1800 F was discontinued after 2008. The 2005-2008 models saw variations in their features, paintwork, and build variations.

1.1 2005 Honda VTX 1800 F

The 2005 model of the Honda VTX 1800 F offered a variety of cast wheels. The rider could choose satin-brushed tires or a highly polished look. The valanced front and rear steel fenders give a classic retro look to the bike. Moreover, the chrome-plated VTX badge was encircled by jet-black graphics for an elaborate aesthetic. The VTX 1800 F featured wedge-shaped mirrors for a stylish yet practical aerodynamic look that reduces drag on the bike. The 2005 VTX 1800 F was equipped with a 5.3-gallon fuel tank that allows it to cruise across a long range. The high-capacity radiator ensured optimal cooling capacity, preventing the bike from overheating on long routes.

In addition to these unique features, the 2005 VTX 1800 F was available in three attractive colors:

Black
Titanium
Candy Red

Moreover, the 2005 VTX 1800 F had three different build variations:

Spec 1

Riders who opted for Spec 1 variation, received the following custom-building options:

Cast aluminum risers and caps with a satin-brushed finish could be added to handlebars .
The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a silver finish.
The Spec 1 build offered clutch and brake levers with a smooth cast aluminum finish.
The inverted fork tubes had a satin-brushed finish and matching satin-brushed caps.
Upper and lower triple clamps were made of cast aluminum. The clamps also featured a hairline satin-brushed finish to accentuate the look.
Similarly, the floorboards possessed a hairline satin-brushed aluminum finish.
Switch housings featured a smooth cast aluminum finish.
With the Spec 1 variation, the radiator cover got a gloss black finish.
The final drive housing had a silver finish.
The cast-aluminum wheels were satin-brushed.

Spec 2

The Spec 2 variation had the following custom-building options:

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Chrome-plated aluminum handlebar mounts and a VTX logo cap could be added to the handlebars.
Clutch and brake levers with a highly polished aluminum finish.
Upper and lower triple clamps made of highly polished cast aluminum were available.
Switch housings with a beautiful glossy black finish were available.
Shiny chrome steel covers and chrome caps could be added to the fork tubes.
The final drive housing came with a silver finish.
Cast aluminum wheels were satin-brushed.
Floorboards possessed a hairline satin-brushed aluminum finish.
Switch housings featured a smooth cast aluminum finish.

Spec 3

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Chrome-plated aluminum handlebar mounts and a VTX logo cap could be added to the handlebars.
Upper and lower triple clamps made of highly polished cast aluminum were available.
Clutch and brake levers with a highly polished aluminum finish.
Shiny chrome steel covers and chrome caps could be added to the fork tubes.
Switch housings featured a hairline satin-brushed finish.
Chrome side covers were available for the radiator.
Highly polished, chrome-plated aluminum floorboards could be added.
Highly polished cast-aluminum wheels could be added.
The final drive housing featured a satin-brushed hairline with chrome-plated axle caps and fasteners.

1.2 2006 Honda VTX 1800 F

The 2006 Honda VTX 1800 F model was slightly different from the previous model. It featured a contemporary, sporty cruiser style. The 2006 VTX F 1800 had a bobbed-style front steel fender and a straight-cut rear steel fender. They complemented the drag racing style of the bike. Moreover, the billet-style rear fender rails came with a hairline brushed finish for an expensive customized look. The low-slung 27.6-inch two-piece seat came with a removable passenger section. This innovative feature extended the customizable look of the bike. To match the low seat, the semi-swept, high-rise aluminum handlebar mounts improved the ergonomics of the bike.

The 2006 VTX 1800 F had a stunning chromed two-into-two staggered exhaust system with five-bolt muffler tips and a deep dominating exhaust note.

A small hooded lens was incorporated into the streamlined headlight to maintain the bike’s minimalistic profile. The 2006 VTX 1800 F also had a custom-style recessed LED tail and brake light.

The 2006 Honda VTX 1800 F was available in the following exciting colors:

New Dark Red
Bright Blue Metallic Tribal or Silver Tribal
Black

In addition to the unique color palette, the 2006 VTX 1800 F had three build variations just like the 2005 VTX 1800 F bikes.

Spec 1

The Spec 1 variation of the 2006 VTX 1800 F model was the same as the 2005 VTX 1800 F model with only two distinct changes:

In 2005, the floorboards with a hairline satin aluminum finish was available. In 2006, chrome footpegs were introduced.
Moreover, in 2005, the radiator cover was available with a glossy black finish. But in 2006, the radiator cover matched the color of the bike and had a painted finish.

Spec 2

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Cast aluminum risers and caps with a hairline satin-brushed finish could be added to the handlebars.
Clutch and brake levers with a highly polished aluminum finish.
Upper and lower triple clamps were made of cast aluminum and featured a satin-brushed finish.
Switch housings with a smooth cast aluminum finish were available.
Shiny chrome steel covers highlighted the front end of fork tubes.
Final drive housing came with a silver finish.
Cast aluminum wheels were satin-brushed.
Footpegs were made of chrome steel.
The radiator cover matched the color of the bike and featured a painted finish.

Spec 3

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Chrome-plated cast aluminum handlebar risers and caps could be added to the handlebars.
Upper and lower triple clamps made of highly polished cast aluminum were available.
Clutch and brake levers came with a highly polished aluminum finish.
Shiny chrome steel covers highlighted the front end of the fork tubes.
Switch housings featured a hairline satin-brushed finish.
Highly polished cast-aluminum wheels could be added.
The final drive housing featured a hairline satin-brushed with chrome-plated axle caps and fasteners.
Footpegs were made of chrome steel.
The radiator cover matched the color of the bike and featured a painted finish.

1.3 2007 Honda VTX 1800 F

In 2007, Honda didn't change much as far as the configuration and features of the bike were concerned. The motorcycle company only played around with the paintwork and launched the VTX 1800 F 2007 models in the following vibrant hues:

Pearl Yellow
Red/Black Tribal
Metallic Black

The 2007 Honda VTX 1800 F was also available in three build variations similar to the 2006 VTX 1800 F. However, the Spec 1 version was only available in a “Metallic Black” color scheme (See Spec 1 of 2006).

1.4 2008 Honda VTX 1800 F

The distinctive 2006 VTX 1800 Fstyling was reiterated in the 2008 VTX 1800 F model. The bike was launched in two classic colors:

Black
Candy Red Tribal

The 2008 Honda VTX 1800 F was available in only two build variations:

Spec 1

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Cast aluminum risers and caps with a hairline satin-brushed finish could be added to the handlebars.
Clutch and brake levers came with a smooth cast aluminum finish.
Upper and lower triple clamps were made of cast aluminum and featured a hair-line satin-brushed finish.
Switch housings with a smooth cast aluminum finish were available.
Inverted fork tubes with a satin-brushed finish were available.
Final drive housing came with a silver finish.
Cast aluminum wheels were satin-brushed.
Footpegs had chrome accents.
The radiator cover matched the color of the bike and featured a painted finish.

Spec 2

The crankcases, cylinder, and starter motors were available in a satin black finish with milled cylinder fin edges.
Chrome-plated cast aluminum handlebar risers and caps could be added to the handlebars.
Upper and lower triple clamps made of highly polished cast aluminum were available.
Clutch and brake levers came with a highly polished aluminum finish.
Shiny chrome steel covers highlighted the front end of the fork tubes.
Switch housings featured a hairline satin-brushed finish.
Highly polished cast-aluminum wheels could be added.
The final drive housing featured a hairline satin-brushed finish with chrome-plated axle caps and fasteners.
Oval-shaped, chrome-plated cast-aluminum footpegs were available.
The radiator cover matched the color of the bike and featured a painted finish.

2. Honda VTX 1800 F at First Glance

Honda VTX 1800 F at First Glance

For its VTX 1800 F bike, Honda stepped into the shoes of a rider who loves a well-customized bike and designed the sporty cruiser to suit different tastes and needs. At first glance, the bike is lean and stylish with its signature chromed headlight with a smaller hooded lens.

The arching line of the headlight runs along with the seamless, curved 4.8-gallon fuel tank. The design team perfected the drag-style racer look by adding a bobbed steel front fender and a straight-cut steel rear fender.

The VTX 1800 F lacks a passenger pillion. The space is taken up by the rear fender which features a large bulge that contours around the back of the rider's seat. This design feature creates a long uninterrupted line that starts at the headlight and leads to the rear fender. The recessed LED taillight and brake light give the bike a contemporary look. A gorgeous color-matched radiator shroud decorates the front and displays the engine as the high-performance, high-tech motor that it truly is.

Furthermore, the milled aluminum billet side rails with the slotted surface treatment and a hairline-brushed finish give the rear fender line a customized look. The innovative equipment such as custom-design wedge shape mirrors and bullet-type turn signals with clear lenses, amber flasher bulbs, and chrome visors strongly defines the custom-cruiser look.

Another thing that you will notice in the first observation is its clutter-free and organized appearance. The VTX 1800 F engine lacks any stray, hanging wires and hoses that can negatively affect its appeal. The mighty 1800 cc engine has three valves per cylinder offset crankpin and dual primary shaft-mounted counterbalancers that allow the engine to generate a maximum horsepower of 106.0 hp/5000 rpm. The counterbalancers reduce the vibrations produced at high speeds for a fast and comfortable riding experience. The large tubular steel frame controls the engine’s power and gives the VTX 1800 F its iconic silhouette.

Honda also updated its linked braking system for the VTX 1800 series, the F-type VTX 1800 being included amongst them. The reliable braking system is inspiring and allows riders to enjoy a thrilling ride without fear. For improved handling, the VTX 1800 F features a 130/55R -18 front tire and a 180/55 R -18 rear tire.

The large 45 mm inverted front fork provides 4.3 inches of wheel travel and reduces friction. On the other hand, the dual chrome rear shocks offer 3.9 inches of wheel travel, ensuring a smooth response with its revised damping rate. Collectively, these figures when combined with a 27-inch low seat guarantee a relaxed riding position.

3. Honda VTX 1800 F: A Buyer’s Guide

3.1 What Does VTX 1800 F Stands for?

In the VTX 1800 F, the VTX stands for V-Twin Xtreme. Moreover, it is believed that the letter F stands for Five since the bike was launched in the year 2005 and was the fifth variant of the series.

3.2 How Fast is Honda VTX 1800 F?

The athletic Honda VTX 1800 F is a powerful cruiser that can achieve an estimated top speed of 135 mph.

3.3 How Much Does Honda VTX 1800 F Cost?

The Honda VTX 1800 F was available on the market at an average base price of $13,499. But since the VTX 1800 F bikes are available in three unique build variations, the price may vary. It is also worth considering that Honda discontinued the VTX 1300 F in 2008. Therefore, you can buy a well-maintained used bike at an affordable price.

3.4 Is Honda VTX 1800 F a Good Bike?

Honda VTX 1800 F is a versatile cruiser with an athletic lean built, low-slung comfortable seat and a powerful 52° V-Twin liquid-cooled four-stroke engine. It is a bit heavy at 774 lbs. But its 130/55R -18 front tire and 180/55 R -18 rear tire along with a reliable linked braking system make this motorcycle easy to handle and fun to ride.

4. Detailed Specifications (Honda VTX 1800 F)

4.1 Dimensions

Length	2420 mm / 96.3 in
Width	940 mm / 37.0 in
Height	1130 mm / 44.5 in
Wheelbase	1715 mm / 67.5 in
Rake	31° 45’
Ground Clearance	130 mm / 5.1 in
Seat Height	701 mm / 27.6 in
Dry Weight	743 lbs
Curb (wet) Weight	774 lbs.
Trail	146 mm (5.7 in)
Fuel Capacity	4.8 US gal
Fuel Economy	38.6 mpg

4.2 Chassis

Type	Double cradle steel
Front Suspension, travel	Inverted telescopic fork 45 mm, 130 mm (4.3 in) travel
Rear Suspension, travel	Swingarm with twin shock, 100 mm (3.9 in) travel Adjustable: five -way spring preload
Front Tire Size	130/70 R 18 M/C (63 V)
Rear Tire Size	180/ 55 R 18 M/C (74 V)
Front Brake	Double disc, 296 mm, 3-piston calipers (combined)
Rear Brake	Single disc, 316 mm, 2-piston caliper combined

4.3 Engine

Type	Liquid-cooled four-stroke
Bore & Stroke	101.0 x 112.0 mm
Displacement	1795 cm
Cylinder arrangement	Two-cylinder V-twin
Compression Ratio	9.0:1
Valve Train	SOHC, Three valves per cylinder
Fuel System/ Induction	Fuel injection, PGM-Fi, 42 mm

4.4 Performance

Maximum Power	106.0 hp (78.0 kW)/ 5000 rpm
Maximum Torque	162.7 Nm / 3500 rpm
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph)	3.81 sec
Top Speed	217 km/h (135 mph)

4.5 Drive Train

Clutch	Wet, multi-plate hydraulic (operating)
Transmission	Five-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft
Primary Reduction	1.571
Final Reduction	3.091
Gear Ratio 1st	2.353
Gear Ratio 2nd	1.478
Gear Ratio 3rd	1.111
Gear Ratio 4th	0.871
Gear Ratio 5th	0.697

4.6 Electrical

Ignition	Transistorized Solid-state digital, two spark plugs per cylinder
Alternator	400 W at 5000 rpm
Instruments	Standard
Battery Capacity	12 W - 18Ah
Starter	Electric

4.7 Others

Colors	Black Candy Red Tribal
Base Price	$ 13,499 (Spec 1) $ 15,499 (Spec 2)
Warranty	12 months / Limited

5. Aftermarket Parts & Luggage Options for Honda VTX 1800 F

The Honda VTX 1800 F is inherently a customized sporty cruiser. The bike is well equipped with modern features and stylish accents, therefore being able to compete against newly launched high-tech motorcycle models.

But some people like to further customize the VTX 1800 F to suit their personal style and level of comfort. This is where the aftermarket options come in. You do not need to feel pressured into installing too many add-ons to your bike. These suggestions are provided for the riders who want to tweak and upgrade their rides slightly.

Luckily, Honda’s VTX F 1800 cc cruisers are add-on friendly. This makes going on a camping trip or an adventurous bike tour on your VTX 1800 F easier. To carry your belongings, simply mount a pair of saddlebags The only thing that may come in the way is the budget. Saddlebags can be a bit expensive and therefore it can be extremely tough to find high-quality saddlebags for your VTX 1800 F on a budget. But with VikingBags , you can easily find durable and chic luggage bags along with other Honda motorcycle parts under one umbrella and at reasonable prices.

Need Help? Here’s a Luggage Bag Buying Guide for Your Honda VTX 1800 F.

Best Motorcycle Luggage Bags for All Models of Honda

We cannot undermine the need for an upgraded comfortable seat for both the rider and passenger. The Honda VTX 1800 F lacks a pillion and therefore will not be a pleasant ride for your companion. You can spare your partner the pain of an uncomfortable motorcycle tour by installing foamy and plush VTX seats and sissy bars for a joyful and memorable touring experience.