Honda VTX1300R Retro - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Honda VTX1300R is a retro cruiser built for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its liquid-cooled 1312cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, manageable power suited to leisurely highway cruising and around-town riding. Known for its authentic vintage aesthetics combined with shaft drive simplicity and low maintenance, it appeals to cruiser enthusiasts valuing comfort and timeless design.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Honda VTX1300R Retro |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Ignition | Digital with three-dimensional mapping, two spark plugs per cylinder |
| Fuel control | SOHC |
| Fuel system | Carburettor |
| Valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Bore x stroke | 89.5 x 104.3 mm (3.5 x 4.1 inches) |
| Compression | 9.2:1 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1312.00 ccm (80.06 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 296 mm (11.7 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 336 mm (13.2 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 170/80-15 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 140/80-17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 94 mm (3.7 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Rear: Dual shocks with five-position spring preload adjustability |
| Front suspension travel | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Front suspension | 41mm fork |
| Trail | 144 mm (5.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 32.0° |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 18.16 litres (4.80 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,669 mm (65.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 695 mm (27.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 322.1 kg (710.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Black, Pearl White, Dark Blue Metallic |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders who already have some experience handling heavy, long-wheelbase cruisers at low speed. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and highway miles rather than performance riding. |
| Rider Fit | The low seat height is approachable, but the substantial dry weight demands confident strength and balance at parking-lot speeds. |
| Character | A classic American-style V-twin cruiser that rewards a laid-back, torque-driven riding style with shaft-drive reliability. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or outright acceleration. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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⚠ Safety Recalls (1)
HONDA IS RECALLING 38,934 MY 2006-2007 VT600 AND MY 2007-2008 VT750 AND VTX1300 MOTORCYCLES. THE MOTORCYCLES MAY HAVE AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED FUEL CONTROL VALVE DIAPHRAGM AND THE FUEL VALVE MAY DRIP FUEL.
Risk: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, DRIPPING FUEL POSES THE RISK OF FIRE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL CONTROL VALVE DIAPHRAGM ASSEMBLY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 22, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-866-784-1870.
Source: NHTSA. View all Honda recalls →
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