Here's Why The Honda Valkyrie Failed...Twice

[@dburges5]

YO JON!, how's it going. i sent you a couple emails, but i know how busy you are. Anyway, this is fitting for your Valkyrie video. My own take on re-freshing an old classic. let me know what you think. hope you don't mind me posting it here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIKZaYyEqdmVrbc

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Just checked out the vid this morning! Awesome build! 🤙💯

[@pluckypurcell7186]

I'm still riding my Valkyrie that I bought new in May of '99. I ride pretty aggressively through the back roads of NC. The power delivery and frame geometry of the Valk allow it to make it through the twisties a lot faster than you would imagine for a bike of its size. Those replaceable acorn nuts on the ends of the foot pegs are there for a reason. It's a blast. It's reliable. It's just the best cruiser ever mass produced.

[@donaldrauscher1703]

Get a Valkyrie interstate for the radio and back rest and frills of the goldwing or Harley dresser.

[@Wayne-j5j]

That bike is a smooth operator! I know hummmm! 👍

[@jamespolucha6911]

I am a Harley-Davidson mechanic, well retired and the day I got to ride one of these I fell in love with it, I bought the interstate model which is like the full dresser model for $2000 with 5000 miles on it now it has 90,000 miles and coast to coast once a year and never had any problems ever, it’s a well built motorcycle little heavy and poor gas mileage but who cares it out performs most big touring bikes wish they would come out with a naked gold wing I think it would do very good

[@alanhoy5347]

F6b

[@RaulGarcia-cg3vn]

Takes a lot for a Harley man to say that..Honda does make good products.. I drive a shadow 750...and sometimes wish I had a Harley..but I've done some mods and side by side you can't really tell difference

[@RealRyanFlynn]

Check out the 2014-2015 Valkyrie, it's basically a naked Goldwing. No cases on the back, but the same flat-6 1800 as the 2012-2017 Goldwing. It's a beast.

[@hillbilly4christ638]

They did years ago.

[@GGarrigan]

You got a fantastic deal that's great ​@@alanhoy5347

[@cliffordkorzep671]

I have owned a valkyrie for nearly 20 years now. I am 6'8" 260lbs. so when I saw the size of it, that is what attracted me to it. I think many riders are intimidated by it. I love how the engine hangs out on both sides. I have four other bikes in my garage, but i am fairly sure I will never sell my valk. I wish they would redo it with an 1800 cc engine and sixth gear.

[@optimusprimer4392]

I'm about 190 and I can say one thing about these bikes they're easy to ride comparative to Harley's in my opinion I think they're Nimble for as big as they are

[@freebird1ification]

yep i would like a 6 speed

[@georgefischer1504]

I have three Valks and all three have 70K+ miles. I wanted a Valk when I first saw spy shots in 1995. It's too bad that I can no longer ride them due to having had two spinal chord surgeries that have left me weak and with several neuro-muskuiar issues. But being that after 50 years of riding motorcycles, I found that the Valkyries to be my absolute favorite motorcycle of all time.

[@gabrielcocco5188]

@George Fischer Have you ever seen the products made by Tilting Motor Works? Could an alteration like that keep you in the saddle?

[@georgefischer1504]

@@gabrielcocco5188 Still riding, Now ride an Indian Scout because it is easier to mount , it's light enough and it's fast

[@gabrielcocco5188]

@@georgefischer1504 I love the Indian Scout. I've described it as feeling like a mini bike on steroids

[@nunninkav]

Understood. The Valkyrie is almost 900lbs of bike. You need to sell them and buy a spider.

[@Инакамняхрастутдеревья]

Крепкого здоровья тебе Бро!

[@jeffkeni]

"Failed"? No, it didn't fail. It succeeded, succeeded wildly, for the demographic at which it was aimed. A touring barge that is stripped down to become a hotrod missile isn't for everyone. Hemi Cudas....Shelby Mustangs....were they failures? Nope. But they were Godsends for those folks that truly appreciated them enough to own one.

[@sidogpmj]

I read this a long while ago and remembered it because yes. People sleep on these GODDAM beautiful priceless bikes.

[@robertwhite2032]

They were miserable failures. You couldn't give them away when they were new.

[@AnunakiAtlantis]

The best motor bike ever created in this planet. Based from bikers experiment around the globe : 1. Goldwing. 2. Valkerie.

[@brucebarlow160]

I smiled the whole video. I love my Valkyrie Interstate. I’m glade Jon likes it too. I ride 60 miles per day to work, mostly interstate. This bike is my soulmate. Take care of it and it’s a forever bike.

[@artwallace5925]

My Interstate is one of my forever bikes too. The other is my Oilhead RT. :)

[@tomhengel7244]

I will never give up my valkyrie or my guns😀

[@brianwest5348]

Amen to the second part! I own a 08 Goldwing. Love the looks of the Valkyrie though.

[@colewinkler4048]

I will give up my Valkyrie when they pry my cold, dead buttcheeks from the saddle!

[@dburges5]

Yo Tom, you might like this little project i just finished up kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIKZaYyEqdmVrbc

[@ervinhepler9558]

I'll give up my guns! Bullets first!

[@ervinhepler9558]

I'll give up my guns bullets first

[@grumpygnome9316]

I own a 2003 bought it last year with just 11,000 miles. At first it seems like a giant beasts when you get on to ride but after you get rolling it's actually pretty easy to ride. I'm a short old fat guy and I can still sit on it flat-footed.

[@joseabril772]

i own a 2004 Valkirie Rune" 1834 six cilynder black six fuel injectors! It is very heavy and big" but pulls like a rocket and is very smooth and sounds like a turbo Porche and very manejable and stable! I love it! 😀

[@michaellee3687]

I've had two Valkyrie's, not a failure in my experience. Their basic Goldwings on a budget... so if you are looking to ride across country without coughing up a lung, this is the way to go.

[@toofastnobrakes]

My dad still has his original 1998, midnight blue and ivory. He loves that bike and it still runs like a champ Edit: both he and I are 6’5” 34in inseam on him and 35 for me. We both fit on this bike comfortably

[@craigmanning2439]

I am 5'8" and this bike still handles like a dream. Big or small this bike is still an amazing piece of engineering.

[@one959]

I have owned 2 in my life. A blue and white 2001 model and now a 2002 black model with air pods and after market pipes. It sounds like a prime mover and I love how smooth it feels. I loved the jerky idle of my Fat Bob before but now the time is right for me at 65 to re own a Valk. 60,000 miles and it’s a beast. I bought it recently and it’s 22 years old in August. Getting to know my Valk all over again and I get on it every chance I can. Keep posting. Cheers from Sydney, Australia 👍

[@1funcar]

The Valkyrie was never a “me too” bike. I love my ‘98 standard. It does everything I want - and then some.

[@srl1215]

One thing I think you're missing with the question of "why the Valkyrie failed", which you might see differently with some corporate background. The Goldwing 5th generation was introduced in 2001. Also, one of the key positives from a corporate perspective was the fact that the Honda manufacturing line that made the GW 1500cc engines of the 4th gen Goldwings, made more engines per day than the Marysville plant made Goldwings. The arrival of a 2nd platform, the Valkyrie helped solve the efficiency issue of placing the consuming the over-run of engines. However, the downside of this was that Valkyrie sales had begun eating into Goldwing sales. Honda Japan's cash cow. The Rune came about when the EPA requirements forced the industry into EFI. The primary purpose of the Run was as a project bike to figure out how to deal with the added cooling issues the 1800cc engine might have and could be fitted to a much more basic frame than the Goldwing with its double radiator implementation. The Rune only became a product as a wild card when HD brought the V-rod to market. It was just a radical enough bike to take some wind out of HD's buzz around a new Porche-developed engine. In the end it was apparent that the Rune would not be a lower-cost replacement for the 1500cc Valkyrie. Also in that same time frame the US R&D evangelist engineer of the Valkyrie Josef Boyd was killed in a tragic crash while tract testing a CBR in 1998. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josef_Boyd Your points are good points. But the internal Honda politics, the EPA mandates, and then the loss of Joe Boyd were all key elements in the demise of the first generation Valkyrie.

[@garymiller7802]

I've been riding since I was 14 and I have had several bikes in my 77 yrs. Truly my 1997 Valkyrie Tourer is my favorite. I guess the six carbs could be a problem but they have not been for me, at least to this point. If you do get a chance to ride one it will sell itself to you. It is an amazing motorcycle.

[@cat71213]

@@schrodingersmechanic7622 I went through the carbs on mine when I got it, they're not that complicated, the hardest thing is getting the airbox back in correctly, and even that wasn't bad.

[@bobbyfranklin3734]

I'm 60 years old. And I love my Honda Valkyrie 2000 touring model

[@saywhatnow2]

Mine is also 97. Amazing bike! I will never sell it!

[@Bassinman200]

Congratulations on 77, or maybe 78 by now. I'm a young pup at 69, have had a few bikes in my day, first was a Baby Dream, then the 250 Dream, then a few dirt bikes and Enduros, then a 750-4 K model, and lastly an 800 Shadow before a 20+year hyadice into the recent 3 Valk SE's. One 1999, and two 2000s. The 99 is a fix and sell. One 2000nis having carbs rebuilt, the other I'm riding, and I'm finding it difficult to balance the Valk at under 6mph. It sits comfortably for me, since I have had several skeletal operations including two in the lumbar area with bone and metal fusion, had my leg run over by a semi truck, and 2 years later had a 5ton pressure vessel drop on the same left foot, have 2 torn meniscus - one astroscopic repair, the other needing it done for over 23 years. I really didn't think I could even sit a bike after all the damage and years afterward with arthritis. But, I did, and love to ride again. Good luck and hang in there, I'm gonna do my best.

[@patrickbodine1300]

Excellent video! I built my '99 from parts purchased on the internet. $4000, nine months, rode it to the Canadian border on my test ride from S. Mississippi with no issues. 3 times to the Dragon. Great bike.

[@motorman857]

The Valkyrie was far superior to other heavy weight cruiser/touring motorcycles of the day, in performance, smoothness, and even reliability. And, it was priced right. So why didn't it sell? Because people who wanted a bike of this type wanted an American style V-twin. If they couldn't, or wouldn't pay the money for a Harley, they wanted a bike that looked like a Harley with a big V-twin. They could get that from Yamaha (1600 V-twins) Or Kawasaki with the big Vulcans and even Suzuki. Thus, those bikes sold very well. Honda's American Classic sold pretty good also, but had a smaller (1100cc) V-twin compared to the other metrics, but cost as much as those bikes. The Valkyrie didn't sell well because there wasn't enough of a market for this type of motorcycle. IMHO.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

From the man himself! Well said! 🙏💯

[@skeetersaurus6249]

I had to go back and dig up some info on the 2014-2015 model years...but basically, the Valkyrie with its liquid-cooled 6-cylinder, 100-horsepower engine, was MSRP'd (very stripped down, no faring, no bags, no nothing...just bike) for $17,999...while the Indian Scout (2015 model) ALSO made 100-hp with a V-Twin (making 49% more power than the comparable Harley) FOR $7,000 LESS!!! The Valkyrie UTTERLY FAILED because, like Harley, you weren't paying for quality or power or features...YOU WERE PAYING FOR THAT NAME AND THOSE EXTRA 4-CYLINDERS!!! The Indian Chief has retained more resale value, shows a LOT more style (that Honda 'copied' to buy into the cruiser market), and just DOES NOT present as well, overall...for a 40% higher pricetag!!! Sorry...but American Made Indian at a lower price for a better bike? Oh...and you can still buy a new Indian Scout today...dressed up or down, like you want...FOR MUCH CHEAPER STILL!!!

[@skeetersaurus6249]

@@JonsMotoGarage Not really..when he was THAT WRONG on the price...but then again, everyone has their 'personal favorites' (I know guys that still swear by their De Sotos, too...) 🤪🤪🤪

[@safaricartvideos]

@@skeetersaurus6249 I can't figure out why the honda vtx 1800 didn't do well enough to keep making them, I still ride my 2001 (first year) and love it. I paid full price $12,500 but I think the cost went down over the years. This bike is a beast and no problems after 20 years.

[@skeetersaurus6249]

@@safaricartvideos I have nothing against Honda as a manufacturer...Loved my CB750, LOVED my V-65 magna! BUT...saying that, I've ALWAYS said for as nice as a Goldwing is, I would NEVER drop the cash for one...and the Valkyrie is nothing but 'Goldwing Squared'. It is too much of everything, and not enough to justify that price. I looked at one on the showroom floor (before I bought my last Indian), and I just couldn't believe that price! I don't care for 'full dressers' (I wouldn't even purchase a topped-out Indian Roadmaster)...but a non-dressed Valkyrie for the same price I could purchase a fully-dressed Roadmaster in the day? no thanks...you are paying for that name...that underpowered 6-cylinder engine (Indian is making THE SAME POWER with 4-less cylinders!)...Indian makes 49% more horsepower than Harley...and they are American Made! Even saying 'they are both excellent companies with excellent products'...to recommend the Valkyrie at that price is like saying 'no thanks to that $1 two-liter bottle of Coca Cola at Wal-Mart...I'm going down here to the quick stop gas station and paying $2.79 for THE SAME THING...because...IT COSTS MORE!' Keep in mind...they dropped the model FOR THE EXACT SAME REASON I'M EXPLAINING AS TO WHY I DIDN'T BUY INTO THAT MODEL LINE! (and as I said in another post, it's that old off-road argument '2nd hand buyers don't drive the market or keep models alive...Original Buyers do!'

[@WilliamSchuver]

Owned a 2001 valk! Best damn bike ever. I drove it 50,000 miles, just perfect cruiser! So sad, as I got older the bike became bigger.

[@irvinmartin9259]

I owned a 2001 Valkyrie Interstate. Red and charcoal two-tone. I bought it used in 2006 and I loved it. I used to call it my “Happiness Machine”. Was it my idea of the perfect touring bike? Far from it. It rode like an old pick-up truck, and sucked gas like one too. (33 miles per Imperial gallon was typical.) Unlike a Gold-Wing, or Electra-Glide it’s handling didn’t lighten up once you were moving. You never forgot you were riding a near 900 pound bike. But I loved every minute that I was on it. Especially that sound. A Porsche like moan, rising to a howl as it rev’d out. It was equally at home while riding with either my Harley or Honda riding friends. Sadly, it also became the only bike on which I’ve ever had a serious accident. It was totalled, and I was lucky not to have been sent off to Valhalla myself. But I still miss it, and would probably still own it if not for that event. Just try to find one on the market. Everyone who has one is keeping it.

[@michaelparker4457]

I have a 2000 Blue/Silver. Feel pretty much the same. Love that Beast. Sorry you lost her...glad you are OK

[@Bassinman200]

I've found plenty. But I think it's because of the current economy. I've been tempted to sell 2 of the three that I own, just to get a better cut of meat for a change. Round steak (bogna) isn't always that appetizing after months worth of meals. Tempted, yes. Selling, no. But others are. I will have one for sale which was purchased as a fixer/flipper, but the other 2 will continue to be ridden until I can't handle hot dogs and bologna anymore.

[@jamesalbinson7416]

We also have a 2003 Valkyrie. From our experience your review is tight. A big, strong tank of a bike built in Ohio perhaps to make a statement by Honda. We also own a 2013 F6B which offer nice updates, lower center of gravity, better rear suspension and much more plastic bodywork. These 1st gen Valkyrie bikes are pre iPhone, analog and old school muscle cruisers that are a kick to ride.

[@tardisrider25]

Actually for how big it is I thought it felt fairly light and manageable.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Its amazingly nimble!

[@markhanson6914]

yes once rolling its pretty nimble for its size.

[@RotorKev]

That boxer 6 keeps the weight (cg) pretty low.

[@BigBadLoneWolf]

when i went to look at a couple of bikes, i bought a royal star venture, but i also looked at the Valkyrie, and it was way easier to lift the bike to an upright position from the side stand, the venture is a very top heavy bike, but the valkyrie carries it's weight down low. reason i went for the venture, was eventually i will put a sidecar on it, and it has a tubular frame as opposed to the valkyries alloy frame

[@cliffhouser9138]

I traded my 1999 Valkyrie for a 100th anniversary Harley. Big mistake!

[@kalaga2k]

hahahahaha

[@randylcampbell]

appreciate you honesty. Love my Valk.

[@Beatnik59]

Color?

[@cliffhouser9138]

@@Beatnik59 It was yellow and white.

[@Beatnik59]

I remember that color scheme wasn't too popular, but I think it was because they still kept the black seat on it stock. I saw one with a Corbin seat in a light brown, and a matching tank strap and bags, and it looked really good with the scheme.

[@valykrie]

My brother and I have driven Valkyries all over NA - twist that throttle and it becomes a time machine. The most fun you can have without laughing .

[@nicholaswilson1533]

I bought an ‘03 Valkyrie a couple months ago and it looks just like yours. It’s power, handling, and comfort is amazing. I would never sell it. It also turns heads.

[@davidsesco2447]

I've owned a 19997 Valkyrie since December of '99. I love it for the very reasons you cited it is it's own beast. It's not a copy of anything. It is big, powerful, I think it's beautiful, and it handles better than I expected it would. I plan to keep it until my legs get too old to hold it up.

[@edgarcorrea7866]

I always hear people talk about more carbs more problems but have you really had any issues out of the carbs with it?

[@poindexterthrockmorton4620]

I have 4 Valkyries, Got my first in '97 when they were first offered. Have over a quarter million miles on them, should be more but I'm slowing down in my older years. Fabulous bike. You are absolutely right on the handling & performance. I have modified mine extensively to address the concerns you brought up. Including a supercharged bobber trophy Valk. I also have a Gold Wing, BTW. I MUCH prefer the Valk even on long road trips. You should hear though, the bikes are mostly bulletproof. Adjusting the carbs is a non issue. Useful to have on hand a Digi-sync rather than a mercury manometer. Though I've only used mine once and that was just to check it. Was still in sync. The Digi-sync is out of production but you might find one on the used market. Like any bike, there are a few achille's heels. The Valk community, of which I am a gearhead resource, knows well what they are. Just be prepared for those quirks with preventive maint, and have those spare parts on hand. One of my 4 Valks was bought as a parts bike in case I can't buy parts online anymore. The best and most comprehensive body of knowledge on the Valk is at the valkyrieforum.com - the 1500 tech forum. I have posted a few thousand tech posts on there, myself. There are around 10 forums on FB. No shortage on a library of how to care for this bike. As well as a cult community family. We get together annually at ride-in's called "Inzane", since 2001. Next one is in M ontana in June. Go to the VRCC (site linked above) for more info on that.

[@johnmoates7188]

My valkyrie literally failed on me. It made a big knock one day when I started it up. It broke the starter gear. I dug the broken gear out and push started it for 2 years. I pulled out in front of a car that was doing 45 mph. The car hit me from the side. If the motor hadn't been stuck out so far it would of crushed my leg. I flew off and landed on my feet unharmed. Totaled the car. Picked up my bike and started it back up and took off.

[@jameslfuertes3242]

I have over 120,000 miles on my 1997 bumble bee Valkyrie and even rode it to Alaska from Ohio.

[@JeffinTD]

Under appreciated bike for sure. If I had to name a touring cruiser most likely to hit 100,000 with only routine maintenance...

[@sharingtheadventure]

The Valkyrie was my second motorcycle. After the very first ride, I knew it was something special! You're right, it is not for everyone and that's the idea. Yes, it's a man's bike, but I've honestly seen little grandmas ride these things as well....adventurous grandmas with great tastes in motorcycles. I'm really glad more people aren't up to riding it. Needless to say, I immediately bought that first bike and I've had some type of 97-03 Valkyrie in my garage at all times...sometimes two at a time. I've had the Standard, Tourer and Interstate. I just love that smooth power...it's absolutely amazing! Over fifteen years later and you can still find nice bikes with low miles. And by the way, on those low mileage bikes, that weenies decide to garage, I pick them up cheap, do a quick carb rebuild and synch and they are good to go. I'm no mechanic and I find it easy to rebuild carbs and resync them. So yeah, for those that aren't up to it, stay away.

[@Bohica-tq3ps]

Popped up on my feed. I'm an old guy that used to ride Harleys back in the day and wanted to get back in the wind a few years back. Sketchy knees, etc. put me on a trike. Having had Harleys I never like the bunched up feeling. I found a super nice '98 Valk Touring and had a Roadsmith kit put on it. Couldn't be happier, black trike, tons of chrome and plenty of power. With the raked front end and no tour pack the trike sets low and has that hotrod look I wanted. I ran 2 polished stainless exhaust tubes straight back that exit just under the little nerf bumper. Drove a punch through the baffles and it just screams at wot. Had to have the carbs rebuilt and got lucky the local Honda shop had an old guy that grew up on carbs, wasn't cheap, but he got them right.

[@ntjihad]

I'm 5'6 will it be a good touring bike?

[@guzforce]

This bike is NOT a fail, ever! Actually, this is a huge success, pure mechanic piece of art with am unbeatable exhaust symphony played by six orchestras! We do not talk about a fail almost 20 years later with so awesome numbers. Non-haleydavidson, from any year, will ever be close to the perfection achieved on the Valkyrie! I love mine so much and it is just perfect to go on highway or mountains, with great drivability and power delivery!

[@Evirthewarrior]

Motorcycle companies always cancel successful motorcycles, right?

[@guzforce]

@@Evirthewarrior If the emissions laws, energy efficiency and so other "modern" things come up, Motorcycle industry do not cancel successful motorcycle, they follow the new rules.

[@Evirthewarrior]

@@guzforce So the same engine used in the gold wing couldn't pass efficiency standards, but they still make the gold wing. You do not really believe what you wrote do you with them still making the gold wing without issue?

[@guzforce]

@@Evirthewarrior Good point. It is just some opinion and the way I see the market going to. I modified and prepared many old bikes and many of the new ones. One thing I can tell you, if we do not go for full mods, is: - Making the modern bikes become beasts is all about remove government restrictions. Goldwings have throttle by wire, controlling traction, ensuring fuel economy, limiting power by gear and so on. So ECU is the one driving your bike, not you. Not mentioning direct coils, high efficiency fuel injectors, exhaust cat converters e insane restricted muffles. The engines are way different also, as Gold Wings have a bit more cc, high CFM multi-valves heads and tons of upgrades to increase power and torque (available only when the ECU wants) to compensate the government restrictions. The Valkyrie died, just like muscle cars, hot rods crazy shits and group "B" rally cars. They are all missed and legends loved forever, but not part of this world any more. On the Valkyrie we have pure mechanical engineering, dynamics and weight distribution analysis and so many spirit of performance, reliability (300.000 miles engine) and quality in one Bike. You know the 0.25cents trick on those engine right? Or did you ever so a Valkyrie without a gas tank and seats, just to observe the smoothness on center of balance of it? That's why it is so drivable. A Haledavid a frame with a shaker machine.. liking oil, fuel and vibrators rods all around, SAE bolts that you can find in home depot. Things just changed.. that's it.. I wich we could have the options to still buying nice and modern 2 stroke bikes, but in fact, we gonna be buying electrical bikes with gas engine sound speakers hahaha!

[@DavidMitchell79]

It went 7 years of production... The Yamaha SR500 "Thumper" went 6 years... If one does some research, that is the general stretch for ANY automotive product. People want something new...

[@akula1055]

Hola Jon. I just bought a 2014 Valkyrie and I love it. Yes is big but is a blast to ride when you compare it with other bikes like big Harleys. In the looks department I think is an acquired taste but you have to see it in person and yes is not as practical as the Gold Wind but Man it is a pleasure to ride. Buen Video Amigo

[@luiscarrion696]

I have a 2014 Valkyrie. Whenever I ride any Harley, I am always disappointed!

[@RyleLaMora]

literally my dream bike

[@MatthewPettyST1300]

My 2014 Valkyrie is black with saddle bags and3 point lights system. I ride it pretty much only on weekends. The other 5 days I commute on my ST1300 at 300miles a week since 1978. One of 5 others I've had for just commuting 15,000 a year. Rain? I have a rain suit. Most of the time it's good weather here on the central coast of California. I only use my late wife's car for groceries.

[@straigh1tkush]

My grandfather that passed had a 97 valkyrie that he gave to my uncle. my uncle got sick and has not started the bike in about 7 years. he told me if i can fix it up its mine. i can not, i repeat.... can not wait to ride this bike.

[@davidelizabeth4933]

My old boss had one in his collection. Sweet long distance cruiser. 👍 👨‍👩‍👧❤

[@ThePreacherProclaims]

I love my '98 Valkyrie. It always has enough power, always has enough smooth, always has enough ... everything.

[@peterberrios6028]

I bought an 85 700 magna new and test rode the Valkyrie when new and it was a blast. While I found it large and heavy, at speed it was very light and effortless to ride. Fast forward to today and I still remember it. I’d buy one today if I could.

[@American.Valkyrie]

My wife bought my 1st 98 Valk for me and I was blown away by it. This bike us a piece of moto jewelry! I've owned 3 so far, at 73, and am looking for a 4th. It's not a me too bike. It's smooth as silk! Honda should do a retro re-do with fuel injection!

[@andrewh1600]

I bought a 2000 in the fall of 2019. I am 6'2" 320lbs fella who loves this bike. Its sport touring position takes getting used to, but I love the low center of gravity and maneuverability. I have upgraded the shifter and tail lights last year. I plan on refreshing everything below the handle bars to the front tire then comes the final drive rebuild, and finally the carb rebuild. I have access to a super wrenchy friend who loves this bike so I get to learn and he gets to ride and love on the bike. He'll probably end up with it anyway. This bike is amazing on all points for me. Thanks for the video I agree with you. Stay safe out there!!

[@LIVE3DPrinting]

I worked at a Honda dealer when the "Val" came out. The marketing display from Honda was triggered by proximity and started off the announcement with "It's over 8 feet long!" Funny how I never once saw a customer with a tape measure checking model lengths to see which one they wanted to buy. The Val failed to capture a market mainly because of price, it cost far more than other cruisers and only slightly less than a full touring Goldwing. I have some great stories from the "other side" regarding this super cool piece of motorcycling history.

[@johnmehsikomer7485]

It doesn't fit on a 8 ft trailer

[@erikalbertson7483]

I had a '97 black and yellow standard. Bought it used with 7100 miles on it. I owned it for 12 years, and took many summer trips cross country with it. Traded it for an '07 Victory kingpin. Now, I ride a 2019 Indian FTR1200 RR. I miss that Valkyrie, it was a great bike !

[@erikalbertson7483]

Just bought another yellow/black '97 to replace the one I traded. I'm pretty happy !

[@ianhaxton4041]

Actually about to buy one for a roadtrip I'm doing later this year. Awesome bikes for sure I had so much fun on my test ride!

[@bobbyfranklin3734]

Buy it if you can. I'm 60 years old and I ride a 2000 touring model. I absolutely love it

[@elfmagejr82]

The carb syncing isn't really that hard but I learned the shade tree way to do it without all the vacuum gauges and it worked fine for me. My biggest complaint with it is the lack of mods for the bike I desperately want a cam for it but no one makes one or really anything aftermarket specifically for it.

[@Bassinman200]

So you looking for a new land speed record? 120 isn't enough? lol, just jokes, I'm fine with the stock cam, would honestly like to know what purpose another cam could serve with this bike. May convince me to change mine out, but the HyPer metering rods, etc., that were installed on last carb rebuild gave mine a good boost without engine takedown, and I was happy with the way it ran before rebuild. Rubber was eaten up by ethenol previously, I only run pure gas.

[@joelbullock61]

I own a 98 touring 21000 miles only paid 3500 this past August. Absolutely love this bike.

[@Beatnik59]

Color?

[@joelbullock61]

@@Beatnik59 maroon/creme

[@BryanBozz]

I just bought my 1st Valk Interstate and have a 98 custom Valk I lowered and stretched 6 degrees. Had a 2000 touring I had to sell back in the day and now have the best variety lol. My custom 1 up all dragon painted and the new Interstate to curse with my wife. Owned 2 biker bars in the day and had so many Harley riders fall in love with the Valk. Best ride out there, a 6th gear would be nice though.

[@lethargicstove2024]

It's a shame because at one point someone was making overdrive 4th and 5th gear sets and apparently rpm would be 2,000rpm at 70mph but they're no longer sold to my knowledge

[@LTLT900]

Nothing beats minimalist.

[@kennolte5801]

That's the bike I always wanted. Honda built a classic with that one.

[@geraldduenas8966]

I don't ride but this guy is a perfect person for such videos. I appreciate this person 😊

[@thebigguy8306]

Thank you for the review. My brother owned a 98, bought in 2010 with 50k miles. Good thing he is mechanically inclined

[@thomasbartlett3409]

Great review and thank you. I have a 2003 f6 standard which was Honda's last year of the 1st generation not counting the Rune. I agree with your assessment on why the Valkyrie didn't do better in sales. I'm 6'4" 200 lbs and find the bike a bit heavy at less than 5mph. Other than that the motorcycle is a gem. Also, the bike could use a reverse. Nice job

[@davemadsen9699]

I have a 1998 Valkyrie Cruiser. I wanted one when the first came out. Couldn't afford it at the time. Just found one on Market Place in Georgia. Got it for cheap and it runs perfect. My wife and I like to cruise up and down Hwy 98 along the beach between Fort Walton Beach and Destin in Florida. Nobody has one here and I will never get rid of it. Love my bike and I don't mind adding all the extras to it. That's part of the fun to me. Ride safe.

[@2bad1]

I had a interstate and rode it daily for 10 years it was a beast closest thing to a boss hoss but all Honda lol

[@deanlarkins5858]

The bike feels just as good at 1:40. This is the best cruiser I've ever owned in my life. I love it love it love it. 101 foot pounds of torque at the wheel 101 horsepower at the wheel. I had the two center carbs tunes because they are lean. 7 degree timing wheel. Got to do exhaust 117 at the wheel. Smooth as molasses. The front tire on this bike is two sizes bigger than the rear tire on a average Harley. The engine is so smooth unlike somebody else, that it is built in as part of the frame like a tractor. In my opinion one of the coolest looking kruisers ever made. This bike is way underrated. Even with the ridiculous ground clearance, with a little pressure on The handlebar and this old girl will drag the pegs. It's a stable as Annie cruiser I've ever seen or heard of. This bike is a sleeper. Better bring the vmax if you want to out-power this beast. 😁😜

[@motocyklowywagabunda7038]

I never owned Valkyrie but I hade a chance to put some miles on both Valkyrie Tourer form 1997 and Rune, handling both bikes are pretty much straight line bike, highway is great as bike is extremely even at high speeds especially Rune, engine is a beast and is so freaking smooth. Both bikes are very uniquely styled, Rune is simply beautiful. You are 100% right about the size, bike is easy to ride but size is very intimidating.

[@TheMoshfreak]

I appreciated this video. I’m buying one soon, my last bike was an 07 Road King and I was worried about the purchase. Your video helped ease my mind.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Still one of my favorite bikes. 💯🤘

[@St.Michael-Ross]

I have a 98 Valkyrie tourer , bought it new and still ride and love it. That engine just stands out like a beast. 🏍️🏍️🏍️

[@ronanderson9551]

I have a 2000 standard. And you're right. They weren't a failure as far as engineering and mechanics. It was the price in my opinion. They were expensive. Many people said for 3-5 thousand more I can buy a fully loaded Goldwing. I think the price when new was a turnoff. It was for me. Now you can pick one up cheap, which is why I own one that I bought with only 5000 miles on it for less than 4 thousand dollars.

[@guylynn8640]

Have had one since 2012. Love it. Will not sell it either. Just got done with a 5700 mile ride from Central Florida to Billings Montana and parts out west. Did this in 11 days of riding. Not a sore bone or butt on this bike. It is built to chew miles easily. Never have had this bike let me down. There are plenty of these out there with a quarter million miles and more now with routing maintenance. The bike has plenty of balls and is quite nimble for it's size. Was over priced when introduced but it is still recognized as one of the most comfortable muscle cruisers out there.

[@larryritchey8557]

I have a 2000 Valkyrie Interstate and it's been one of the best bikes I've owned. The Interstate comes with basically the same radio/intercom package as the Goldwing, so I have the best of both worlds. I'm getting older and hope I can continue to ride it for at least a few more years.

[@shakey2634]

I have three brothers and we all ride. One has a Valk. The other three of us have all told him he cannot sell it without talking to us first.

[@joemata8842]

Hi Jon! So I’m looking at a 97 Valkyrie as my beginner. I understand your points, but I’m in Deep South Texas where most of the comforts of the goldwing are not what I need. Now with Bluetooth technology, as long as I can mount my phone I’m good to go!

[@dcdell2008]

I had an '03 Valkyrie many years back and was a blast to ride, but yea, it is a lot of bike, so huge at the time--thanks for sharing

[@soomro1]

Can you please tell me how to replace the light bulb in the speedometer

[@aristarchuscom]

Good review. I have a 2001 F6C and I find that rural Honda dealers that service side by sides, four wheelers and golf carts with carbs have no problem getting my carbs tuned in 2 hours. Agree on all your points. I run truck stacks with 2 of 3 baffles out on each side. Sound is perfect. It's the perfect backup bike when my Ultra Classic is in the shop.

[@bobwatson7783]

I have ridden one of these beasts and the thing I loved about it was all the weight was down low. N a Goldie you don’t notice it as much as a naked. I found I could flip it around like a 250 and add to that the response it was fun to ride. It wouldn’t hurt Honda to bring out a newer 1800 version that could go up against BMW and probably garner better sales figure. Thanks again Jon from Down Under.

[@JW...-oj5iw]

Honda produced a second generation 1800 Valkyrie a few years back, but it missed the styling of the '97 to '03 bikes. Looked like a partly stripped 'wing. The first generation bikes are not without their faults. I have three of them, all waiting for assorted repairs. Due to accessories, each bike has its own 'personality'. Sadly, my favorite, the solo version, has a problem in the transmission output. I'm going to have to take a lot of stuff apart to get to the broken parts.

[@boringbob9357]

I’ve had a Road Glide for just under a year. I am now looking for a Valkyrie interstate. These are definitely underrated motorcycles. Thanks for your videos.

[@BjZmann]

I'm 38 and remember going to the Honda Dealership with my dad when these first came out. My dad loved them.

[@mcfuller5020]

This is my third Valkyrie , Standard, Tourer, and now my Interstate. Loved all three, but now I want the experience of the F6B Deluxe.

[@shane35fowler]

Love my F6B.... The deluxe has self canceling turns, grip heaters and rear backrest.... Aside from that it's the same as the standard.... Self canceling is the ONLY thing you can't add later to save some money

[@GroundhogzGarage]

I love my 98 Valkyrie. I think it’s easier to ride than the V45 Magna I had before it, definitely more comfortable. Yes, it’s big, but once you get on the road, it practically drives itself.

[@lethargicstove2024]

Is it faster than the v45 magna

[@rickallen848]

I had a 1999 Interstate, put 115,000 on it and loved it. I put a center stand on it and putting the bike up on it was difficult. Some of the colors that were available were horrendous.

[@MarkMccullough-pz8gf]

I’d just like to say that what you call the failure of the Valkyrie is actually its success . Many will say what does that mean, well Bugatti don’t sell millions or even thousands of veyrons. The reason is price is high car is not for every day driving and it’s just a show of what can be done and also a bit of a boast. At the time to give a cruiser that engine and the looks and weight just say , Hey look at us look what we have done , I don’t think Honda ever thought they would sell thousands but then again almost every Valkyrie made is still going today. They will be riding them in another 25 years from now. They produce and sell thousands of lesser models but they end up scrapped after 15 years because there is nothing special about them. That’s the success of machines like the Valkyrie

[@jesusacovarrubias1390]

Nice review, brother. I like how objective you were on describing the details as to the why’s and the why nots. I’ve always loved the muscle looks of it, but I’m a traveling man and it’s not a convenient bike for that purpose. I went with a 2010 Yamaha RSV. It’s an awesome machine with plenty of power and comfort for the long haul. Jesse

[@Bassinman200]

Glad to see this Vid. I actually have 3 Valks, all SE versions, all less bags or any add ons except windscreens and one had aftermarket 3 into 1 pipes. I have my rider with only 13k orig miles, one with 46k orig miles, and one with 27k orig miles. I can say that the one that is running (bought other two when they were down with needed carb rebuild, and the other has repairable damage from a run off the highway into a median). I also like the way my last one performs, even though it's twice the bikes I've had prior (a 750-4 K model, and an 800 Shadow). It is much more bike than I expected, but then it has been over 20 years since I rode a bike after selling my previous models Hondas. This one handles great on the road, but my only complaint is that it seems to not be a 5 mph bike. It is really hard to handle and turn below 6 mph for some reason, and I have to keep my feet off the pegs and ready to hit the pavement. A friend who I traded my Goldwing to for this Valkyrie said that I would get used to it over time and that it took him a while to be accustomed to the situation of weight and bulk, but eventually did. So, that's my only complaint, so far. But I'll keep the last 2 bikes and get rid of the previously wrecked one after superficial damage repair and replacement of front brake lever, mirror, and other parts. Can't upload pics of my bikes or I would.

[@ralphwatten2426]

I have a '99 Valk Interstate and have had it since it was new. I've rebuilt the carbs twice ( big ordeal) because I didn't drain the carbs at the end of the season. I've had it to Washington 3 times from Wisconsin and have all the camping gear I need plus a cooler on board. I've had it 100 miles and hour with my wife on the back with plenty more to go. If you want to run away from most Harleys, no problem; V-Rod excepted. I love the old girl and hope I can rider her for another 20 years.

[@prusinwj1131]

I had a 1998 that I bought brand new and I rode it for 15 yrs. It was a truly great motorcycle. I sold it in 2013 and bought a brand new f6b because "as you mentioned" I wanted more creature comforts because I was getting a little older. I loved that Valkyrie.

[@ThePleasanthill]

There is a Valkyrie get together every year for about a week and Valkyrie riders come from all over America and ride. Usually around 300 show up. This year Athens, Ohio.

[@craigmanning2439]

Yes it was not a commercial success. That said this bike is why I ride. Went on vacation to a bed and breakfast in Ak around 2005 or so(never thought of riding before, but much to my wives dismay it changed my mind). Saw this bike in the owners garage. Talked to him about it and decided right then and there that I want one of these machines. Bought a C50 Suzuki as a trainer, put 10K on it then bought a Valk. Never looked back. For others a failure for me......Awesomeness to the Nth degree.

[@vcdrny]

Don't have one or ever tried one. But I want one. I'm a 6'5" big guy but I still want one.

[@bobbyfranklin3734]

It's a bike you will never outgrow. Buy one and you'll love it. I may consider selling mine as I'm now 61 years old. I have a red and black 2000 touring model with 45,000 miles on it. I bought it last year from a Honda dealership paid $5,700 for it. No regrets

[@DJ-xl8xh]

Been riding over 55 years …. Rode my blue and white 2001 all over the East coast. (6’1”, 200lbs … fit me great). My wife loved riding on the back. Absolutely bullet proof. NEVER a problem. Traded for a 2009 Fat Bob. (Just had to give Milwaukee a try) Not a great move. Too expensive to maintain, lots of little issues. Traded it for a 2014 Valkyrie …. Back in love again!! Incredibly fast, smooth and reliable (47 mpg). It’s not for everyone, but it’s PERFECT for me!!

[@billpolensky6290]

Had a 98 tourer. Used to play with sport bikes, they take off thinking that they had left me in the dust but when they turned around to see where I was, I’d be there right on their tails! Freaked them out! It was my favorite ride and my wife loved it! Said she was the most comfortable on it even compared to the 1800 Goldwing that replaced it! Had to go to a bike with reverse due to bad knees and a replacement ankle.

[@crp9985]

I bought a Valkyrie about 18 months ago. Put 12,000 miles on and I would drive it every day. I would never put speakers or anything like that on a bike, Valkyrie is supposed to be stripped down and that is in my wheel house. Lots of power and handles well for a big bike. It is not for new riders or small riders. Mine is chromed out with truck stack exhaust pipes which give it a nice sound. This bike is a looker, when I ride it around people look at it, wave at me etc. Best part is I can ride with my wife, no problem riding 2 up. The bike doesn't vibrate it is just smooth non tiring to ride a ways. I have no problem going for a 100 miles or so one way then coming back. I haven't tried a big mileage, I have kids etc. etc. I'm a fan...Also on the mechanical stuff it's not a problem for me because I know how to work on carbs along with everything on a motorcycle but someone who has to pay someone to keep this up and running may run into some costs.

[@tanktankerson1042]

I wish I had bought one of these new when I had the chance, the second gen was not a Valkyrie, it was just a Tupperware torpedo with a flat 6 engine. I am sure it drove like a dream but when you think Valkyrie, you think about the raw cruiser bike like the one in this video. All the folks I ride with that have "this" bike love it and will never part with it.

[@leholen381]

I recently picked up a Valkyrie. I’m trying to find a windshield with mounting hardware for it. Does anybody here have any suggestions?

[@carlbrazier8488]

Owning a 93 Gl1500SE I loved the fact that I never had to adjust the valves, in 2005 I picked up a 99 Valkyrie and learned that valve adjustments were necessary every 10k miles, one more reason that it only has 60k while the 93 has a 150k.

[@vernonvaught872]

I rode a 2000 Valkyrie Interstate back in 2001. I've never been more surprised by a bike. The dealer told me to be easy on the throttle in 1st and 2nd gear because of loss of traction. He wasn't kidding. Couldn't afford it then, but I've been looking for one in good condition for a couple of years now. Hard to find in rural Texas. I love 'em!

[@jamescassero3429]

I own a ‘99 Valkyrie Interstate. Bought it in 2003 for $4700 with 17,000 miles on it. It’s been a joy. I added a Russell Daylong seat with backrest and it had added Kuryakyn highway pegs. Super comfortable highway/byway cruiser that is nimble and quick! I just picked up a 2016 Goldwing and it’s I’ll say the Valkyrie is James Dean and the new Goldwing is James Bond. Both great bikes- But I prefer the Valk...

[@alissarobertson8840]

I have a 72 Harley FLH and a 98 FLSTF I sold both my twin cams. I am looking for a Honda for a long road trip and these Valkyries are a lot of bike for the money I see them selling for. The six carburetors is a down side for me but all but one of my 11 Harleys were carburetor bikes. Not a fan of mid controls.

[@kiasax2]

Nicely said, Jon. What a great bike! I only wish I had been in a position to buy one back then, instead I bought a Honda Shadow Aero VT750C that I'm still riding.

[@danielgutuescu5321]

Where do you get this "Fail" concept? I am still looking for one.

[@nevsmate8663]

I have '97 Standard Valkyrie and I love it. It only has a couple of 'Comfort' extras like the Corbin beetle bags and have a Tourer Windshield and a 2000 drivers saddle fitted. Take care from the UK.

[@JoDdy420-]

I guess I must be old school. I don't need or even want a radio on my bike. The engine and the wind is music to my ears. I have always preferred cruisers over baggers

[@robmirley225]

Finally got my 97 valkyrie in 2018,its stunning 22,000 miles looks better than new and what a beautiful comfortable ride. I also get alot of attention from people when I park up gets photographed all the time. 6x6 cobra pipes what a sound.

[@aidanpysher2764]

I recently sold a Stratoliner 1900, and I'm thinking of getting a Valkyrie 1500 as a second bike to, or even as a replacement for my current R1200GS. I have a deep love of boxers, and a deep love for giant Japanese cruisers, so why not both?

[@masatadanishibori9576]

I love those bikes!! I own a 1998 Honda Valkyrie. I've had this bike for 2 years so far and the only problem that I've had with it is the starter button.

[@jasoncrawford2805]

It's a great bike love my 2001. Is over 70,000 miles and still running strong.

[@larryloef9056]

This is my 7th season on my 2001 "Cobra" Valkyrie ! It is Coranado Blue with the white center stripe, so the local Honda shop calls it the cobra because of the Ford paint scheme. There is nothing else like these on the road. SUPER smooth, pretty quick and handles almost like a sport bike. I don't think I will ever ride anything else ! 😎

[@edwardmills8020]

Nice review, and highly illuminating. I looked at a '99 Valk w/ 34K today. First time I'd ever blipped the throttle on a six-banger, although I didn't get to ride it. I knew I'd like it, being already biased since the things were first introduced. My own misspent youth saw a variety of carbureted old crapbikes, at long last reaching the one-liter mark with a nearly worn-out first-gen GL1100 Interstate, and finally a Bandit 1200 (a great First Fast Bike) before swearing off carburetors altogether. Not that I'd ever had a bad experience with the good old Keihin / Mikuni CVs on various four cylinder literbikes over the years, and found working on them not all that tough, even discovering a way to decently sync them with nothing but a feeler gauge. (Yeah, I know you professionals with your lab-grade mercury-column manometers are cringing out loud at that admission.) After the Bandit came a 2003 Hayabusa; a newer Bandit 1250 followed that, (overall a lot more fun than the 'Busa, better-handling on the twisties and could still effortlessly eat Corvettes and Harleys for lunch, not that I've ever been as brave in traffic as you are in your video) so I thought I was all done with carburetors. However, one exception I'd make is the Valkyrie. Everything that looks like it will ever need fiddling with by a career electromechanical fiddler is as out-in-the-open as it's possible to be. Even timing belt replacement looks like a walk in the park. Clutch plates might be a whole other deal, though. My geriatric Goldwing was likewise better-handling than you'd expect, despite being on the verge of flying apart like an Acme rocket sled. So it doesn't surprise me that the Valkyrie handles better than it looks like it should. I couldn't help noticing the Valkyrie's taller center of gravity than a Goldwing, evidently on account of not having the gas tank under the seat. Now I just need to scare up $4500 for one of these '97-'99 units that are all over Craigslist at around that price, with a little extra funding for an aftermarket saddle that doesn't make my thigh muscles feel like I'm astride a Budweiser Clydesdale. BTW, I just now had an idea for overcoming the intimidation factor: sit on a Boss Hoss for a minute or two beforehand. After that, a Valkyrie should feel perfectly "normal." ;-)

[@daveneeley7868]

I am 6’4” and my black 98’ was very comfortable. I kept it for 19 years with next to no issues. The only reason I sold it was because other people texting and never paying attention. Gorgeous bike though!

[@sonshinelight]

I got my '03 Valk in 2012 on a whim. Love it but its too loud with the pipes it has. Looking for a solution to that issue. Carbs were just done and she runs so so sweet. Just make sure to bring a small jerry can with you. Gets about 125 miles max on a fill.

[@neilbrown82]

If you have the interstate model it has a fork mounted fairing with radio and trunk with passenger backrest

[@mikekosar6135]

That’s a nice bike 👍

[@ralphwatten2426]

Radio and intercom standard.

[@Beatnik59]

I want that little box-o-switches it has got on the left handlebar that controls all the goodies.