Richard Hammond and the Honda F6C Valkyrie

Join Richard Hammond as he reviews the awesome 2000 model of the Honda F6C Valkyrie, checking out how the extremely wide frame effects it's performance and handling, as well as seeing how practical it is. Would you want to ride this beautiful bike?
[This clip is from Two Wheels: Season 5, Ep. 14, originally aired 15/10/2000. The full episode can be watched here: • Two Wheels: Season 5, ... ]
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[@dukeoliver7587]

It's not just the well-paid, Richard. I'm a blue-collar guy from rural America, and I've got three. Bought my first one brand new, and decided I'd never be without one. Nothing is perfect for everyone, of course, but this machine was the perfect bike for me.

[@brandonjames8671]

I have a 99' and it's still runnin like a champ...best decision i could have made...

[@chriscarter246]

I have owned everything from the Yamaha RD 350 to a Harley FLHS, numerous BMW's, Moto Guzzi's, Ducati's, in my 40 years of riding. Just to many to name. I have owned my 1999 Valkyrie for over 10 years and will not part with it. Yes it is big but handles very well and is very comfortable. I'm 5'10" 175 lbs. and ride with my wife on the back and been many thousands of miles on it. And Hammond is right some people just don't get it.

[@TheUnboundedAngel]

...my favorite motorcycle, i saw one once, and fell in love with it, if i ever have enough money i'd buy this well over any Harley Davidson or even an Indian, that's just how appealing this bike is...

[@steeveedee8478]

Actually I've owned both Harleys and Indians and whilst they are very characterful I'd agree with you that the Honda is far better. Still own it some 10 years on and counting...

[@googlemustdie]

TheUnboundedAngel Join the VRCC or VOC on Facebook and your dream could be a reality. I feel in love with them the first day they came out. I eventually got mine 2 years ago and not only have absolutely loved every mile, I have met really amazing people.

[@victorsantoy9469]

I've had two of them, I used to have Harleys, these are my favorite bikes. you can get them now used with low miles between $5,000 and $7,500 get one.

[@boreed5734]

I bought a '99 Valk with 18k 7 years ago now i got 41k what a wonderfully made machine its has smooth reliable power that eats up the road, i'm never disappointed with it. My absolute last bike even though it don't have all the bells and whistles newer bikes have like a fuel gauge or fuel injection.

[@steeveedee8478]

An ancient review but still one of the best bikes around. Just finished customising mine which I have had for years and it is by far the best bike I've ever had. I've owned BMW GS1100, Harley Roadglide, Yamaha customs etc. and it still comes up trumps over all of them by quite a long way. Handling like you wouldn't believe and the smoothest engine I've ever seen (defiantly smoother than my uprated Harley FXR which looked awesome but was murder to ride). Nice and simple mechanics too - no troublesome injection systems or banks of computers like the Roadglide had. Like Richard said it is easier to ride with a screen on and panniers are useful. Looks awesome in black (just had mine re sprayed) and there are plenty of mods you can make such as stainless exhaust and adding floorboards. Turned mine into a single seat version which gets rid of that ugly rear seat/ cissy bar assembly and makes it look much sleeker. Engine will pretty much go for ever- heard of them getting to 300,000 miles! Furthest I’ve ridden mine is from York UK to Rome Italy - that sort of journey is no problem at all to a bike like this! Used examples can be picked up for good prices these days and there are lots of online tips for user maintenance but remember to buy a good hydraulic lift to get it off the ground. Honda brought it back for 2014 but it is now more of a muscle bike than a custom, if you buy one of the originals you should find that kept properly it will always keep its value should you ever want to sell. But then again- why would you?!?

[@jnichols3]

Had a hitch on mine with a 4' x 3.5' HF trailer. Did 4,000 miles on it one week in 2001. Great long disrance bike.

[@jimmymac5012]

A very under rated motorcycle in my opinion. This machine is rock solid, beautiful looking and can out perform most every cruiser on the road. In the world of motorcycles, it is a close to perfect as you can get.

[@williamwhren4275]

I have a 2002 Valkyrie. I love it. Will keep it forever.

[@randomlife718]

Just picked up a 98 Valkyrie. I feel the same.

[@Nesco1000]

I bought a 97 Valkyie last year..actualy my first MC. Gott licence also last year. You dont need lot of experience to run this bike, just som time to learn the balancepoint. (it is actauly also a different between full and half tank of gas). I run this bike for about 100 km now, and it is a fantastic and easy bike to run. The flat 6 engine is great.

[@joshuagonzales2863]

Bought mine new in 2000. Now 22 years I still have the same respect and love for the old girl as I did the first day I got her. Great bike too have. Dont think I would ever want anything else.

[@ropeyarn]

"It's expensive, and it never stops raining." LOL

[@russellcupples2170]

I haven't seen that one before .Wonderful looking bike .Thanks Richard .

[@reverieofmusic436]

Best bike ever made, and you'll never change my mind on that.

[@Menandmotors]

It is a stunning bike! 😎

[@aspookyknucklehead1309]

I am bingeing these!

[@toddivester3038]

I love mine It guzzles gas and Burns through back tires pretty fast but road manners and ride quality make this a good bike for the guys who like riding more than bar hopping! I've only had my 98 f6c 3 years and look forward to each and every ride.

[@bradleyriles3889]

Just brought home 98. Love it!

[@Drive315]

i just bought mine, check it out on my channel !

[@thegorm5]

I've had my 97 Valkyrie for years and will never part with it (although i may get a BMW K1200 LT as a 2nd bike). I fell in love with the "car engine in a bike" and have been infatuated ever since. I am rather disappointed that the new Valkyries look almost nothing like the 97-03's.

[@Mxhonda51X]

Yes the new Valerie is garbage, my dad has the 97 valk in Hunter green and white like the one in the video, it is a blast to ride and has cobra pipes. It's a gem

[@Darth_Chicken]

Patrick Russell You are not alone in not liking the new one. I know a lot of UK Valk owners and whilst most like the F6B I don't think there is anyone who likes the new F6C. Lots of plastic and very little chrome on it. A wasted opportunity.

[@craigmanning7393]

+SteeVeeDee Biker Agreed a wasted opportunity. I like Honda but they have no clue as to why the original Valk developed into a cult classic. They have made two more attempts and both failed miserably. They have no clue.....

[@smwrbd]

@@Mxhonda51X that's exactly what I bought today. 29000 miles for 4200.00 and it looks like brand new.

[@craigmanning7393]

This bike is already a cult classic. I just finished changing the oil on mine. You can pick these up in the states for 4500 US, I think that is a bargain.. (obviously used).

[@Darth_Chicken]

Craig Manning They are £5k+ in the UK.

[@craigmanning7393]

Thats about 6500$, still a great deal.

[@smwrbd]

Just got a 97 with 29000 miles. Looks like brand new.

[@OmarLuna-nl2uf]

I got mine today for 2700 usd

[@MrMonty414]

Yes like everyone else I believe it's the best cruiser ever. And yes I've had plenty of non bike people asking me about it including two old ladies who were captivated by it when I parked up last week. 😄

[@fathermerrin6064]

I have a 2000 Valkyrie, lots of fun...

[@corinvuarrier-lewis9334]

This is the only M&M review that I've seen that is moderately positive. I'm not just saying this because Richard Hammond is in it. But it's the only video I've seen about a cruiser anyway that M&M have had something good to say about. Surprising that this level of positivity wasn't kept for one of their frankly embarrassing reviews of them drooling over a Harley.

[@afterburner2869]

I’m a proud owner of ridiculous!

[@Drive315]

i just bought mine, check it out on my channel !

[@cebedeuz]

I was wondering, since im quite short person, would Valkyrie suot for me. But it appears so now. Its been over ten years, when i last time owned bike. My wife talk one day that we should buy bike one day again. This would be awesome, but should i saddle something smaller...

[@chauffeurmarco]

Should try the 2005 Valkyrie Rune

[@nickhodges3847]

I've only ever had crotch rockets, only ever wanted crotch rockets...dad always wanted a Valkyrie and just never had the extra money. I'm not able to afford to buy him his own and know he'd likely sell it eventually to pay bills but I bought one for myself six months ago and told him to come get it whenever he wants a ride. I told myself I'd never be without a rocket but I just sold my 3rd rocket and I'm keeping the Valkyrie, not certain I'll get another rocket. The bike itself isn't particularly beautiful other than the engine, it's more functional. The fenders and wheels aren't pretty like an HD but none of my HD buddies want to race me and most of them have seen me do a burnout or lift the front tire and said they don't want to ride it. I like obscure "you don't see that every day" stuff and that's part of why I bought it. I bought it with 94k miles and you'd never know because it runs stronger than any other cruiser I've been on. No doubt it'll last me another 100k.

[@ylism]

Nice looking bike in all, a sweet ride no doubt...But what's that comment about the seat width, suppose to mean ?

[@eoghandridl1007]

What year is this does anyone know?

[@gearjammer3688]

Cool classic mkIII transit ice cream van.

[@jimwortham8634]

Thanks guess I am pretty lucky ended up with a old 15 new Honda Valkyrie been to the Harley-Davidson scene crime scene best long-distance power Cruiser ever owned hassle-free Lovett some of the old Valkyrie people do not like but to each his own

[@mattb3787]

I’m seeing a few for sale near me 1998-2022 models with anywhere between 12,000 and 60,000 miles on them. What would be the max mileage you guys recommend ?

[@TommyAngelo1337]

It's the Goldwing engine. These can go couple hundreds thousands miles with just oil changes and still run like a champ. 60k is barely breaking in.

[@MrMonty414]

You'd get a million mile out of one with the required servicing.

[@originaldeftom]

Honda has always built the best motorcycles. I am German by birth and would say that the Japanese have the most beautified and tactile sense of engineering. If you look at the Harleys, they are just blunt and lack a level of sophistication that only HONDA can provide. I don't even like BMW motorcycles as much as I love HONDA. One of my university professors said to me (who is a Harley fan) "....but Thomas find me someone who had a HONDA tattoo on their body!" My argument is that HONDA riders have more sophistication and don't believe in tattoos in the first place, lol.

[@craigmanning7393]

Thomas Bauer My best friend is a BMW mechanic, he might disagree with you but....I agree. Been on many trips with my Valk, too many times I have had to stop for my Harley friends to get repairs, even my BMW buds, had to stop for a clutch. The Valk is a great bike in many ways, it is smooth and reliable. Gas mileage and range are the only drawbacks. (30 mpg is not good for a motorcycle).

[@Darth_Chicken]

Craig Manning I had a BMW GS1100 - used to go through a clutch about every 20,000 miles. Sold it to a mate and it still did the same thing. Got a Valkyrie now and never had that problem and am told that most people would expect 150k + before even thinking of needing one.

[@orangejoe204]

+Thomas Farmer I couldn't give three-quarters of a crap as to which national motorbuilding tradition has the most "beauty" and "sophistication". I actually find Honda's design ethos to be strange and stuffy, like they're aping BMW and not sure how to do it. The Japanese tradition of rock-solid reliability and value is what I have always admired them for. I grew up in an era where Harley was owned by AMF and had gone the way of the rest of the American motorbuilding tradition: straight to crap. I've never owned an American car or bike and I never will: Asians make the most reliable, cheapest motors you can buy anywhere.

[@Bubbles99718]

Great answer on the tattoo crack, gonna swipe that one. Has the benefit of being true as well, not just clever.

[@alienware409]

HONDA Motorcycles are equivalent of Porsche Sportscars in the car world

[@johnnylance]

I've owned two of these beasts and the only complaints I have are the shitty gas milage and the fact that it needs a 6th gear. There was a company that made a 6th gear conversion, and there was also a company a few miles from where I live that made a Super Charger for Valkyries... Maybe in my next life...

[@seanwatters9309]

The girth!!!

[@peteherrera1502]

I was wondering if someone 5 feet 6 inches could sit on the motorcycle with their feet flat or is 5 Ft 6 inch person would be to short?

[@MrMonty414]

I'm 5' 7" and have no trouble at all on mine.

[@truckeemick2486]

the old guy at the ice cream van could possibly have ridden pre units and all them at the isle.

[@jpage6171]

You had me LMAO 😂

[@driftwood8613]

I'm considering buying one for $4900, good or bad idea?

[@saltedcashews269]

This looks like what my 96 shadow ace wishes it was

[@andyfalconer18]

the Honda motorcycle are indestructible bike

[@Gr8Layks]

+Andrew Dix Hmmm...in most cases, yes. But my 1984 VF700F "tariff bike" was the shittiest motorcycle I've ever owned.

[@andyfalconer18]

+Anonymous should try a Chinese import bike they are the shitiest biked every

[@TJBarranger]

"It's the GIRTH!"

[@jimwortham8634]

The only way you could do better is open 15 1800 Valkyrie I have been running all my life best bike ever and good price if bought used

[@hangfire5005]

Wonder if he ever got one

[@AndyPutt1]

Classic

[@thejerseyj1636]

Me too.

[@bryanhines34]

Thats your saddle clint🤠

[@garydunn3037]

Heaven help anyone who gets a flat tyre on one of these things, with no centre stand Isuppose a jack would come as standard.

[@michaelwebb8788]

Love my ‘97 Valkyrie. I’ll never part with it.

[@deathbygod5810]

So F6B Goldwing is Flat 6 Bagger

[@jay1st1st]

It's old and I did not know the hamster could ride a bike !

[@eoinmurphy210]

they should have fitted the reverse gear from the wing,i didnt buy one for that reason,its too heavy.

[@MrMonty414]

You've done yourself a great disservice. I'm 5' 7", 73 kg wringing wet. Never had a problem. You just have to be smart about where you park up.

[@wightwalker2453]

Put someone the size of action man on it and yes, it's enormous.

[@denisvanderhaeghen148]

3:43

[@GMCBigBlock420]

It took me a while to notice there was a man on that motorcycle

[@AutodidactEngineer]

My uncle owns one

[@mcgyvernewone2014]

Omg that guy lol. Must be his 1st motorcycle. Sorry but geez

[@genuzz]

NO for the imported equipment our rides are made in America! Yes for the #Indian motorcycle!

[@rbryanhull]

Gennady Josean the Valkyrie was built in Ohio. You were saying?

[@motomark9736]

Yep Ohio so was the vtx 1800

[@48retrop]

For us yanks who viewed this there are any number of Words or phrases that need explaining. Still it was entertaining although this guy gets pretty excited when talking. Lots of flowery language and a good deal of hyperbole was injected.

[@chauffeurmarco]

You are funny

[@thepoultrypeople]

ok i watched the other video with what looks like a giant on one and now one with a midget.... gaaah decisions decisions.....

[@nyterose1968]

ya, yu dont enuff fuzz on yer nutz ta try a triumph Rocket3

[@isbcornbinder]

Verbose

[@fartolebig8234]

get the goldwimg=

[@wladekpw5339]

Can you speak English

[@helenloughton2418]

Give me a rocket 3 instead thanks

[@stevomcsteve9492]

Sorry. The Rocket 3 was designed for men with small penises trying to compensate. You'll have to look elsewhere.

[@stoundingresults]

@@stevomcsteve9492 by your beliefs I should ride a honda monkey🍌📏

[@wladekpw5339]

Valkyrie por bike

[@randylucky]

horrible... waste of precious metal resources...

[@goldwingman1500]

Have you ridden on Ride one First the Comment ?? A Much Smoother Bike the Best on the Market i ride a 1500 G/Wing .

[@albertblazys9533]

randylucky Why do you think that? Do you dislike motorcycles?

[@michaelparker4457]

To each their own. I have a 2000 interstate that I absolutely adore...scratches and all. When I get off of work, especially now taking care of COVID Patients...one ride, by the time I hit second gear....I’m sorry, did you say something?? God Bless and be safe and well!

[@stoundingresults]

We can crush and recycle a few toyota priuses when their battery packs are toxic waste😆