Production Years Covered:
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser segment, known for its relaxed riding position and V-twin character.
Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed service and repair information for their Honda VTX1300S.
Key Competitors:
Yamaha V-Star 1100/1300, Kawasaki Vulcan 1500/1600, Suzuki Boulevard S83/M95.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Torquey V-twin engine, shaft drive (on some variants, though this manual specifies chain drive for the 'S' model), classic styling, Honda reliability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair the VTX1300S, potentially saving on dealership service costs.
Engine Systems:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valves, cylinders, pistons, lubrication system, fuel system, cooling system, crankshaft, transmission, starter clutch.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, final drive (chain).
Chassis Systems:
Frame, body panels, exhaust system, front wheel/suspension, rear wheel/suspension, steering, hydraulic disc brakes.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, electric starter, lights, meters, switches, wiring diagram.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid checks/changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire service, battery care, ignition timing checks.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild (top and bottom end), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component diagnosis and repair, exhaust system repair/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues across all systems, fault finding charts, symptom-based diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including electrical system tracing via wiring diagrams and symptom analysis.
Rebuild Capability:
Full engine, transmission, and component rebuild procedures with torque specifications and clearances.
Service Information:
Detailed service procedures, component specifications, special tool requirements, and torque values.
Engine Type:
V-twin, 4-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
100 mm x 85 mm (typical for VTX1300 series)
Compression Ratio:
9.2:1 (typical for VTX1300 series)
Valve Train:
3 valves per cylinder, OHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), shaft-driven camshafts (typical for VTX1300 series).
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Fuel Induction:
Single 38mm CV carburetor (VTX1300S models typically used carburetors, later VTX1300T models introduced FI).
Horsepower:
Approx. 67 hp @ 5000 rpm (typical for VTX1300 series)
Torque:
Approx. 85 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (typical for VTX1300 series)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.8 US gallons (18.2 L) (typical for VTX1300 series)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 86 octane or higher (check manual for specific octane recommendations).
Overall Length:
Approx. 96.3 inches (2445 mm) (typical for VTX1300S)
Overall Width:
Approx. 37.0 inches (940 mm) (typical for VTX1300S, including handlebars)
Overall Height:
Approx. 46.5 inches (1180 mm) (typical for VTX1300S)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 630 lbs (286 kg) (typical for VTX1300S)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 680 lbs (308 kg) (typical for VTX1300S with all fluids)
Front Tire Size:
110/90-18 (typical)
Rear Tire Size:
170/80-15 (typical)
Front Brake Type:
Single 330mm hydraulic disc
Rear Brake Type:
Single 296mm hydraulic disc
Safety Features Overview:
As a motorcycle from this era, primary safety relies on rider skill and robust braking systems. No electronic rider aids like ABS were standard on VTX1300S models.
Braking System:
Powerful dual hydraulic disc brakes offer effective stopping power.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame provides a solid and stable platform.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Classic cruiser design, no integrated infotainment system).
Rider Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like traction control or ABS on VTX1300S models).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone integration).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 4,000 miles (6,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact mileage/time).
Air Filter Inspection:
Check every 8,000 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 16,000 miles (24,000 km) (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Coolant Change:
Typically every 2 years (refer to manual for specific coolant type and capacity).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher motorcycle-specific oil (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Coolant Type:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent with similar properties) - typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type and replacement interval).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, brake pad wear, chain and sprockets wear, fork seal leaks, regulator/rectifier failures (common on many VTX models).
Carburetor Maintenance:
Carburetors may require cleaning and synchronization, especially after extended storage or if fuel quality is poor.
Honda Motorcycle Legacy:
Honda has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, reliability, and innovation in the motorcycle industry.
Vtx Series Introduction:
The VTX series was introduced in 2001 as Honda's answer to the burgeoning large-displacement cruiser market, competing with established players.
Vtx1300S Specifics:
The 'S' designation typically referred to the spoke-wheeled version with a classic, retro styling, often including floorboards and a traditional cruiser riding posture.
Manufacturing Location:
Honda motorcycles, including the VTX series, have been manufactured in various global locations, often including Japan and the United States.
