Honda Valkyrie
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The Honda Valkyrie is a motorcycle manufactured by Honda, from model years 1996-2003.
The Valkyrie engine was a 1520cc six cylinder liquid cooled boxer engine transplanted from Honda`s Goldwing model. This was unusual since most `cruiser' style motorcycles were based on a V-twin engine design similar to the engine of a Harley-Davidson. In its transplant from the Goldwing, the most notable engine changes were the camshaftand the change to 6 individual carburetors, one for each cylinder. These changes were made to increase power and torque. These changes also gave the engine a little more character by giving it a unique sound.
Depending on the point of view, the Valkyrie could be called the first true `Power Cruiser` motorcycle. Some would say this title fell to the 1983 Honda V65 Magna, and others disagree, stating that the V-Max from Yamaha was the true original `Power Cruiser` first introduced in 1985.
Other models
In 1997, the `Tourer` model was introduced that included a windshield and saddlebags.
In 1999, the `Interstate` model was added to the lineup that included a fork mounted fairing along with a trunk at the rear of the motorcycle.
As sales eventually dwindled, the `Tourer` and `Interstate` models were dropped, leaving only the `Standard` model remaining by 2003. 2003 was the last year of the original Valkyrie.
Honda introduced a limited edition model in 2004 named the `Valkyrie Rune` which was a major departure from the original Valkyrie in styling, purpose and price ($25K - $26K).
The Valkyrie went by the name F6C in non-U.S. markets. The Valkyrie was made in the U.S.A. at the Honda motorcycle plant in Marysville, Ohio.
External links
- [VRCC Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club]
- [Official Honda website]
- [Bikez.com entry]
- [BBC Top Gear Review]
- [F6Rider.com - more Valkyrie Owners and Fans]
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