Review of the Yamaha XVZ1300TF Royal Star Venture+Yamaha XVZ1300LT Royal Star Tour Deluxe motorcycle

Specifications

Fuel consumption

The average official fuel consumption for the Honda VTX 1800 is 6.5 liters per 100 km. The actual consumption value, according to reviews from owners, is 7-8 liters.

Engine

The engine of the VTX 1800 is four-stroke and two-cylinder. This unit is V-shaped in shape. Its effective volume is 1795 cm³. The engine is liquid cooled and the fuel supply system is injection.

When reaching 3500 rpm, the engine produces 162.7 Nm of maximum torque. At 5000 rpm the engine produces 106 hp. maximum power. The maximum speed here is 189 km/h, and the motorcycle will accelerate to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

Transmission

The VTX 1800 is driven by a reliable cardan. The gearbox consists of five stages. This transmission is perhaps optimally suited for this type of motorcycle. It copes well with the engine, the chassis of the bike, and its dimensions.

Dimensions and weight

The model weighs a lot - as much as 359 kg including fuel. The seat height here is average – 695 mm, and the wheelbase – 1715 mm. The bike is 1155 mm high, 990 mm wide, and 2630 mm long. Its gas tank has a volume of 20 liters, which is very decent. Average fuel consumption per 100 km of road is approximately 7 to 8 liters.

Chassis and brakes

The tubular frame is made of durable steel. The exterior of the VTX 1800 is truly majestic. It doesn't have the fussy bombast of many other cruisers. No, this is a real classic of the genre, a lot of chrome elements, neat and sophisticated outlines. The steering wheel, of course, has standard dimensions and shape, and the wheel rims are cast.

The pendulum suspension at the rear is equipped with two shock absorbers. Its stroke is 100 mm. The front suspension is represented by a telescopic fork, the dimensions of which are 45 mm. Its stroke is 130 mm. The rear brake is represented by a 316 mm disc and a two-piston caliper. At the front there are two discs, 296 mm each, assisted by three-piston calipers.

Appearance

The Yamaha XVZ 1300 Royal Star Venture looks typical of a tourer. This model is distinguished by its dimensions and characteristic, semi-square shapes. This makes the copy impressive. The windshield is high, but not too high. The headlight is not particularly large.

The wheels are, of course, alloy. There are very few chrome elements. One of these is the exhaust pipe. There are three containers for things on the bike - two on the sides and one on the back for helmets. Externally, this is a typical touring motorcycle.

They note that the shape of the frame is typical for a tourer, and this model cannot be called particularly beautiful, or vice versa, when compared with its classmates. Design is not the strong point of the class, so you shouldn’t judge such motorcycles by their appearance. The main thing is the technical properties of the model, comfort and reliability. Other things are secondary for a tourer.

Video

• Test drive of the Honda VTX 1800 motorcycle.
• Review and test drive of the Honda VTX 1800 motorcycle.

Honda VTX 1800

- a motorcycle for real men. The large dimensions match the powerful 1.8-liter engine that brazenly protrudes from the frame, capable of “shooting” a heavy motorcycle in a way that many have never dreamed of. And despite such power, the VTX1800 boasts an almost complete absence of parasitic vibrations, an abundance of chrome and the highest quality in everything, from the main components to all sorts of little things.

Everything about this impressive motorcycle is in proportion. The steel frame rests on a good suspension - the Honda VTX 1800 rests on a massive inverted fork at the front, and two classic shock absorbers are installed at the rear. The time-tested solution came in handy on this motorcycle; the cruiser looks organic, and not a single detail stands out from the overall style.

The large gas tank hints that the VTX 1800 is not averse to taking a long trip, and the elongated headlight gives the heavy appearance of the motorcycle a certain swiftness. Yes, this is a real motorcycle, boasting a powerful engine, a reliable transmission, a combined brake system and a chic appearance.

The engine for this impressive motorcycle was a liquid-cooled V-twin with three valves per cylinder and capable of producing 107 horsepower. The torque of the Honda VTX 1800 is even more impressive - it is 156 nm. Thus, this cruiser is slightly more powerful than one of its competitors, the Yamaha Stratoliner

, but is slightly inferior to it in torque. However, despite the gimbal drive taking up some of the power, the VTX 1800 is rightfully called a power cruiser.

Looking at this hefty motorcycle with a completely classic appearance, you would not expect that it is capable of truly monstrous acceleration. Its true nature as a wild beast is revealed only by its huge chrome-plated engine.

It is worth saying that the VTX 1800 is a really big motorcycle, and to control it, especially at near zero speed and in dense city traffic, physical strength is needed. A girl or just a short and not very strong motorcyclist may find this bike too tough - it is really heavy (dry weight - 320-330 kg, depending on the version), and maneuvers slowly, like a real mastodon.

In the city, the Honda VTX 1800 is simply cramped, but such macro cruisers are not created for narrow streets, but for highways. And then this motorcycle is able to show everything it is capable of! One turn of the knob, the growing drone of a generally quiet engine, and the motorcycle confidently accelerates even from a speed of 140-150 km/h. Much like the Honda VTX 1300

, the 1800 cc model differs from it in some details - an injector instead of a carburetor, a different exhaust, some little things.

The VTX 1800 can be called an improved and more powerful version of its 1300 cc brother. True, this similarity also has a minus - the VTX 1800 got the gas tank from the younger version of the motorcycle, and it holds 17 liters. This amount of fuel in the Honda VTX 1800 is enough for a shorter distance than its 1300 cc brother, despite the fact that the injector is more economical than the carburetor. In general, consumption on the highway when driving at 120 km/h will be 6.5-7 liters.

This chrome-plated monster is a pleasure to cruise around in. The typical chopper suspension handles the load well, and even with a passenger, both riders will be quite comfortable, especially if the motorcycle is equipped with tuning for long trips, such as a windshield, improved seats and panniers. But this motorcycle is already good, and in any version, of which there are several. However, all versions of the Honda VTX 1800 differ from each other only in body kit and, as a result, weight.

Such motorcycles are usually used by fans of choppers and cruisers who are already bored with the smaller cubic capacity. Well, the Honda VTX 1800 is really capable of giving a lot of adrenaline, but it is worth considering that this motorcycle is quite demanding on the skills of the motorcyclist and his physical abilities. Not everyone may be able to tame this beast, but a lot of interesting things await everyone who manages to cope with it.

What do the owners say?

The model causes a mixed reaction among cruiser connoisseurs. For example, many people don’t like the fact that spare parts are not so easy to get, and this makes it difficult to operate an already quite old bike. However, some consider the car to be reliable enough not to consider this a serious problem.

According to reviews from those who have used the model in different weather and climatic conditions, the bike copes with strong winds. However, he also has a limit. They note that this cruiser is not as stable as many representatives of the tourist class. Despite the large dimensions. This is understandable, because the stability of the tourer is largely achieved due to evenly spaced luggage containers and greater width.

If you want to buy a car for traveling, especially for two people, this vehicle is not recommended. According to the description of those who have tried it, the model for these purposes is inconvenient and even dangerous. Just like many other cruisers

If you really like the class and want to combine it with long trips, it is better to pay attention to the touring versions of this class

IMPORTANT!!! A cruiser is, first and foremost, a motorcycle for pleasure, and therefore it is difficult to call such an acquisition practical. One of the reviews says that the car is perfect for short walks along country roads

If you have a summer house that is intended only for recreation, and it can be reached along a good road, then this bike will be an excellent solution.

The XVZ 1300 Royal Star will delight you with its smooth dynamics and beautiful design. However, those who don't like the class as a whole won't like this bike. After all, the model is a typical cruiser with all the ensuing pros and cons.

Technical specifications and my impressions

To say that I am delighted with Honda is to convey only half the emotions. In the bustle of the city, its dimensions take its toll; traffic jams allow you to feel its weight again and again. The low center of gravity helps, and envious glances from cars cause euphoria. Still, the technical characteristics of the Honda vtx 1800 place it in the category of conquerors of country roads and long roads, and not trips between cafes.

What earned this device the title of king of the tracks - of course, these are unique capabilities, characteristics and features for the Honda vtx 1800. As soon as you leave the city limits, Vtyks wakes up. It holds the road like a glove, swallowing small bumps, accelerates to hundreds in three seconds - the power of 107 horses makes an impact. The first country trips confirmed the opinion about low vibrations and smoothness, even before purchasing, reading opinions and reviews of owners on the Honda VTX 1800, I noticed that the VTX V-twin was compared with the V4 from the Yamaha Royal Star 1300. Large engine (torque value – 156 Nm) and short five gears help out when overtaking. Without noticing it, you can accelerate to 200 km/h. Further acceleration is accompanied by a loss of dynamics. My maximum is 230 km/h.

Even before purchasing, while studying opinions and reviews on the Internet about the Honda vtx 1800, I noticed that some were missing five gears. Apparently, I’m so used to my motorcycle that I’m happy with everything about it. I’ll tell you separately about the brake system. The deceleration dynamics are simply amazing.

Front discs are 296 mm, rear discs are 316 mm and a combined brake is synonymous with reliability that never leaves you on the road. When driving fast, the braking distance increases significantly, which is affected by the motorcycle's own weight - 360 kilograms plus equipment, driver and passenger.

The total is almost 500 kg. That's why I don't often drive more than 140 km/h. Even an ideal standard braking system is not able to stop half a ton at high speed. The very first tuning on my Vtykx was reinforced hoses.

The entire ergonomics of the cruiser is designed to protect the driver from the flow of oncoming air. Despite this, at a speed of more than 120 km/h, you want more comfort, especially when you are wearing an open helmet. Therefore, on my Honda vtx 1800, all tuning was not limited to hoses - before traveling to Baikal, I installed a windshield and changed the panniers. The standard exhaust sounds solid, moderately loud and melodic. I don’t see any point in converting to direct flow yet.

Among other features, the technical characteristics of the Honda vtx 1800 provided fairly decent ground clearance for a heavy chopper. When traveling I had to travel along a completely unimportant road, in Altai, for example. The crankcase is limited by the frame and is quite protected - in order to break it or roll it, you need to really try. I think you shouldn’t confuse a cruiser with an enduro, then you’ll be able to handle almost any road and bring you only joy.

Comparing my actual consumption on the Honda VTX 1800 and online reviews, I understand that I was lucky. Moving from a hundred to a hundred and twenty, the engine burns no more than 7 liters. While the average is from 7 to 8 liters. High speed leads to an increase in consumption by approximately one liter for every 10 km/h. I prefer to refuel with 95-octane gasoline: it drives much easier and faster, fuel is consumed 15% more economically.

VTH became my continuation. Having gotten used to it, tried all the possibilities, understood the features of control in various conditions and felt all its power, you understand that you won’t be able to “vomit” on it and you don’t want to. I did not describe in detail the technical specifications of my Honda vtx 1800 here; they can be read on the Internet. By focusing on my own feelings, I hope to help someone with their choice, and remind once again that they should not be afraid of “large” sizes.

Comfort

This is a pleasant car to use, which is suitable for traveling not only to other cities, but even to other countries. Moreover, this bike is comfortable for two people to ride. This is due to the fact that the passenger seat is comfortable and safe. There is a comfortable backrest behind this seat. This one is also supported by a container for helmets.

The windshield is not too high, but it does the job. As well as a powerful headlight. The bike, of course, is inconvenient to handle with your hands due to its large weight and dimensions. However, with proper use, this will not have to be done often. This tourer is stable and will not fall over on its side even at low speeds. But in a traffic jam, you may sometimes have to prop it up with your foot.

Honda VTX 1800

Pros and benefits of Honda VTX 1800

• High power
• Confident traction even from low revs
• Excellent directional stability
• Huge engine resource
• No problems finding spare parts, consumables and tuning

Pros and cons of the Honda VTX 1800

• High fuel consumption
• Weak fork
• Not the best maneuverability
• Heavy weight
• Weak light from standard headlights

Flaws

Riding in traffic and handling on winding roads is challenging. The track is the element of this bike.

Users name few disadvantages.

• Large dimensions (shooting between rows and narrow streets is not for him).
• Weak fastening of the rear case (in order not to lose it, you need to strengthen the platform under it and the bottom of the suitcase itself).
• No heated steering wheel grips.

and dignity

The model's strict design makes it an ideal choice for large-sized male bikers.

And the motorcycle has many more advantages:

• design and fit - chopper;
• large selection of components;
• protection of motorcyclist's legs;
• music (support for “Russian” radio stations and stable reception, thanks to its own antenna);
• low center of gravity.

The red line running through all the reviews is convenience, comfort, reliability.

Modifications

“Zvezda” has three modifications, but they differ only cosmetically, as well as in some details that require the legislation of export countries. It is worth noting that the model was not supplied to the domestic market.

• In 1999, assembly of the main modification began.
• Midnight Venture was released in 2002. The model is made in black tones, and there is a row of rivets along the seats. No benefit - cosmetics.
• In 2006, the Venture S model appeared. Since it is being developed for America, it receives a chrome package. It will be supplied to Europe only in 2010.

Production of the black model was discontinued in 2008. The main one was in 2011. Until the end of 2013, only the S modification was produced.

Review of Yamaha XVZ 1300 TF (XVZ1300TF) Royal Star Venture – characteristics of the tourist

The Yamaha XVZ1300TF Royal Star Venture began its history in 1999. The company released it as the successor to the XVZ1300D Venture Royale luxury tourer. However, many tend to start counting from 1997. This year comes the Yamaha Royal Star Tour Deluxe (XVZ1300LT). However, it is worth noting that this model is intermediate. She has both the features of her predecessor and the features of the “Star”.

This is what Honda did at one time. The hatch version is Gold Wing, and the stripped-down version is Pan European.

Venture was released until 2013. In 2022, the concern announced the revival of the model, but as usually happens, the new product receives a different engine, components and is assembled based on a completely different version.

Construction of XVZ1300TF

A typical representative of the cruiser class looks very respectable; just by the appearance of the bike one can judge its serious carrying capacity and spaciousness.

The issue of the weight of the structure was raised, but in a tourer, of which the model belongs, comfort and handling come first. The remaining parameters fade into the background. But at the same time, to ensure good maneuverability of the designer, a tubular design is used.

The traction of the wheels with the road is developed according to the standard scheme, with the exception of a small detail - pneumatic support.

• Telescopic front fork, travel 140 mm.

The front air fork does not have any adjustments.

• The rear part has one shock absorber with pendulum support, stroke 105 mm. According to users, it is necessary to pump up the air only when driving with the second number and a full load of standard (non-removable) panniers. In other conditions, the suspension works fine.

Model features

Already in stock, the motorcycle came with fairly wide and roomy panniers.

In addition to three standard suitcases (all locked with a key), the features of the model include the following.

Audio speakers, both on the dashboard and in the rear.

Tape recorder + radio (the antenna is extended vertically along the rear trunk). Electronic cruise control. Separate seat heating. Backrest for the rear passenger (except for the trunk wall). Comfortable butt support for the driver. Additional luggage compartment on the upper edge of the rear case.

Exterior

Since the model does not just belong to the tourist class, but is a luxury version, the appearance has received many changes for the convenience of long trips.

Front end

The first thing your eye stops when examining the bike is the standard leg guards for the motorcyclist. But users note that they work best for tall bikers or those with long legs.

• The front 19-inch wheel is covered with a large, tightly fitting fender. The covers on the fork stays are worn over the entire length, from the traverses to the bushings. The air intake hole is large (the bike has 2 air vents). Above is a large, full-length front fairing. It is strongly extended forward, but behind it, in addition to the usual standard electronics, there is hidden a number of glove compartments, a front fork pump, a cassette (!) tape recorder and much more.

The front lighting equipment is made at the proper level and illuminates the road well even with the “original” lamps.

Mirrors with chrome frames provide a good overview of what is happening behind the biker's shoulders.

According to user reviews, the steering wheel is simply huge; there are a whole bunch of additional buttons on the remote control, so you have to figure it out first. But they note that the model does not have heated handles.

Dashboard

Apart from the built-in audio system, the panel looks rather ascetic. Most of all it resembles a similar one on a “penny”.

What do the owners say?

Based on the experience of those who have been using this bike for years, there are no problems with maintenance. Spare parts are easy to obtain, and equipment does not break down often. Both from the photo and video it is clear that the bike is well suited for riding by two. Owner reviews confirm this.

Some believe that the passenger seat is no less comfortable than the driver's seat. Others believe that the driver's seat is even less comfortable. Yes, perhaps the passenger seat here looks like a small chair.

One review noted that the bike, despite its dimensions, maneuvers well. But, of course, the maneuverability of this model is compared with other tourers. Such equipment can never compare even with road motorcycles in this aspect.

!Important: it is noted that this specimen does not withstand off-road conditions. But this cannot be attributed to objective shortcomings, because tourers, in principle, are not intended for this

According to the description of those who have been traveling on touring models for a long time, the car is stable in a variety of conditions. But it requires an asphalt road. And when choosing a route, it is important not to forget about this.

If you need an off-road bike, we advise you to pay attention to touring enduros, especially models from Honda; among these there are decent specimens that are capable of covering considerable distances not only on roads, but also over rough terrain. XVZ 1300 Royal Star Venture is an interesting model for those who need a reliable touring bike

Among other advantages, it is worth noting convenience. Container capacity makes travel easier

The XVZ 1300 Royal Star Venture is an interesting model for those who need a reliable touring bike. Among other advantages, it is worth noting convenience. The capacity of the containers makes traveling easier.