Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Motorcycle Review: 2014 Honda Valkyrie

2014 Honda Valkyrie photo 2014-honda-valkyrie_zps94f78044.jpg

Intro:
The 2014 Valkyrie is an intriguing new addition to Honda’s line of cruiser motorcycles. The reintroduction of the Valkyrie puts Honda back in the “muscle cruiser” segment with its massive 1832cc engine and design. Built on the shoulders of the Honda Goldwing, it has already gained some favor with motorcycle enthusiast because of its lineage and muscular profile. While researching the new Valkyrie, I came to ask myself an important question. To whom is this motorcycle being marketed too?

2014 Honda Valkyrie photo 2014-honda-valkyrie3_zpsa06952e6.jpg

First Impression:
Essentially, the 2014 Valkyrie is a naked version of Honda’s world renowned Goldwing touring motorcycle. Proof of its heritage are found in the Valkyries liquid cooled flat six cylinder engine that produces 104 Horsepower and an impressive 110 pounds of torque. These are big numbers indeed, nice job Honda. Distributing all that power is the Valkyries shaft drive 5 speed transmission that provides excellent power throughout all its gears. This motorcycle has a contemporary yet aggressive look that is sure to draw in eager fans to take it out for a test drive when it becomes available.   .

What I like about the 2014 Valkyrie:
A great deal of time was put into developing the new Valkyrie. Some of the features that stood out to me the most are the suspension, height and braking capabilities. It has a 45mm front forks accompanied by a PRO-ARM single sided swing arm with a PRO-LINK rear shock and preloaded hydraulic spring. The stopping power for the Valkyrie is provided by dual front disc 310mm brakes housing a 4 piston calipers and a single rear 316mm disc with a 3 piston caliper. Considering its relation to the Honda Goldwing; the Valkyrie weighs about a 100 pound less and its brakes are much bigger than its contemporary. Another great thing to note is the Valkyrie’s seat height. At a height of 28 inches, gives the bike a low center of gravity making it more stable and maneuverable at lower speeds. These features give way to plush riding experience for long trips or everyday commuting and make the Valkyrie a great option worth exploring.

What I don’t like about the 2014 Valkyrie:
2014 Honda Valkyrie photo 2014-honda-valkyrie2_zps32433ae0.jpg

An Important thing to note about the new Valkyrie that it is one of the biggest and heaviest motorcycles in its class. It has a wheelbase of 67.2 inches and outweigh most of it competitors by a margin 40 to 56 pounds. Overall I think that Honda did a great job designing this motorcycle, but its the little details that hold the most gripes, for example, why is ABS optional? For a motorcycle of this class and engine size ABS brakes should be standard equipment at its projected MSRP of about $17,000 for the base model. I think that this is a huge negative considering most of its competition begin offering ABS brakes at around the $14,000 price point.

Conclusion:
This is an amazing motorcycle for its pure power and innovative design. Its muscular looks and beefy engine have a unique character that will strike any motorist a first glance. For future models, I hope to see Honda better solidify the Valkyrie’s identity. Is it a stylish heavy cruiser or a naked touring motorcycle? I feel that in its current incarnation the Valkyrie tries to be both. I think that for the price tag and standard features might make consumers overlook the Valkyrie’s charming character.  I look forward to test riding this new motorcycle when it becomes available in April 2014. Please stay tuned for my follow up review.
-ThatMotoLife, By Abe Cardona,

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