problems to look for?

[dku7]

Hello everyone. I am looking hard at a 2002 vtx 1800c for this summer. I have only rode sportbikes so have no real experience with cruisers. I want alot of power and a comfortable ride on the highway. I am unsure of the big vtx's handling though around town. Is it a workout to city ride or does it handle ok? Also what problems should I be looking for on this year of vtx? I will check the rear hub bearings and engine valves for noise. Thats the only things I have heard of so far. This bike has 20,000kms on it. What would be a reasonable price for it? It is in nice shape and comes with a pass. seat and backrest. Thanks guys!

[dirtdobber]

:icon_peac Where you live can have big impact on the price. I can't give a honest answer on what it is worth. Too many things depends on the price. What shape it is in, has it been wrecked. Look under the engine and you can tell somethings, if it is clean, thats good but it could have been power washed. On the average a 1800 has around 95+- hp if stock, it is rated at 106 hp. It has plenty of torque to match the hp. I have a 1800c and it handles good in traffic and on the road, it handles better(to me) than my 1300retro. Top speed, well all I can say is there has been a lot of debate on that but I believe top speed is around 120-125 mph actuall, speedo is around 9-10% off on the average so it may show as much as 135mph. One can get a 2004 1800c in chattanooga, this is a new bike, for $8883.00 I really like my 1800, I converted my 1800c into a touring bike and I enjoy the handleing and power it has.

[dku7]

Thanks dirtdobber. I live in Canada where I don't think alot of these exist. Most guys seem to buy the 1300 vtx instead so dealers don't bring many in. I don't know about the U.S but here they are selling 1800's new for $17000 or roughly $14000 American.
The used 02 I'm looking at is priced at $12000 or around $9900 American. You aren't kidding about the difference in where you live if you can buy a new one in chattanooga for $8800! Anyways, I think I'll keep my eyes open for other 1600's that may not be so highly priced right now. I do like the look of the vtx though and the power may be worth the price. Decisions, decisions.

[dsvtx1800]

I bought my VTX1800S new in 2005 for $8080.00. The bike handles well in the city but I think it is a little top heavy. Other than that, I think it's a great bike. Mods coming soon I hope.

[Wanderer]

I bought a left over 04 - 1800R in December build spec 3. list was 15600. I paid 11000. I think it handles just fine slow around town, and exceptionaly well on the highway. Most of the people who complain about the handling of the 1800 are hard core sportbikers without cruser experience and or short people. If you can sit flat footed you should be fine. If you have a 28 inch inseam and weigh 150 or less you may want to ride one awhile first. JMHO

[dku7]

I do ride mostly sportbikes but I have had my fun and want to get something more comfortable for longer trips with and without the wife. I have always liked the style of the vtx and I still want alot of power so I think this is the bike for me. I am 6' and weigh 180lbs so riding it shouldn't be a problem, I am just concerned about buying a used one as I haven't owned a cruiser yet and am unsure what to check out on the 1800 for problems. From what I have read they seem pretty bulletproof except for the rear axle hub bearings. Good to hear they handle well as I don't want to ride a big boat anchor. I drove a suzuki marauder 1600 last fall and I was amazed how well it handled and stopped. I suspect the vtx should be comparable as the suspension and brake systems are similar. I just wasn't impressed with the power so I started looking at the vtx. I have heard a vtx will spank most sportbikes up to 40 mph. That sounds pretty good to me!