Honda stopped producing the VTX1300 after the 2009 model year. The 1300-class cruiser, once part of Honda’s VTX lineup, was discontinued as the company restructured its cruiser portfolio in the late 2000s. No 2010 or later model-year VTX1300s were released.
Overview of the VTX1300
The VTX1300 was Honda’s mid‑sized V‑twin cruiser, introduced in the early 2000s as a successor to earlier VTX models. It was offered in several trim variants aimed at different riding preferences, from retro-styled cruisers to road‑focused and touring configurations. Production ran for roughly the 2003–2009 model years, with updates to meet evolving emissions and consumer expectations along the way.
Timeline of production
The following timeline highlights the general production window for the VTX1300 family and the final year of its manufacture.
- 2003: VTX1300 family introduced to Honda’s lineup, including multiple trims aimed at diverse cruiser tastes.
- 2004–2008: Continued production with incremental updates to electronics, styling tweaks, and emissions compliance across variants.
- 2009: Last model year for the VTX1300 lineup; Honda did not release a 2010 model year in this family.
In summary, the VTX1300’s production span is generally considered to be 2003–2009, with 2009 representing the final year of new VTX1300 motorcycles.
Variants that were available
During its run, the VTX1300 was offered in multiple trims to appeal to different riders. The following are the commonly referenced variants used by Honda and motorcycle enthusiasts:
- VTX1300C — Retro/Custom cruiser styling with a classic profile.
- VTX1300R — Roadster-oriented version with a sportier stance and riding position.
- VTX1300S — Tourer/Standard setup with enhanced comfort and luggage options for longer trips.
These variants collectively represent Honda’s approach to the 1300cc V‑twin cruiser during its production window. The final year of production for all VTX1300 variants was 2009.
Why the VTX1300 was discontinued
Industry dynamics and corporate strategy helped shape the decision to end the VTX1300 line. Market demand for mid‑sized cruisers shifted as buyers leaned toward newer styling cues, updated electronics, and more modern powertrains. Honda also reevaluated its cruiser lineup to streamline production costs and focus investments on newer or redesigned platforms, such as updates within the Shadow family and other contemporary models. The discontinuation was part of a broader trend in the late 2000s away from aging platforms and toward fresh offerings.
Summary
Honda formally discontinued the VTX1300 after the 2009 model year. The lineup included the C, R, and S variants, but no 2010 or later models were released. The decision reflected Honda’s shift in cruiser strategy and market trends of the era, with the company redirecting attention to newer designs while preserving the VTX legacy in motorcycle history.