Honda GL 1800 C Valkyrie [2014-2017]: A Modern Muscle Cruiser With Six-Cylinder Soul
Introduction
The Honda GL 1800 C Valkyrie isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Born from the DNA of Honda’s legendary Gold Wing touring platform, this 2014-2017 generation reimagines the cruiser segment with a blend of raw power, engineering sophistication, and stripped-down aesthetics. Stripping away the Gold Wing’s touring bulk, the Valkyrie emerges as a muscular, minimalist machine that turns heads not with chrome frippery, but with the sheer presence of its horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. After spending time with this mechanical titan, it’s clear Honda aimed to create a cruiser that prioritizes substance over style—and largely succeeded.
Design & Styling: Brutalist Beauty
The Valkyrie’s design ethos is unapologetically bold. Its 1,832cc boxer engine isn’t just the centerpiece—it’s the entire piece. The six-cylinder block dominates the frame, with cylinder heads jutting out like mechanical biceps. Honda’s choice to leave the engine fully exposed (no bulky fairings here) gives the bike an industrial, almost steampunk character.
Color options ranged from understated Black and Blue Metallic to the head-turning Dark Red Metallic and Candy Red. The 2014-2017 models feature a clean, uncluttered profile with a 2,630 mm (103.5-inch) length and 340 kg (750 lb) curb weight, making it one of the heaviest cruisers in its class. Yet, the low 734-740 mm (28.9-29.1-inch) seat height keeps it accessible for shorter riders. The cast aluminum 10-spoke wheels (19-inch front, 17-inch rear) and minimalist LED lighting round out a design that’s muscular without being garish.
Riding Experience: Symphony of Six Cylinders
Engine & Performance
The Valkyrie’s 1832cc liquid-cooled boxer-six is a masterpiece. With 116 PS (85 kW) and torque that feels like a freight train’s handshake, acceleration is effortless. The engine’s broad powerband means you’re never hunting for gears—though the 5-speed transmission (with overdrive) and shaft drive keep highway cruising relaxed. Fuel consumption sits at 6.72 L/100 km (35 mpg), reasonable for a bike this size.
But numbers don’t capture the experience. Throttle response is immediate, thanks to Honda’s PGM-FI fuel injection and 3D ignition mapping. The six-cylinder growl is deep and orchestral, a stark contrast to the V-twin rumble dominating the cruiser world. It’s smooth enough to avoid vibration fatigue yet throaty enough to announce your presence at every stoplight.
Handling & Comfort
Don’t let the 340 kg (750 lb) weight fool you. The Valkyrie’s 29.2° rake and 114 mm (4.5-inch) trail lend surprising agility for a bike this size. The anti-dive 45mm front fork and Pro-Link rear suspension (with 122 mm/4.8-inch and 104 mm/4.1-inch travel, respectively) soak up bumps without wallowing. At low speeds, the weight is noticeable, but the electric reverse gear (on some models) is a lifesaver in parking lots.
The upright riding position is cruiser-perfect, with mid-mounted pegs and a wide, supportive seat. Wind protection? Forget it—this is a bare-knuckle machine. At highway speeds, you’ll feel the air resistance, but that’s part of its rebellious charm.
Braking & Safety
Dual 316 mm front discs with CBS (Combined Braking System) provide confident stopping power, though ABS was only available on the GL1800CA ABS variant. The system isn’t as sharp as modern cornering ABS, but it’s effective for straight-line deceleration.
Ownership Experience: Practicality Meets Personality
The Valkyrie balances its brutish character with thoughtful touches. Storage includes lockable saddlebags, a top box, and a glovebox—rare in a cruiser. The shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance hassles, and the 22.7-25L fuel tank (6-6.6 US gallons) offers a 320-370 km (200-230 mi) range.
Owners praise reliability, but the Valkyrie’s size demands respect. Tight city streets can feel claustrophobic, and the 945 mm (37.2-inch) width makes filtering impossible. This is a bike for open roads and riders who value mechanical theater over practicality.
Competition: How the Valkyrie Stacks Up
The Valkyrie’s closest rivals in the power cruiser segment:
- Harley-Davidson Street Glide
- Pros: Iconic styling, superior aftermarket support.
- Cons: Twin-cylinder vibration, less refined.
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Verdict: Choose Harley for brand cachet; Valkyrie for engineering.
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Indian Chief Vintage
- Pros: Classic aesthetics, torquey Thunder Stroke 111 engine.
- Cons: Heavier, less agile.
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Verdict: Indian wins on nostalgia; Honda on innovation.
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Yamaha VMAX
- Pros: Brutal 1,679cc V4, dragster acceleration.
- Cons: Harsher ride, smaller fuel tank.
- Verdict: VMAX is a muscle bike; Valkyrie is a muscle cruiser.
The Valkyrie’s six-cylinder engine and Gold Wing-derived DNA make it unique. It’s less a Harley competitor than a niche machine for riders craving refinement without sacrifice.
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive
The Valkyrie’s maintenance needs are typical for a high-end Honda—meticulous but manageable:
- Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-30 (3.9L with filter). Synthetic blends recommended for frequent riders.
- Valve Adjustments: Check every 32,000 km (20k mi). Intake: 0.12-0.18 mm, Exhaust: 0.19-0.25 mm (cold).
- Tire Pressures: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front, 2.8 bar (41 psi) rear.
- Cooling System: Honda Type 2 coolant only. Capacity: 4.5L.
- Shaft Drive: Replace final drive oil (120ml SAE 80W) every 16,000 km (10k mi).
Common upgrades via MOTOPARTS.store:
- High-flow air filters for enhanced throttle response.
- Aftermarket exhausts to amplify the six-cylinder soundtrack.
- Progressive suspension kits for riders seeking sharper handling.
Final Thoughts
The 2014-2017 Honda Valkyrie isn’t for everyone. It’s too heavy for novices, too niche for traditionalists, and too bold for the faint of heart. But for riders who crave a cruiser with the soul of a touring bike and the heart of an orchestra, it’s a masterpiece. This is a machine that rewards those willing to master its weight and revel in its mechanical artistry.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to help you personalize your Valkyrie—whether that means upgrading its brakes, tweaking its suspension, or simply keeping it running flawlessly for years to come. After all, a bike this special deserves to stay on the road, turning gasoline into grins, mile after mile.
