HONDA 2005: SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
ALAS, THERE IS NO Techno Cruiser in the Honda lineup for 2005, but there is the new VTX1800F, a sport cruiser with a huge number of factory customization options. The 1795cc, fuelinjected Twin is available in three levels of finish, Spec 1, 2 or 3. All are cosmetic variations on the basic bike, with color, chrome and metal-finish options on various parts. The engine, for example, can be had in silver, or black with machined
fin edges; wheels can be highly polished or satin brushed aluminum. Prices range from $13,099 to $15,099 depending on paint choice and Spec level.
On the sporting front, the CBR600RR got a major make over with a new 41mm in verted fork and radial brakes the most obvious changes. Bodywork on the $8799 RR was tweaked to look more RC2 11V-
like, while the upper triple-clamp, swingarm and other bits were redesigned for lighter weight. Claimed dry weight is 361 pounds, down 9 from last year. The engine is funda mentally the same, but the intake ports ` and exhaust system were altered to improve midrange - power.
At the other end of the street spectrum is the Big Ruckus, otherwise known as the PS250 scooter. The $5299 250cc four-stroke Single features a three-stage automatic transmis sion with settings that amount to economy, sport and all-
got the same tubular utility styling as its little 50cc bro, but with a sliding passenger seat that folds upright to double as a rider backrest. -Mark Hoyer