Cruisers

2012Honda VTX1300R

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The 2012 Honda VTX1300R is a midsize cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with manageable weight and accessible seat height. Known for its reliable V-twin engine and comfortable ergonomics, it balances authentic cruiser character with user-friendly handling. The bike suits both experienced cruiser enthusiasts and riders transitioning from smaller displacement motorcycles.

Capacity: 1312.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 303.5 kg
Seat height: 696 mm
Power: 63.0 HP (46.3 kW)

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What’s new for the 2012 Honda VTX1300R

vs the 2011

Spec	2011	2012
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Twin-piston caliper

Other years 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding60%

Touring62%

Two-up65%

Track10%

Best for: It's built for relaxed, torque-driven boulevard cruising and weekend rides rather than outright speed or sport handling.
Built for: A big-hearted, laid-back V-twin cruiser that rewards smooth, unhurried riding with strong low-end torque and classic shaft-drive simplicity.
Not ideal for: It's not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or lightweight nimbleness in city traffic.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 696mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Honda VTX1300R, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1312.0 ccm
Power: 63.0 HP (46.3 kW)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2076 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 89.5 x 104.3 mm
Compression: 9.2:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital with three-dimensional mapping, two spark plugs per cylinder
Valves per cylinder: 3
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1669 mm
Seat height: 696 mm
Dry weight: 303.5 kg
Wet weight: 322.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.20 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminium
Front suspension: 41mm fork
Rear suspension: Rear: Dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability
Front wheel travel: 130 mm
Rear wheel travel: 94 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 144 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Twin-piston caliper.
Front brakes diameter: 336 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Twin-piston caliper
Rear brakes diameter: 296 mm
Front tyre: 140/80-17
Rear tyre: 170/80-15

Other

Color options: Metallic Silver, Metallic Black and Bright Blue Metallic

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2005	2007	2009	2010	2012
Capacity	1312 cc	1312 cc	1312 cc	1312 cc	1312 cc
Dry weight	304 kg	304 kg	304 kg	304 kg	304 kg
Seat height	695 mm	695 mm	695 mm	695 mm	696 mm
Fuel capacity	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L