Honda Valkyrie 1999 Model: A Detailed Look
In 1999, Honda introduced the Interstate to its Valkyrie lineup, which already included Standard and Tourer versions. The Valkyrie stands out from typical V-twin cruisers like Harley-Davidson with its Goldwing-derived horizontally opposed, liquid-cooled flat-six engine. This cruiser was built for cornering and performance, but its production ended in 2003. The 1999 Valkyrie offers a range of specifications and features that cater to Honda enthusiasts.
By Skyler Mitchell
The 1999 Honda Valkyrie is a bruiser.
The 1999 Honda Valkyrie is a cruiser that combines agile handling with strong engine output and refined styling. Rather than the V-twin configuration common to cruisers like Harley-Davidson, the Valkyrie uses a horizontally opposed, liquid-cooled flat-six engine that shares its origins with Honda's Goldwing. For 1999, Honda expanded the Valkyrie family by adding the Interstate model alongside the existing Standard and Tourer versions. The Valkyrie remained in production until 2003, making 1999 a notable year in its run. The 1999 model comes with a variety of features and a design that should appeal to Honda motorcycle fans.
Engine, Transmission and Drivetrain
At the heart of the 1999 Honda Valkyrie is a liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine with one intake valve, one exhaust valve, and threaded adjusters per cylinder. It displaces 1520 cc, with a bore and stroke of 71 mm by 64 mm. Power is sent through a wet, multiplate clutch and a five-speed transmission.
Performance
The Valkyrie cruiser produces 100 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 130 Nm (95.9 ft.-lbs.) at 5,000 rpm. Its fuel tank holds 5.3 gallons, and fuel economy ranges from 30 to 42 mpg, yielding an average range of 190 miles. In acceleration tests, the Honda Valkyrie covered 200 yards in top gear from 50 mph to a terminal speed of 74.2 mph, and ran the quarter-mile in 12.93 seconds at 104 mph.
Chassis
The 1999 Valkyrie's chassis has a wet weight of 739 lbs. and a GVWR of 1133 lbs. It measures 100.2 inches in overall length, with a wheelbase of 66.5 inches. The cast wheels measure 17 inches by 3.5 inches at the front and 16 inches by 5.5 inches at the rear. Standard braking includes two single-action front brakes with dual-piston calipers and 11.7-inch discs, plus a single-action caliper 12.4-inch disc rear brake. Suspension consists of a 45-mm inverted fork up front and a rear setup with dual shocks and five-position spring-preload adjustability.
Other Features and Storage
The Valkyrie's seat height is 29.1 inches. Its Hard bags offer convenient storage with a reasonable volume. The bag tops hinge at the front, which prevents them from blowing open if they are not latched.
Price
When new, the 1999 Honda Valkyrie had a suggested base price of $12,799 and came standard in black. Other colors, including black/orange, black/silver, and yellow/ivory, were available for an additional $300. As of December 2010, the 1999 Valkyrie had a trade-in value of $4250.
