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This model motorcycle was unusual in that it's engine was a 1500cc six cylinder liquid cooled boxer engine transplanted from Honda`s GoldWing model. This was unsusual since most `cruiser' style motorcycles were based on a V-Twin engine design similar to the engine you would see in a Harley Davidson. In it's transplant from the GoldWing, the most notable engine changes were the camshaftand the change to 6 individual carburetors, one for each cylinder. These changes were made to increase horsepower and torque. These changes also gave the engine a little more character by giving it a very unique sound.
In 1997, a `Tourer` model was introduced that included a windshield and saddlebags.
In 1999, an `Interstate` model was added to the lineup that included a fork mounted fairing along with a trunk at the rear of the motorcycle.
Depending on your point of view, you could call the Valkyrie the first true `Power Cruiser` motorcycle. Some would disagree, stating that the V-Max from Yamaha was the true original `Power Cruiser` first introduced in 1985. There is no doubt, however, on the Valkyrie's impact on the modern motorcycle market.
As sales eventually dwindled, the `Tourer` and `Interstate` models were dropped, leaving only the `Standard` model remaining by 2003. 2003 would be the last year of the original Valkyrie. Honda introduced a 1 year special edition model in 2004 named the `Valkyrie Rune` which was a major departure from the original Valkyrie in styling, purpose and price.
MISC:
The Valkyrie went by the name F6C in non-U.S. markets. Although it was a Honda, the Valkyrie was made in the U.S.A. at the Honda motorcycle plant in Ohio.