1998 Honda Valkyrie F6C Tourer – A Cult Classic Six-Cylinder Cruiser

Background: Meet the legendary Honda Valkyrie F6C Tourer, a motorcycle that redefined the cruiser class in the late 90s. This beast was Honda’s bold move to inject sportbike muscle into a cruiser frame – essentially a hot-rodded Gold Wing with attitude. Instead of the typical V-twin, the Valkyrie packs a 1,520cc flat-six engine (hence the F6C name, for “Flat Six Custom”) borrowed from the Gold Wing and tweaked for more performance. With six carburetors (one per cylinder) and hotter cam profiles, it delivered a surprisingly lively ride despite its size. In fact, the Valkyrie was “king of the performance hill” among cruisers of its era. For perspective, it churns out around 100 horsepower – at a time when most big V-twin cruisers struggled to make 60 hp – giving it a muscle-bike level of power. Built in Honda’s Marysville, Ohio plant to capture American cruiser style, the Valkyrie quickly gained a cult classic status. It stands apart in cruiser history for its smooth six-cylinder rumble, head-turning looks, and sheer performance that embarrassed many of its V-twin contemporaries. This bike isn’t just another cruiser; it’s a conversation piece and a collector’s item that still holds its own in power and character today.

About this bike: The machine on offer is a 1998 Honda Valkyrie GL1500 F6C Tourer, an extremely rare find especially in the UK. This one is UK-registered (plate R464 GPT) and was originally a Florida bike with one owner from new. It has a remarkably low mileage of just 15,162 miles, making it a low-miler that’s been lovingly cared for and sparingly ridden. The overall condition is outstanding – the paintwork shines and the chrome gleams – truly an excellent condition example of a 90s classic. Being the Tourer model, it comes factory-equipped with the OEM tall windshield and color-matched hard saddlebags (lockable panniers) and a passenger backrest (sissy bar) with luggage rack – a touring package that was exclusive to the U.S. market Valkyrie Tourers. Enthusiasts especially seek out the Tourer versions with factory luggage, so this bike is a prized model. It’s the perfect setup for cruising or long-distance touring in comfort and style.

Littered with Desirable Extras: On top of its stock touring kit, this Valkyrie is absolutely littered with desirable extras to enhance looks, comfort, and functionality. It features a Clearview windshield with Gold Wing-style adjustable air vent for improved wind protection on the open road. A chrome front fender rail and chrome saddlebag guard rails give it that classic dressy cruiser appearance while protecting the fenders and bags. The radiator now wears a polished chrome radiator cover, adding shine to the front end. For two-up comfort, it’s fitted with Cobra rear floorboards (footboards) so your passenger can ride in comfort instead of pegs. The seating has been upgraded to premium Mustang seats – rider seat, pillion seat, and even a matching Mustang backrest – offering plush, all-day comfort for both rider and passenger. You’ll also find pillion handrails added, giving your passenger extra confidence and security. The bike gleams with additional chrome accents: a Valkyrie logo sissy bar chrome cover, chrome handlebar riser cover, chrome tank top and side covers, and chrome triple-tree covers. It even has custom jacking bars (discreetly fitted under the frame) to make maintenance or lifting the bike easier. In short, nearly every bolt-on accessory you could want has already been added – this Valkyrie comes loaded with bling and upgrades front to back, making it stand out from the crowd. All these extras not only look fantastic but also add to the bike’s usability and individuality. You’d be hard-pressed to find another Valkyrie with this many tasteful additions already on it – it’s truly loaded and ready to show off.

Mechanical Condition – Ready to Ride: This Valkyrie isn’t just about eye candy; it’s been fully sorted mechanically and is ready to ride anywhere. We’ve given it a thorough refresh to ensure you can jump on and ride with confidence. Recent work includes:

• Carburetors Rebuilt & Synchronized: All six carburetors have had a full rebuild and sync, ensuring the engine runs silky smooth on that flat-six power.

• Brand New Tires: Fresh Shinko tires have been fitted front and rear, so you have new rubber meeting the road.

• New Clutch Slave Cylinder: Replaced with a new unit for smooth, reliable clutch action.

• Full Fluids & Tune-Up: Fresh engine oil and filter, new spark plugs, and final drive gear oil replaced.

• Professional Checkover: Our mechanic has inspected the bike top to bottom, addressing anything needed.

All this means you don’t have to spend a penny on service – just turn the key and enjoy the ride. The Valkyrie fires up eagerly, idles evenly on all six cylinders, and pulls like a freight train. The transmission shifts smoothly, and the shaft drive means low-maintenance motoring. With the new tires and sorted carbs, it rides straight, stops hard, and cruises effortlessly.

Why the Valkyrie? If you’re looking at this bike, you probably already know how special the Valkyrie is. The flat-six engine gives a turbine-like smoothness and a unique exhaust note – a subdued growl that turns into a hot-rod howl when you roll on the throttle. It’s a performance cruiser that can comfortably out-accelerate many smaller bikes, yet it’s perfectly happy chugging along at highway speeds all day. The ride is comfortable, the handling remarkably adept, and the presence is undeniable. Park one and people stop to look – it’s that kind of bike. Importantly, it’s a Honda, so it has the reliability and build quality to keep going strong for decades. With limited production and few examples left in this condition, the Valkyrie has become a true collectible classic.

Price & Contact: This fully-loaded, low-mileage Valkyrie Tourer – with all its extras and recent full service – is priced at £6,995. Considering the rarity and upgrades, it’s a fantastic value. It’s not often you find a Valkyrie in this condition, with this mileage, and with this many upgrades, so if you’re interested, don’t hesitate. Viewings are by appointment only – we’ll be happy to show you the bike in person and answer any questions. We also offer finance options, nationwide delivery, and welcome part-exchange if you need it, making it easier to ride off on your dream machine.

Ready to ride and roaring to go, this 1998 Honda Valkyrie F6C Tourer is waiting for a new home. If you crave a cruiser that’s a bit different – one that combines brute power, smooth touring comfort, and tons of custom style – then this Valkyrie will steal your heart. It’s been lovingly maintained, littered with extras, and is absolutely “ready to ride” on your next adventure. Don’t miss the chance to own this rare flat-six icon. Get in touch with us at American Cruiser UK to make it yours – and prepare to enjoy the ride of a lifetime on this stunning Valkyrie!