2003 Honda VTX1800 problems

Filed Mar 28, 2017 · Suspension · MO

Just had rear tire replaced on my vtx 1800r at honda dealer. Was informed by technician that my rear bearing needs replaced. The bike only has 13,500 original miles on it. This seems way to early for this to have worn out already. I see on this forum that this problem is enormously common on the 1800s. Pretty disappointed in this. Ordering replacement parts and hoping the bearings have been upgraded in the last 13 years.

Filed Oct 29, 2014 · Wheels · 36,897 miles · TN

Noticed odd tire wear on the rear tire of the motorcycle while away from home. Tire seemed to have worn down very quickly. After another 100 miles ridden, noticed tread on left side of tire was worn down to the cords of the tire and very close to having a blow out. Removed tire and wheel to replace tire. Discovered that the bearing in the flange was destroyed, this bearing was on the same side of the tire that had worn down to the cords. Bearing had metal pieces loose inside and ball bearings were loose and scattered around bearing. I am the second owner of the motorcycle and have found no evidence of previous failure.

Filed Aug 9, 2013 · Wheels · 32,000 miles · WI

The rear wheel flange bearings were found damaged and missing.

Filed Apr 5, 2013 · Acceleration, Steering · 10,000 miles · NV

Major front end wobble (especially if not gripping with both hands) between 35-50mph. Several hundred complaints online, but nobody has a 100% fix. Almost caused an accident during a turn with the wobble. Almost feels like you're going to lose control. Brought it to the honda dealership and they said several people have also brought in there bikes with the same issue, but no known fixes.

Filed Aug 6, 2012 · Wheels · 26,429 miles · MO

I heard a noise when turning or cornerig both directions. Removed rear wheel and found drive flange bearing had failed breaking apart into small pieces.

Filed Mar 30, 2012 · Transmission · 4,000 miles · TX

Rear drive side flange bearing total failure 4 times before 30000 miles. Bearings totally ground down and rough. T $220.00 a pop, it is becoming expensive and an imminent danger to all riders.

Filed Jun 25, 2011 · Suspension · 14,200 miles · MO

When changing rear tire checked flange bearing and noticed bearing was coming apart. Seal gone and metal pieces present along with rough and loose bearings. 14,000 miles on 03 1800 vtx c.

Filed Mar 5, 2011 · Tires · 11,000 miles · OH

Flange bearing worn at only 11,000 miles...luckily I had to replace the rear tire for a 1200 mile trip I was getting ready to take or else it could of made for a really bad trip for something that I believe shouldn't happen after only this many miles...spent 35 bucks and got them replaced..

Filed Sep 20, 2010 · Wheels · 23,000 miles · SC

The rear flange bearing on my 2003 honda vtx 1800c failed resulting in a very scary driving situation for me. It hasn't happened since the initial failure on or about september 2 of last year, but the rear wheel is starting to turn a little harder again recently and I am looking into replacing the bearing soon. The dealership (honda/yahama of savannah, ga) replaced the bearing at my cost and told me that it just happens and it's a part of the design. I wasn't aware that this was supposed to be an item subject to wear and tear replacement.

Filed May 31, 2010 · Suspension · 11,000 miles · VA

While removing the rear tire for replacement I noticed the flange bearing has failed. 11,000 miles, first time inspecting the bearing. Will replace with new bearings and possibly machine the flange for better fit.