The Honda Fury is a misguided attempt by Honda to create a production motorcycle for a niche motorcycle segment. Just like the choppers that inspired it, a small group of fans love the Fury. No amount of logic or reason will sway them. That's ok though, we all like what we like. Ride what you love and don't worry about what anyone else thinks. However, no amount of love or passion can change the fact that the Honda Fury is an utter disappointment. If you have any doubts, these ten indisputable facts will solidify just how terrible this bike truly is. Rather prepare to pay more for something better if you want to ride a chopper.
10 The Honda Fury Has An Awkward Design
The Honda Fury is a head turner. Those that own the bike think it is because people are in awe and lusting after it. This is a delusion that helps them feel better about their purchase. Unfortunately, people are looking for altogether different reasons, they are looking at it because it just looks so strange. If you don't care about what other people think, then go ahead and ride the Fury. Which, you could argue, is the most biker thing you could do.
9 The Fury Has A Heavy Front End
Choppers are notorious for having large front tires that are raked out. This makes them a nightmare (and sometimes impossible) to ride. Honda does a decent job at making the Fury a rideable chopper. However, just because it handles better than custom choppers does not mean it handles well. The bike weighs 681 pounds, which is heavy for a bike with a small fuel tank, no fairings, no bags, and a narrow frame design. While the bike has a more centralized weight distribution compared to other choppers, it is still front-heavy compared to other bikes. The agile and nimble handling you get with other bikes just isn't there.
8 Disappointing Power From The Honda Engine
Those that own the Honda Fury love the performance of the bike. If that's what they want, great. However, when you compare the Honda Fury to other motorcycles, the Fury could do better. The 1312cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin four-stroke produces 53.7 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque. Quite frankly, this is woefully underpowered for the size of the engine. The Honda Rebel has a 1,100cc engine and produces 86 horsepower and 72 lb-ft of torque. Owners of the Fury claim it's a fun bike to ride, but they would sing a different tune if they tried the Rebel. Now that is a fun bike with great performance.
7 The Fury Lacks Technology
The lack of technology on this bike is disappointing. The most advanced feature of this bike is the anti-lock braking system (ABS). However, this is pretty much standard on most bikes these days. Take a look at the gauge display, and you will see an antiquated and simplistic display. This probably sits well with the older crowd but, it doesn't do anything for younger riders who embrace technology and innovation. To keep the bike competitive with modern models, Honda should consider updating the dash. The Honda Rebel 1100T has a digital LCD display and that would be a nice upgrade.
6 Outdated Color Schemes
The Honda Fury is a production version of the custom choppers that once ruled the bike-building competitions. Unfortunately, the Fury suffers the same fate as many other custom turned production products. The customized versions are dazzling and impressive, with intricate designs and decorations. Then the production version comes out, and it's decidedly dull. Looking at the Fury and you see a plain color scheme. There is no excuse for this, as even Harley-Davidson figured out how to create a customized paint option with their CVO models. The low sales numbers of the Fury should make it possible for Honda to offer the same type of service.
5 The Fury Has Woeful Ergonomics
Sit on the Honda Fury, and, yes, the seat is comfortably cushioned. However, there are some serious flaws in the Fury's rider ergonomics. The bike is comfortable enough for short rides around town, but it is not comfortable to ride all day. You will start to feel it in your lower back as the rider triangle is slightly out of sync. The only positive thing Honda has to say about the seat is that it is low. This is not the bike for touring or long trips. Then there is the placement of the exhaust pipes. You can easily burn your ankle while riding if you're not careful. That isn't fun for anyone.
4 The Honda Fury Lacks Storage
Many motorcycle designs lack storage, and the Honda Fury is one of them. There is absolutely no storage on this bike. Even sport bikes have a small space under the seat where you can slip an emergency tool set. The Honda Fury is not practical for everyday commuting or riding. Because there is no storage, you will need to wear a backpack or stuff your pockets every time you ride. While you could add bags, this would detract from the chopper look of the bike. If the reason you bought the bike was for the look of it, then the bags would defeat the purpose.
3 The Honda Fury Lacks Updates
There was a time when choppers were considered the coolest things on two wheels. That time was roughly 1999 through 2006. The Honda Fury didn't hit the market until 2009. Leave it to Honda to come in late with a bike design that followed a trend that was on its way out. So from the start, the Honda Fury was outdated. Combine this with the fact that Honda hasn't made many style or design changes over the last decade, and the bike only looks more outdated as the years go by. The lack of development extends to performance and technology for a bike that falls behind others.
2 The Fury Has A Low Resale Value
There is a certain type of rider that loves the Honda Fury. While they are a devoted, they are few in number compared to some of the other motorcycle styles. Because of this, there is a limited pool of potential buyers. This crowd gets even smaller when looking for someone who wants to buy your particular bike at the price you are asking. In addition, the Honda Fury has been in production since 2009, and with the reliable nature of Hondas, everyone who wanted one bought one, and is most likely still riding it. All of these factors contribute to a low resale value.
1 It Was Poorly Engineered
Honda motorcycles are reliable, and the Fury is no different. However, there are some issues with the engine design. The 2009 through 2012 models came with a starter taken from the VTX1300C. While there was nothing inherently wrong with the starter, it did not work well in the Honda Fury. It was woefully underpowered, which led to performance issues. The only solution is to replace it. Then there is the 3.4-gallon fuel tank. While this was a must, given the bike's design, it also means that you will have to stop and fill up more often.