2012 Honda Cruiser Preview

American Honda Motor Company has joined the 2012 model year fray by announcing another set of new street bike releases. Joining Big Red's 2012 lineup are Honda's V-twin cruisers, with eight different models being represented this year: the Sabre, the Stateline, the Interstate and Fury, plus Honda's extremely popular 750cc line of V-twin Shadows - the Shadow Phantom, Shadow RS, Shadow Spirit and Shadow Aero. No major changes accompany the carryover models, with new graphics and some ergonomic moves being the sole differences over last year.

Two years after it shook the mainstream, the Fury continues to look like something straight out of a boutique chop shop. But that exposed, 1312cc, liquid-cooled lump tucked in between the radical frame rails tells you it's all Honda. Even with those the extreme lines and head-turning looks, the Fury still manages to incorporate all the hallmarks we've come to expect from a Honda (even if it's a chopper ): functionality, quality and reliability. For 2012, there are no changes on the Fury's spec sheet, just three new color options- Ultra Blue Metallic, Matte Black/Red, and Black. Honda is also offering a host of Genuine Accessories for the Fury, including, front Spoiler LED accent Lights, sissy bar upright, a Boulevard screen (smoke), custom seats, braided Lines, custom grips and more.

The 2012 Fury will be available at dealers in January of 2012, for an MSRP of $13,390 (standard model), and $14,390 (ABS model - in Black only). A one year, unlimited mileage limited warranty comes standard, and the Honda Genuine accessories are covered by a one-year warranty that begins on the day accessories are purchased by the customer.

Honda's Pro-Street styled Sabre also returns for 2012 with no changes to the hard parts, which means that same 52-degree v-Twin powerplant, a single overhead cam, programmed fuel injection and five speeds. The aggressive style features a large wire-spoke 21-inch front wheel, with sleek stretched lines and ergonomics to match. The 2012 Sabre will be available only in Ultra Blue Metallic, starting in January 2012. Honda says MSRP will be $12,250 for the standard model and $13,250 for the ABS version.

We see the returning Stateline as the base model for Honda's VT line, with low lines that combine traditional looks with progressive elements. The deeply balanced fenders are just your first hint of classic retro style, but overall lines bring an updated look to the whole package. Again, Honda says there are no major changes to the 2012 Stateline, which will be available starting January 2012 with an MSRP of $12,150 (standard model), and $13,150 for the ABS. Metallic Silver is the sole color.

The Interstate builds on the Stateline platform, adding the ability to go long distances, with touring amenities. Stylish hard leather bags that offer storage space and a big, traditional windscreen provides shelter from errant gusts. The familiar 52-degree Vee rumbles down below, and the Interstate will come in Dark Red Metallic and Black color options for 2012. New models will be available in January 2012, for a stated MSRP of $13,240 for the standard model and $14,240 for ABS.

The Shadow Phantom brings a minimalist look and a back-to-basics fun factor with clean, uncluttered appearance. Blackout treatments remain the order of the day here, with a 745cc V-twin engine with Programmed Fuel Injection at the heart of the matter. For 2012, there are no changes; the Phantom will be available in December 2011, for an MSRP of $8240.

The Honda Shadow RS gets of the standard cruiser formula by combining agile handling, V-twin power, clean lines and standard ergonomics. The fun is enhanced this year thanks to small ergonomic tweaks Honda made for 2012; footpegs were slightly raised to allow for better ground clearance, and a shorter, more upright bar and a slightly flatter seat were also added. The liquid-cooled 745cc V-twin engine remains, but the RS is only available in Candy Blue for 2012, starting in December 2011. MSRP: $8240.

The popular Shadow Spirit 750 C2 returns for 2012 with its distinctive street-rod styling and a V-twin rumble. There are no major changes for this year, but you can get the Spirit 750 C2 in Black or Candy Orange Flame starting in December of 2011. MSRP for the Black model is $8240, while Candy Orange Flame will run you $8540.

With classic retro styling, a low seat height, and a powerful V-twin engine (with Programmed Fuel Injection) the Shadow Aero has been a longtime favorite among a wide range of riders for good reason.. The 2012 Aero is identical to last year's model, and will retail for $8240 in Candy Dark Red (standard model), $8540 in Pearl Black/Silver, and $9240 for the ABS version. Availability is December, 2011.