VT750C was the best-selling cruiser in Australia in 2005, and though Honda sold even more in 2006, it was pipped for back-to-back victories by an all-new Harley Davidson Softail.
The changes for this 'C2' generation are minor - more a mid-life freshen up than problem-solving mechanical surgery. The front wheel and tyre steps up from 18 inches to 21 inches, and the 750cc V-Twin engine's fuel-injection map has been changed to smooth throttle response and power delivery.
The fuel injection changes also produce a smoother idle, knocking the sometimes annoying edge off that characteristic V-Twin thrum when stationary. Honda also claims a slight reduction in the engine's thirst for fuel, and improvements in exhaust emission levels. Dual shotgun exhausts contribute to this aspect, and also to the bike's aesthetics.
The engine's 30kW of power is never going to endow this middle-weight cruiser with neck-snapping performance, but that's not the idea. Honda offers bigger cruisers for those chasing more grunt, or some of the world's best sports bikes if you want even more. But the VT750C2 is not averse to a few winding roads or a quick strop across a mountain.
It really is an effortless bike to ride. The engine has a robust yet docile character that responds willingly to a twist of the wrist. There's no tacho because there's little need to be in 'exactly' the right gear, though dropping a cog or two does bring a more urgent response.
