Faults:

The bike sat for 3 years since it was last on the road, so the carbs were gummed and rusted up when I bought it from the previous owner. Clutch master and slave cylinders were shot. Took a trip to the local Honda dealer to get those items fixed, but other than that, just a battery was all it needed. They also drained the coolant and added fresh.

General Comments:

I absolutely love the bike. My dream bike since 1983 when I was a senior in high school was the Honda V65 Magna. Well, this is its baby brother. I knew that I would never own a V65, since I would probably kill myself on it, but the V30 has that classic bad boy "power cruiser" look that made the Magna bikes famous back in the mid 80s. In my opinion, they were the best looking bikes that Honda ever built.

It accelerates like a modern liter bike -- the power that the V4 500cc motor produces is amazing. Love the handling and the bike is very comfortable. Brakes could be a bit better -- a rear disc brake rather than drum would have been better.

The V4 is so silky-smooth, it surprises you with its power. It really comes into its own after about 5000 RPM -- takes off like a rocket.

Faults:

Replaced leaking front seals at 3500 in 2002, and at 56k in 2011. The first time was age, and the second time was due to use.

Carb cleaning had been done when I got the bike. Cleaned again at 53k. Also replaced OEM plugs; still in good shape.

Chains and sprockets about every 16k.

Replaced a bad cooling fan switch after getting the bike.

Front brakes leaking rebuilt at 4k in 02. New pads again at about 25k and 50k.

General Comments:

This is my first bike, and I have done 4 cross country trips solo with no problems. I am 6'1, 225, and have no problems with long days, but did install a sport shield to get the wind off my chest.

Mileage is 56 MPG at 55.

A small old bike that can stay with the big bikes to the point of being annoying.

Faults:

When I first bought the bike, I noticed that the front forks were leaking fluid. I fixed the problem by replacing the seals in the forks, which were 12 dollars.

The shift shaft seal leaks oil, but not badly.

The front brakes were locked up, so I just sanded the pistons a little and cleaned up the inside of the caliper, and it is cherry now.

The seat is cracked in many places, and I am going to re-upholster it.

The carborators needed cleaning, and it was difficult with the V-4 design getting them back on the bike.

The accelerator cable broke, and was easily replaced.

The rear dampers need to be replaced.

General Comments:

This bike is the second bike I own; the other is my wife's cruiser. I love the Mad Max cruiser look, but it runs like a crotch rocket. When you get this bike past 4,000 rpms, it really throws you off the seat. My wife is scared of it and I am too, but that is the fun.

The brakes could use an upgrade, but overall this is in my opinion one of the easiest bikes to work on and own, considering the age and value ratio. 1985-$600.00 - fast, fun, reliable.

I would suggest this model bike to anyone; very easy to learn on and comfortable to ride.

Faults:

Leaking front fork seals at 2000 miles, but the bike had been sitting 15 years.

Carburetter rebuild at 48000 miles

Three sets of sprockets and chains.

Two sets of front brake pads.

General Comments:

First bike at age 63, best stress release ever.

Have made four cross country trips; PA and Michigan to the West Coast LA and Victoria BC Canada, without problems, other than a battery.

Am 73" tall, and don't feel cramped. Would like front pegs though. But hey, I can always stand up and ride.

Street shield is a must.