Honda Magna 750

HONDA MAGNA 750

CRUISER COMPARISON

Cartooncustom cruiser

HONDA MAGNAS HAVE always been radically styled, performance-oriented machines, and the latest version does nothing to belie that image. The Magna 750, introduced last year as a '94 model, is propelled by a 748cc, 16-valve, dohc V-Four, essentially a detuned and detailed VFR75O powerplant. Like that engine, the Magna motor is smooth and powerful. Rear-wheel horsepower peaks at 83, and our yellow example streaked through the quarter in 12.06 seconds. Both figures are tops in the class. Roll-on performance is also impressive, although the midrange-intensive Intruder 800 is quicker yet.

While its classmates have more traditional lines, the Magna 750 is almost cartoonish in appearance, with wide, blocky styling. It has a low 28.2-inch seat height and plenty of the requisite chrome, as evidenced by the 4-into-4 exhaust, engine covers, headlight shell, instrument pods, mirrors and bullet tumsignals.

Relatively conservative steering geometry, a stout 41mm fork, a 17inch front wheel and a low center of gravity give the Magna solid, stable handling. The wide chrome handlebar offers plenty of leverage; tipping the bike into slower corners requires little effort, though highspeed directional changes take some muscle. Handling deteriorates at higher speeds as the springpreload-adjustable rear shocks-perfectly suited for aroundtown cruising-lose their composure, rebounding quickly over larger bumps and freeway expansion joints.

What results, then, is a fun but expensive (compared to its classmates) motorcycle, let down only by marginal rear-suspension components, a slightly too-soft seat and limited ground clearance. Still, thanks to its V-Four motor, the only one of its kind in the cruiser world, and a chassis that offers comfort and secure handling, the Honda Magna 750 is a winner.

$6599