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Honda VTX1800 Key Replacement

Every VTX1800 uses a plain cut key with no immobilizer, according to Honda's manuals for the C, F, R, S and N models from 2004 to 2007.

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  • Motorcycles and scooters only
  • We come to your bike
  • Keys cut and programmed on site
  • Proof of ownership required
Quick answerEvery VTX1800 uses a plain cut key with no immobilizer, according to Honda's manuals for the C, F, R, S and N models from 2004 to 2007. The key works five locks spread around the bike, including a steering lock that is separate from the ignition. A lost key can be cut to the bike on site, and none of it involves programming.

Honda VTX1800 key quick facts

  • Honda's manuals for the VTX1800C (2004), VTX1800C and F (2005, 2006, 2007) and VTX1800R, S and N (2006) have no HISS or immobilizer section.
  • The steering lock is its own lock at the right front of the frame: bars full left, key in, turn 180 degrees clockwise.
  • A keyed helmet holder with a holder pin sits at the left rear.
  • A lockable storage compartment for the tool kit and manual is hidden behind the left side cover.
  • The seat is held by bolts, not a key lock.

Honda VTX1800 key types by year

YearsModelsKey typeChipNotes
2004-2007VTX1800C, VTX1800Fmechanical cut keynoOne key for the ignition switch, separate steering lock, fuel fill cap, helmet holder and storage compartment.
2006VTX1800R, VTX1800S, VTX1800Nmechanical cut keynoSame five-lock arrangement as the C and F models.

Five locks on one key

The VTX1800 follows the big-cruiser habit of scattering small locks around the frame, where a sport bike would gather everything at the ignition and seat. Honda's manuals show the ignition key working all of them.

  • Ignition switch: starts and stops the engine only; it does not lock the bars
  • Steering lock: a separate cylinder at the right front, turned half a turn with the handlebar at full left
  • Fuel fill cap: key in the cap, turn clockwise, lift out
  • Helmet holder at the left rear: key counterclockwise frees the holder pin, the helmet ring goes on the pin, and the pin is pushed back in to lock
  • Storage compartment: take off the left side cover, then a quarter turn counterclockwise with the key opens the lid

Need a key for your VTX1800?

Call or text with the year and where the bike is parked.

Call (619) 775-1858Text your year, make and model

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Model letters and what they change

The C is the original VTX1800, introduced as a 2002 model. The R and S are the Retro models with cast or spoked wheels, the N is the Neo-Retro and the F was added for 2005. Fenders, wheels and tanks differ between them. The lock set does not: the 2006 manual for the R, S and N describes the same separate steering lock, helmet holder and side-cover storage compartment as the C and F manual.

That is useful if you are buying a used ignition switch or lock set. Whatever the letter on the side cover, the bike was built around a plain key and a key number, and any lock you add can be keyed to match the one you carry.

VTX1800 locks worth checking

Start with the steering lock. It sits low at the front of the frame, and a lock that is rarely used can be stiff the first time it is. If the bars are locked and the key will not turn back, do not lean on the key. Ease the handlebar slightly to take the load off the lock and try again; forcing it is how a key ends up broken off inside.

The second is the storage compartment. The side cover hides it, so it is easy to own the bike for years without opening it. Since Honda's manual says the tool kit, the owner's manual and other documents belong in there, it is worth checking that your key actually opens it.

Third is the ignition switch itself. A key that has to be jiggled to make the dash come on is an early sign the key or the switch is wearing.

All keys lost on a VTX1800

This is a straightforward visit. We confirm you are the owner from photo ID and the registration or title. If the registration is inside the storage compartment, say so and bring other proof such as the title or insurance card. A key is then made to the ignition and tried in each of the other four locks. Any lock that has been replaced with a non-matching one can be set to the new key so you are back to carrying one.

Where to find the key code

Honda supplied a key number with the original keys and the manual asks you to write it in the Quick Reference section at the back. The manual itself is meant to be kept in the plastic bag in the storage compartment behind the left side cover, so a previous owner's note may be sitting there.

What to have ready

Have this ready when you call or text

  • Year, make and model of the bike
  • Where the bike is parked
  • Whether you have any working key, a broken key or a key code
  • Photo ID and registration or title (we verify ownership before making a key)

Honda VTX1800 key FAQ

Does a VTX1800 key have a chip?

No. Honda's VTX1800 manuals describe a plain ignition key and have no immobilizer section, so a correctly cut key starts the bike.

Where is the steering lock on a VTX1800?

It is a separate lock at the right front of the frame near the steering head, not part of the ignition switch. The ignition key works it.

Can I get the seat off without the key?

Yes. On the VTX1800 the seat is fastened with mounting bolts and has no key lock.

My key works the ignition but not the helmet lock. What is wrong?

Usually corrosion or dirt in a lock that is rarely used, or a worn key. Both are fixable; the helmet holder can be cleaned, serviced or rekeyed to match.

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