JDM Springer – 1998 Honda Steed 400 VLS

In Cruiser, Japan by AbhiLeave a Comment

5-25-18 Update: This Steed was relisted due to a non-paying bidder. Find it with a BIN of $2,875 or best offer


Post Sale Update: After 28 bids on eBay, this Honda sold for $1,875.

Japan has a large contingent of Harley fans, and Honda reached out to them with the VLX and VLS – or what they called “American custom bikes”. The X was the base bike, while the S got a springer front end (I think it’s the only time Honda has ever equipped such a suspension on one of their bikes). They were only sold in Japan, but here’s a very rare chance for you to snag one in the US.

In addition to the springer front suspension, the VLS got a 21″ front wheel, unqiue fuel tank and headlight design, and three color options of Candy Red, Black, and what this bike is equipped with: Candy Phoenix Blue. VLS supposedly stood for “V-Twin Lowdown Springer”, and I assume you know what a “Steed” is. The internal designation was NC37, and the 398cc motor was good for about 31 horsepower. Per Seven Seas Motors, the V-Twin motor in this bike was based on the same engine found in the 400cc Bros, but Honda intentionally tweaked it to vibrate more! I personally would not have guess that the Steed would be a volume seller, but Seven Seas also claims that in 1993 it was Honda’s best selling bike (the non-springer version) in Japan and over 80,000 examples were produced in the 90s. Based on that success, Honda introduced the VLS Springer variant in 1998, and production was killed off in 2002 because it couldn’t meet emissions regulations. While the VLX is relatively common, the VLS is quite rare. For more specifications, check out this News Release from Honda back in 1998.

This example has 3,609 miles and it’s equipped with a US (Arizona) title. Just like the Van Van from earlier in this week, you probably won’t be able to register it in California due to the 11 digit VINs from Japan. It still has the original tires, which should be replaced, and it looks good despite a small ding in the tank and some pitting/flaking in the chrome. The seller claims that it is “super solid” mechanically and that it rides well.

Find this Honda Steed for sale in San Jacinto, California with bidding up to $500 (and no reserve)