Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
In 2000, Honda released the T2 Concept as a preview of what they could do if they went nuts with some ideas for a cruiser. The public response was what you’d expect with a crazy concept – it looked interesting but if it ever became a production bike then it would be diluted. Well, we were wrong. Honda released the Rune in 2004 and it’s still probably the craziest production motorcycle they’ve ever built.
Some styling cues for the Rune actually go back to 1995, when Honda debuted the Zodia concept bike:
The official name was actually the Honda Valkyrie Rune as it was heavily based on the Valkyrie, itself a naked evolution of the venerable Gold Wing. The Rune was specifically designed for the American market and was built at Honda’s plant in Marysville, Ohio. In a check out this “Memorable Motorcycle” profile from Moto-USA, Frank Melling notes that “each Rune left the American Honda Plant at Marysville, Ohio, costing the company a reported $100,000 – and sold for just a quarter of that price.”
Honda utilized the Gold Wing’s engine but beefed it up with six throttle bodies (versus two), more aggressive camshafts, and different tuning. Claimed output was 118 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 121 ft-lbs of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Also notable was the suspension – the rear Unit Pro-Link was derived from the RC211V MotoGP bike and the front was visually striking due to the trailing link setup.
Paint options on the distinctive bodywork were Candy Black, Cherry, and Pearl Chromium Purple (also known as Illusion Blue).
The seller has requested that we include these two fantastic videos of Jay Leno discussing the Rune:
Manufactured in July of 2003, this example is VIN: 1HFSC53104A000250, engine #: SC53E2001360. The seller purchased the bike from Simi Valley Honda in 2015.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 1,000 miles. The odometer shows 4,716 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller reports that he had the brakes serviced and tires replaced on September 12th, 2017.
Modifications:
This Rune is completely stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D251 tires with date codes of 3516 and 2817.
The sale includes two keys (one pictured).
The sale also includes the original owner’s manual, a Rune service manual, as well as two Rune books, a framed poster, and some spare throttle cables.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a clean California title with current registration through January 2024.
Have any Rune stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
