While the recession may have taught the non-riding world to simplify things, motorcycle manufacturers seem to have one simple message; less chrome, more muscle.

This is shown in the latest offerings from Honda as the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer beefs up its cruiser line with three new models and a clever tag line of ‘Gawk Responsibly’ seen in a recent television advertisement.

Three new models bring their own custom-cruiser look and remind riders of the chopper style that impressed so many with the Fury, stretched tanks and all.

Falling under the line of ‘Custom 1300’ The Sabre, Stateline and Interstate all come with Honda’s 1312cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin engine with a single-pin crankshaft promising heaps of torque with a V-twin sound and feel. But the different models dance with their own takes on the cruiser taste. The Sabre (above) takes its styling cues from Honda’s Fury chopper with an enthusiastic dose of pro-street dragster.

Stateside

Looking to long fenders to give a more retro feel, the Stateside offers a tamer version of its Sabre brother while the Interstate is the cousin that heads out for the open road. Sharing the blacked out frame and raked forks with the Sabre and Stateside, Honda’s Interstate adds floorboards, leather-covered hard saddlebags and a weather-cheating windscreen to its features for the ironbutt riders out there.

Being ever more option friendly, the 2011 Interstate will be available with optional ABS, combined braking system and a new Dark Red Metallic paint option.

For those looking for a different flavor of retro Honda is serving up its Honda Shadow RS with a new paint job. Riders might be forgiven for throwing on the favorite riding jacket from the 70’s with the new red white and blue paint scheme reminding some of a certain era from Harley’s highly popular Sportster.

But not to forget Honda’s current showstopper, the Fury, the latest version brings an option of ABS brakes as well as two new color options this year; Pearl White and Matte Orange Metallic.

And according to those in the know, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer may have more up its leathered sleeve.

“The 2011 model year lineup continues to expand for Honda,” says Bill Savino, Honda Powersports press manager. “Here we have a variety of very popular cruisers and customs. Our selection of models for 2011 keeps growing and there will be more to follow.”