
Honda VT 750 C Shadow
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 1983 Honda VT 750 C Shadow—a motorcycle that revolutionized the cruiser segment and set the stage for future iterations of the beloved Shadow line. As the first purpose-built cruiser from Honda, the VT 750 C Shadow was designed with a unique blend of style and performance, capturing the hearts of riders who sought both comfort and aesthetics. With its low-slung seat, gracefully swept-back lines, and iconic teardrop tank, this bike is not just a machine; it's a statement of individuality on two wheels. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the VT 750 C Shadow embodies the spirit of freedom that defines motorcycle culture. At the heart of this classic cruiser lies a robust 749.50 ccm V-twin engine that delivers smooth, reliable power. This four-stroke powerhouse boasts a compression ratio of 9.8:1 and utilizes a unique offset dual-pin crankshaft, achieving exceptional primary balance for a refined riding experience. The six-speed gearbox, coupled with a shaft drive, allows for effortless acceleration, making this bike a joy to ride. Riders will appreciate the low center of gravity and well-engineered rake of 57.0°, which promotes stability and confident handling at any speed. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely ride through the countryside or tackling winding roads, the VT 750 C Shadow offers a balance of comfort and agility that few motorcycles can match. Honda packed this cruiser with groundbreaking technology that was ahead of its time. The innovative three-valve, twin-plug head design, along with hydraulic valve adjusters and an electronic ignition system, ensures optimal engine performance while minimizing maintenance needs. The Sprague one-way clutch system enhances the riding experience by reducing wheel chatter during high RPM downshifts, making for a smoother, more enjoyable ride. Additionally, the bike features a brushless generator and hydraulically actuated brakes, which contribute to its low-maintenance appeal. Riders can focus on the open road rather than the garage, allowing for more time spent enjoying the ride. **
Pros
- Iconic Design: The VT 750 C Shadow's classic cruiser styling remains timeless, appealing to both vintage enthusiasts and modern riders alike.
- Smooth Power Delivery: The innovative engine design and six-speed transmission provide seamless acceleration and comfortable cruising.
- Low Maintenance: With features like hydraulic valve adjusters and electronic ignition, this bike is designed for riders who prefer to ride rather than tinker.
Cons
- Weight: At 465 pounds, the VT 750 C Shadow is on the heavier side, which may be challenging for novice riders or those seeking a lighter bike.
- Drum Rear Brake: The expanding drum brake at the rear may not provide the same stopping power as modern disc brakes, potentially affecting braking performance.
- Limited Fuel Capacity: With a fuel tank capacity of only 3.30 gallons, longer rides may require more frequent stops for refueling.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Honda
- Model
- VT 750 C Shadow
- Category
- Custom-cruiser
- Comments
- This
- is the grandfather of all ´
- Shadow
- ´ bikes today.
- Honda
- introduced many new ideas on this bike, but the biggest change was the style.
- The
- low seat, swept back lines, the extended forks, teardrop tank, all lent to a look that is still going strong in the
- Shadow
- of today.
- This
- was the first purpose built cruiser.
- The
- engine had a unique offset dual-pin crankshaft that achived perfect primary balance.
- The Sprague (one way)
- clutch allowed slight slip one way to elliminate wheel chatter when down-shifting at high
- M
- .
- This
- bike was the debut of the three valve, twin plug head also.
- Hydraulic
- valve adjusters, electronic ignition, cam chain tensioners, hydraulically actuated clutch and front brakes, brushless generator, shaft drive, all were things that
- Honda
- added to make this new bike low maintenance for the rider.
- If
- you want to ride, not tinker, the
- Shadow
- is the bike for you.
- Color Options
- Black or Candy Wineberry Red.
- Clutch
- Sprague
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Ignition
- electronic
- Fuel System
- Carburettor. Dual Carb
- Bore X Stroke
- 79.0 x 75.5 mm (3.1 x 3.0 inches)
- Compression
- 9.8:1
- Displacement
- 749.50 ccm (45.73 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Liquid
- Engine Details
- V2, four-stroke
- Exhaust System
- Double stainless steel pipes
- Valves Per Cylinder
- 3
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Shaft drive (cardan)
- Dry Weight
- 210.9 kg (465.0 pounds)
- Fuel Capacity
- 12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
- Overall Width
- 861 mm (33.9 inches)
- Overall Height
- 1,199 mm (47.2 inches)
- Overall Length
- 2,192 mm (86.3 inches)
- Ground Clearance
- 150 mm (5.9 inches)
- Rake
- 57.0°
- Trail
- 139 mm (5.5 inches)
- Rear Tyre
- 140/90-15 70H
- Front Tyre
- 110/90-19 62H
- Rear Brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front Brakes
- Double disc