VS
The 1978 Honda CBX and 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
The 1978 Honda CBX from Japan was powered by a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 producing 105hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 247.0kg (545 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow by contrast offered 749cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 226.0kg (498 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1978 Honda CBX from Japan was powered by a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 producing 105hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 247.0kg (545 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow by contrast offered 749cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 226.0kg (498 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1978 Honda CBX | 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1047 cc | 749 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 85.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 247.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 272.0 kg | 246.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1978 Honda CBX laid the groundwork with 105hp, while the later 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow pushed output to 55hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Honda CBX holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
About the 1978 Honda CBX
The 1978 1978 Honda CBX packs a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 engine with 105hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CBX Profile →About the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow
A cruiser from 1983, the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow delivers 55hp from its 749cc OHV V-twin engine.
Full 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow Profile →