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The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II are both iconic 1980s cruisers that defined their respective markets.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow from Japan was powered by a 749cc OHV V-twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 226.0kg (498 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 260.0kg (573 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow from Japan was powered by a 749cc OHV V-twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 226.0kg (498 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 260.0kg (573 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow | 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 226.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 282.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two cruisers are remarkably well-matched. With 55hp versus 65hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference.
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 →About the 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II
Harley-Davidson released the 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II in 1982 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead powerplant making 65hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1982 Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide II Profile →