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The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
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 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow by contrast offered 491cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 48hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow by contrast offered 491cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 48hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 491 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 48 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 39.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 226.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 208.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow laid the groundwork with 55hp, while the later 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow pushed output to 48hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow holds the edge with a 4/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
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 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow
The 1984 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow packs a 491cc OHV V-twin engine with 48hp into a cruiser package from Honda.
Full 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow Profile →