VS
The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago 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 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago by contrast offered 981cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 74hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 Yamaha XV1000 Virago by contrast offered 981cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 74hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 Yamaha XV1000 Virago | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 981 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 74 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 77.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 226.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 750 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago has the edge thanks to more power (74hp vs 55hp) and a higher top speed. The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and moderate for the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 Yamaha XV1000 Virago
The 1984 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago packs a 981cc OHV V-twin engine with 74hp into a cruiser package from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago Profile →