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The 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and 1985 Honda XBR500 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 1985 Honda XBR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 161.0kg (355 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 1985 Honda XBR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 161.0kg (355 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 | 1985 Honda XBR500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 226.0 kg | 161.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 246.0 kg | 176.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 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 1985 Honda XBR500 pushed output to 44hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 4/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is good for the 1983 Honda VT750 Shadow and moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 — 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 1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1985 Honda XBR500 Profile →