Honda Motorcycle Models
The History Of The Honda Shadow
Two motorcycles models were introduced by Honda in 1983 that were to have a big impact on the motorcycling community. One was the Honda Shadow 750 and the other the Honda VF750F Interceptor. They were very different in design but both models extended motorcycle engineering enormously.
With an innovative V twin engine Honda’s engineers produced an engine for the Shadow with two cylinders arranged in a V configuration that considerably reduced vibrations. In previous V twin engines with the angle between the cylinders not at 90 degrees imbalance causes vibration and added weight, complexity and cost is caused by the counterbalances needed to damp these down. Honda overcame this problem by using an offset dual pin crankshaft which achieved a perfectly balanced V twin engine with a narrow angle, the first of its kind. Honda later used this design in the VT500C Shadow and the VT500 Ascot.
The Shadow also had other design innovations including a one way Sprague clutch, designed to stop wheel chatter which was also a problem with previous V twin engines. Three valve cylinder heads and twin plugs, still used by Honda in Shadows produced today, were also introduced with this model of Shadow. Three valves improved fuel flow and reduced emissions are a result of twin plugs. These innovations increased mileage and liquid cooling stabilised the temperature for lower emissions and better performance.
These innovations substantially increased performance giving the Shadow a performance equal to that of motorcycles with at least 50% more displacement.
Honda didn’t stop there however. Other features included hydraulic valve adjusters, electronic ignition, hydraulic clutch and front brake and other features designed for easy maintenance and improved performance. needing only regular oil changes and spark plugs replaced on a regular basis it was one of the easiest motorcycles to maintain in its day.
innovative and forward thinking design is great but looks are equally important! General opinion is that the Shadow’s looks were also a huge leap forward. During the 1950’s and 1960’s classic American cruiser styles had become increasingly popular and these designs were incorporated into the Shadow from the drawing board rather than slapped on as an extra as other motorcycle manufacturers were doing. This gave a completely integrated style to this cruiser. Design considerations that made the Shadow stand out from the crown include cast wheels, angled muffler, twin seats, backrest and a stylish front end.
The VT500C, introduced in 1983 was available in Black or Candy Wineberry Red. Both the rear fenders and fuel tank were painted, the engine covers were black and the side covers chrome. From 1983 to 1986 a Red and Black Honda Shadow decal with a gold outline was on the side cover. The headlight was rectangular and chrome and there was a single horn.
By 1985 colours available were Candy Glory Red or Black and the headlight was now round. it also had dual horns and a twin seat with an integrated backrest. In this year the engine covers were chrome and the fins were enlarged.
One of the most popular lines ever produced placed Honda at the front of the cruiser movement. Today the Honda Shadow is as popular as it was when it was introduced more than two decades ago.
About the Author
For more information on motorcycles and some good deals on used Honda and Yamaha motorcycles check out
Used Honda Motorcycles
or
Used Yamaha Motorcycles
CBR1000RR – features – New Honda motorcycles for 2008
|
|
Wagan Twin USB and 12V DC Cup Holder Power Adapter $19.95 The Wagan EL2537-5 Twin USB and 12V DC Cup Holder Power Adapter is an ideal way to increase power options for multiple gadgets and handhelds used in vehicles when only DC power is available. The unit converts the power of a single 12-volt DC outlet into two USB power ports and two 12-volt DC power outlets. Additional features include a body designed to fit securely into a standard cup holder and… |
|
|
Honda motorcycles history poster #D 23.5 x 34 with 42 motorcycle models 1950-99 wow Wow…here’s a GREAT poster showing 42 different HONDA motorcycle models through the years. We won’t claim this is all of them, but it’s a great start. As captioned, the models are: 1950 Dream Type D, 1956 C70 Dream, 1962 CR110 50cc Racer, 1966 CB77 Super Hawk, 1967 CA72 Dream, 1968 CL350 Scrambler, 1968 CB350 Super Sport, 1969 CB750, 1970 CM70, 1970 CL350, 1971 CB500 Four, 1973 CB250SS, 1976 RCB1… |
|
|
Coffee Mug, Vespa – Yellow & Blue Fenderlight Model $14.99 Nice ceramic mug from Forme of Italy. Enjoy your “cafe Americano” in Vespa style!… |
|
|
Digital temperature meter with remote temp sensor $24.00 A very unique digital temperature meter with a 8 ft cable and remote temp sensor probe. Ideal for seeing temperature in cars, aquariums, pet habitats, HVAC air ducts, computer towers and cpu temp, reading temperature inside or outside the home, test equipment, farms, pools , jacuzzi, see outside air or water temterature in automobiles, vans, trucks,RV’s and boats. The unit has a great professiona… |
|
|
Master Lock 8295DPS Quantum Cuff Cable Lock $27.25 The Masterlock 8205DPS quantum cable lock is a perfect solution for protecting your bicycle, ATV, or other valuables against theft. And conveniently, it comes in one handy solution, with both a cable and a lock. The braided steel cable is 9/16-inch thick and has a polymer coating, making it highly resistant to cutting and sawing; the lock has a heat-treated core and is virtually impossible to pick… |
|
|
Scorpio SR-i900R Motorcycle Alarm – RFID Security System – 4020-0052 $361.47 The SR-i900R is a new generation two-way FM security system offering hands-free RFID technology. Simply walk towards or away from your bike, and the remote transceiver will automatically communicate an arm or disarm command using its proximity recognition system. This unique auto-arm and hands-free disarm operation provides the highest standard of security and convenience // RF-ID for hands-free o… |
|
|
K5-6GSXR1000SEAT CRB $142.45 K5-6GSXR1000SEAT CRB… |
|
|
Razor MX500 Dirt Rocket Electric Motocross Bike $389.99 Essentially a scaled-down motocross bike with an electric motor, the Razor MX500 Dirt Rocket is ideal for teens who want to enjoy the dirt bike experience without breaking the bank. The Dirt Rocket’s powerful 500-watt motor carries riders at speeds of up to 17 miles per hour–more than enough for most bumpy dirt trails–and can cruise for up to 10 miles on a single charge. At the same time, the bi… |
|
|
Power Wheels Lil’ Quad $82.99 Take your toddler for a test drive on the Lil’ Quad. This sturdy and safe Power Wheels ATV has built-in footrests and a convenient cargo rack on the back for toting around toys. Designed especially for toddlers, the Lil’ Quad rides low so it’s easy for little ones to get on and off by themselves. Sturdy and fun to drive, this ride-on moves forward at 2 mph maximum. Use on hard surfaces and grass. … |
|
|
New Ray Die-Cast Yamaha Valentino Rossi NO.46 Motorcycle Replica 1:12 Scale Blue/White $10.99 New Ray creates finely detailed licensed die-cast replicas that are great for collecting or giving. The 2009 Valentino Rossi No.46 Yamaha Fiat Team YZR-M1 model replica is well detailed and put together. Length appx. 6.5″… |