First Look: 2010 Honda Shadow Black Spirit

YOU'RE LOOKING at the new 2010 Honda Shadow VT750C Black Spirit cruiser.

The Shadow 750 was originally launched back in 2007 and was based on the VT750 Shadow. The new bike is powered by a twin-cylinder, 750cc engine, with electronic ignition and IACV valve control.

The machine should prove head-to-head competition for Harley-Davidson's 883 Nightster.

Prices and availability TBA.

HISTORY

The Honda Shadow refers to a family of motorcycles  made by Honda  since 1983. This Honda is a cruiser-type motorcycle, meaning it has a relaxed, feet-forward riding position and wide handlebars. This makes it more comfortable than a sportbike for some riders, although the lack of fairings means that the rider is exposed more to the wind. The Shadow cruisers come in many flavours, including the Spirit, Aero, Sabre, VLX, and American Classic Edition. Engine sizes range from 125cc to 1100cc. A characteristic engine for the Shadow motorcycle is an 750cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin.

The Shadow is available in several sizes, ranging from the leaner 125cc model to a much larger 1100cc (as the 1300cc-to-1800cc Honda VTX Series does not share the Shadow name). All Shadow cruisers are equipped with V-twin engines.

The series was originally introduced as a replacement for the Honda Rebel series, although the Rebel 250cc is still produced and nearly as popular as some Shadow models.

You can read owner reviews of the Honda Shadow VT750C and VT125C here.