Honda 750 Shadow RS: Detailed Specs, Background, Performance, and More

There is nothing better than getting out on a scenic motorcycle road away from the distractions of life and your cruiser motorcycle is the perfect way to do it. Only a relaxing ride can relieve your stress and provide you with the satisfaction you need.

While talking about a relaxed cruiser motorcycle, the Honda 750 Shadow RS is no exception. In the past, when other companies were ruling over the market with highly-priced motorcycles, Honda came up with the middleweight classic Cruiser series referred to as  Shadow. These motorcycles were built to fulfill riders’ demands at a comparatively low cost.

In this article, we’ll be discussing specifications, background, performance, and more about the Honda Shadow RS.

The Honda Shadow was first introduced in 1983 and represented cruiser-type motorcycles. Honda introduced the Shadow series to compete with the  Harley-Davidson V-twins that were dominating  the American market. Since then, Shadows have appeared in a variety of sizes, from 125 ccs to 1100 cc models. But the motorcycle that has remained the most consistent in production is Honda Shadow 750.

After a short time when Honda released the Shadow series with the VT750C, the U.S. imposed import limitations on Japanese bikes over 700 ccs. As a result, Honda produced the VT700C to meet the demands of the American cruiser market. The restriction soon ended in 1985 and the 750 was soon back. It was produced for a short period before being replaced with an 800 cc version in 1988.

It wasn’t until 1997 that the Honda Shadow Ace 750 was relaunched into the Honda’s cruiser lineup and has since then been seen in numerous guises, including the Spirit, Aero, Phantom, and RS.

In 2009, Honda announced that they would produce a roadster version of the Shadow 750 with a chain final drive installed. The company originally designed the VT750S, featuring the RC58E fuel-injected 52° engine for their local market. However, the VT750S was exported to Europe as well.

This new model was also exported to North America as the VT750RS at the request of American Honda. With the arrival of this model in 2010, there were four parallel models in the Shadow 750 lineup: the fuel-injected RS, Phantom, Spirit, and Aero. The Shadow RS remained in production by Honda for four model years from 2010 to 2013.

Several professionals observed the resemblance between the VT750RS and Sportster 883 models. The 10.7 liters (2.8 U.S. gallons) peanut-shaped fuel tank, for example, was designed to seem like a classic Sportster tank. Also, in a few road tests, the Honda and the Harley-Davidson models were compared.

The Honda Shadow RS is evidence that classic ideas never go out of style. This bike is a combination of agile and responsive handling, V-twin engine power, and standard-style riding ergonomics. The higher footpegs of this bike help with ground clearance and its modern liquid-cooled engine boost the riding experience.

The Shadow RS is featured with a 745 cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin engine with a PGM-FI induction that produces 42 bhp and 45 ft-lb of torque. This engine is fitted with a wide-ratio five-speed transmission and fed by a pretty generous 2.6-gallon fuel tank. This bike has higher-set footpegs and shorter yet upright bars, while its peanut-shaped fuel tank and flattened seat gave this bike a classic look reminiscent of the old-school roadster. The shadow is a slightly modified version of the standard Shadow.

Like any respectable cruiser, the Shadow RS was built with first-class ergonomics, it has a comfortable saddle, and a convenient handlebar with a spread of instruments. The speedometer and other instruments fitted on the handlebar and its uncluttered gauge give a sporty and clean look, allowing the rider an easy way to keep an eye on the road while traveling. This bike has a low seat height of 737 mm / 29 in. The seating position is low yet upright, while the footpegs are slightly further back. This design and ergonomics offer comfort that lasts all day and a wide view for the rider. If we talk about the front of the bike, it has a short front fender which gives a progressive and cleaner look. Moreover, the motorcycle is built on a double-cradle steel tube frame matted with 41 mm front forks.

At the rear, the bike has classic dual-shock suspension with a five-position spring preload for adjustability and 3.5 inches wheels suitable for a pleasant ride. Furthermore, the bike has a front single 296 mm disc with a twin-piston caliper and a rear drum brake.

The Shadow RS is a slightly modified version of the standard Shadow and an ideal bike for all types of riders. Its low seating position and cleaner look allow newbies a full view of the road and more confidence in their riding skills. Also, the modern liquid-cooled engine has an ideal power boost that enhances the riding experience.

Honda Shadow RS is a cruiser-type motorcycle produced by Honda. It is estimated that this bike weighs around 228.2 kg (503.0 lbs ), including oil, gas, etc.

When VT750RS arrived in 2010, there were four parallel models in the Shadow 750 lineup: the fuel-injected RS, Phantom, Spirit, and Aero. The Shadow RS remained in production by Honda from 2010 to 2013.

Although Honda has discontinued the production of the 750 Shadow RS, there are still many Honda fans who love to keep the vintage beauties. However, the model has grown old and newer variants with modern technology and features are now available.

For riders who own this bike and want to maintain its new and clean look, they can always customize it with a wide variety of aftermarket parts available at  VikingBags. Those who are in habit of going on long highway trips or camping trips can always mount a luggage bag to carry their belongings. It is also more convenient to install a sissy bar to serve as a backrest.

There are a number of ideas to customize this bike, but it all depends on your preferences and riding comfort. You can always attach a pair of premium quality saddlebags or a backpack to carry your daily essentials.