Motorcycling is one of those hobbies which keeps friends together till the end of time. These days, everyone has a busy schedule. But in the motorcycle community, everybody takes a break from their routines to go out for a ride. In fact, the bond of friendship grows deeper when it is linked with a motorcycle. Be it an adventure ride, a breakfast ride, or a night ride, the real bikers are always up for it.
If you are a motorcycle enthusiast and love riding on scenic highways or open motorcycle roads, you just need a cool and comfortable ride to start your journey. While talking about a comfortable motorcycle with cool styling, the first bike to come to mind is the Honda 750 Shadow Spirt DC. A perfect motorcycle with thrilling looks inspired by street-rod styling and a powerful 745 cc V-twin engine.
Read on to find detailed specifications, performance, background, and more about the Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC.
Table of Content
1. A Brief History Of Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC
The Spirit 750 DC is a part of the Honda Shadow series. The Honda Shadow represents the family of cruiser-type motorcycles that first made its debut in 1983. All the motorcycles from the Shadow line feature a liquid-cooled 45 or 52° V-twin engine with a displacement from 125 to 1100 cc.
By the early 1980s, Honda maintained its position as the best manufacturer of two-wheelers for both on-road and dirt. The company only lacked a selection of American cruiser motorcycles, largely owned by big brand names and big price brackets. Thereby, Honda introduced the Shadow series to meet the requirements of the American cruiser market with middle-weight cruiser-type motorcycles and comparatively low prices: the VT500c and VT750c.
Shortly after release, the U.S. imposed tariff restrictions on motorcycles with engine ccs that exceeded 701. Therefore, the company reduced the engine size of the VT750C to 700 ccs. In 1984, this bike was sold as the VT700C. After one year, when the import limits came to end, the line was expanded to an 1100 cc bike, the VT1100C. In 1988, the VT750C was replaced by an 800 cc model, the VT800C.
Afterward, the Shadow series received a number of models with different displacements, styling, and features over the years. In 2001, Honda presented a modified version of the VT750C to the line and named it the VT750DC Shadow Spirit. The model was launched with street-rod or chopper style bodywork and low gearing.
Honda gave the 750 Shadow Spirit DC a new frame and body, this model had the RC44E motor with dual CV carburetors. The feature which made it different and unique from other models was its narrower front tire on a 19-inch wheel, slim front fender, and bobbed rear fender. The company resumed production of VT750DC Shadow Spirit in 2003, skipped 2004, and again continued production in 2005. The bike remained in production till 2007.
The VT750DC's final model year coincided with that of its shaft-drive replacement, the 2007 VT750C2 Shadow Spirit.
2. Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC At First Glance
Honda VT 750DC Shadow Spirit is powered by a 745 cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine which produces amazing low rpm torque and high power over a wide rpm range, matted with a wide-ratio five-speed transmission. Its long-stroke 52° V-twin engine design creates a pleasing feel and the dual 34mm constant-velocity carburetors allow amazing throttle response.
This bike has a convenient carburetor electric-heater system, enhancing rideability and providing a hassle-free experience even when the bike is in cold weather conditions. Its three-valve cylinder-head design uses two spark plugs per cylinder for high power output, outstanding combustion, and maintenance-free CD ignition with electronic advance.
Its silent-type camshaft-chain adjusters are also maintenance-free. An aluminum radiator with a cooling fan is responsible for maintaining the engine temperature for high-end performance to ensure a long engine life. This bike features a sleek two-into-two exhaust system with bullet-style mufflers to enhance its classic look and street-rod styling.
The Honda 750 Shadow Spirit is designed on a large, rectangular-section steel frame and massive cast steering head. This frame features rigid engine mounting, pivot plates, and a large rectangular section swingarm. It has a responsive 41 mm front fork with a large aluminum triple-clamp. This combination provides a confident, plush ride, and neutral handling with 5.1 inches of wheel travel.
The 750 Spirit’s dual-chromed rear shocks have a modern valve system and five-position spring preload adjustability, allowing 3.2 inches of wheel travel for a comfortable, and well-balanced ride. Its progressive springs and lavish front and rear suspension setting provide a low-slung street-rod look and deliver majestic handling attributes at the same time.
Moreover, the bike features
- Excellent use of chrome parts, including a cylinder-head cover, left and right engine side covers, air cleaner cover, brake, clutch-lever brackets, shift lever, rear brake pedal, footpeg brackets, side-stand, swingarm pivot cap, and chainguard.
- Tank-mounted speedometer with eye-catching chrome instrument housing.
- Semi-swept handlebar design allows for a relaxed, upright riding position. The handlebars are placed on comfortable padded risers to reduce unwanted vibration.
- A dragster-style seat with a low height of 26.6 inches to help during low-speed cruising.
- Computer-designed multi-reflector headlight with halogen bulb for excellent lighting.
- Traditional-styled taillight and tempting bullet-shaped turn indicators.
- Custom-designed 3.6-gallon fuel tank and chopper-style rear fender.
- A 12-amp-hour battery that is long-lasting and maintenance-free.
3. Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC: A Buyer's Guide
3.1 Is The Honda 750 Shadow Spirit A Good Bike For Beginners?
The Honda 750 Shadow Spirit has thrilling looks and is excellent for all riders. This bike is inspired by radical street-rod styling. The ideal engine power and low seat height provide confidence and excellent grip for beginner or professional riders. The 750 Shadow Spirit also has great gas mileage which makes it best for commuting in urban areas.
3.2 What Is The Top Speed Of Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC?
Honda VT 750DC Shadow Spirit is powered by a 74 5cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine which allows the speedometer needle to hit up to 100 mph.
3.3 What Is The Cost Of A Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC?
Since the company discontinued the production of the Honda 750 Shadow Spirit, you cannot buy a brand-new bike. It is difficult to list an exact price range. But you can always search for this bike in the ever-growing second-hand market or you can look for it on any online motorcycle selling website.
4. Honda Shadow Spirit 750 DC Specifications
4.1 Engine And Transmission
Engine Type | V2, four-stroke |
Displacement | 745.0 ccm (45.46 cubic inches) |
Compression | 9.0:1 |
Bore x Stroke | 79.0 x 76.0 mm (3.1 x 3.0 inches) |
Valves Per Cylinder | Three |
Fuel System | Carburettor. Two 34mm diaphragm-type CV |
Fuel Control | Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
Ignition | CD with electronic advance, two spark plugs per cylinder |
Cooling System | Liquid |
Gearbox | Five-speed |
Transmission Type | Chain (final drive) |
4.2 Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, and Wheels
Rake (fork angle) | 34.0° |
Trail | 152 mm (6.0 inches) |
Front Suspension | 41mm fork |
Front Wheel Travel | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
Rear Suspension | Dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability |
Rear Wheel Travel | 81 mm (3.2 inches) |
Front Tire | 110/80-19 |
Rear Tire | 160/80-15 |
Front Brakes | Single disc |
Diameter | 296 mm (11.7 inches) |
Rear Brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
4.3 Physical Measures And Capacities
Fuel Capacity | 13.62 liters (3.60 US gallons) |
Seat Height | 676 mm (26.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting |
Wheelbase | 1646 mm (64.8 inches) |
Dry Weight | 225.0 kg (496.0 pounds) |
4.4 Other Specifications
Starter | Electric |
Color Options | Black, Titanium/Flame, Candy Orange, Candy Dark Red/Flame |
Model ID | VT750DC |
5. Aftermarket Parts And Luggage Options For Honda 750 Shadow Spirit DC
Honda designed the Shadow Spirit 750 DC with street-rod styling and thrilling looks. Many riders love the vintage looks of their bike and always keep them in fresh condition. Others might not like the outdated look of their bikes and want to modify them with some modern aftermarket parts to make them more stylish. There are many options available when it comes to your bike in your own way like attaching farings, luggage racks, handlebars, rider passenger backrests, crash bars, etc.
If you are planning to take your bike on one-day trips or camping trips, you always have the option of installing sissy bars to keep your back in a relaxed position. You can always mount a luggage bag to keep your camping or travel luggage along with you. Many riders always travel with their friends or passenger, so they have the option to replace their motorcycle seats with comfortable seats designed for both rider and passenger as well.
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