Honda VT 750 SHADOW 2007 — Specifications

Facing the jungle of roadsters and over-stylized customs, is there still a place for a simple, reliable, and accessible motorcycle? In 2007, Honda answered affirmatively by bringing the VT 750 Shadow back to the forefront, after a short eclipse. This new version does not seek to revolutionize the genre, but rather to perfect a recipe that has proven itself for decades, as evidenced by the numerous searches for a Honda VT 750 Shadow 1986 or a 2001 model. The objective is clear: to seduce the novice seeking a first large displacement or the pragmatic touring rider who wants a trouble-free machine.

The first contact is marked by this ridiculously low seat, barely 65.8 cm from the ground, which instills an immediate feeling of confidence. This is one of the major assets of this Shadow, making it particularly welcoming for smaller builds or A2 license holders lacking stability. The look has been refreshed, borrowing some codes from the larger VTX for a more muscular look, but we remain in a classic and timeless register, far from the chromed eccentricities of some competitors. With a weight of 254 kg when fully fueled, it has plenty of torque, but this mass is low, which facilitates maneuvering in the parking lot.

The heart of the beast is this 52° V-twin engine with a displacement of 745 cm3. Honda reworked it for this 2007 version, prioritizing torque, available very early, from 3000 rpm. The 63.7 Nm is felt at the throttle, offering brisk acceleration and a disconcerting ease of riding in the city or on winding roads. On the other hand, with only 46 horsepower at 5500 rpm, do not expect sporty sensations. The maximum speed is around 160 km/h, and the engine begins to vibrate seriously beyond that. This is the typical compromise of a custom: low-end torque, but a short breath when pulling on the gears. The 5-speed gearbox is precise, and the shaft drive, a luxury in this segment, guarantees minimal maintenance and an appreciable operating silence.

On the road, the comfort philosophy is evident. The position is relaxed, arms outstretched, feet slightly forward. The suspension, quite soft, swallows up road imperfections without a murmur, but it shows its limits in tight turns where the motorcycle tends to wallow. The braking, with a disc at the front and a drum at the rear, is sufficient without being impactful. Anticipation is required, especially with the weight of the machine. This is a motorcycle for relaxed riding, for savoring the journey without seeking pure performance. The 14-liter tank, however, recalls that the stages will be short, an autonomy often pointed out in Honda VT 750 Shadow reviews.

So, who should consider a used Honda VT 750 Shadow, and particularly this 2006-2007 generation? The beginner who is increasing power after a 125, the epicurean who rides small national roads on weekends, or the person who is looking for a healthy base for customization. Facing a Yamaha V Star 650 or a Suzuki Intruder, the Shadow relies on the legendary robustness of the Honda engine and the comfort of the shaft drive. Its new price at the time, 7770 euros, made it a serious proposition. Today, it is on the used market that it takes on all its value, offering a solid and economical entry into the world of customs. It doesn't thrill, it doesn't fantasize, but it fulfills its mission with disarming efficiency. An honest machine, in a world of brutes.