Motorcycle specifications Honda750 Shadow S 2011 Honda launches Shadow-ster

stuck for ages in its custom philosophy, the 750 Shadow becomes more urban and punchy in this new RS version. More European, the Shadow RS nonetheless draws part of its inspiration from a well-known machine. Indeed, the first impression you get on discovering this custom roadster is of a Harley Sportster. Almost halfway between the 883 and the Iron, this Honda is discreet and compact. The fork's shallower rake (3°) contributes significantly to this impression of compactness. The chrome is hidden but not obliterated, the engine is out of sight, and accessibility is at the forefront.

with repositioned controls and seat (87 mm higher), the riding position is more natural, more suited to urban use. The engine remains the conventional and eternal 745 cm3 V-twin. It delivers modest power, with most of the available torque refocused on low and mid-range revs. Admittedly, the machine responds a little better to urban demands. But when it comes to sensations, 43 horsepower won't give you the chills. Additional work on the injection system helps quench the thirst of the little twin-cylinder (for a custom), which is just as well, as the fuel tank is smaller. It loses 4 liters and shouts stop at 10.7 liters. Minor regrets: the presence of a chain (we'd have preferred a cardan shaft or belt, which would have been much cleaner), a poorly-integrated rear headlight-plate-turn signal assembly and an old-fashioned drum brake.

less powerful than the standard Shadow custom, the RS boasts a 19" front wheel and a reduced wheelbase, which should make it more agile and playful, while benefiting from lower fuel consumption and an attractive price tag. At under 7,000 euros, it's just above entry-level roadsters like the ER-6n, CBF 600 or XJ6 ; and well below its designated competitors, the Triumph Bonneville and Harley 883. But the Shadow doesn't have the reputation of these two stars.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos