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Honda Shardow Spirit - Solid Ride, Solid Value

How does one choose which motorcycle fits their personality, their riding style, and their budget? It took me four bikes before I discovered my perfect ride, the Honda Shadow Spirit (VT1100C). Taking advantage of the hugh discount Honda offered for the soon-to-be-gone from the US model, I traded i...n my Harley and smoothly glided away from the dealership and never looked back. After 3000 miles, the ride is better than ever. No shakes, plenty of highway power, great sound from the stock pipes and a near-perfect sitting position. The Spirit has a classic look that borders on a cruiser/standard design along with a history of reliability, ease of maintenance (everything is accessible and well-though out), and a smooth clutch and engine. So far, my gas mileage is between 52 and 54 mpg. The slightly higher frame of the bike allows you to see over traffic situations, while the seat height is still just under 29 inches. There are other bikes that offer a sleeker look and more tech, but for the money I paid, I can't look at my ride without smiling. There is no better bargain in the motorcycle market.
Now, I've found my perfect match...I can't claim it would also be yours, but I can tell you if you can still find one, at least do yourself a favor and check it out. Read Full Review

Great Deal!

In the spring of 2011, I started looking for a motorcycle. I was looking for a good reliable cruiser when I found my 2007 VT1100 Shadow Spirit at a local dealership. The bike was 4 years old, but only had 30 miles on it. Someone had taken the time and money to outfit it with a Memphis Shades windshi...eld and MC Floorboards. It had been all checked out by the dealership, so despite the fact there was no warranty, I bought the bike. Since then, I've put about 1,800 miles on it and have absolutely NO regrets. Many of my friends are riding HD Heritage Softails - nice bikes, but for the price most of them paid you could by 3 or 4 of my bikes. I've ridden with these guys and the Honda has no problem keeping up - and I get better fuel economy. (57 MPG, imperial gallons, on my last trip) I'm going to change the seat, because even though it's relatively comfortable, I still get a little "numb bum" after a couple of hours in the saddle. I'm very happy with this bike overall, and don't anticipate joining the HD crowd any time soon. Read Full Review

Good reliable bike...

I bought my Shadow Spirit about three years ago used (7000 mi.). I can't be more happy with it. I had a 1981 650C Honda that was garaged but not ridden enough. I just wanted something newer and the Spirit fit the bill perfectly. Loads of power, if needed, and the ride is great. This is simply a go...od bike. Read Full Review

Love this bike!

For the money, this is a GREAT bike! Handles really well and seems well-balanced. Very reliable and liquid cooling makes it very versatile - no worries riding in hot weather. This 1100 engine is almost bullet-proof and the bike, overall, requires only the most basic of maintenance, which anyone can ...manage. Too bad Honda stopped making this one. Read Full Review

Love this bike

Put 5,000 km on my bike from early August until parking it in October and it just gets more fun to ride all the time. Easy to handle and totally reliable, my only complaints are 1) a VERY stiff seat, soon to be resolved with a new Mustang, and 2) I have to move the rear signal lights back in order t...o get a decent sized saddlebag set on. Looking forward to some long highway riding this summer. Read Full Review