2005 Honda Shadow Review

For the 2005 model year – which marked the twenty-second year the Shadow cruiser was in production – its manufacturer, Japanese auto-making giant Honda, produced six models. Consequently, the 2005 Honda Shadow provides a breathtaking range of possibilities. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price range for the 2005 Honda Shadow is between $5,399 and $8,599.

The six models that comprise the 2005 Honda Shadow are the VLX, VLX Deluxe, Spirit 750, Aero, Sabre, and Spirit. Each cruiser is powered by a four-stroke, liquid-cooled, V-twin (two-cylinder) engine. The displacement varies depending on model. The VLX Series engine displaces at 583 cubic centimeters (cc) and the Spirit 750 and Aero engines have a displacement of 745 cc. The Sabre and Spirit have the largest engine, with a displacement of 1,099 cc. Fueled by a pair of carburetors, the 2005 Honda Shadow engine is paired with a manual transmission: four-speed on the VLX Series and Spirit 750, five-speed on the others.

Each 2005 Honda Shadow uses front disc brakes and rear drum brakes for its stopping power. Suspension comprises a telescopic fork and twin-sided swing arm, with a rear shock on the VLX Series and two rear shocks on the other models. The wheels on the top-level Sabre and Spirit trims are made of aluminum; the other models get steel wheels instead.

The 2005 Honda Shadow was made with a steel frame and lightly covered with plastic sporting a black color scheme. Speedometers are standard on each cruiser; a tachometer is added on the VLX models, and a trip odometer is added on the other versions. Halogen headlights and rearview mirrors are in place for enhanced visibility when driving.