1985 Honda VT700C Shadow

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The Honda VT700C Shadow, produced from 1984 to '87, is a cruiser motorcycle that emerged as a response to the 1980s motorcycle tariff restrictions in the U.S. that were imposed to protect domestic manufacturers from the influx of larger displacement Japanese bikes. The VT700C Shadow was designed to circumvent these tariffs by featuring a slightly smaller engine displacement than its predecessor, the VT750C. 

The VT700C is powered by a 695cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 45° V-twin engine with SOHC and three valves per cylinder, mated to a six-speed manual transmission and shaft final drive. The motorcycle, built around a double-cradle steel frame, has a front suspension that consists of air-assisted telescopic forks and a rear suspension featuring dual shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload. The braking system includes dual front discs with two-piston calipers and a rear drum brake. The bike's design includes standard cruiser elements such as a round headlight, pulled-back handlebars, dual seat with rider lumbar support and passenger backrest, side-mounted rear shocks, and five-spoke alloy wheels. 

The consignor of this 1985 Honda VT700C Shadow notes that while it is in excellent cosmetic condition, there is no resistance on the clutch pedal, and while the engine turns over and runs on fluid, the carburetor may require attention. With that in mind, “the motorcycle is being sold as-is as project bike.” 

Highlights 

• Finished in Candy Glory Red paint with black seats 

• Powered by a 695cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, V-twin engine rated at 62 hp  

• Six-speed manual transmission 

• The chassis number (JH2RC1908FM108057) decodes as: 

  • J – Japan 

  • H – Honda 

  • 2 – Motorcycle 

  • RC190 – VT700C Shadow 

  • 8 – Check digit 

  • F – 1985 model year 

  • M – Hamamatsu, Japan, assembly plant 

  • 108057 – Sequential production number

Features 

• Dual black vinyl seats 

• Chrome headlight, instrument bezels, and front fender 

• Polished engine side case covers 

• Suspension: Telescopic forks in front, dual shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload in rear 

• Brakes: Single disc with two-piston calipers in front, drum brake in rear 

• 125 mph speedometer/odometer and 8000 rpm tachometer 

• New OEM-spec battery 

• Dunlop Qualifier tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Scratches and indentations on front side of fuel tank 

• No resistance on the clutch pedal (may need to be bled or repaired) 

• Carburetor may need to be cleaned or rebuilt  

Included 

• Battery charger 

Ownership History 

The longtime Wisconsin owner of this 1985 Honda Shadow purchased it from the original buyer in 1988.  It is being sold to settle the owner’s estate.