Honda 750 Shadow Phantom: Detailed Specs, Background, Performance, and More

It's all about confidence and style when we talk about bikes. But when it comes to cruisers, sometimes simpler is better. Since the beginning, cruiser motorcycles always ruled over-riders by giving them comfort and performance. A cruiser bike is an ideal selection for those who want to use a vehicle for daily commutes,  want to go on scenic motorcycle roads, and enjoy long trips on highways.

The Shadow lineup of motorcycles represents cruiser motorcycles produced by Honda since 1983. In the past when other companies had captured the market with high standards and big price tags, Honda introduced these middleweight American cruiser motorcycles. The Shadow Phantom is one that could fulfill the riders’ demands at a comparatively low cost.

In this article, we’ll be discussing specifications, background, performance, and more about the Honda 750 Shadow Phantom.

By the early 1980s, Honda had continually demonstrated its worth in producing two-wheel race winners both on the road and in the dirt. What the company hadn’t conquered was a type  of American motorcycle termed “cruisers.” So Honda introduced its Shadow series to enter the cruiser market, which was largely ruled by Harley-Davidson .

First, the Honda Shadow was launched in 1983 as the “VT750C.” This motorcycle was a middleweight cruiser and made with a round headlamp, chrome front fender, instrument casings and has a black or candy wineberry red color on painted pieces.

Back in the early days, Honda focused on performance when developing cruiser motorcycles, so the first model of the Shadow family was featured with a liquid-cooled, 749 cc V-twin, SOHC, with shaft drive and six-speed transmission.

At the beginning of 1984, the U.S. imposed limitations on imports from Japan, and taxes were even raised on the engines with displacement higher than 700 ccs. In this situation, Honda felt that they needed to build a motorcycle with reduced engine displacement, and the 701 ccs “VT700C Shadow” was introduced to address the needs of the American cruiser market. The V-twin engine now displaced 694 ccs and featured twin-plug cylinder heads and new hydraulic valve adjusters.

In 1985, the tariff was lifted and the Shadow line was expanded to a 1,100 cc bike, the VT1100C. Later on, the VT600 was launched in 1988 as Honda’s new entry-level Shadow. Until the introduction of the 750 cc Honda Shadow Ace in 1997, the line remained relatively unchanged.

Over time, Honda continued the production of the Shadow line with different models and designs. However, when the Shadow Phantom made its debut in Fall 2009, this bike was powered by a black fuel-injected version of the existing Shadow 750 shaft drive engine. The Phantom frame and bodywork were based on the Aero 750 and both bikes were painted black. This authentic bobber motorcycle was called the “Shadow Black Spirit” in European markets.

The Shadow Phantom featured a 750 cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine that produces 44.6 horsepower and 47.9 lb/ft of torque. The engine is designed for deep, rumbling pulses of power and torque. In addition, the fuel injection system was designed for quick throttle response and optimal fuel efficiency.

The liquid-cooled 52° V-twin engine powering this bike is a time proven-standard of Honda excellence, essentially the same design and configuration that provides strong, unstoppable power to all Honda Shadow 750cc V-twin cruisers. Its compact design allows the frame's central backbone to be lowered and gives this cruiser a long and low frame. The engine has a long-stroke, single-pin crankshaft configuration and ideal mass to enhance the feel of its low rpm torque peak. Moreover, the instant power thrusts and efficient combustion are provided by SOHC three-valve cylinder heads with dual spark plugs, while close-ratio transmission delivers exhilarating acceleration within the engine’s range.

If we talk about its design, this bike has a clipped rear fender and triangulated profile. This bike shows pure iconic and classic styling from its bobbed tail to its assertive front wheel, with every contour carefully styled. It leans back into a long, tapered tank positioned close to its bold, kicked-out forks and high handlebars. The instrument panel is on top of the fuel tank. It contains a large, easily readable speedometer dial, assembly of practical gauges, indicator lights, and an attractive silver-painted cover. Moreover, the lower seat on this bike is designed to give the rider a deep riding position that allows for easy reach to the grips.

Now let's come to the chassis and suspension details. The engine of this bike is matted on a slim, lightweight, and rigid double-cradle steel frame that is highly responsive and easy to handle. There is a combination of a single tube backbone and pressed steel pivots at a low chassis height which allows the low height of the seat and fuel tank. The chopped rear fender and seat rails are settled on a cast subframe. The frame design of this bike plays the actual role in a smooth ride, transmitting vibrations, and making rides enjoyable.

On the left side of this bike, the shaft drive is integrated with the swingarm, which gives a clean and simple look. Its visible rear shock absorbers are tilted forward which provides a comfortable ride with precise control. Its 17” front wheel and extended 41 mm front fork create a responsive and pleasant package. While the fat 160 mm rear tire highlights the sporty custom styling, it also provides comfort as well. The Shadow Phantom has powerful brakes with smooth efficiency. At last, there is a 296 mm front disc with a dual-piston caliper and on the other hand, there is a conventional 180 mm trailing drum brake at the rear.

The Honda Shadow Phantom is an excellent bike for all types of riders. Its low seating position and great handling allow the newbies to ride with confidence and learn to ride in a short amount of time. Also, the ideal engine power, good mileage, and less weight make this bike easy to maneuver.

The Shadow Phantom is powered by a 750 cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine that produces 44.6 horsepower and 47.9 lb/ft of torque. It is estimated that this bike can reach a top speed of 100 mph.

The Shadow Phantom is a cruiser-type motorcycle produced by Honda. It is estimated that this bike weighs around 549 lbs.

The Shadow Phantom is a modern cruiser that features classic American motorcycle style. Unlike vintage machines, this bike was created with high-performance Honda engineering. The output is an efficient cruiser that’s a real hard-turner and comfortable to drive. Even though riders love this machine, there are still some Honda fans who’d like to improve some areas of their bikes. While the Shadow Phantom 750 parts are great, you can always increase your comfort and looks with a large number of aftermarket parts available at VikingBags.

If it's your bike, you can always customize it according to your preferences and riding comfort. Nothing is more convenient than installing a sissy bar to keep your back comfortable while traveling long distances. If you frequently go on long tours and camping trips you have an option for mounting a luggage bag to carry your camping luggage and many more along with you.

There are a variety of options and ideas available to give your bike an appearance you like. However, many riders loved the unique and vintage look of their bikes and want to keep them in stock as an iconic beauty. Attaching a pair of good-quality saddlebags is always a good idea to carry your daily belongings.