2003 Honda Shadow VLX from United States of America

Summary:

Great reliability and value, and it looks good too

Faults:

Fork seals needed to be replaced. This was most likely due to the previous owner riding it a total of only 750 miles over 4 years.

General Comments:

This motorcycle is not the largest displacement mid size cruiser out there. This motorcycle isn't loaded with "cutting edge" technology. This bike has three things going for it: reliability, style, and it's affordable.

Because it's relatively uncomplicated, there's less to go wrong. The VLX has been around for many model years. Over time, the Honda engineers have worked out all the kinks. Do your pre ride inspection, turn the key, press the ignition button and you're ready to go.

The VLX also has an old school look to it. For me, it's what a motorcycle should look like. The Deluxe model has chrome everywhere. The bike just looks good.

The VLX is also very affordable. It's relatively inexpensive to maintain. It gets good fuel economy. It's cheap to insure. Owning this bike won't break the bank.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th March, 2008

2006 Honda Shadow VLX from United States of America

Summary:

Awesome!

Faults:

Nothing at this point.

General Comments:

Bike is great! I'm a female rider, and this bike is great if you're looking for a bike with power, that isn't too heavy to handle.

Although I've been riding for almost 16 years, this bike is great for beginning riders, as I taught my 16 year old to ride it.

The new models, VLX 600 look awesome with the chrome that has been added. I get asked all the time, "Is that a Harley?" Great bike, great price!

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd October, 2006

24th Jul 2009, 16:45

I've heard the 4 speed gearbox sucks. Hopefully, Honda will update this bike with 5 speed gearbox, like Suzuki did with the Savage when it stopped making it for awhile and then brought it back.

25th Aug 2009, 08:39

For years now I have been reading about comments from Honda steed riders. I am green with envy, but no matter what I do, I cannot afford to buy one, much more register it here in the Philippines, a country of live alligators out to devour a registrant of a motorcycle bought from abroad! However, I will still keep on reading what you guys write. Keep on riding high...

27th Nov 2009, 21:10

This motorcycle is awesome!! The v-twin has so much power, and rumbles a sweet note too! Big fat tire in the rear, and pizza cutter up front, it's a true street rod.

Chrome header pipes. The ride is solid. There's no need for a Harley Sportster if you get this Shadow. Plus you'll save big bucks.

Overall, top of line engineering.

In reply to 24th Jul 2009, 16:45

13th Mar 2014, 14:45

The EU counterpart Steed has a 5 speed gear box :) Great for long rides!