When Honda's design and marketing teams sit down to discuss upgrading an existing model, careful consideration is given to the current customer profile. Who are they? What do they like about the bike? What can Honda offer more riders like them? In the case of Honda's Shadow Spirit 750-the best-selling custom in the company's lineup with a heritage that reaches all the way back to 1983-some might speculate that it's best to leave well enough alone, but that would not be the Honda way. In the same manner that Honda has taken the flagship Gold Wing to a new level of sophistication with each subsequent introduction, the 2007 Shadow Spirit 750 C2 has a whole new attitude. And it's better than ever.
The engineering team's three-fold goal was to make the new Shadow Spirit 750 look longer and lower like a larger-displacement machine, without sacrificing the friendly ergonomics and ease of handling that appeal to so many first-time and reentry riders. To accomplish this, the bike was fitted with a new single-backbone frame first introduced on the Aero. This produces a wheelbase that is more than an inch longer (65.0 vs. 63.8) while simultaneously stretching the ergonomic envelope to accommodate physically larger riders. Smaller riders were not ignored, however, as the rider triangle between the seat, handlebar and footpegs was kept as close to the previous model as possible. An added benefit is a seat height that is even lower than before-25.7 inches compared to 26.6. Nothing gives a rider confidence like putting both feet flat on the ground.
To emphasize the street-rod styling of the new Shadow Spirit 750 , the designers added a 21-inch front wheel and 90/90-21 rubber for a narrow, custom look that also provides light steering feel. A newly designed handlebar offers a sporty, upright riding position. The lightweight aluminum radiator is now out of sight between the frame downtubes, while a gunfighter-style seat and a teardrop-shaped air cleaner cover add to the hot-rod aura. Shorty fenders (the rear one now boasts a custom, integrated taillight), a chromed, tank-mounted speedometer/instrument housing and twin, bullet-style mufflers-all signature elements of the Spirit blueprint-were redesigned to complement the V-twin's new low-slung attitude.
Perhaps the biggest news for Spirit 750 lovers is the all-new shaft drive. A feature popular with new and experienced riders alike, Honda's shaft-drive system provides miles and miles of smooth, reliable operation and is virtually maintenance-free. Despite the larger frame and added weight of the shaft drive, the dry weight of the Shadow Spirit 750 C2 is just 7.5 pounds heavier (503.5 vs. 496) than last year's model. Which means it is still as easy to maneuver in parking lots and low-speed turns as it ever was.
Of course, all the essential goodness of the original Spirit 750 remains. At its heart beats a 745cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin with a bore and stroke of 79mm x 76mm. Both connecting rods are bolted to the same crankpin, delivering the rumbling cadence and torque that so many riders especially seek out. The Shadow Spirit 750 C2 features SOHC heads with three valves per cylinder and a 9.6:1 compression ratio, now fed by a 34mm constant-velocity carburetor in place of the traditional Shadow dual-carb system for ample acceleration and passing power. Coupled with the wide-ratio five-speed transmission, the Spirit also delivers surprising economy. The 41mm front fork now provides 4.6 inches of suspension travel, and the dual rear shocks (with five-position spring-preload adjustability) offer an ample 3.5 inches of compliance. Bringing it all to a stop is a single 296mm drilled disc with a twin-piston brake caliper up front and a 180mm drum brake in the rear. Sharp-eyed observers will note the front brake has moved to the right side from its traditional position on the left-side fork leg. This change was made to counter the effects of adding weight onto the left side of the machine in the form of the shaft-drive system.
Honda has graced the new Shadow Spirit 750 with lots of chrome and dramatic new colors. Paint options include Ultra Blue Metallic, Black/Flame, Red/Flame and classic Black. Owners can select from a long list of Genuine Honda Accessories, including Touring, Chrome and Billet options, to personalize their ride.
With the 2006 introduction of the Spirit's sibling, the Shadow Aero, fans of retro-styled customs found the perfect ride. And now for hot-rod aficionados of all sizes and experience levels, there can be only one choice-the all-new 2007 Shadow Spirit 750 C2.
Touring Accessories
Custom Windscreen, Lower Wind Deflector, Leather Saddlebags (three styles: Studded, Fringed and Plain), Synthetic Leather Saddlebags, Leather Tank Belt (Studded and Plain), Leather Front Pouch (Studded, Fringed and Plain), Leather Touring Bag (Studded, Fringed and Plain), Saddlebag Liner Set
Chrome Accessories
Light Bar, Spotlight Visors, Backrest with Pad (two styles: Tall and Low), Backrest Trim (Tall and Low), Rear Carrier (Square-Tube), Passenger Grabrails, Radiator Guard, Allen-Bolt Inserts (three sizes: 5mm, 6mm and 8mm), Throw-Over Saddlebag Supports, Driveshaft Cover
Billet Accessories
Master-Cylinder Cap (four styles: Fluted, V Design, Neo-Retro and Chrome), Handlebar Clamps, Swingarm Pivot Cover Set, License-Plate Frame (Fluted, V Design and
Neo-Retro)
Additional Accessories
Cycle Cover