Positioned in Honda's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 1985 Honda VT 1100C Shadow features a 1099 cc (67.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 78 HP (56.9 kW) at 6,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 98 Nm (72.3 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 71 HP per liter and a 3,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,000 rpm) and peak power (6,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the VT 1100C Shadow measures 265 kg (584 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.29 HP/kg (3.4 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 750 mm (29.5 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,610 mm (63.4 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 13-liter (3.4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 172 km/h (107 mph).
Specific Output
71 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.29 HP/kg (3.4 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–6,000 rpm
Standover Height
750 mm (29.5 in)
Engine
Displacement1099.0 ccm (67.06 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Power78.0 HP (56.9 kW)) @ 6000 RPM
Torque98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke87.5 x 91.4 mm (3.4 x 3.6 inches)
Valves/Cylinder3
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 2 x 36mm Keihin
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionCDI
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed172.0 km/h (106.9 mph)
Chassis
Rake33.0°
Trail154 mm (6.0 inches)
Front Suspension41mm Showa telescopic forks
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionDual shock
Rear Travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase1610 mm (63.4 inches)
Ground Clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/90-18
Rear Tyre140/90-15
Front BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø336 mm (13.2 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø195 mm (7.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight245.0 kg (540.1 pounds)
Weight incl.265.0 kg (584.2 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3184 HP/kg
Seat Height750 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
