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Custom - Cruiser · 2001

VT 125 C Shadow

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MotoLibrary Score
37 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.1 hp/kg
Top Speed
111 km/h
Torque
11 Nm
Engine
125 ccm

2001 Honda VT 125 C Shadow Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 2001 Honda VT 125 C Shadow custom - cruiser motorcycle, Honda relies on a 125 cc (7.6 cu in) v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 15 HP (10.9 kW) at 11,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 10.7 Nm (7.9 lb-ft) at 9,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 120 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (9,000 rpm) and peak power (11,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the VT 125 C Shadow measures 145 kg (320 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 HP/kg (9.67 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 680 mm (26.8 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,524 mm (60 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 14.5-liter (3.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 111 km/h (69 mph).

Specific Output
120 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.1 HP/kg (9.67 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
9,000–11,000 rpm
Standover Height
680 mm (26.8 in)
Engine
Displacement 125.0 ccm (7.63 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 15.0 HP (10.9 kW)) @ 11000 RPM
Torque 10.7 Nm (1.1 kgf-m or 7.9 ft.lbs) @ 9000 RPM
Bore x Stroke 42.0 x 45.0 mm (1.7 x 1.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 4
Fuel System Carburettor
Fuel Control Single Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Ignition CDI / Transistorized
Lubrication Wet sump forced lubrication
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Multiplate wet clutch, cable/hydraulic operated
Driveline Roller chain final drive
Chain Size 428
Performance
Top Speed 111.0 km/h (69.0 mph)
Chassis
Front Suspension Telescopic fork
Front Travel 110 mm (4.3 inches)
Rear Suspension Dual hydraulic shock absorbers or hidden monoshock
Rear Travel 80 mm (3.1 inches)
Wheelbase 1524 mm (60.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 100/90-17
Rear Tyre 130/90-15
Front Tire Pressure 1.8 bar (26 psi)
Rear Tire Pressure 2.0 bar (29 psi)
Front Brakes Single disc
Front Brake Ø 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake
Rear Brake Ø 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 145.0 kg (319.7 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1034 HP/kg
Seat Height 680 mm (26.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 14.50 litres (3.83 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 1.00 litres (1.06 US quarts)
Service & Fluids
Engine Oil SAE 10W-40 4T (API SL/SN / JASO MA2)
Brake Fluid DOT 4
Spark Plugs NGK CR8E / CPR8EA-9
Battery 12V 6Ah / 7Ah (YTX7L-BS)
Other
Starter Electric
Electrical 12V 6Ah / 7Ah (YTX7L-BS)
More from Honda
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

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.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
✌️
Best For
Cruising & Touring
📏
Seat Height
68 cm / 26.8 in
⚖️
Handling
Manageable weight for most riders
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