At the heart of the 2003 Honda VT 125 Shadow custom - cruiser motorcycle, Honda features a 124.5 cc (7.6 cu in) v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 15 HP (10.9 kW) at 11,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 10.5 Nm (7.7 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 120.5 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 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. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Honda archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1999 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
120.5 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
Displacement124.5 ccm (7.60 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power15.0 HP (10.9 kW)) @ 11000 RPM
Torque10.5 Nm (1.1 kgf-m or 7.7 ft.lbs) @ 9000 RPM
Bore x Stroke42.0 x 45.0 mm (1.7 x 1.8 inches)
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-17
Rear Tyre130/90-15
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight145.0 kg (319.7 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1034 HP/kg
Seat Height680 mm (26.8 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.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
