Positioned in Honda's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2003 Honda VT 750 C2 Shadow features a 745 cc (45.5 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 45 HP (32.8 kW) at 5,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 63 Nm (46.5 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 60.4 HP per liter and a 2,500 rpm working window between peak torque (3,000 rpm) and peak power (5,500 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 750 C2 Shadow measures 229 kg (505 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (5.09 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 700 mm (27.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,615 mm (63.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. 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 6 indexed model years from 1997 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
60.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.2 HP/kg (5.09 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–5,500 rpm
Standover Height
700 mm (27.6 in)
Engine
Displacement745.0 ccm (45.46 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power45.0 HP (32.8 kW)) @ 5500 RPM
Torque63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression9.6:1
Bore x Stroke79.0 x 76.0 mm (3.1 x 3.0 inches)
Valves/Cylinder3
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Two 36mm diaphragm-type CV
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionSolid-state with electronic advance, two spark plugs per cylinder
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.
