I have a 2001 Honda Shadow VLX (44,000 miles on it so far). I have had it up to 80. I go 70 on superhighways for an hour at a time, no problem. There are many RUclips videos showing it going 100 mph. Of all the motorcycles I have ever owned, this one is my favorite. I wish it had a fifth gear, though.
I don't know why everyone is saying this isn't a good bike for the highway, I have a shadow 600 and it's great on the highway. I want fom Bangor Maine to Portland Maine going 85 and it was a smooth ride.
Yeah my 03 can do 80-85 comfortably. That's about top speed but it's still getting 45-50mpg and not screaming. You just get used to giving it 100% a lot of the time.
Most important thing is that you got a true dual exhaust without crossover, but I’m sure you know that. If it still isn’t loud enough straight pipe it. 🤷♂️
I have a 2006 vlx 600 like that. It's one of the few modern bike's you can mount a 70's era Windjammer fairing on. I did that to mine along with matching bag's and trunk. I'm an old man so I liked the low seat to get my leg over and it's easy to pickup if dropped. Mine runs fine at 70 mph. I think the loud non stock pipes are the problem. You can't just go changing the exhaust back pressure without changing the cam shaft to match along with carburetor jets too. My VLX is a nice light weight touring bike now. No one has made those since the Honda GL500 Silverwing from the early 80's.
I just bought my first bike. 2006 shadow vlx 600. So far it's been an amazing bike to learn on! It allows me to make mistakes and still have fun. The only thing I have to remember is to let it warm up before I get on the road (learned that one the hard way). I love my bike and don't see myself upgrading anytime soon.
@@izmanradzi2970 gotta keep the bike well maintained and it won't do that. Keep your bike in a good state of tune always. With a carbed bike, that means driving it regularly, either everyday or every other day. Keeping the carb clean with clean fresh non ethanol gas is very important as well. Have the carb setup properly for you air density and you'll have no problems. The 600 shadow, especially the later versions with the single carb (like in this video) is a very sweet running bike that starts very easily. I never have to pull the choke to start it, and I always hop on the bike right away and ride it. The best way to warm the bike up is to ride the thing, put some load on the engine and get everything moving. You can ride with the choke out as the bike warms up if it helps it run better. Having a proper sized pilot jet and a properly tuned air fuel screw will allow the bike up start right up and idle, even when cold. The single carbed shadows also have an accelerator pump while the dual carbed versions do not, meaning the single carb starts very easily and has great throttle response, though it has reduced power in the higher RPM. If the bike is difficult to start, a quick couple twists of the throttle will shoot some gas directly into the mouth of the carb to prime the engine and allow it to start easier. After my shadow sat for over a year and a half, i poured fresh gas in it and twisted the throttle until i could hear the accelerator pump pick up fuel and squirt it down the throat of the carb. Pulled the choke and hit the button and the bike popped right off and idled perfectly. Bike barely even cranked, it rolled over twice and started beautifully, and i had the choke fully closed within a minute of idling, after not having run for over a year. I was very impressed to say the very least, but not surprised as it's always started very easily and it's just a very sweet understressed motor.
I just bought an 07 VLX Deluxe 5 speed with a trike kit for my parents, I had it up to 85 and it was great! your a stand up guy and I like your videos.
I have a 98 VLX600 and i rode on highway a lot for an hour back and forth and also took it on a 7 hour trip at highway speeds. It did ok. But youre right, it isnt geared for it and it feels like its gonna fall apart at 80. After just recently moving to a 1300, the change is crazy. So smooth
just rode my first 300 miles on my 89' honda shadow vlx 600, bought it for $1,600 and it only has 8k miles on it. i put the same handle bars on mine as the one in this video! love this bike. prefer to cruise the side roads at 55mph.
That bike didn’t start to good. I have a 2000 600 VLX sounds just like this but starts as soon as I touch the start button and does great on the highway, very comfortable compared to a lot of bikes
love your videos dude! Picking up my first bike this week and it's an '06 Shadow 600. I think it'll be perfect getting around the small town and country roads around me and then good for campus cruising when I get back to school.
+Blake Taylor--I have a 05'..That year they came with pearl white, red or orange..Wanted the high visibility quality...Get use to the weigh and chopper hard to turn qualities by just going with a good instructor on long streets with right turns mostly..Dont try tight turning until hours later..Choppers resist turning..I taught myself using youtube videos..many with BS or unclear advise.. Dont do that..Take the written test well before so you learn the theory on ground, then practice that on bike..I learned by trial and error..broke a few things..no good..I work out hard and also handle difficult machines...Flight Instructor..So I said , F it, I will learn with time..but Bikes are a different animal...and the asphalt dont forgive anyone..Better learn turning on big short grass field first..No tight turning for first few hours...
I have a 96 vt600. It has high end after market pipes.jetted and calibrated both carbs .I ride 85 on highway for hours .stock sprocket .the 1100 shadow can't catch it if it had tops out at 130.with 25000 miles on it I've it
I liked this video before I bought my 96 Shadow CD, It’s awesome turquoise and black. I had to watch it again after riding daily for a couple years. One thing though this motor always has more to give...Rode 600 miles on it and often at 75 or 80 mph trying to pass ppl, I would look down and see I’m doing well over 100 before I even get back in the lane! I also hit a dead deer doing around 60 in a bend at night...we survived. These bikes aren’t a joke if you don’t weigh 200+ lbs.
Yea ill check it out my only prob is im 18 19 in August and my parents said that i cant go buying a bike till i have my license so yea untill then i can only look lol thank you though
I kept the 16 front sprocket but changed the rear to a 41, take off isn't rip roaring but I don't do that sorta thing anyways, on the highway, rolling at 100-115 kmh is just fine ,very pleasant handling and the engine seems to be comfortable. No need to go any faster...
I have a 2002 vlx... Highway riding has always been smooth. And yes thats doing 65 and up. I will admit at 100 mph the front end feels a little light. I dont like the way the bike in this video started....
These are great bikes and makes a fine highway bike if you switch out the rear sprocket down from 44 to 41teeth. Not enough room to go bigger then stock on the front sprocket.
I think you do a really good job with your reviews---straight to the point without a bunch of extra b.s. The drag bars on that Shadow are not stock correct?
Have one...but needs those drag bars. Learned riding on it..found out choppers resist turning..those Drag Bars will make it easier to take the test on it..Very comfortable if you have short legs..No ballerina tiptoe ever..Easy to back up..Sounds like a bigger engine.. so dam cool..They are Best for Country roads.. Avoid very long trips over 65..Have only 4 speeds.. I avoid long trips over 65 mph..Rides smooth at 65 but at some high RPM noise..smooth due that big rear tire...Has a 4 position single shock under seat..Classic looks are classy..For people with Class. Do Classy Riding..Not just another ugly bike..Dont buy ugly things..
This is good to hear about safety for a beginner bike, which is where I am. The noise is truly annoying and wonder what can be done to baffle or dampen it , or is it essential ?
You mentioned you had a turquoise blue one back in college, which is funny because I just bought a 2007 shadow vlx deluxe that color from a guy who bought it from somebody who did most of the miles on it back when he was in college
My buddy took his Yamaha VStar 250 cruiser on a windy freeway a couple days ago. And I was on a Suzuki Boulevard S40 (650 single cylinder) and we were sort of OK. LOL.
Excellent video, do you know what handle bars is on it? I had a 2004 600 Shadow I loved it!! I wanted to upgrade it. I went to a VTX1800. Then I lost that in a divorce. Trying rebuilding I now have a vt1100 with just 12000 miles. They are just awesome bikes. For me personally.
I have a 1988 shadow four speeds..😊 It looks like a chopper 24.000 Miles on it..i got it from a motorcycle shop in Detroit lakes Minnesota...lt so cool
I have a 600 my only complaint is lack of gearing. I have had it on the freeway here in Michigan, at 70mph the mirrors are worthless. I am considering getting a VTX1300 for longer rides on the freeway.
Just rode one home for a friend about 30 min on the highway and it held 70 without issue the whole time. I hit 80 going uphill so I would say no worries if you want to take this bike on the highway
I rented one in LA and rode up the coast past Big Sur to Monterrey, then east to Yosemite and back the same way. I weigh about 195 lbs plus riding gear and luggage. I found that for the secondary highways, the bike was fine up to about 65 mph, but to push past that, to me it felt like the engine was straining. When you get on a fast section of Interstate in California, you can easily be doing 75 in the right-side lane, and not have a lot of power for passing.
I love my 02 vlx 600 but it I have to leave it on choke for about 10 mins before it smooths out. Kinda inconvenient but not the biggest of deals. I think it's the perfect first bike
@usa-rb5fi The 750 is also about 70 pounds heavier, the suspension is stiffer, and the seat is less comfortable. Last year, I traded my 750 Aero for an FJR 1300. This year, I picked up a vlx 600 to commute on, and it's more fun than the 750.
Srkcycles thanks for making your channel i like it and nice video, love the bike im am actually thinking about getting a 2004 Honda Shadow to buy and these seem like good starter bikes for my first bike, but what are the mpg on these bikes and do you know any starter bikes that get good mpg?
Hey, I wonder what your input would be on putting a diesel motor in one of these? One is up for grabs and I want to go Royal Enfield style with getting as far as possible for as cheap as it can get. V twin or single? Or maybe I just make my own special motor, I have something in mind😁😁 Cruising on the highway, I don't want it to be too loud either, so I guess a CVT with "long legs" should be possible.
I really like your videos. You do a really great job. I would like to know want GoPro you are using and what your settings are for your videos. Thanks.
The nice thing about these is that they are real motorcycles. They aren't like rebels. These guys you can slap on some apes, straight pipes and fringe if you want and it'll be as motorcycle as any loser with a softail heritage, but they're super light and easy to handle. I don't like the term "beginner bike" since it implies that the motorcycle isn't legitimate as a motorcycle, since you could get this as the bike you want and never ride anything else and be happy, but this is definitely one of the best first bikes.
Awesome video, i'm actually looking into a beginners bike as we speak and I found an 05 shadow vlx 600 for sale, after watching this video I think I might pull the trigger, are there any things I need to look out for when i go take a look at it? the bike has around 11k miles and he said that the lowest price he can do is $2300, does that sound about right? Thank you so much by the way.
I ABSOLUTELY NEED TO KNOW PLEASE! - I have an 05 honda shadow Areo 750, it runs fine but definitely needs cosmetic work. I have found fenders and tank and seat for one of these VLX 600 of the same year (05) My question is... will the parts fit my 750? Or will they be to small?
I'm 6'3 and I ride one no problem. If you have long legs and do a lot of tight cornering consider changing the bars or getting some risers, as in u turns your leg will get caught in if you don't move it out of the way in time with stock bars. Not the quickest bike but easy on the wallet and easy to maintain. With me on top my 5-speed gets to about 85, but it's way comfier at 70 or less, also because of the drag. Sorry if my English isn't perfect, if you need to know anything feel free to ask.
The color of this bike is beautiful, but I hate the sound and the handlebars. The sound of the Cobra pipes and handlebars on the 2002 vlx that you have a video of are much nicer. It seemed to run a little better than this one too.
I’m going to be buying a 2002 we all like 600 for 1000. It has around 6500 miles on it but the only downfall is it hasn’t ran since 2017 and I wasn’t able to hear it run because the battery was dead. What are your thoughts?
I know you wrote it 6 months ago but If you have money to get him to shop and let someone fix it or even better if you know how to do mechanical stuff on bikes then I would get it, anyway I'm curious what you did?
I'm trying to find the video that you mention where you walk around the bike. I just bought an 07 delux and I have 0 experience on a bike. Thanks for the video!
Sorry for being a year late ;) It is the same bike, branded for different markets.The Steed was originally made for the Japanese market and then it was exported to Europe and other countries. Overall, it is the exact same bike as the Shadow VLX (made for the American market) except for some minor "localization" like for example the Shadow has an speedometer with mph instead of km/h for the Steed. If you open up a Steed's turn signal light then you can find engraved the specs for the light bulbs for Japan and Europe (they differ). I think the Steed brand was produced up to 1996 but the thing is that they had a different handle bar than the 1995+ Shadows. Let me tell you that the Steed's handle bar is the perfect handle bar for any bike, it feels so natural, it is the most comfortable handle bar on earth, I would buy any bike but then replace the stock handle bar with a Steed's one. The engine top and side covers are shiny chromed in the Steed and in the Shadow they are like matte satinated. In the Shadow's maintenance manual you can find some clues that suggest that some specs are for the Shadow only but I think they apply for the Steed as well....again, the same bike. Also! the Steed has a 400cc version with a 5 shift gearbox, a total sweetness. How do I know all this stuff? Because I own one of these Japanese 400cc Steeds, I've redone the bike 2 times and have done all the major maintenance all by my self using the official maintenance/mechanic manual. It was my first bike and have had it for 15 years. These VLX seem to run forever, never have to open up the engine. I've also tried many 600cc Steeds....what can I say, pretty lame, the 400cc feels much better. The 600 version feels to pull more on the first 2 gears just to move the bike to gain total inertia but then after that it feels exactly like the 400 version, except that the 400 has still room for one more gear (moar speed, moar powa). In highways, the 400 feels much smoother and comfortable than the 600. That 400cc version made a pretty good sweetspot for me. That is my first hand insight. Hope to help someone picking up a Steed.
@@georgebushskates2066 I wouldn't say tiny exactly. I'd say it's about an average sized engine. For some reason lots of Harley dudes call even 883ccs small haha
I'm 6'3" and, lets say, north of 250. Would I look like the bear riding the motorcycle at the circus on this bike? The price of these makes them a tempting choice.
am supposed to pick up a 2004 Honda shadow with 6k miles on it for 2k is this a good deal and are the forward controls right for me will I reach them am 5'4
I have a 2001 Honda Shadow VLX (44,000 miles on it so far). I have had it up to 80. I go 70 on superhighways for an hour at a time, no problem. There are many RUclips videos showing it going 100 mph. Of all the motorcycles I have ever owned, this one is my favorite. I wish it had a fifth gear, though.
Your speedometer may be off too (as they often are). Just because it says your going 100 does not mean your going 100 could be going 90
Can and should are not the same thing on a motorcycle
I have the Japanese 400 version it has a five speed and it is currently on 117k miles
@@jimthvac100 yeah but you could say this about literally any bike lol
Yep - there's no way you're hitting 100mph on one.
I just bought a Honda shadow 600 I love it! Smooth ride for a beginner.
I recently jst bought a 05 Honda shadow 600. New rider so glad to hear good reviews
I don't know why everyone is saying this isn't a good bike for the highway, I have a shadow 600 and it's great on the highway. I want fom Bangor Maine to Portland Maine going 85 and it was a smooth ride.
wow thats awesome, thanks for the first hand insight
Joe Langel hey im looking at one right know it has 55k miles, we met at 900$ will u recommend for a noob?
Yeah my 03 can do 80-85 comfortably. That's about top speed but it's still getting 45-50mpg and not screaming. You just get used to giving it 100% a lot of the time.
For 900 bucks I hope to god you picked that up.
Thank u for this im fine with at least 65 everyone saying this bike sucks after 60mph and im buying 1 tomorrow
That has to be the best sounding VLX I've ever heard
Same!!
She sounds purdy
Absolutely. I have an 04 VLX that sounds NOTHING like this. Lol
Most important thing is that you got a true dual exhaust without crossover, but I’m sure you know that.
If it still isn’t loud enough straight pipe it. 🤷♂️
@@muaythai193 you're an idiot.
The VLX never came with crossover pipes
I just bought my first bike it is a 02 Shadow 600 with those pipes I LOVE IT!!!!!
I have a 2006 vlx 600 like that. It's one of the few modern bike's you can mount a 70's era Windjammer fairing on. I did that to mine along with matching bag's and trunk. I'm an old man so I liked the low seat to get my leg over and it's easy to pickup if dropped. Mine runs fine at 70 mph. I think the loud non stock pipes are the problem. You can't just go changing the exhaust back pressure without changing the cam shaft to match along with carburetor jets too. My VLX is a nice light weight touring bike now. No one has made those since the Honda GL500 Silverwing from the early 80's.
I just bought my first bike. 2006 shadow vlx 600. So far it's been an amazing bike to learn on! It allows me to make mistakes and still have fun. The only thing I have to remember is to let it warm up before I get on the road (learned that one the hard way). I love my bike and don't see myself upgrading anytime soon.
what happen if its not warm up and what happened?
Carbureted bikes need to warm up for a little bit, otherwise if you hop on and try to take off it may not run or could cut out/ misfire on you.
I’m looking to buy one this week myself, found one near me for less than $2k with less than 5k miles on it.
what bike is that
@@izmanradzi2970 gotta keep the bike well maintained and it won't do that. Keep your bike in a good state of tune always. With a carbed bike, that means driving it regularly, either everyday or every other day. Keeping the carb clean with clean fresh non ethanol gas is very important as well. Have the carb setup properly for you air density and you'll have no problems. The 600 shadow, especially the later versions with the single carb (like in this video) is a very sweet running bike that starts very easily. I never have to pull the choke to start it, and I always hop on the bike right away and ride it. The best way to warm the bike up is to ride the thing, put some load on the engine and get everything moving. You can ride with the choke out as the bike warms up if it helps it run better. Having a proper sized pilot jet and a properly tuned air fuel screw will allow the bike up start right up and idle, even when cold. The single carbed shadows also have an accelerator pump while the dual carbed versions do not, meaning the single carb starts very easily and has great throttle response, though it has reduced power in the higher RPM. If the bike is difficult to start, a quick couple twists of the throttle will shoot some gas directly into the mouth of the carb to prime the engine and allow it to start easier. After my shadow sat for over a year and a half, i poured fresh gas in it and twisted the throttle until i could hear the accelerator pump pick up fuel and squirt it down the throat of the carb. Pulled the choke and hit the button and the bike popped right off and idled perfectly. Bike barely even cranked, it rolled over twice and started beautifully, and i had the choke fully closed within a minute of idling, after not having run for over a year. I was very impressed to say the very least, but not surprised as it's always started very easily and it's just a very sweet understressed motor.
75mph with stock pipes is pretty smooth.tops out at 100mph I think.
Got one as a calmer alternative to my cbr1000f
I just bought an 07 VLX Deluxe 5 speed with a trike kit for my parents, I had it up to 85 and it was great! your a stand up guy and I like your videos.
Nice,started riding this year on a Virago 250,the Shadow 600 might be my 2nd one
Same here
@@EAGLE_ENERGY717 what you guys get?
I have a 98 VLX600 and i rode on highway a lot for an hour back and forth and also took it on a 7 hour trip at highway speeds. It did ok. But youre right, it isnt geared for it and it feels like its gonna fall apart at 80. After just recently moving to a 1300, the change is crazy. So smooth
just rode my first 300 miles on my 89' honda shadow vlx 600, bought it for $1,600 and it only has 8k miles on it. i put the same handle bars on mine as the one in this video! love this bike. prefer to cruise the side roads at 55mph.
Rookie numbers kid
That bike didn’t start to good. I have a 2000 600 VLX sounds just like this but starts as soon as I touch the start button and does great on the highway, very comfortable compared to a lot of bikes
This is my first bike fully customized still working on it :) ! I LOVE IT
Forward controlls, Handle bars, paint jobs, custom pipes !
no problem if youd like you can watch a fast video of my bike as it is atm ! ;)
I have a VLX it's the best bike I've ever had. Can get my bike up to 95 felt perfectly fine.
Honda Shadow a built-to-last the motors are bulletproof long live the shadow
I absolutely love mine. Making her a bobber project. 1988 Shadow 600. Wouldn't trade it for anything. Nice video!
Had a 88, I liked the quality and simplicity of it. Would like to find another and extend the forks 2". Cool bike.
love your videos dude! Picking up my first bike this week and it's an '06 Shadow 600. I think it'll be perfect getting around the small town and country roads around me and then good for campus cruising when I get back to school.
+Blake Taylor--I have a 05'..That year they came with pearl white, red or orange..Wanted the high visibility quality...Get use to the weigh and chopper hard to turn qualities by just going with a good instructor on long streets with right turns mostly..Dont try tight turning until hours later..Choppers resist turning..I taught myself using youtube videos..many with BS or unclear advise.. Dont do that..Take the written test well before so you learn the theory on ground, then practice that on bike..I learned by trial and error..broke a few things..no good..I work out hard and also handle difficult machines...Flight Instructor..So I said , F it, I will learn with time..but Bikes are a different animal...and the asphalt dont forgive anyone..Better learn turning on big short grass field first..No tight turning for first few hours...
My 2004 honda shadow vlx 600 was doing 90 and felt just fine.
If your 600 shadow tops out at 70 it needs major work mine cruises at 70 in 3rd gear
The manual says it tops out at 95 for most
I have a 96 vt600. It has high end after market pipes.jetted and calibrated both carbs .I ride 85 on highway for hours .stock sprocket .the 1100 shadow can't catch it if it had tops out at 130.with 25000 miles on it I've it
That's an amazing sounding 600!
Your positive energy rules.
I liked this video before I bought my 96 Shadow CD, It’s awesome turquoise and black. I had to watch it again after riding daily for a couple years. One thing though this motor always has more to give...Rode 600 miles on it and often at 75 or 80 mph trying to pass ppl, I would look down and see I’m doing well over 100 before I even get back in the lane! I also hit a dead deer doing around 60 in a bend at night...we survived. These bikes aren’t a joke if you don’t weigh 200+ lbs.
God I love these shadows I'm looking for one now
Your in Pa right i dont think i want to travel that far for a bike but ill think about it do you have a website with pictures of it
Yea ill check it out my only prob is im 18 19 in August and my parents said that i cant go buying a bike till i have my license so yea untill then i can only look lol thank you though
I got a 2007 with 5900 for sale in CT $2600
Thanks bro to fair im in chicago ima keep looking though
+MIdwest Madness (Jack)
cool man...prob keepin it anyway to build a bobber
I've had an 06' VLX for 5 years and just jetted it and put Cobra pipes on it. It breathes much better and as such has more power and a great sound.
Had my shadow for about a month. Still the best bike ever, still not interested in a bigger bike.
I bought a 94 Honda Magna VF750C back in May of 2020. I love the sound of my V4, but that V twin sounds sweet too.
I kept the 16 front sprocket but changed the rear to a 41, take off isn't rip roaring but I don't do that sorta thing anyways, on the highway, rolling at 100-115 kmh is just fine ,very pleasant handling and the engine seems to be comfortable. No need to go any faster...
I have a 2002 vlx... Highway riding has always been smooth. And yes thats doing 65 and up. I will admit at 100 mph the front end feels a little light. I dont like the way the bike in this video started....
"Anything on two wheels is gonna be fun" absolute truth
These are great bikes and makes a fine highway bike if you switch out the rear sprocket down from 44 to 41teeth. Not enough room to go bigger then stock on the front sprocket.
I just added a 41 tooth to my VLX. Can't wait for the snow to be gone so I can ride and see how much more highway speed I have
I can have a blast on a 70's moped. Just like any other bike, im sure it has its own fun factor.
I think you do a really good job with your reviews---straight to the point without a bunch of extra b.s. The drag bars on that Shadow are not stock correct?
This is the exact bike I'd like to get. Thank you for sharing a cool and informative video!
A 250cc is an entry level and 600cc is a step up!
tom kanchanaranya i agree , I guess u and i think alike
600 is entry level for cruisers.
Nah lol I don't fit on a 250 so I'm grabbing a vlx 600
Have one...but needs those drag bars. Learned riding on it..found out choppers resist turning..those Drag Bars will make it easier to take the test on it..Very comfortable if you have short legs..No ballerina tiptoe ever..Easy to back up..Sounds like a bigger engine.. so dam cool..They are Best for Country roads.. Avoid very long trips over 65..Have only 4 speeds.. I avoid long trips over 65 mph..Rides smooth at 65 but at some high RPM noise..smooth due that big rear tire...Has a 4 position single shock under seat..Classic looks are classy..For people with Class. Do Classy Riding..Not just another ugly bike..Dont buy ugly things..
I sub..thanks for the invite..
This is good to hear about safety for a beginner bike, which is where I am. The noise is truly annoying and wonder what can be done to baffle or dampen it , or is it essential ?
You mentioned you had a turquoise blue one back in college, which is funny because I just bought a 2007 shadow vlx deluxe that color from a guy who bought it from somebody who did most of the miles on it back when he was in college
My buddy took his Yamaha VStar 250 cruiser on a windy freeway a couple days ago. And I was on a Suzuki Boulevard S40 (650 single cylinder) and we were sort of OK. LOL.
Excellent video, do you know what handle bars is on it? I had a 2004 600 Shadow I loved it!! I wanted to upgrade it. I went to a VTX1800. Then I lost that in a divorce. Trying rebuilding I now have a vt1100 with just 12000 miles. They are just awesome bikes. For me personally.
I have a 1988 shadow four speeds..😊
It looks like a chopper
24.000
Miles on it..i got it from a motorcycle shop in Detroit lakes Minnesota...lt so cool
I have the Honda Monkey, and a Civic sport, but I think I need to make room for a Shadow to and to top it a lawnmower from Honda :D
Great Video! Can't wait to get mine! Been looking at a 2003 VLX 600 & a 2006 VLX 600.
Did you end up buying the 2003? I'm looking into one, might pick it up.
I have a 600 my only complaint is lack of gearing. I have had it on the freeway here in Michigan, at 70mph the mirrors are worthless. I am considering getting a VTX1300 for longer rides on the freeway.
Just rode one home for a friend about 30 min on the highway and it held 70 without issue the whole time. I hit 80 going uphill so I would say no worries if you want to take this bike on the highway
ONLY *video posted 8 years ago* bruh mines an 04 with 13k in 2024. We definitely have evolved
They top out at just under 100 mph Sean...
Rented a Shadow 600 many years ago in California. Not a bad bike for the backroads and highways, but not a great bike for the Interstates.
+LS650 Why it's not good for interstates what was you take on it
I rented one in LA and rode up the coast past Big Sur to Monterrey, then east to Yosemite and back the same way. I weigh about 195 lbs plus riding gear and luggage. I found that for the secondary highways, the bike was fine up to about 65 mph, but to push past that, to me it felt like the engine was straining. When you get on a fast section of Interstate in California, you can easily be doing 75 in the right-side lane, and not have a lot of power for passing.
Love the sound of a 600
These don't do bad on the Highway if you replace that rear sprocket with a 41 tooth. Best compromise for highway and low end.
If you get a 41 tooth back sprocket its just fine on the highway. I think it was a 41 tooth i know i went down in teeth on the rear sprocket.
I love my 02 vlx 600 but it I have to leave it on choke for about 10 mins before it smooths out. Kinda inconvenient but not the biggest of deals. I think it's the perfect first bike
Just got mine with the same problems. Put Seafoam in the tank and change the plugs. Starts cold with no choke now.
those turn signals look great
I wonder how much of a power difference you can feel compared to the 750.
5-10 horsepower and the 750 is a 5 speed.
@usa-rb5fi The 750 is also about 70 pounds heavier, the suspension is stiffer, and the seat is less comfortable. Last year, I traded my 750 Aero for an FJR 1300. This year, I picked up a vlx 600 to commute on, and it's more fun than the 750.
Srkcycles thanks for making your channel i like it and nice video, love the bike im am actually thinking about getting a 2004 Honda Shadow to buy and these seem like good starter bikes for my first bike, but what are the mpg on these bikes and do you know any starter bikes that get good mpg?
Hey, I wonder what your input would be on putting a diesel motor in one of these?
One is up for grabs and I want to go Royal Enfield style with getting as far as possible for as cheap as it can get.
V twin or single? Or maybe I just make my own special motor, I have something in mind😁😁
Cruising on the highway, I don't want it to be too loud either, so I guess a CVT with "long legs" should be possible.
Good starter bike ?
Drop to a 41 tooth rear sprocket from the stock 44 and I cruise 80-85mph all day no issues, topped it out at 115mph.
I did the same and cruised at 70 much better than stock.
I really like your videos. You do a really great job. I would like to know want GoPro you are using and what your settings are for your videos. Thanks.
The nice thing about these is that they are real motorcycles. They aren't like rebels. These guys you can slap on some apes, straight pipes and fringe if you want and it'll be as motorcycle as any loser with a softail heritage, but they're super light and easy to handle. I don't like the term "beginner bike" since it implies that the motorcycle isn't legitimate as a motorcycle, since you could get this as the bike you want and never ride anything else and be happy, but this is definitely one of the best first bikes.
How fast can it go? Could I ride this type of motorcycle from FL to NC?
Awesome video, i'm actually looking into a beginners bike as we speak and I found an 05 shadow vlx 600 for sale, after watching this video I think I might pull the trigger, are there any things I need to look out for when i go take a look at it? the bike has around 11k miles and he said that the lowest price he can do is $2300, does that sound about right? Thank you so much by the way.
looking at a 01 vlx 600 as a first bike. driving it to work is the only time it would be over 65. only about 5 miles though.
How does a bike get comfortable?
I ABSOLUTELY NEED TO KNOW PLEASE!
- I have an 05 honda shadow Areo 750, it runs fine but definitely needs cosmetic work.
I have found fenders and tank and seat for one of these VLX 600 of the same year (05)
My question is... will the parts fit my 750? Or will they be to small?
What kind of pipes are on this one but I want some on mine
Van Hines
Vance & Hines...duh
I had a 1971 honda cl100 that would top out at 80. a 6oo should do more.
Would this be suitable for a 6'2 220 lb guy?
Josh Roth I wanna know too 🤔🤔
Im 6' 260lb goes 65 mph all day no problems
I'm 6'3 and I ride one no problem. If you have long legs and do a lot of tight cornering consider changing the bars or getting some risers, as in u turns your leg will get caught in if you don't move it out of the way in time with stock bars. Not the quickest bike but easy on the wallet and easy to maintain. With me on top my 5-speed gets to about 85, but it's way comfier at 70 or less, also because of the drag. Sorry if my English isn't perfect, if you need to know anything feel free to ask.
Absolutely im 220 but 6 ft and great bike super comfortable great ride
The color of this bike is beautiful, but I hate the sound and the handlebars. The sound of the Cobra pipes and handlebars on the 2002 vlx that you have a video of are much nicer. It seemed to run a little better than this one too.
I’m going to be buying a 2002 we all like 600 for 1000. It has around 6500 miles on it but the only downfall is it hasn’t ran since 2017 and I wasn’t able to hear it run because the battery was dead. What are your thoughts?
I know you wrote it 6 months ago but If you have money to get him to shop and let someone fix it or even better if you know how to do mechanical stuff on bikes then I would get it, anyway I'm curious what you did?
What kind of mileage does a bike like this need a rebuild? Is 25K okay?
She sounds about like my 03 when it screams but that low rumble is something beautiful! Yes. I just called a set of pipes beautiful 🤣
Just got me one my first bike :)
damn I wish they made this a 750 it looks so good. site wish that I could get that vulcan 750 from you guys though
There is a shadow 750! :)
Yanou Fishel went with the 600,
I'm trying to find the video that you mention where you walk around the bike. I just bought an 07 delux and I have 0 experience on a bike. Thanks for the video!
thank man!
What exhaust system is on this one, i just got my 600 shadow with the original exhaust, and the sound is boring ;)
+Rasmus Kastrupsen I forget I think Vance and Hines
Srkcycles are those the stock risers on it if not what size are they
would this be about the same as the older (1994) models?
I’m getting one great video man
The sound an the 31.5 degrees rake add three teeth to the rear spocke
Now, do you recommend I keep the factory pipes or would it not make a difference if I got louder pipes?
Louder pipes for idiot drivers?
nice roads man, where do you live?
My buddy has a Honda shadow 250 and it can get to 80(albeit not well). You telling me a 600 can't though?
Gearing is everything
What's the outright difference between a shadow and a Steed???
Sorry for being a year late ;)
It is the same bike, branded for different markets.The Steed was originally made for the Japanese market and then it was exported to Europe and other countries. Overall, it is the exact same bike as the Shadow VLX (made for the American market) except for some minor "localization" like for example the Shadow has an speedometer with mph instead of km/h for the Steed. If you open up a Steed's turn signal light then you can find engraved the specs for the light bulbs for Japan and Europe (they differ).
I think the Steed brand was produced up to 1996 but the thing is that they had a different handle bar than the 1995+ Shadows. Let me tell you that the Steed's handle bar is the perfect handle bar for any bike, it feels so natural, it is the most comfortable handle bar on earth, I would buy any bike but then replace the stock handle bar with a Steed's one.
The engine top and side covers are shiny chromed in the Steed and in the Shadow they are like matte satinated.
In the Shadow's maintenance manual you can find some clues that suggest that some specs are for the Shadow only but I think they apply for the Steed as well....again, the same bike.
Also! the Steed has a 400cc version with a 5 shift gearbox, a total sweetness.
How do I know all this stuff? Because I own one of these Japanese 400cc Steeds, I've redone the bike 2 times and have done all the major maintenance all by my self using the official maintenance/mechanic manual. It was my first bike and have had it for 15 years. These VLX seem to run forever, never have to open up the engine. I've also tried many 600cc Steeds....what can I say, pretty lame, the 400cc feels much better. The 600 version feels to pull more on the first 2 gears just to move the bike to gain total inertia but then after that it feels exactly like the 400 version, except that the 400 has still room for one more gear (moar speed, moar powa). In highways, the 400 feels much smoother and comfortable than the 600. That 400cc version made a pretty good sweetspot for me.
That is my first hand insight. Hope to help someone picking up a Steed.
Damm bro this comment was very helpful, thanks. So the 400cc is the same as the 600cc, not any difference on the throttle?
nice bike!! im lookin for a small bike to give my uncle ...don't really want him on my Vulcan 2000cc lol
Only if I could have purchased this bike .... Man
I love my 1996 Honda Shadow vlx 600 I have straight pipes on it
Whats the handle bars on this ?
Is this bike a good bike for a cafe racer conversion
Chad Moore id say its better for a bobber
Not at all
@@jarnomeekes6756 they're choppers not bobbers
My first bike was an 86 shadow vt500. It would go 65 in top end 3rd. And it was stock. If this bike can't go 65 I'll eat my shoe.
I owned the same year model vt500, and it was smooth up to 80mph in stock trim. I miss that little bike, so much potential.
This has to be Pennsylvania. Specifically....Lancaster. Am I right?
lancaster county, Mannheim specifically
The fields, barns, and scenery was a dead giveaway
classic lanco county
Is this beauty still available?
sorry this one sold really really quick
Shadow or v star
This guy says every bike is small lol
Vlx600 is tiny .
@@georgebushskates2066 I wouldn't say tiny exactly. I'd say it's about an average sized engine. For some reason lots of Harley dudes call even 883ccs small haha
What the mpg on those bikes
Haha going from a 94' tomos Targa lx to this bike excited
Same here! Loved my little targa but I just sold mine for 400
Wow, that's a beefy sounding little bike!
I'm thinking about buying an '06 model to learn on. I'm 6'4" and 325 lbs and the Honda Rebels or Suzuki GZ250s feel like clown bikes.
dude you too fat for this bike and chop off your legs by 8"
What's the exhaust he is using???
He says what it is. Go back and watch and LISTEN, and stop relying on everyone else to do your work. Lazy ass
I'm 6'3" and, lets say, north of 250. Would I look like the bear riding the motorcycle at the circus on this bike? The price of these makes them a tempting choice.
you can get a shadow 750 for cheap also and they are much bigger same with the v star 650's
am supposed to pick up a 2004 Honda shadow with 6k miles on it for 2k is this a good deal and are the forward controls right for me will I reach them am 5'4
Yes