My tried and true 2002 Honda Shadow ACE Deluxe 750 had nothing wrong going on, don’t get me wrong. I honestly did love that bike. There was one downfall, the lack of power for two people. You are able to ride two-up, but it’s just not comfortable over 45 MPH or so. I did this about 4 years or so ago for about 100-200 or so miles, and it was taxing on the engine since it was through mountain terrain. With needs changing as life changes, I figured it would be about time to change motorcycles to something with more power and cruiser-friendly. So, I picked up a used 2007 Honda VTX 1300C, with nearly double the motor.
The only real temporary downfall is there is no passenger seat, which I can buy of course. The seat that is on there now is an aftermarket Ultimate Seats brand lowrider which is great for us short people. (I’m 5’6″)
The bike came with accessories strapped on all over, which is great because it keeps me from needing to do it. The front fairing (batwing) with stereo and speakers built in, teardrop mirrors, aftermarket exhaust, Willie & Max saddlebags (with locked mounts!), kuryakyn brand crash bars (engine guards…) with flip-out foot pegs, extra lights in the front, and Perelli brand tires all around. (well, 2 wheels is all around I guess) I’m sure there’s more that is aftermarket, but it looks quite nice as it is.
The power is something I’m still getting used to, since right now it’s enough that I need to keep myself in check. I find myself hitting 60 mph without even a thought due to it’s torque. Since it’s a shaft-drive (and not chain-driven), there’s much less sound to go by with the wheels, and the only real check I have is the speedometer about 45-50 degrees down from my vision!
All in all, I’m happy. I’m having her (single) carburetor tuned by Golden Motorsports on Monday due to the MPG being about 43-45 currently when it should be 50. The fact that she’s just as white as my Prius means it’s a great addition to the family.
The Sociopathic Mind of a Certified Eclectic 