I'm a Harley guy but I find it ridiculous to say the Honda feels small when it's actually a bigger bike than the sportster. I like and prefer harleys but even I know a biased review when I see one

@66yarrum

5 жыл бұрын

JohnnyRebKy b

@451dskots88

4 жыл бұрын

I felt the same way. I think both bikes are awesome looking machines but this review felt a bit bias.

@keithhgallop7232

4 жыл бұрын

How is the vt750 bigger then a 883...lol

@loreneedwards6215

4 жыл бұрын

I have a 2002 Honda 750 Shadow and its body is bigger than my buddies wife's sportster.🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

@loreneedwards6215

4 жыл бұрын

It's a spirit

Yet another review that puts the Harley on top without any credible explanation other than it has the Harley logo. The internets full of similar reviews...Yawn!

@alexandrudinca3080

4 жыл бұрын

The second i heard them say that the honda is souless and that the HD has a personality i knew where this was going

@shannanhostetler5349

4 ай бұрын

How's this for credible review, I own both bikes - Harley Iron Head and a Honda Shadow. The shadow is fun to ride, I call it the cream puff. The Harley is serious no cream puff at all. Next to the Harley the Honda feels like a toy that was meant to be played with. The Harley rides like a serious machine that is meant to be rode hard and put away wet. For just quick trips around town I take the Honda. When I want to go for a ride and take a lap around the island it's the Harley . Both bikes have a purpose but if I had to choose it's gonna be the Harley without question. FYI, my Harley doesn't say Harley or have a logo anywhere on it because it's not about a name, it's about the ride. If you don't own both or at least have spent time riding both (not a 10 minute test ride, actual time) then you don't know shite and shouldn't say a word because you don't know Dik. So shut the frick up with your fake azz yawn like you are someone who has something knowledgeable to say and everyone needs to hear. Ya Faka you

I have an 05 Honda shadow, I bought it brand new and now have 73,000 miles on it. Other than basic maintenance ( fluid changes, new chain and sprocket) the only actual work that been done is I had the carb cleaned/ rebuilt 10k miles ago. The thing runs like a dream. The 883 would have needed a whole new rebuild by this point.

@randym.7238

2 жыл бұрын

Your right. All three sportsters I owned needed engine rebuilt just over 50,000 miles.

This must have been sponsored by Harley? I owned an 883 for 3 years, bought brand new 5 years ago. Sure it's a sweet bike, got the name brand, badges and all and it looks decent too. But thats about where it stops. Very seldom did I ever go out on cruises and it not break down in some way shape or form... It got to the point that every time I started it up my mind would instantly say "Wonder what will break this time?" I actually quit going on cruises simply because I knew the damn thing would break down... I am happy to report I traded it on a new Honda Shadow Phantom 2 years ago and since then, I'm going on cruises most weekends, riding it to work or where ever every chance I get. It has yet to have a single issue, not one. It's a joy to ride and without the fear of breaking down at any given moment, I'll take my Honda over an 883 any day of the week.

made a comment about Honda having no soul? wtf, Honda is better in almost every way. The reliability of a Honda is tons better than a Harley. There's is a lot of guys personally know who have there Harley's in a shop getting worked on who secretly bring out their shadows in order to not miss out on riding. lmao.

@skarpheinnsmundsson9741

4 жыл бұрын

People talk about souls on motordriven things when they have no argument, Instead of just saying that they are badge snobs and will prefer something else they pull up the "soul" crap.

Better attention to detail? Look inside the motors and see where the detail is. Do you buy a bike to ride or just look at? Throw a rock in any direction and you'll hit a Harley. They're everywhere and everyone jumps on the bandwagon. I want a bike that's affordable and reliable, like a Honda. You meet the nicest people on a Honda, so true!

@rockrules567

9 жыл бұрын

Yes sir, Honda Shadow Aero 750 rider, right here. They are awesome bikes!

@Ben762x51

9 жыл бұрын

Bingo

@JUSTREALCOOL

6 жыл бұрын

Honda Shadow Aero 750 rider here too !!

@brandenkolb8713

4 жыл бұрын

Got the 2019 Shadow Aero and I love it. Price and reliability along with also looking sweet and sounds very decent

@randym.7238

2 жыл бұрын

My most recent bike is a 2002 Honda vlx 600. It will keep up with an 883 and tops out at 90. 60 mpg and has a softail / Hardtail look. I'm 5'7" and it fits me to a T. I had to modify every Harley I owned to fit me. Very expensive. I very happy with my Vlx.

I would say go with the Honda. Their Shaft Final drive setup is pretty much trouble free, and you never have to worry about a chain/belt break on a trip. Regular maintenence of Oil changes, checking fluids, and upkeep on rubber will keep you on a bike without much hassle. Harleys can be nice bikes, but they can also be high maintenence.

So the Honda is more user friendly and handles better, but the HD wins because it looks better.......I forgot that is what HD lovers do. Just watch the bikes instead of riding them....

@blessontitus

8 жыл бұрын

+Grey Moth Rode*

@HB-mj2jz

8 жыл бұрын

Lol honda lovers. Yeah i currently own a Shadow vt1100 custom. I was testdriving al kinds of harleys but this one just rides better. Maybe harley lovers should look past rhe logo.....theres a whole world of better performing bikes out there....

@Bricklinsv1970

8 жыл бұрын

+Grey Moth Ive owned 4 Harleys and 1 Honda. Nuff said!

@Korsfestelse

8 жыл бұрын

I think it's all down to personal preference really. I've had a thing for Harleys since I was a kid but I think this Iron 883 looks ugly whereas the Shadow looks really nice. It's just a shame the comparison/review wasn't more in depth though.

@BIZMOTO

7 жыл бұрын

OH AWESOME SO THE HONDA OUTLASTED 4 HARLEYS IM SOLD!!

Harleys are more expensive and no more reliable than a honda I've owned a Harley 883 sportster and it was so hard for me to sell that bike idk why it was a 04 with 23000 miles I was asking 3200 obo I ride it 50miles a day to work and back and my butt was numb by the time I'd get home I now own an 02 honda shadow spirit 750 I did need to clean the carb when I got the bike but only because the guy I bought it from had it sitting for over a year and it is the easiest bike I've had to work on did a whole carb clean and jet install in less than an hour! This bike is so smooth riding and has enough power to keep up with other bigger bike's I love my shadow!

@Grimexperience62

7 жыл бұрын

So just because the bike was made over ten years ago, it should be thrown away? Its not about being cheap, its about being smart and taking pride in whatever you ride.

@trentbrockus8747

7 жыл бұрын

I bought it because it had only 4000 original miles on it and was in brand new condition don't hate cause I'm smart and know how to find good deals besides most older bikes are built so much better than newer bikes cause companys try to skim on parts for production for high demand purposes and if you saw my bike the money I saved I put in bad ass parts where as you didn't by buying a brand new bike totally stock with hardly less miles!

@Grimexperience62

7 жыл бұрын

Trent, i'm thinking nobody is hating on you. Sounds like you got a great bike and a good deal. its all about pride of ownership and enjoying your ride.

@nippleflexer3630

3 жыл бұрын

I know its a comment from 5 years ago, but im 17 and I ride a 2004 VT750c Shadow Aero, father bought it back in 06 but he was in the navy and barely had time to ride it, so its got only 5k miles on it, its in great condition and it rides so well. But at the end of the day, the wind feels the same.

NOTE TO ALL NON HARLEY MOTORCYCLE COMPANIES: If MCN is comparing your product to a Harley don't bother to show up, in their eyes your piece of crap has already lost.

I Look to buy a bike on reliability..Shaft drive ..Honda wins

@Hathorr1067

8 жыл бұрын

+captainengland Both are very reliable. The shaft drive gives a smoother ride, while the Harley has better agility. I hate those mags on the Harley...

I had a 2012 Phantom loved every mile. Upgraded my ride to a 2015 Triumph Thunderbird. Miss that bike absolutely bulletproof !

MCN ....what a load of shit..... they failed the honda on the basis that its more about usability and friendly riding than the name ...he called it soulless! harley wins because it has harley davidson written on it ...bollocks

@nathanhuxtable8604

9 жыл бұрын

***** so all of these people saying the sportster is shit and breaks down all the time is just crap ? i wouldn't know personally as ive never ridden a harley

@kloppskalli

9 жыл бұрын

***** I think you're the smart ass here and you have not given us one good reason to believe that the Harley is better - just because you say its better doesn't mean we have to believe in your expertise. I'm not a big honda shadow fan, but where is the soul in the harley? just coz its got better indicaters? I can change them on the honda. what else is better on the Harley? 130 cc more displacement and 5 hp more + more active frame / fork geometry ... what about the price? why do they say: Good gear box FOR A HARLEY..? in other words no comparison to a really good gear box? ...

@dboyrob8743

8 жыл бұрын

+nathan huxtable yeah, i gave up on the vid at "the name on the side" being one of to reasons that hd was better...

Selling my 883, might get a 750 Shadow when I do. Have to say though, the 883's been flawless and extremely reliable.

@highjumper7282

2 жыл бұрын

in the last 20 years the sportster has been the most reliable bike Harley has put out.

I have a honda vt750c2, and i really like the bike. never had any problems with it. Only when it's raining, the bike seems to lose all control. the rear end breaks loose from the smallest acceleration and you have to break very careful. I don't know how the hd is, but I will not say if it is a bad bike or not (because I never drove one). In the end I love my bike, and that what is the most important. how YOU feel about your own bike.

@joemann7971

3 жыл бұрын

It really shouldn't be breaking lose unless there is oil on the ground, or you have bald tired. Its most dangerous on the first rain, after its been dry for a long time. If its only going to rain for one or two days, its safer to avoid riding. After a few days of rain, it should be safer as most of the oil would have been washed out. The bike should have most of its traction (around 90%) compared to dry, and shouldn't break lose unless you're going at full throttle.

Its amazing how this reviewer gave so many significant compliments to the Honda and so subtlety called it "soulless) Brother ,its how you feel about your ride that counts. The Honda is more comfortable and about the same performance. I saw both in person and they are both very attractive. I can very much do without the plastic covers on both sides of the Honda as well as the rocker covers though. The Honda has a more reliable engine and shaft drive. The out the door mark up on the sporty is significantly more than the Honda. I just feel the Honda is a more comfortable all around ride.(you can get a nice batwing fairing from Memphis shades and have a really comfortable daily runner. The Harley does win in the overall coolness department. though. T

I will never waste my money on a another Harley ever again. Accept the Vrod! Honda's are superior all Motorcycles.

I think both bikes look good, and from my experience riding BOTH bikes, you can't go wrong with either one. They both ride nice and if you just want to ride, it doesn't matter what you ride.

Ian is doing some great things with your videos! I'm really liking the quality of the shots and the editing.

Good video :) this helped me ALOT thanks

And the Honda will last 5 times longer and break down 5 times less.

@PeterDad60

8 жыл бұрын

+Bricklinsv1970 Fuck you. I have a 1994 Sportster that never broke down. you piece of shit!

@Bricklinsv1970

8 жыл бұрын

+PeterDad60 Hey no thanks no need to call names on the internet. Doesn't make you a tough guy! Have fun on your sewing machine.

@GC-xp6mx

7 жыл бұрын

false

@lastactionmedic5677

7 жыл бұрын

I'll have to agree, id also have to say that IMO, Hondas last longer if neglected as opposed to the HD. Army buddy of mine has to keep his old ass shadow outside under a cover, MF won't die. Uncle had a sportster, garage kept and rode on weekends, had an issue every other month. Now I know it's subjective, but it's these kind of experiences that make or break a purchase.

@draganm7823

6 жыл бұрын

Bricklinsv1970 consumer reports begs to differ. Both are nice bikes, the HD is more rugged, to each his own.

the big ass license plate would come in handy for the Harley. When it breaks down, use the plate as a sail.

@vabch82

7 жыл бұрын

I'm curious to know what you throw your leg over. Of all the sportster's ive ridden and the many of friends that own them, I've never seen nor had one break down or give any serious trouble. The worst thing I've seen is a lifter fail in an '02 1200c and the bike had 83,000 miles on it. The EVO motors are just about bulletproof

@talondesforges

7 жыл бұрын

It wasn't really a comment on Harley so much as the size of the license plate.

@talondesforges

7 жыл бұрын

Honda 1300 is my current ride

@65drummer1

6 жыл бұрын

I had a 1988 883 HD that gave me no trouble at all. I previously owned Honda's, Yamaha, & Kawasaki. I even owned a fartin Norton, till it blew a head gasket. I now own a 09 883. Bottom line, all bikes pretty well do the speed limit. You can't outrun a Motorola radio & a pissed off state patrolman can cuff and stuff at warp speed while your putt-putt is being impounded. If you want a crotch rocket, buy one. If you want a cruiser, then buy it. I have met good HD ppl & bad. I have met good ppl on Honda's & also rectums too. The bike doesn't reflect the person 's attitude, they do that on their own. Drive what you want and try not to get into a fist fight over it, for the outcome isn't good. That pissed off trooper, you know.

the sportster's evolution engine, introduced in 1986, was perfected with zero mechanical defects or troubles which is pretty unheard of for air-cooled v-twins. the big twin harleys are another story. in addition to easy maintenance and being fun as hell, the conversion from 883cc to 1250cc is as easy as a bolt-on kit! ridin is believin :)

After reading a lot of reviews comparing HarleySportster and Honda Shadow 750, I'd like to add this about durabilit and easy maintenance on my 2006 Suzuki c506 Boulevard 800.' Since it's only an 800 engine it takes my butt every where I want to go, and keeps up with the Harley guys I ride with, albeit with some more vibration at 70 mph due to the five speed trans. I do my own oil changes @ $43 incl filter. I did front disc and rear drum brakes @ $57 while the wheels were at the dealer getting the new tires put on, Flushed out four year old antifreeze, and refilled for about $12. I installed a $10 beeper from RadioShack to remind me when I forget to turn off my blinkers. Also a $35 throttle lock. Thats all for the maintenance. As far as durability, this is what happened to my bike with 17,000 miles on it. After a ride of about 200 mi with the bike running perfect, I shut it off and it sat for about a week. The next time I started it there was a rap in the engine. I hit the kill switch, and checked the sight glass for the oil level and there was nothing in the sight glass. I put in about 3/4 of a quart (couldn't believe it took that much), level came up to normal and I started it again. I still don't know where the oil went all of a sudden, as Im always checking it. It seems as long as It was running it managed to maintain oil pressure but as soon as I re started it, there was no oil in the top half. it sure made a hell of a sound . The bike now has 35,000 miles on it, running as strong as when new, uses the normal amount of oil between changes. I found some tiny pieces of brass or bronze in a strainer when I did the first of three oil changes, and I have a whine in the transmission which sounds the same as the first time I drove it after the oil incident. I did a research on the internet showing where the brass material came from in the trans, and although it would be hard to sell the bike as it is, I have no reason to do so. It's a great bike, and with it's water cooled engine its much cooler riding that a lot of bigger bikes with bigger engines. I believe the Harley along with Hondas Gold Wing have to be the best touring bike one could want, as far as comfort,but at my age 84, I can much better handle the lower weight of my Suzuki, which btw I have to take around the house on the lawn where I keep it under cover during the summer on the patio. In the winter I keep it at in my brothers garage next to his bike. He has the same bike, same year as mine.

Bottom line is Japanese start making bikes that are far way better and cheaper than Harleys but hey...you can`t say it that otherwise you have the whole American proud fellas against you!

@cazzozduroz2697

9 жыл бұрын

Totally worth it!

@crabjockey

9 жыл бұрын

***** Consumerism has come full circle. You get what you pay for these days. The shysters got weasled out by the information age. Pay more for a better product because they know they can charge it because you have to because your not a moron.... Right :)

@cazzozduroz2697

9 жыл бұрын

Have you ever thought to be a politician?

@cazzozduroz2697

9 жыл бұрын

They were far the best top custom bike seller in the world by making the brand HARLEY DAVIDSON the most known for that kind of style BUT....japanese have experience in building pretty much ALL bikes and really soon Harley Co. will be just a piece of iron compared to Asian bitches made out of best material and best engineers on the planet for same or less money.

I am reminded of one of my mates. The club came to my home for a PMI party, changing oil and such. He looked at my Goldwing bobber, odometer read 210,00 miles, and said, "I would rather push my Harley than ride a Honda." I responded, "I know that is truth as I see you pushing your Harley everyday when I am riding my Honda." His cursing response could not hide that fact his bike was not running at that day.

great vid. loving the tank cam, too!

Great vid I'm really taking a hard look at buys the HD Iron and this vid help a lot!

For the price il go with honda

@drjoe2323

9 жыл бұрын

Your really paying for the name and I guess respect of others that think harleys are cooler since there supposley american made tho I hear parts come from over seas lol but both are good bikes imo its all about your preference how it feels to u go test ride a few and see

@1mantisco

4 жыл бұрын

For the ride. I'd gi with the honda

Just got my ridding license and I'm thinking about one of these two depending on which one I can get a better deal on.

@BonsaiRaygun21

3 жыл бұрын

As a former Shadow owner, and current 883 owner... buy the Shadow

@JohnDoe-zw3xs

3 жыл бұрын

@@BonsaiRaygun21 Hi, what do you think about switching from a 99 shadow vlx 600 to a 883? I lile my shadow but sportsers are nice looking tho

@BonsaiRaygun21

3 жыл бұрын

@@JohnDoe-zw3xs I picked up a 97 vlx 600 while I was stationed in NY and I loved it, comfiest bike I ever owned. Did a lot of riding in the Adirondacks and never got too saddle sore, it was super easy to maintain, and there are tons of parts out there that are affordable, including some sweet bobber and chopper stuff. I regret getting rid of it, especially considering the condition it was in (bought it from the first owner with only a few hundred miles). The sportster is a whole other animal, mine is a 99 883 that had some modifications done (Screaming Eagle stage 2 intake, Cobra pipes). It's fun, it's loud as hell, basically it's a Harley. Nice and maneuverable in town, pretty quick off the line, but almost no top end power. It struggles past ~70 mph, way less comfortable seat and positioning for me as a tall rider (I'm 6' 2"), parts are much more expensive thanks to Harley hipsters, and it's more temperamental here in the Colorado cold. Long story short, if you can find an 883 with low miles for a good price, go for it, but with how cheap those nineties Shadows go for, you might as well hang onto that as well. If you can afford to do so and have the space, ride both for a bit, weigh your options, and then make a choice for which you like long term. Hope that helps

@JohnDoe-zw3xs

3 жыл бұрын

@@BonsaiRaygun21 Hey man, thanks for the detailed response, i really appreciate it! I feel the same way about my shadow and it is my first bike. I really like how easy it is to do maintenance on it, how cheap, and how nice it rides. Unfortunately i cant see myself keeping both since money is a bit of a issue. So I plan to sell my shadow to get the 883. However if i could i wouldn't sell it. The sportser I want it for the looks i think it looks beautiful and the customization options are endless almost. I am really into customization. And it has more power than my current bike. But i heard plenty of people saying that it is expensive to keep but i guess that is the price thanks to the hipsters we can't have nice things lol. And what you said about the power really got me even more hyped to get it. I guess i will miss my vlx . If things get better i will definitely keep both

@BonsaiRaygun21

3 жыл бұрын

@@JohnDoe-zw3xs you're welcome man, glad to help. Fair enough man, I get money can be tight. I would do a little more research as far as getting more power from your Shadow through a new intake, pipes, etc. Although my sporty is faster off the line, as far as top end power they're pretty close. Also, I've started seeing a lot more custom Shadow builds lately, they're getting more popular so more companies seem to be making parts for them. And yea the upkeep will be higher on the sporty. Food for thought, although I feel like I'm not making things much easier. I'd say unless you get a stealin deal on a sporty (since you're most likely not going to break even), hang onto your Shadow and see of you can coax some more power out of it. Check out the lnspltblvd channel for some inspiration, they have a bunch of dope Shadow bobbers and choppers

I’ve owned a 2001 Sportster 883 and now I own a 2011 Honda Shadow Phantom. The Shadow fits my height better. The Sportster is said to be more powerful. However, at the time I owned the Sportster, I weighed around 200 lbs. I currently weigh just under 170, so I don’t feel a significant difference in power. Also, my Honda is fuel injected and shaft driven. Whereas my Sportster was carburated with a belt drive.

Fair enough, and I remember the Evolution being used in the big bikes for a while too, and even sporsters have issues. One of the more common ones I hear from owners i have met(on 1200s) is the oil sensor failing. Harleys also use a chain drive(100 year old technology) that uses little tensioners. Those have to be inspected at around 20,000 miles, and most times replaced, every 20,000 miles. The honda with regular oil changes and upkeep will usually last a lot longer without repairs.

Lol when the vid first start I was like " 6000 lbs! Damn Harley's are heavy!"

@vansdude8893

3 жыл бұрын

Lol I had to rewind like 3 times before I realized what he meant

@joemann7971

3 жыл бұрын

That bike is heavier than my Silverado 1500. I heard Harleys were heavy but that's ridiculous.

The Sportster feels like you're riding a vacuum cleaner. Honda is much more comfortable

I own that H-D and LOVE it; however, I was inches away from buying the Honda Shadow Phantom (not the Spirit in this video, but very similar). My point is, while I have NOTHING bad to say about the H-D and recommend it 100%, Honda DOES make GREAT bikes too. If you want a Standard bike that's air cooled - go H-D. If you want a cruiser that's liquid cooled - go Honda. Either way, you can't go wrong. Good video/review.

I have an 05 Sportster, 08 Vulcan 900 and 08 Vulcan 500. All bring a big smile to my face when I ride them. The HD with the rubber mounted engine is the best of the Sportsters and handles much better than their previous models. Vibration has been greatly reduced. All I've done to this bike is oil changes, nothing has gone wrong after 8k miles. Most people that HD's are people that can't afford them.

Incredibly stupid review, these bikes are in entirely different categories, hence the name sportster of course it is a more agile,nimble bike. The shadow is a budget minded cruiser and still a pretty nice ride, the frame geometry tells the whole story.

@techmaven5900

10 жыл бұрын

Most of these so called web-zines really suck.

Ill take a japanese bike anytime. Atleast i know that it wont die on me when i ride.

Good video guys, great job.

great video. i've had my eye on the iron 883 for awhile now..

So everyone beats up on the Harley. Okay. The 750 shadow phantom is only $600 less than Iron 883. On the dyno the shadow makes 35hp vs 46hp for the Harley as well as more torque. The shadow must have its valves adjusted every 12k vs no adjustment for the Harley as it uses hydraulic lifters. The shadow has coolant that needs changing vs the Harley is air cooled. The fit, finish and cable routing on the Harley are far superior to the Honda. The Honda uses a drum rear brake vs disc for the Harley. Furthermore, the aftermarket for the Harley decimates the Honda. Tired of your 883, but don't want to buy another bike? You can spend 3g's and have a 1250cc 115hp screamer(hammer performance, nrhs, S&S) that's just as reliable as a factory 883 AND you can do it yourself with the help of a Harley factory service manual(which is VERY detailed). I love all motorcycles but in this debate, the Sporty outright pounces the Honda

@Hellboy5727

7 жыл бұрын

Yeah man!)) What Honda can do, its only suck))))))))))

@ripmax333

7 жыл бұрын

hydraulic lifter fails?? never heard that. even on cars.

@Marko-od7eb

7 жыл бұрын

You are mistaken in every word you wrote...... I love both bikes, both have pros and conns, and I dont want to make this into a pissing contest, because If you love something nobody has right to tell you what to do.But you wrote so many informations that are incorrect : - Honda PHantom has almost SAME horsepower as Iron: 44.9 horsepower at 5,500 rpm (compared to harley 45.17 at 5900 RPM) and its torque is 47.9 Foot-pounds at 3,500 rpm (comapred to 53.8 for HD) So that is only than 0.27HP more for a engine that has 133cc over Honda and only 6 foot-pounds difference. That is very poor utilization of Harley engine. And Honda uses freaking drive-shaft that has 20% of power loos and still the final result is only 0.27hp ?!? -Honda manual says you have to CHECK valves every 12K, not to adjust it. I had a Honda that didn't needed adjustment after 40k. Oh yeas, and it has more reliable drive-shaft and not the belt. -Honda using coolant means it heats up less and breakes down less and lasts longer VS air cooled machines that need service and change of parts much sooner. Not to mention that engine with coolant are much plesant to ride in the summer and engine is more quiet and more reliable. -Drum brakes are much more powerful than disc brakes mate. Problem with drum brakes is overheating (because of huge stopping power) and needs more maitanance. So in your case which you mentioned as "flaw", is not correct - Honda in fact has more powerful rear brake because it uses drum system. -Unlike Honda, the Sportster uses very small tank for it's engine size and has much lesser range compared to Phantom. -The Sporster uses MIKUNI carburetors and majority of Harley parts are from Japan or China. So that says a lot about "USA" made bikes and "cable routing", because Harley also uses electronics from asia. And I don't care about "cable routing".It's not going to brake and I am not going to fix it or chage it...ever. And the build quality on Japs are better now. I know this is going to trigger many Harley fans, but this is a fact. - And last but no least, you need to service Harley much more often and every part is 2x more expensive than ones for the Jap bikes. And things like chains, raisers, sprockets, rear springs, cables, carbs and other things are often interchangable among many Japanese bikes.

Honda will always be more reliable and have better engineering than Harley FACT !!!

I have a 2001 Honda shadow sabre 1100 I live in New England USA I blow the doors off every Harley I come across. Speed handling braking and I have only had to replace common wear items tires brake pads and such whereas all my friends who have harleys have had to have thousands and thousands of dollars on mechanical bills spent. I've owned my Honda for 10 years and I am very happy And I believe this is my forever bike. I have no need To be seen as cool for riding a Harley I am out there for me I don't care what I'm on as long as I'm comfortable and I have fun.

Loved your post, and it might have made up my mind. Have looked at both the 883 and the Phantom but keep drooling at the Fury every time I see it. I'm a complete beginner who just passed the BRC. Is the Fury too much bike for a newb?

What the F*** ... How can you you compare those 2 bike and say one is better then the other one ??? In a 5 min road test........ I own a Shadow 1100. previously had a Harley. Those 2 bike are awesome in their own way. stop bullshitting.

@Bricklinsv1970

8 жыл бұрын

+Darkcowboy Hondas are better.Yes people should compare so they get there moneys worth buying a reliable good looking Scooter like a Honda.

@fireworkstube I think the front forks are normal height- the rears are lowered an inch. So it went from 12.5" to 11.5" from sportster to iron. A popular cost-effective method is to buy stock shocks from Harley's touring bikes- Road King or Street Glide. The "lowered" ones for those are 12" and they run just around 100 bucks for the pair. When you bolt them on, use washers to keep em straight. Ride quality is drastically improved yet it won't have the rear fender flaring out like the euro model.

You see, this is precisely the kind of dialogue that gets us somewhere. Bravo! I totally understand your point of view. The bike must suit the riders wants and needs. Where one deals with switch-back twisties and needs to make fast maneuvers continually, a lighter, nimbler bike is entirely ideal. H-D does not really fit the bill for this. If I were in your boots, I'd be riding a Honda, a Kawasaki, or Suzuki. Thanks for shedding light on what its like to ride in Japan! :-D Friends it is!!

@cforcalvin ...and more to the point, your saying that the front forks hasn't been lowered, just the rear shocks?

I hope so! Where I am in NC, I see mostly older folks. American Rider magazine has been lamenting the aging demographic of H-D riders for a long while now. Reg Kitrell, the editor, seems to be leading the charge to implore H-D to do more to appeal to the younger folks. Myself, I've always been a fan of the older styles. If I had the dough and the mech. skill, I'd have all kinds of classic H-D's and Indians from the 30's - 60's. My criticism of H-D is just out of love for my fav. brand.

Well we agree on that point. You bought your RK cause you like it, that's awesome and it's the only reason you need. Unfortunately, too many HD owners talk trash about every other make.

I've got a Black Spirit, and personally I love the look, however, I have had to mod the nuts off it to get some of the uglier parts off. I understand some people love harleys because they're harleys, but the small sportster has never been an awesome bike IMO. With the spirit running jardine pipes, All lights changed to LED other than the headlight, new bars, risers, etc etc and maybe with a powercommander I think you have a stylish, quick enough ride that is comfy as hell. I love 'em

Wish Honda would get rid of the bottom seams on the fuel tanks.

As a Harley rider, I'd like to say that though I understand your point of view, Honda does make a mighty fine CBR! If I had the dough and the room, I'd have a Honda in a heart-beat as my second bike.

Going against the usual discussion here but I'm impressed with the videography on this video. I see a new style being used here. Do I sense that the guy recording is using one of the new crop of DSLR's with a good fast wide lens to the creative control here ? It doesn't look like it was filmed on anything cheap that's for sure. About the bikes. Good to see HD getting a good rap for their products by people that aren't die hard HD guys. I guess Honda needs to work at it a bit harder.

@cforcalvin Interesting. When you say 'flaring' out do you mean the distance from the top of the tire to the edge of the fender? The FL shocks will raise the fender to though won't they?

whats the green flashing light for??

which bike would you recommend to start on between the two?

@terryjohn

8 жыл бұрын

David Sandoval honda..as he says user friendly..

My '96 883 is a belt drive , and after 15k miles appears to be holding up great...the AMF era Harley's were a maintenance nightmare-Harley execs actually paid a visit to Japan in the mid 80's or so, and picked up some ideas on quality control...I think Harley has changed drastically in terms of dependability

I have an 04 Sporty 1200 custom with almost 30k miles on it now. All in all I would have to say its a tuff dependable ride. It starts and is ready to go with no muss no fuss whether to work or to the next state over.

I just want to ask a question a bit off topic but here it goes... Would a honda Shadow 600 be a good beginner bike? ive rode quads and a few dirt bikes since i was little im 18 now so i have some experience with bikes. Im a small guy 5'8" 140lbs, i know a bit about mechanics and im sure i can take care of some problems i run into but i just want a bike i can ride for a few years to learn on and that isnt too much in price.. Thanx guys!

both are good bikes, both are reliable, but I prefer the harley for it's torque. my custom 883 puts out major torque and i love it.

Im looking to get my first bike here this summer, i was wondering if the iron 883 would be a good beginner bike? I can not help but get over how good the bike looks!

@highjumper7282

2 жыл бұрын

Get a Honda, Here's why. Its much cheaper to buy and much cheaper to replace parts, being your first bike it would be the smart choice. you can always sell it for almost what you paid for it. My son Followed this advice and still thanks me everyday.

If one were to find either 1 of them used, do you think it would be a good first bike?

I think that the definition of a "good bike" differs depending on the person. An 883 sportster may be the perfect bike for one person, and the Shadow may be the perfect bike for another person. It all depends on what *you* want in a bike.

In addition, I thank you for not continuing to be insulting, though your acknowledgement of the fact would have been appreciated as well. I note that you appear to be an educator. I am as well. As such, we must realize that, like it or not, we serve as role-models for our students. Their seeing your vitriol sends the wrong message. Were we face to face, I'm sure our dialogue would be much more respectful. This is all I ask. H-D is my choice because it suits my needs, nothing more.

I think it was a fair comparison they are competing for the same market and alot of people who are thinking about buying one should see them side by side in a comparison so good job on the vid!

Good evaluation!

As a first time rider, I'm looking to buy my first bike. Does anyone know if the Sportster and the Shadow are pretty much the same size? I've sat on a Sportster and the size is perfect for me. I'm a small rider and still manage to flat foot on it. So crotch height, feels the same in sense of weight, etc? I appreciate anyone's advice in advance!

cforcalvin your reply is very insightful. What drives me up the wall is that people are discussing these bikes as if the were the hot set up. When the truth is an old cb 750 honda or an old kawasaki 900 would put both of these bikes to shame if they were compared in a normal road test. I came from the sixties and seventies. when bikes were compared on a level playing field.

i really like the look of the iron 883, do you think that it's a little too big for my first bike?

@fireblade95 agree! but why did you buy a 1200 and not a 883... i am in the process of deciding wich one i want to take... thanks

Did I miss but what was the price difference between the two? may I ask.

Soul is an equivocal term used to imbue substance and is usually given more credence than it deserves.

Anybody know the cost to raise the Iron to the ride height of the UK model?

how well does the honda handle the motorways/highways can the engine handle a full day ride at 75-80 mph?

@craveman85 It's a comparison of 2 small, cruiser style v-twins.... both similar price and displacement....how much closer do you want them to be?

How’s the shadow for 2up?

One thing to look at where the foot controls are some like or need forward foot controls.

I had a 05 v-star 1100 Custom I paid 4k for it. Never a problem with it. My brother bought an 08 1100 custom for 4500, he didn't like it so he bought an 07 softail standard for 13,500. Beautiful bike but been in the shop 4 times in 2 months. Meanwhile no issues with my v-star. HD dealer tried to get me to buy a street glide. I went across the street and bought a Raider. Better performance than any HD, better reliablility, but not resale value. But I don't buy a bike to sell it. I bike to ride.

when i retire i will probably ride one of these senior's bikes :-)

I have a 2005 Honda Shadow Spirit and I like it. My only complaint is it's only a 5 speed. When you jump on the highway 70mph and the motor is revving too high. It's tops out at 105mph. Put a 6sp and I'm good. Plenty of Power 0-60 and reliable

I rode a 58 Harley Sportster XLCH all the way to Long Island from Boston in 65 to find a lady..hook up and bum enough money to get back to the Navy base..it worked quite nicely thank you..it helps to be 23 though LOL

hey guys, ive been thinking about getting a motorcycle. Ive never owned one, and have limited experience on them. After i take the motorcycle course, would the honda shadow be good for me? I would prefer a cruiser like it, because i really dont have a burning desire for speed. Can anyone offer me any advice about the shadow or becoming a motorcyclist in general? I mean anything helps! Thanks guys!

Good job man.

lol derrr, thanks :) it looked like the neutral light and wondered why it was flashing while he was riding lol

@Metallica0493 what do you want them to do? come out with a 4 tire version?

I have road both & many others !! shadow is my choice here ! sport bike here feels like a child's bike & I have pushed the shadow so hard I passed a 1300 cc harley in the turn! I was super impressed with my first honda cruise ride

Both are great bikes , I have a shadow but I would also love to have the harley

i dunno much bout bikes but i liked this video!

Heads up to the 883, Nimble scoot ! Had the pleasure of a whole week on thee iron. Once it undergoes a few mods etc (stage1) mini apes, it'll make a veritable tasty lil smoker ~

05 Honda shadow Aero 750. 11500 miles. Love it. Would put it up against any other bikes out there for quality. If/when it does croak, I will buy a new shadow Aero at 8000$ and ride it another 15 years. I love Harley's, but I'm not buying a name, I'm buying a bike to ride. Cheers to all, get in the wind.

They have Brembos now on a lot of the 2010's. Non-linked ABS as well.

@MrJimmy1437 Not quite so! The crank angle between the two pistons plays a big part in the distinctive Harley sound. Greetings from Iran

You said the Honda cost more then the Harley?? I would need some proof on that one...

Could not have said it better myself!! For the record, I'd love to test-ride a Triumph and a KTM some day!

was he high during the comparison ??

Got no soul. Road Jap bikes for years and loved them all but.......got no soul. The Sporty engages you, embraces you, includes you. Mine is an 08 883 I bought as a salvage with 250 miles on the clock. She is now a NRHS 1215 and it does not leak a single drop...anywhere, has been supremely reliable and I feel like I'm dating the prom queen every time I ride her. She's emotion in motion and is the best motorcycle in the world......to me. Keep the dry side up! Dirk

I have no dog in this fight. I own an 02 Volusia. But I have rode both of these bikes. Honda wins by far. The Sportster rides like a vaccum cleaner. The Shadow is so much more of a joy to ride than the HD.

I have a Honda 750, it's very confortable and very fast, I'm very happy with its, i put sit for passenger and its beautiful.

i do so love how the first point pushed is the harley is cooler.... excellent point. im glad your opinion is a ruling