Everywhere I go people stare. On street corners, at stop lights, and in parking lots people go out of their way to say "nice bike!". I keep thinking I'll get used to it, but it still feels great. A Mercedes or BMW pulls up beside me at a stop light. The driver looks over and smiles. "Nice Bike!"
Everything about the Shadow Spirit is exceptional. It is extremely reliable. Shadows have been around for a while and are well-known for their exceptional reliability. You don't have to tinker - just get on and ride!
I have friends with Harleys and although they love their bikes, I hear complaints about the maintenance. Not so with the Shadow! And it looks so so good.
Mine is a 750cc. The only thing I might do differently is to buy an 1100cc. But considering the difference in price, I'm more than happy with the 750. It was very reasonable: $ 5,900. vs $ 7,800 for the 1100 - which is still a great price for a bike with so many features and such a sexy appearance. It has plenty of power and I love the sound that comes out of the stylish shorty pipes.
I don't often ride double, but if you are planning to take a passenger frequently, you might consider the 1100 - especially if you live in a very hilly or mountainous area. On the flats you'll be fine, and without a passenger you'll have plenty of power. Riding in the California mountains from sea level up to 7000 feet I've never lacked for pep and snappiness.
I'm very comfortable on the Spirit. Yesterday, for example, I rode 300 miles up the California Coast Highway. That's about 6 hours, stopping only once for gas and lunch. No problem! Footpegs on the Spirit are a bit more forward than the other Shadows, which is great for your legs.
The Shadow isn't really billed as a touring bike, but it is comfortable enough for an occasional trip. Yet it is very nimble around town. I've ridden larger touring bikes in the city, and sometimes they are just too bulky. The Shadow series has that perfect balance between stability and maneuverability. You will be equally at home zipping around the city or cruising on the highway.
Reliability, comfort, stability, maneuverability, and power - all rolled into a gorgeous package. That's what sold me on the Shadow Spirit. And everywhere I go I still hear people saying: "Nice Bike!".
Recommended: Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 5,900.00
Condition: New
Model Year: 2001
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