Honda Shadow vs Yamaha Virago, any insights or opinions?

Question

I am looking to buy my first motorcycle, I have the choices of a 2001 Honda Shadow 600, 1985 Honda Shadow 700, and 1985 Yamaha Virago 750, all in good condition and decent prices. Any recommendations?

Answer 1

As a former m.c. dealer, I once had a virago traded in. Loved it

enough to keep it as my own personal bike. Honda's are o.k., but

experience with different Yamahas makes me prefer them. I like the

Yamaha quality & power. They sound better too.

Answer 2

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RE:

Honda Shadow vs Yamaha Virago, any insights or opinions?

I am looking to buy my first motorcycle, I have the choices of a 2001 Honda Shadow 600, 1985 Honda Shadow 700, and 1985 Yamaha Virago 750, all in good condition and decent prices. Any recommendations?

Answer 3

Im a big Honda fan. I own two Honda cx500, 80 custom, 79 deluxe. I like them both. I have a friend who rides a Honda Shadow. Its a 2007 I believe. They ride nicely down the road, are comfy and dont drink all that much fuel, unless you beat it up some. If you are looking for good cruiser, I would go with either of the Shadows. Good luck

Answer 4

I own a Shadow 600 I bought new in '95. It's a great machine.

The 700 Shadow was purpose built to end-run protectionist taxes during the Reagan era. You may have problems finding spare parts.. The Virago is a mechanic's nightmare.

Given the choice, I'd go with the newer bike.

Answer 5

Avoid the Virago at all costs - starter clutch problems.

Of the 2 Shadows, I would recommend the 2001 600cc

1985 is over twenty years old and will be very difficult to locate parts.

Most shops won't work on any bike over 10 years old (same reason as above).

Answer 6

I owned a 07 shadow 600 for my first bike and it was fantastic. It is virtually identical to the 01. A friend of mine bought one the same time I did and now has over 20k miles on it with zero issues. You will not be disappointed with the newer shadow.