| Tokyo, January 29, 1998 --- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of the Shadow Aero heavyweight custom bike, imported from the United States. A limited stock of 300 vehicles will go on sale in Japan on March 27. The Shadow Aero is made by Honda Motor's US production subsidiary, Honda of America Manufacturing Inc. A classic-design American custom bike, the Shadow Aero boasts an 1100cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine guaranteed to give an exciting ride.
It was first displayed at the 32nd Tokyo Motor Show in 1997, where its low, long profile, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and deep-fendered, thick tires proved an extremely popular mix. Low-slung, with a comfortable seat and wide handlebars, it also features a seesaw-type shift lever and stepboard. With its classic lines and generous features, it promises to be a sure-fire hit with bike-owning enthusiasts.
Shadow Aero
Domestic annual sales target: 300 units (limited stock)
Design features
- Fuel tank, muffler and seat arranged in a long, flowing design, emphasizing its sleek, long, low lines and exuding a classic air
- Chrome artillery shell-shaped headlamp casing integrated in a single unit with the speedometer conveys that extra sense of individualism and freedom
- Seat designed to evoke the image of a leather saddle, with pillion separate
Engine features
- Advanced 1099cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke V-twin 2-cylinder engine delivers massive torque and is beautifully styled externally
- Super-low-slung fish-tailed mufflers give the big twin engine a really low growl
Color
- Black with Twilight Pearl Silver
Main specifications
| Model |
Shadow Aero |
| Type |
Honda of America SC39 |
| Length x width x height |
(m) |
2.540x0.975x1.135 |
| Wheelbase |
(m) |
1.680 |
| Ground clearance |
(m) |
0.145 |
| Seat height |
(m) |
0.725 |
Curb weight/
dry weight |
(kg) |
296/277 |
| No. of riders |
(person) |
2 |
| Fuel economy [60 km/h test on flat ground]: |
(km/l) |
25.7 |
| Minimum turning radius |
(m) |
3.4 |
| Engine model |
SC39E |
| Engine type |
liquid-cooled 4-cycle V2
2-cylinder |
| Displacement |
(cm3) |
1,099 |
| Bore/stroke |
(mm) |
87.5x91.4 |
| Compression ratio |
8.0 |
| Maximum power output |
(PS/rpm) |
55/4,750 |
| Maximum torque |
(kgm/rpm) |
9.2/2,500 |
| Carburetor type |
VDK5 |
| Starter |
self-starter type |
| Ignition |
full-transistor battery ignition |
| Lubrication |
forced pressure and wet sump |
| Oil capacity |
(l) |
4.2 |
| Fuel tank capacity |
(l) |
16 |
| Clutch |
coil spring |
| Transmission |
5-speed |
| Gear ratios |
1st gear |
2.375 |
| 2nd gear |
1.391 |
| 3rd gear |
1.037 |
| 4th gear |
0.888 |
| 5th gear |
0.800 |
| Drive ratios (primary/final) |
1.692/0.853x3.090 |
| Drive mechanism |
shaft drive |
| Rake (degrees)/trail (mm) |
32o15' /144 |
| Tire sizes |
Front |
140/80-17 69H |
| Rear |
170/80-15M/C 77H |
| Brakes |
Front |
hydraulic disc |
| Rear |
hydraulic disc |
| Suspension |
Front |
telescopic |
| Rear |
swingarm |
| Frame type |
double cradle |
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