Much as I may dig my Rebel, specs and comparisons show this ’85 VT 500 is similar, just with a bit more power (500cc) — and a shaft drive instead of a chain.
I’ve got an email out to the seller to see when I can take a look, but in the meantime, what do my 8 readers know about this ride, or what advice to you have on this bike & checking it out?
Link: 1985 Honda VT500 For Sale. Ad text:
"I have a 1985 Honda VT500 for Sale. The bike is in good running condition, but it will need a new front tire. The title clear, but the registration expired in may of 05."
Nothing at all. Motorcycles are cool, but I’m terrified of them and would die if I had one.
I used to think the same thing, mate. Never in a million years would I have thought I’d be into motorcycles. Yet here we are…
This sounds like a 1985 Honda Shadaw 500. I have one just like it, and it is an awsome ride. It is actually a VT500C. Besides the shaft drive, it is also water cooled. I bought mine in 1986, new from the dealer and it still runs like a champ. It sold for around $2000.00 then.
Ah, ok. What’s your opinion of the shaft drive compared to a chain drive?
Hi. I bought an ’85 Honda Shadow VT500, but the previous owner couldn’t find the owner’s manual. I want to make sure I put in the proper fluids etc, so does anyone know:
1- how much oil it takes?
2- what kind of oil is best for it (10W 40 or 20W 50)?
I don’t have the answers, but I think I found the owners manual – you can get one here:
Honda Repair Manual: VT500 Shadow, Ascot, Euro Sport 500 by Clymer 1983-1988
http://www.themotorbookstore.com/vt50019831988.html
Is that the right model?
2.7 liters for oil . I use 10w40
I Bought a 1985 VT500C at the beginning of this season. I Love it! For a 500 cc engine it’s got plenty of power. combined with a six speed transmission you will cruise comfortably @ 75mph while getting 60-70mpg. The shaft drive beats the hell out of a chain: quieter & almost no maintanance. For the guy who wanted to know how much oil & what kind: the book says 2.9 qts. This is only correct on a rebuild. Mine never takes more than 2.5qts with filter.
I own an 85 VT500C and am looking for a new backrest/rack solution. My wife finds the original uncomfortable. I’d like to find an aftermarket backrest/rack that comes up a bit higher & further foward. any ideas? M
I own a 1985 VT500c and love it. I was riding my father-in-laws 2001 Harley 883 sportster and this bike completely leave the 883 at the line. I love the shaft drive with no worry of chain/belt problems. For a bike that is a year older than I am I will never get rid of this bike until I have to part it out when it no longer runs.
The 1983 VT500C is the first Shadow made. And it is also Honda’s first V-Twin. I have a beautiful one in immaculate condition. Never a night out of the garage.
Im in a search for CDI unit for my 1985 honda shadow vt500c, if anyone know where i might be able to find one or if you are selling that particular part please contact me, Donnell83@gmail.com an 85 or 86 model would work. thanks
Just bought one of these. Love the bike–hate the handlebars. Where can I get a bar that fits?
i have 4 of these bikes i bought my first years ago it was 2k (ish) back then in fack an 83 dark red model i put 30k on it over hte years well myself and wifey.. i bought a 750 black model and also picked up a clean 83′ for 900$ a year or two ago ..3 months ago i ran across a bike shop that did some custom upgrades ect.. to another black 83′ exhaust..jetted the carb’ ton of custom crome very nice ..the guy never finished payment fr the work … owner of the shop will sell the bike less the title for part ect… 1500.. so any one looking for upgrade yell this way…. the guy that didnt pay is long gone 3.5 years ago this bike is a custom custom… dressed for a nice sharp price.. if i had a few more bucks id buy id myself and welll … i dont have the cash…lol (wife) besides i love my vt750
I’m looking to buy a 1986 shadow vt500 and found sites listing specs on everything I want to know except seat height. Anyone know?
If anyone knows where i can find a piston and or a front head for this bike i would be grateful if you let me know.
I have one 1986 vt500c, the exhaust valve broke and burst through the piston.
heimirsh@hotmail.com
hi i have parts for vt500c,s and also an ascot 500 basket case which has the same engine. anyooe looking for parts or info email me at benfisher70@gmail.com