Honda Announces Japanese Launch of Imported American Heavyweight Custom Bike: The Shadow Aero
January 29, 1998, Japan
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) | 32°15' /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 | |