Product Review: Honda Shadow VLX

There are a lot of great motorcycles on the market for the beginning rider. The key is to get something that fits your body, riding style, and budget. I searched for a long time before I found the right bike for me. Well, I actually found the right bike on the first day, but tried out about 10 other bikes to make sure my first instincts were correct.

The bike I eventually bought is a 2005 Honda Shadow VLX Deluxe. The VLX is a great bike for anyone, including beginners. This bike has a low center of gravity, and stock weight is about 575 pounds. This allows for easier handling, and in the unfortunate event that the bike goes down, it allows for easy lifting. A lot of new riders will try to choose a large bike for their first bike, but in my opinion, it's better to start small and trade up as you get more experience. I've seen way too many riders give up riding, or worse yet, hurt themselves, due to a combination of inexperience, and a bike that is too big for them. The VLX will fit the bill for many new riders in the size department.

The VLX has a 600 cc engine, which allows for all the power you need. A lot of people will recommend a Honda Rebel for a new rider, especially lady riders. The Rebel is a smaller version of the VLX, and much cheaper, but you definitely get what you pay for. The Rebel has a hard time keeping up with the big boys on the highways. My VLX can do 90 easily, and stay in the middle of the pack with all the Sportsters, and Softails.

The VLX is fairly stylish, having been designed to look like a Harley. If the stock look isn't for you, don't worry - you can do a lot to this bike with just a little time and money. For less than $500, I've been able to add a Memphis Shades windshield, MC Enterprises engine guards, a Hondaline sissybar and luggage rack, and Willie & Max saddlebags to my bike. I've completely transformed the look of my bike.

Also, with just a few easy modifications, you can raise this bike a few inches for taller riders, or lower it for those who are shorter. This ensures a good fit for any owner.

And, if the stock pipes aren't cutting it for you, consider drilling out the baffles. This fix is completely free, as long as you can do the work yourself, and creates a deepier, throatier exhaust sound. Or, consider a set of Vance & Hines pipes to further enhance the sound of your bike.

Perhaps one of the best aspects of the VLX, for a new rider, is the low price tag. I purchased my bike brand-new for around $5700. While the VLX is no longer in production, ending its run in 2007, you can pick up a used VLX for a couple grand.

Happy riding!