Harley-Davidson's BIGGEST Mistake. Can this Beginner Bike hurt H-D?

[@HerTwoWheels]

Be honest, What was your first motorcycle?

[@motormobilist]

An Russian Ural 650cc (WWII BMW clone). 40 bikes and almost 50 years later I ride a Honda Goldwing GL1200.

[@richardmccrary3182]

2002 Honda Shadow VLX 600

[@THELASTRID3R]

99 Honda CBR 600

[@07glide5]

2003 sportster 883

[@jefefumador]

My first street bike was an 04 Shadow Aero 750.

[@bert6499]

My first one back in 1983 was a Honda CX500C. I loved that bike so much and rode it for 5 years, even in winter. I stopped riding for 30 years. In 2021 I picked up riding again and bought a 1999 Honda Shadow VT1100 C3 Aero. It's now 24 years old but runs as if it was new. And I feel like 18 again. Love it love it love it. Great video btw.

[@jonesjonz1]

Owner of a VTX1800 C... Still in shock they made a cruiser bike that great in 2002. Comfort, decent handle, smile provoking power and most of all reliability!!

[@Sinatra192]

I just got an 08 VTX1800T as my second bike! So much more power than any Harley of that time and even still a lot of Harleys of today

[@jonesjonz1]

@Sinatra192 with no 3-4k performance upgrades required. Honda should have kept building these just add 6th gear, cruise if you need it, heated grips and 2000cc.

[@z33thr33]

The Japanese cruisers were a slept on gem. The manufacturers put serious weight into it, because they wanted a slice of the Harley pie. Unfortunately they didnt take off as much as they hoped. In the end, you have feature-rich, reliable used machines for cheap, since they printed a million of em

[@Sinatra192]

@@jonesjonz1 ABSOLUTELY!! Honda did it right with these machines!

[@cbrippee]

I owned a 2004 VTX 1300 for 6 years and it was a fantastic bike. They should have kept it and the 1800s going. Put fuel injection in the 1300 and make them available. And they should have made them like they did the old Valkyries with a bagger tour windshied version, and a bagger fairing/audio version and kept making at their Marysville, OH plant.

[@swango1]

My first bike was an Indian Chief with the 116 engine. I did my MSF course on a Harley 500 street bike and then jumped right onto that Chief, no problems, never dropped it or felt overly intimidated by it. I think you should get the bike that you want, and ride your own ride. I didn't ride with anyone else until I felt comfortable in my skill level and knew my own personal limits. The "first bike" qualifications are totally subjective, I know. It boils down to the rider's preference of style and level of confidence and maturity. Ride safe, sister! 😎🤘

[@jeannetteyoung8585]

At age 46, my first bike was a used 2012 Honda Shadow Spirit 750. I loved it so much, I rode it down the Blue Ridge Pkwy and back, to Yellowstone and back (from SE Michigan). I'm 5'1" and could easily flatfoot that all stock bike. I named her Dorothy for getting me through a huge storm. I kept her for about 5 years until I replaced her with a 2015 Softail Slim. She was an EXCELLENT starter bike but she really could've used a 6th gear.😅

[@GG1_LocomotiveFan]

My first bike was a used Yamaha 650 V Star Classic. A month later I was rear ended at a stop light, no injuries. Replaced with a new 650 V Star Classic and two years later a new ‘14 HD Heritage Classic. Sold it last year cause I was having balancing issues at stop lights. I discovered a brand new 2022 metallic blue Honda Shadow Aero at a dealership a month ago and it’s a much better fit for me. I’ve Installed a Mustang seat and I feel I’m nicely snuggled into the bike. I’m 70 years old and 5’11”. Perfect fit! How wonderful to have you and your mom share the sport of motorcycling together! Go, Mama 2 Wheels!

[@tictak0912]

I have had a couple Honda Shadow Spirit 750 motorcycles. they are super bikes and are a lot of fun!

[@robertcraft-pj2jp]

My first bike was a vtx 1300. It was a awesome cruiser, and I loved it. Since then I now ride a Goldwing, and would never ride anything else. Love my Honda 💫⭐️🇺🇸. You know , let’s go back a bit. My first bike was a 1973 Honda z50, then a 1975 Honda XR75, 1976 Honda Elsinore 125, 1986 KX80, 1987 Honda Four trax 250r. Honda four trax 300 arc, and up to what I’ve already mentioned.

[@edwardmylnychuk5774]

SMART

[@Reckless-KC]

I started with a Kawasaki Vulcan 1500. Rode it for about 10 years until I got my Harley Roadking. I still have it and am building it into a bobber. It was a GREAT starter bike that I’d recommend to anyone.

[@KT-ix3dl]

Fellow lady rider here. Just got my endorsement three years ago. Started on a Suzuki GZ250 but outgrew it in 4 months. Bought a 2002 Honda Shadow VLX600 Deluxe. Absolutly love it. Perfect for me. I am 5'3". Goes fast enough for me. But i would love to have the link for the handlebars and risers you got for Mama two wheels bike. So weird you posted that previous video. I was just thinking the same thing of putting different bars just several days before you posted it. I live near Akron, OH Have been watching you for several years. Thanks for the content. You and your Momma gave me the courage to do this.❤

[@LoopedFeedback]

My first bike was a '13 Yamaha V-Star 950. Loved that bike. Rode to Strugis for the '16 rally on it and back and it never once gave me trouble. It was more than enough for me, but I got a bug about a big Indian Springfield. To this day one of my biggest regrets was trading the Yamaha off. Keep your first if you can!

[@thebeardedguyjefflawless5887]

My first bike was a 1985 Honda Rebel 250, then went through about 10 different bikes and now have a 2010 Yamaha 950 V Star Tourer

[@markanderson2438]

I ride a 2002 Shadow ACE 750 and she's my pride and joy, it's my first big bike after my test and that was 2016 and I still have her.. Thanks Jess

[@jimbartlome504]

My first ride was a 1972 Yamaha XS650. Nice bike for learning on. I now ride a 2012 Yamaha VSTAR 950. Only bad thing like you said in the video is the tank mounted Speedo and gauges. Have to take my eyes off the road to see my speed. Other than that it's a great bike for a 71 yr old geezer.

[@robertdablemont8131]

Learned to ride on my Dad’s Honda dream. First bike I bought was a Kawy KD 125. Then for Street, Kaw 440 LTD. Quit riding for around 25 years, reentered riding on a 2014 Honda Shadow Phantom, that my son quit riding. Then my Dad turned 90 and gave me his 2001 heritage, just to bulky, found a 2014 Harley Street Bob 1,400 miles completely stock 4 years ago and the rest is history.

[@stevebeard4117]

All that you're saying applies to returning and older riders too. Last year I bought a Vulcan 900 Classic with only 3200 miles for cash. 1st bike after 40 years. I'm enjoying making it my own. At 73, I can still pick it up,back it up and keep the chicken strips off the tires. Getting ready for a run from Ohio to Lubbock Tx to do some riding with my 72 yr old brother and his crew. He has a 2015 Shadow.

[@stellarida8797]

My first bike was a 2001 Honda Shadow 750 Classic. Had 2,000 miles on it and paid $2,500 for it. Loved that bike and regret trading it in for a 2010 Kawasaki Nomad. Now I have a 2016 Indian Chieftain. Definitely agree with starting with something affordable and not too powerful. I rode my Shadow for over 2 years.

[@spacetruckin6555]

1989 Kawasaki Eliminator 250 and I'm a 6'2" 235 pound male. I still miss that bike. Now I ride a 1200 Sporty and I love it too.

[@jonathanperkins1807]

I've ridden motorcycles since I was old enough/big enough to climb on one. So many years..... I've always liked the Hondas... I've owned 2 Honda Shadow 750's (my current one a 2009 Spirit). I am a very experienced rider and still enjoy the 750. Great on fuel, enough power to have fun and enjoy, but still a little forgiving. I personally think that Harley makes some beautiful bikes... but you really hit the mark when you said if you maintain it a Honda will last forever... and they are just dead-on reliable.

[@randyreynosoll3444]

Just last week I got me a 1999 Honda shadow vt600. The same color as that 750. I think there nice bike mine only 2200 miles on it and I gave less the 3000 for it. And this is my first motorcycle Thanks for the videos great work

[@2woofs784]

Hey Jess, I started off on a little Honda 50cc when I was about 7 years old and then a 16 years old I took the MSF course and bought my neighbors red Honda 250cc. I currently ride a Yamaha V Star 1300. Prayers Flying from Michigan for safe travels

[@thevoiceinmyhelmet3827]

What a great way to share riding with new riders ! You are spot on , get a first street bike that makes sense to the rider . My first was a 80 model 850 Yamaha that I rode over many states , here I am like 40 years later still love riding . Thanks for what you do 👍😎

[@canacruzer5173]

Had an 87 Yamaha 850. Stopped riding for 18 years and now have a 2005 Vulcan Nomad 1600. Love this bike, 99,000 km (61,500 miles) on it and still going strong no issues. Highly recommend.

[@Yargilfist]

My very first bike, which I only recently parted with, was an 07 Suzuki Boulevard C50. Despite being only a few cc's larger than that Shadow, it was almost a carbon copy of your Mom's bike. I rode with the same style bars until last November when I put 10 inch mini apes on it. After about a year of owning it, I had put a Cobra Exhaust system, and whew did it roar! I do somewhat miss my bike, but now I have an 06 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600. Put the old stock bars back on the C50, and took those 10 inch mini apes to my Vulcan! Now, all I need are bags and a windshield of some sort. Maybe one day!

[@stevenking2469]

A Honda CX500C. Thinking it was about a 80's model year. Bought it used and rode it daily every where I went was my only transportation when I was in the Navy. Rode it for a few years after the Navy. Got back into riding about five years ago on a Harley Davidson 883 sportster. I now have a 1200 sporty '07 and an '08 Road King. Love them all. Wish I had more garage space for more and different bikes. Be good and Be safe ‼️

[@mickeygonz7026]

Thanks for the review. I am a new rider & the Honda Shadow was recommended for my 1st bike. I have been looking & have found a few newer shadows (like 2014). Yay!! Stay safe & keep doing what you do!! Much success.... I'll be watching.

[@brothersbikesandbourbon]

Mine was a 1972 Yamaha RD350-when it ran right, it ran great. Often it was a dog: two-stroke design meant often-fouled plugs. After a long break, I got into riding again. First got a new RE Bullet 500 Deluxe in 2002. Electric start! • 2014 Yamaha FJR ES • 201

[@jamesyork6023]

I had the exact twin to that. I wanted to love it. I really did. It was my first bike before taking the MSF course and never could get comfortable on it (too small for my frame). I’ve since researched more and think I’m going for a Vulcan 900. Always loved how that shadow looked though, and got a lot of compliments on the paint scheme!

[@8-bitThrottle]

First bike was a 1980 Kawasaki ltd 440. On the road for a day and went right to the Honda dealer and got a new 1998 750 shadow, and then a vtx1300. I've had a few Hondas over the years. They are great bikes. My friend used to call my VTX a Honda Davidson. I grew up on the back of everything except a Harley. Got my first Harley a few years ago, and just got another. I do like them but wouldn't hesitate to get a Metric bike if I liked it.

[@christiehenderson3981]

2003 Honda Shadow ACE. Love that bike! Put 60,000 miles on it and decided to get a bigger bike for longer trips. I still have it. I just haven't rode it since I bought my bagger.

[@markdurham7046]

My first bike was a 2018 Road King,had for a year and then purchased a 2022 Electra Glide Standard and now looking at either a Road Glide or possibly open to other brands at this time.

[@Yuduyubu]

I started on the 2023 HD Pan America. Perfect bike for me. Absolutely amazing!

[@hessman5198]

First bike was a '73 Honda mini trail 70 when I was 10 years old. First real street bike was an '87 Kawasaki EX500. Your comment about the Honda cruisers is spot on. I rode an '04 VTX 1300 for 14 years, great bike and only did regular maintenance to it. Kinda miss it now even though I love my Victory Cross Country.

[@matthewbeske5156]

Amen... I had a '00 Honda Shadow ACE 750 for a while of my many bikes over the years and would agree with your comments. Over the weekend my son bought his first cycle... a '96 Honda Shadow ACE 1100, I rode it home and what a refreshing experience! But have to say I love my '12 Ultra Limited now! Like the old ads.... "You meet the nicest people on Honda's"

[@Scootphoria]

750 Aero with EFI and mags with a Mustang seat. That would be my #1 choice of large motorcycle. I've owned GL1800 down to minibikes. But I'm currently in love with small bore/small frame.

[@mattbell9817]

My first bike was a 1980 Honda CB650. Loved that bike! Lots of fun!

[@jerm1027]

I'm also a cruiser person and ended up going with Yamaha as my first bike and have been a bit of a fanboy ever since. I started on a V Star 250, upgraded to a Twin Cam 103 Fat Bab, went down SR400, and settled down with a used 2011 V Star 950 Tourer with 35,000 miles on the clock and still ticking. The reason for so many bikes is each excelled at a different use case. 250 was great around town and back country roads, but too small for extended highway, 103 with great on open highway, but too big and heavy for dense urban traffic, SR400 was stone-aged simple and was great, but I just had too many bikes at the time, and now I settled on a V Star 950, which I primarily use for long distance trips and it melts away miles, but it's light enough to be comfortable in traffic, and it just keeps on ticking. On that 950, even after 14 hours of riding, I was still ready for several more hours, where as my Fat Bob I was kinda done after 6-8 hours. For actual riding, these Japanese middleweight cruisers are impossible to beat for value, reliability, and comfort.

[@ngentry929]

if yamaha brought back the vstar line i think it would do fairly well now. the 1300 is the kinda bike somebody could start on and never really outgrow.

[@cbrippee]

I own a Victory Cross Country a Victory Kingpin, and a Honda CTX 700dct. I am thinking of selling the Kingpin, one large bike is enough and making a mid size additon of either a yamaha v star 950 tourer or the Yamaha V Star 1300 tourer or deluxe. Is the 950 really this good of a bike. I have owned the 1300 before and just wonder how it compares. I do like the 650 pounds the 950 has as I am approaching 70 years but still stout for now.

[@JohnMcClain-p9t]

I built my last custom bike in 95, all new components and had the frame crack less than six months later. It was replaced but I'd already built my own frame and sold the replacement. I've still got that bike two frames later, having built a tubing bender a few times and that frame is still roadworthy. That bike is about 500 pounds, been sidelined since my wife got sick and subsequently died. I currently am riding a 78 Triumph 750 but getting ready to put my big twin back on the road next spring. I'm rebuilding a few old Triumphs, one for my niece and just need to change fluids and probably rebuild the carb on the big twin, and I hope to take it to Sturgis next summer, first time since the nineties. My niece is looking forward to her first time there with her own bike. I really enjoy a woman's perspective because of my daughter and niece. My daughter doesn't ride anymore because of her health, but she got many thousands of miles with me growing up. I always check out lots of videos before subscribing and you earned my subscription with the smile on your face and obvious pleasure you take in riding. I don't think I'll ever do videos myself, but yours are well worth the effort you put into them. I've been riding since the late sixties although never had a license until 73. I hope to still be riding to the day I die, not in any hurry though. Seven bikes at the present, one of my favorites is a 42 flathead, to be rebuilt this winter for the road, might take it to Sturgis!

[@franciscquito]

My first motorbike was a 1973 Kawasaki KZ400. Worked all my way up to my current BMW R1200RT and loved EVERY step of the way. Also a cruiser/long haul rider myself, I would like just to beg you to wear a little more gear when riding (gloves, jacket, pretty-please?). I'm sure it'd have a VERY positive influence in your audience! Can't stop watching your videos. Keep them up! 😉

[@johnmcduffee7867]

I started on a super 90 Honda, bought a cb350, then moved to a cb750. Fast forward to a Honda 750 ace, then went HD Ultra limited. Now that I'm 68 years young I decided to switch to the 750 Aero because it's lighter and comfortable and will handle cross country trips when set up properly.

[@thomasbartlett3409]

Been riding since 1969. My present bike is a Honda Valkyrie 1500C f6.

[@ManicSalamander]

1977 Yamaha XS400D. Still have it. It's a grocery getter mostly. Very maneuverable at low speed, but weird when you lean it too far. 28hp, 375lbs. 49MPG. Brakes are awesome. Has trouble cruising over 62MPH. 2.7 gallon tank, wish it were 4. A new KTM 390 Duke would be better in every possible respect. But I decided long ago I value the opportunity to improve my mechanical skills on this relic over actually owning the ideal city bike. Still, it's been to the Black Hills at least twice, all over MN and WI, to Iowa City many times, to Boston and Raleigh once. You can tour on anything. It's all a matter of pacing and preparation.

[@granddad-mv5ef]

Jess, because a lot of this upload involves opinion, not everyone will totally agree. I turned 16 before the days of the fast , small displacement two-strokes. My parents' neighbor had a 50cc Suzuki he rode to work, and was probably my first solo ride at age 14. In the next ten years I would own a Super Hawk, a Goldstar, a Daytona, a 350SL Honda, a TS400 Suzuki, a 750 Yamaha (what a disappointment that was), and finally a '69 H-D Sportster (shifter on the right, brake on the left). Of course, I went on from there. In 2007, I had the opportunity to ride a 2005 Honda 750 Aero and was shocked to find it had no power at all; very much like that old 750 Yamaha. Just how it happened for me a very long time ago, these days 75 is fast enough for me.

[@NanceDrew]

I did my MSF on a 250 Honda Rebel that was tiny for me but confidence building. My 1st bike, many bikes ago was a used 2003 Triumph Speedmaster which was a 790CC, 62HP, air cooled, carbed bike. I could flat foot easy but felt stretched out and it was 500lbs so I ended up selling it making a profit and getting a 1980s Honda Rebel 450 which are rare to find (most are 250s) and it was in great shape. I practiced on that for a couple months and it was GREAT for confidence and relearning (I rode dirt bikes as a kid), yet needed to upgrade for more power. I made a profit when selling the Honda too. Then went to a 2009 1200 XL Custom Harley Sportster and did so many mods on it I can’t even count. I now have a beautiful Triumph T120 1200CC fuel injected, ABS, liquid cooled, modified for more power and sound and it’s my dream bike. One thing I’d add to this video is buying a used first bike, you don’t have to worry about if you drop it as won’t cost you much if anything to repair and you don’t worry about scratches, etc. I’d hate to have 1 tiny scratch on a newer bike as I’m pretty meticulous about that sort of thing. We also have an Indian Scout that is 1200CC with mods.

[@gelfyd1]

I ride a 1982 Kawasaki KZ650 and love it. I’ve been riding for 53 years and this bike fits me like a glove. I also have a vintage Yamaha RD200 that I restored.

[@Zeroplanetz]

I’ve sold my 2014 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 custom in April for a 2022 CanAm Spyder F3. While I do miss the two wheels, the ride comfort is way better now with my back and knees. No regrets on that front. But I can still get out and enjoy the wind.

[@maxwelledison5366]

My first motorcycle was a 1968 Moto Guzzi 750 Ambassador, and that bike was my only means of transportation for 5 years.

[@leonbeck6254]

I have 2 shadows one is a spirt and a Areow 2009. One gets 40-50 the other gets 50-64 miles per gal. Tank is 3:9 gals. Love them😁🎅🏼🏍🇺🇸😎

[@GoodGuysCarry]

My first bike was a Honda VTX 1300. Great bike, my wife and I rode all over the country on it. I’m still riding my 2nd bike… it’s a 2013 Harley Ultra Classic. We ride a lot!

[@elizabethwilson5349]

I have a 2012 Dyna Wide Glide, and I LOVE her very much!

[@andrewmarty1339]

My First bike was a 1987 Honda 450 rebel. From there I went to a 2007 Yamaha vstar 650. I have to say I think the vstar 650 would be a great starter bike very similar to the shadow. I put right around 20k on the vstar in the 3 years I owned it, with minimal issuies.

[@TimSullivan-jd3qv]

Chopped 1966 Triumph 650 (bought it in 73). Still have it 50 years later. Loved growing up in the chopper era.

[@119topdawg]

My first bike after a 7 yr hiatus was a 2004 Honda Shadow 750 ACE - two tone yellow and white. Loved it, however realized that it was too small for for what I was planning . Great bikes, super reliable and either great 1st year bikes or long term for the mor local rider

[@HerTwoWheels]

Exactly!

[@PaulsMotoZen]

My Honda Shadow Aero has the stock handlebars, but I adjusted them to be more up and forward, and the comfort level was much better. My shoulders are more relaxed now.

[@shelleyking8450]

First bike was a 1982 Yamaha 650 Special, had two for a while(one for spouse, that decided she didnt want to ride). Good starter size, and cheap used. Stepped up to Honda Shodow 1100, and still have one now with 52k miles. They DO run forever.

[@danheldt1121]

I've always been only attracted to cruiser style bikes. My first road bike was 96 Yamaha virago 750. it was another perfect starter bike, bought from a Harley dealership for $545.00 out the door. Now im riding 2002 Honda VTX 1800C,I don't know if I'll ever get rid of this one.

[@joshunruh5240]

I was saving for a down payment on a Road King but got tired of waiting. I bought a VTX1300 for $3200 two years ago in nearly perfect shape. Never regretted that decision and saved a lot of money. Not to mention, it’s SO simple and easy to work on. A friend of mine has a Shadow 750 that I did some work on for her, and it makes plenty of power even hauling my 270 pound self around. If anyone throws shade on these Hondas, they just have no idea. If I was told I had to ride a Shadow 750 for the rest of my life, I wouldn’t be mad. They are just that solid.

[@ashtonmariefranklin1981]

I mostly ride an 03 Buell XB9R Firebolt and also love my 99 Yamaha Roadstar 1600, which was my fathers motorcycle. It's all torque, a low revving comfortable couch that can ride for hundreds of miles in a day.

[@donflores5227]

I'm a 72 year old . I ride a 2001 shadow I'm 5'5" and have a 27 inch inseam and I can easily flat foot my bike. I've been riding since I was 15 and have always had to deal with motorcycles that where made for tall folks. As far as I'm concerned, the shadow is a great bike for beginners and experienced riders. Unless you NEED 100 hp. It has plenty of getup and go for hot rodding around as if your stuck in traffic it can handle that to. The Phantom retails for about $8000 new.

[@jimbobborg22]

A few years back, HD made a 750cc motorcycle called the Street. They made if for 6 years, and discontinued it in 2021. Sadly, it didn't sell well as most HD dealers pushed people away from it to the bigger bikes. Something to think about.

[@wayneisname4544]

I have a Honda rebel 250. I get made fun of sometimes for it but I love it. It's a very forgiving first motorcycle and I can put it in the small corner of room I have left in the garage lol. I hope I don't ever give it its first dent. I know a lot of them have been dropped

[@GT-sj3si]

I have two bikes, a 1995 Kawasaki 800 Vulcan and a 2022 Indian Pursuit Darkhorse Icon. Love them both!

[@godsmack7734]

Honda Shadow is an awesome bike! My first bike was a Honda Shadow Phantom! Great great bike!

[@davehowie03]

My first bike was an ‘05 Shadow Spirit. Loved it, but the frame was a little small for me. Got a dyna that I still ride today the very next year.

[@leedanielson7452]

I like how you express your opinion… Lots of people lack that trait…. 👍👍🇺🇸

[@cbozarth40195]

This awesome because I just bought a 1998 Honda shadow aero 1100. I just did a bunch of upgrades lights,sissy bar and brakes,oil all the good stuff

[@jamesadams2334]

I had a 2004 and loved it. Very little maintenance, rode nice and after 55 years of riding, I thought those bars were the most comfortable bars I ever used on the road. I rode my cousins Shadow 750 with the drag type bars and felt out of control all the time, which I didn't understand considering that I rode crotch rockets most of my life on the street. 25" seat height and although the seat is wider, I never got butt sore riding it no matter the distance. 525lbs. I too paid $2000 for mine and I think they went to fuel injection in 2006 or 2009. I could go 150 miles per tank of gas. The bike itself is not a very large bike in size, it's fairly small like the Harley. It's a great bike!

[@jeremygudgeon4144]

I started on a 125cc Yamaha induro, then xs 650cc was my first "street" bike and now I ride a 03 Honda VTX1800C. Just rotating those beach bars up some would make a difference in comfort.

[@vault20]

My first bike is still my current bike, a 1999 Honda shadow aero 1100c3 and I like how you mentioned the speedo being on the tank, my bike they put the speedo in the headlight bucket and your right about the seat and handle bars I want to get mini apes for my bike and I got a Saddleman seat it’s nice and narrow.

[@chrismooney5737]

I got a 2004 Honda shadow 750 same color and everything mine got the Vince and Hines exhaust 11 inch ape hangers it’s got Harley Davidson saddle bags on it I love it

[@curtrodriguez1036]

My very first bike was a Zebra Trail mini bike my dad got for us kids when I was around eleven years old in the early 70's, he then bought us a brand new 77' Yamaha DT100. We stripped all the lights off it and made it a dirt bike, crashed that bike a lot! That began my foray into motocross when I bought a Yamaha YZ 125. Fast forward several off road bikes my first street bike was a new 01' Suzuki Volusia, had a friend ride it home because I didn't even have a motorcycle license yet! From then until now I've owned an 03' HD Fatboy, 04' HD Road King Custom, 04' HD Street Rod, 05' Buell City Cross, 06' HD Street Glide, 2014 HD Road king and now a 2021 Street Glide Special. I do want an adventure bike so I'm looking at the Pan American.

[@quantumleap1560]

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind, one of the best entry level bikes is a Honda Rebel. Mine was the old school 250cc. As a new rider, YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES, and there's no avoiding it. When you're on a low cc engine like the Rebel, it lets you make your mistakes on a very forgiving throttle, and that will help keep you out of some traumatic dumps. Be patient, you will eventually outgrow it as you learn and gain experience, and will be ready in no time to upgrade to something nice and more powerful. I understand Honda Rebels are looking super sharp now days and they have them in 300cc and 500cc. Also, great price on new bikes. My current bikes: 2011 HD Sporty XL 883 and 2015 HD CVO Softail Deluxe.

[@davidnickell9381]

Good to hear someone say the truth about the Shadows. Half the price, twice the reliability. Much easier to ride. What was the question, again... :)

[@mrmurphy8609]

Yup great bikes! WhenI got back into riding I started on a 2012 Honda Shadow Phantom loved that bike! But I gave it to a buddy when I got my Indian Scout Bobber. Did Rochester NY to Port Charlotte FL it took me 4 days but it gave me zero problems the entire time I had it.

[@traceyguerin1657]

I ride a 2010 Suzuki boulevard C50T 800 she is grey and white and I love it, love your videos from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺 xxxx

[@ThatGrizzlyMan]

Yes girl! Wish I could love this video twice! I am a Harley guy through and through but my first bike was a 2006 Honda Shadow also and even though I will probably never own one again, (unless it's an African twin) I will forever have mad respect for the entire Honda lineup.

[@dblizz68]

I hate those speedometers on the tank myself. One suggestion is Amazon sells gps style speedometers for around $30. Couldount one on the bars or windshield. Keeps you from having to take your eyes off the road so much. Might wanna look into that.

[@turbobink2244]

By range of makes and models in comments, supports your opinion to find the style and size for individual tastes and skill level. Started on Honda 70 age 11 or 12. 750 Kaw standard inline 4, 1992 Fatboy, VT500 Honda ( shaft drive), 225 Yamaha XT ( lights and signals single cylinder), my favorite was a 1200 Yamaha super tenere, however I was too short for it, we also had a 250 Vespa which is fun.

[@robertcraft-pj2jp]

I know this is off the subject, but how do you feel about pulling a trailer with a motorcycle?! Have you done it? If not please look into it. Thanks. Hoosier Wing ⭐️🇺🇸💫

[@cranedaddy678]

I don't remember my FIRST bike but the first street bike I legally rode was a 1996 Yamaha Royal Star. I passed my motorcycle driving test on that bike at 16 years old in 1998. The dude giving the test took one look at me and that bike and laughed, but I proved him wrong!

[@djd34d14]

The thing about the displacement of the Harleys is it just adds weight. I'd bet somebody on a shadow 500 could outpace me on my 883 pretty easy. Also to answer the question: not the bike I learned on, but the first bike I get to call my own is a chopped (hardtail) Evo sportster hugger. Hefty, but so am I so weight isn't so much of an issue for me.

[@kevinoverton6869]

I had a shadow 600 I rode for 11 years and traded up for my sportster 883. I loved the Honda, it was very reliable and easy to maintain.

[@sidgrover8628]

Well currently I own a Honda VTX1800R and a Harley Dyna wide glide and a little Honda Rebel 250 to teach the kids how to , shift, brake and ride a motorcycle on…they only had a mini bike up to this point as I just got the Rebel a few days ago I’ve had a Honda Shadow 1100 in the past as well as problem a dozen other Kawasaki, and Honda bikes the Shadows are the best really for dependable and comfort

[@antonwalter1755]

i just took your advice i just picked up a 1988 honda shadow vt1100c runs great. the previous own just wanted a bigger bike. the only thing i hve to get use to is for some reason honda only made it a 4 speed.. but it has legs

[@cbrippee]

So Moma Two Wheels has a Honda Shadow. Love the color. I would put a larger screen on like a National cycle, Memphis shades, or even slipstreamer to block more wind and floorboards. But this looks very comfortable to ride. Hard to beat for beginning rider or any rider that wants a light (550 lbs.) well performaning crusier bike that will not let you down. I have owned 8 hondas over my 45 years of riding and not a one ever let me down. One of my 3 bikes is a 2017 Honda CTX 700 dct which fits my older feet forward 6 foot frame great. I use it to cruise down back roads and state roads out here in farm country in SW, OH. I only wish Honda would make a bigger version of it with the motor they put in the too puny Rebel 1100 dct, and all the tech the new Rebel has and I would buy it hands down. Nice review Jess.

[@Wildturkey10121]

On my way to Milwaukee I used my cruise quite a bit, but I also didn't. Every bike sounds a certain way at a certain speed, that's what you need to learn. I ride a 2004 Road King with the little 88ci 5 speed, and though I wish I had a six speed, I know how my bike sounds at 75mph, uphill, downhill, pay attention to the sound and you don't have to look at the tank mounted speedometer. With my Reinhardt pipes it is kinda like a hours long fart, but it is through a half helmet with speaker pockets and such. It sounds totally different when I go bald. Jess better come find me I want to meet you and Jordan.

[@haroldbell213]

I had a 2002 model. Totally reliable bike . Easy to ride.Sold it to a first time rider. Had 36000 on it and still ran like a new one.They are a bit slow on the Hi way.

[@Dragonford350]

'73 Honda Cb350 didn't really ride it officially was my uncle's and he gave it to me .... Never got it running just right and gave it away to his dismay. My first bike , officially mine was a brand new 2003 Suzuki Volusia. Bought it with help from my mom, she passed away in 07 from Cancer. Had gotten rid of it for a bit when my dogs were sick. Sold it to a friend, who promised me I'd be first to buy it back and four years later, I bought it back, and it's still with me. It just turned 20 years old on July 3rd. I'm a cruiser guy , but I love all of em and would like a Sport Touring, preferably a BMW R1250RT.

[@johntaylor9956]

My first bike is a 2020 Honda shadow phantom I love the bike only down side is there is not a lot of aftermarket support for the newer model but in all it is a amazing beginner/ forever bike.

[@darthdurkelthewise320]

My first bike was an 06’ Honda Shadow ACE 750. I think I paid $2,500 for it. It sounded like an evil sewing machine! 🤘🏻 And like you I bought mine way before I had my license. I rode it dirty back in the day before I had my license until I finally took an MSF class like a good boy! I actually really liked that bike at the time. I didn’t love it but it was a great first bike…It was well behaved, and was butt easy to maintain. I remember the fenders making me mad because they were fiber glass or some kind of ABS plastic but still, the bike was good. I ended up selling it for the same price I paid for it years earlier. Honda’s new Shadow actually looks good so I’d recommend that one considering the price difference new vs HD. Heck, buy a used Shadow and have zero regrets. A new rider can always move on once they work out wants, needs, and preferences later on.

[@mickeygaines007]

Proud Harley rider. And almost 100k miles on them and worst I’ve had is voltage regulator went out. But of course this will bring out the “unreliable Harley” crowd that really needs to find another tune. Maybe one that’s actually accurate.

[@erniecolussy1705]

For first motorcycle shoppers, remember that you are buying your first motorcycle. It shouldn't be your last or dream motorcycle. You currently don't have enough information to have realistic dream motorcycle. And that dream motorcycle will keep changing over your riding experience. To see how this can happen look at all the different motorcycles and motorcycle types Doddle has enjoyed riding. She has dreamed of and ridden modern classic, cruiser, sport bike, baggers and adventure motorcycles. Hopefully it will be many years and at least a few motorcycle until you have your last motorcycle. Please understand that displacement does not equal power. There are 600 cc motorcycles with more power than many 1200 cc motorcycles. Difficulty of riding is dependent on a lot more things than power, weight, posture and seat height. Most Harleys are very reliable as the factory built them. Modifications can greatly reduce reliability. Many Harleys are modified before they leave the showroom floor. First motorcycle I rode was a Honda 50. My first motorcycle was a XL75. My first street motorcycles was a CB350 Four. My first motorcycle with self canceling turn signals was 1984 VF750S (V45 Sabre). Features that that I like on a motorcycle start with the most important. Fuel injection reduces service requirements and increases reliability. ABS because none of us are perfect and neither are the roads we travel on. Some wind and weather protection to improve the amount of time that it is comfortable to ride. Locking, waterproof storage for the things I need when riding. An IMU for cornering ABS. Self canceling turn signals for the occasion when I screw up and forget to cancel. Cruise control for when long distances on an interstate highway needs to be covered. Unfortunately the last three are not easy to find on affordable motorcycles. And these three can not be added with aftermarket parts.

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Great, wise words. Wish somebody told me that with my first bike. I bought it purely on looks alone - and it was so nicely lit in my dealership. A Yamaha XT 600 E. Put up with it for 20 years. Only after that time I came to the conclusion I am simply a road riding person. I still absolutely adore the looks of an enduro/adventure bike (I admire the beautiful Ténéré 700 my husband rides), but I got, after a short Italian deviation, onto a road bike - a Yamaha Tracer 700. Never will go back. After some modification, I love it so much. Still getting used to the additional ponies, but it is so much fun. Maybe it would have been a different story if I had started with something smaller at the appropriate age. But I never got used to the high center of gravity of that XT. Also, I got so annoyed that I could not move it around easily in a parking lot. It just felt like a brick, despite weighing just 180 kgs. Of course I dropped it several times. This is now completely over, even with luggage on.

[@czarnulaa.b.7436]

My first was Suzuki Intruder 800 vs 1995. Now I ride Honda Shadow 600 vlx 1988 and we ride together 9.years. I love Her ❤

[@jameshampton3559]

My first full fledged motorcycle is a Honda Shadow Aero vt1100c3. 1998. I got it this past January and it quit working while I was trying to get used to riding it. My previous rides were maxi scooters... Yamaha X MAX 300. A 2018 followed by a 2019. The scooters are gone, but I still have the Shadow and still have hopes for it.

[@SterlingWheel]

My first bike was a KTM 250 dirtbike. I built a 486 computer in trade for it and the guy said it was a Barstow to Vegas racer. Big tank and great suspension. Found out later it was a 78 KTM MC5 and actually 400cc. It always wanted to kill me and I loved it. First streetbike was a 1978 BMW R75/6 but I needed a better touring and commuter rig. I like most bikes but no interest at all in anything new.

[@DadandaBike]

2022-bmw-g310gs polar white. I was surprised by this. I got my endorsement and then sat on over 30 bikes. I ended up on the adventure bike because the price and size was right for me. I'm 6'2" 220lbs and the bmw was under 5k. With 1 mile on the odometer. My dream is still scout rogue or HD lowrider st but it will be many years before I can afford either

[@laurelv03]

Love this content. Keep on riding bikes, this is very entertaining.

[@karykullenberg1736]

I got a Ninja 650 aboot a year ago. It’s ok but not for distance. I wanted to do a long ride and got a 06 Honda Shadow Aero with 3500mi on it with new tires for $3300. I did a 2200 mile trip and had the time of my life. Camped most every night. I had a HD Sporster years ago and won’t have another. My Hardley is good enough for me thanks.

[@brittonharrison-diller6985]

We rode with the Great American Convoy two up (not small ppl) And my Betty (Black Betty) did just fine... Let's just say it was really intense!!!