Honda again looks to give its cruiser motorcycles a tougher image with the introduction of its blacked-out 2010 Honda Shadow Phantom. Honda has taken its Spirit and chopped its front fender, beefed up its fork with large-diameter matte-finished shrouds, thrown black covers on the air filter and primary, spooned on a thicker front tire and added on a set of new spoked wheels. Matte finishes on the tank-mounted console and cylinder heads in addition the fork shrouds complement the bare-bones look.

“We have a new cruiser that offers a whole new look for Honda,” said Honda Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino.

The 2010 Honda Shadow Phantom also gets updated induction, making the switch from being carb-fed to EFI. The 745cc liquid-cooled V-Twin will now receive its juice from Honda’s Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system with an automatic enrichment circuit that utilizes one 34mm throttle body.

The Shadow® Phantom delivers on a minimalist concept with a uniquely clean and uncluttered look accented by an extensive blackout treatment, bringing motorcyclists back to the core essence of cool. With a torquey 745cc V-twin engine featuring the convenience of sophisticated Programmed Fuel Injection, the Shadow Phantom brings the joy of back-to-basics riding within reach of just about every rider.

Features

* New bobber-inspired styling with extensive blacked out and matte finishes.

* Minimalist front fender.

* New handlebar shape enhances bobber styling.

* Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) for good throttle response and fuel efficiency (see 2009 Technology Section).

* New spoked black wheels and hubs feature a 120/90-17 front tire and 160/80-15 rear tire to complete the overall custom look.

* Low 25.6-inch seat height.

* Sleek, one-piece gunfighter-type seat.

* Tank-mounted speedometer in a stylish 3.7-gallon fuel tank.

* Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

Engine/Drivetrain

* 745cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine produces impressive power over a broad rpm range.

* Crankshaft features long-stroke design to produce strong V-twin feel and low-rpm torque peak.

* Three-Valve Dual-Plug Combustion Chamber (see 2009 Technology Section).

* Wide-ratio five-speed transmission.

Chassis/Suspension

* Sturdy and responsive 41mm front fork features large-diameter matte finished shrouds and large billet-aluminum triple-clamp for a distinctive look. Delivers confident, neutral handling.

* Dual-shock rear suspension features five-position spring preload adjustability for a smooth ride.

* Single front disc brake with twin-piston caliper grips a 296mm drilled rotor between sintered metal pads. Rear brake is drum type.

* Shaft final-drive system provides smooth and reliable low-maintenance operation.

Honda Genuine Accessories

* Backrest with Pad (two styles: Tall and Low), Rear Carrier, Backrest/Carrier, Boulevard Screen, Custom Leather Seat, Solo Rider Rear Carrier, Cycle Cover, Front Pouch, Synthetic Leather Saddlebags.