Cruisers
1999Honda VT125C Shadow
21 fields on record
The 1999 Honda VT125C Shadow is an entry-level cruiser ideal for beginner riders and commuters seeking manageable performance. Its lightweight 145 kg frame and modest 15 hp V-twin engine deliver reliable, easy-going character with a top speed of 110 km/h. Known for affordability and low-maintenance simplicity, it remains popular for learner riders transitioning into motorcycle ownership.
- Capacity
- 124.7 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 145.0 kg
- Seat height
- 680 mm
- Power
- 15.0 HP (11.0 kW) @ 11000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Best suited to relaxed cruiser-style commuting and short leisurely rides rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- A friendly, unintimidating small-capacity cruiser that prioritizes style and easy handling over speed.
- Not ideal for
- Not suitable for experienced riders seeking strong acceleration, highway touring comfort, or off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usReliability & safety
Bike Reliability score, safety recalls and owner complaintsBike Reliability
How the score works →27
out of 100Below average
The Honda VT125C Shadow passed its annual roadworthiness test first time 76.3% of the time, 6.2 points below expected for bikes of the same age and mileage. That beats 27% of models.
Bikes first registered in 1999 have 54 tests, too few for their own score, so this covers every year.
76.3%Passed first time
14.7%Failed outright
9.0%Fixed during test
9,000Typical miles
2,744Tests
Pass rate by miles ridden
All years of this model.
Score by year first registered
13
18
34
33
2003200620072008
Against its rivals · ranks 1 of 6
| # | Model (all years) | Score | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda VT125C Shadow | 27 Below average | 2,744 |
| 2 | Suzuki GN 125 | 19 Poor | 15,158 |
| 3 | Kawasaki Eliminator 125 | 17 Poor | 184 |
| 4 | SYM Husky 125 | 14 Poor | 1,101 |
| 5 | Kymco Zing 125 | 7 Poor | 322 |
| 6 | Aprilia Classic 125 | 6 Poor | 235 |
Rivals are the most-viewed bikes on MotorcycleDB in the same category and engine size, from within three years of this model.
From British annual roadworthiness tests, 2005-2025. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0 (DVSA MOT test data, Great Britain). How Bike Reliability works.
Engine
- Capacity
- 124.7 ccm
- Power
- 15.0 HP (11.0 kW) @ 11000 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1034 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 42.0 x 45.0 mm
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 110.0 km/h (68.4 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1524 mm
- Overall length
- 2300 mm
- Overall width
- 888 mm
- Seat height
- 680 mm
- Dry weight
- 145.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 14.50 litres
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front tyre
- 100/90-17
- Rear tyre
- 130/90-15
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1999 | 2001 | 2003 | 2005 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 125 cc | 125 cc | 125 cc | 125 cc | 125 cc |
| Dry weight | 145 kg | 145 kg | 145 kg | 145 kg | 145 kg |
| Seat height | 680 mm | 680 mm | 680 mm | 680 mm | 680 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14 L | 14.5 L | 14 L |
| Bike Reliability ⓘ | Too few tests | Too few tests | 13 Poor | Too few tests | 34 Below average |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Honda VT125C Shadow?
The 1999 Honda VT125C Shadow has a Capacity of 124.7 ccm (7.61 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Honda VT125C Shadow have?
The 1999 Honda VT125C Shadow has a Power of 15.0 HP (11.0 kW) @ 11000 RPM.
How many gears does the Honda VT125C Shadow have?
The 1999 Honda VT125C Shadow has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Honda VT125C Shadow weigh?
The 1999 Honda VT125C Shadow has a Dry weight of 145.0 kg (319.7 pounds).
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