1987 Honda Shadow 700 Manual

The 1987 Honda Shadow 700 is a V-twin cruiser motorcycle featuring a 697cc liquid-cooled engine, shaft drive system, 5-speed transmission, and classic cruiser styling. This manual covers essential information for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper care and optimal performance of your motorcycle.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Operation Controls 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Basic Maintenance Procedures 7. Troubleshooting Guide 8. Storage Recommendations 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 697cc V-twin engine, shaft final drive, hydraulic disc brakes, electronic ignition, and cruiser-style seating position.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	697cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Braking System	Hydraulic disc front and rear
Ignition System	Electronic CDI
Fuel System	Two constant-velocity carburetors
Frame Type	Double-cradle steel
Suspension	Telescopic fork front, dual shocks rear
Seat Height	27.8 inches
Fuel Capacity	3.7 gallons

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform these checks before operating your motorcycle.

Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for your journey.
Inspect tires: Verify proper inflation and check for damage/wear.
Test brakes: Confirm proper brake lever and pedal operation.
Check lights: Test headlight, brake light, turn signals, and horn.
Verify fluid levels: Check engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant.
Examine controls: Ensure throttle, clutch, and brake controls operate smoothly.

WARNING! Never operate motorcycle without completing pre-ride inspection. Failure to do so may result in accident or injury.

Operation Controls

Familiarize yourself with all motorcycle controls before riding.

Right Handlebar: Throttle control, front brake lever, engine stop switch, start button.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signal switch, headlight dimmer switch, horn button.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator.

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right).

Specifications

Engine: 697cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin, SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 76mm x 77mm
Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
Fuel System: Two 34mm constant-velocity carburetors
Ignition: Computer-controlled digital with electronic advance
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Front: 37mm telescopic fork, 5.9 inches travel
Suspension Rear: Dual shocks, 5-step adjustable preload, 3.9 inches travel
Brakes Front: Single 276mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Brakes Rear: 180mm drum
Tires Front: 100/90-19
Tires Rear: 140/90-15
Wheelbase: 63.0 inches
Seat Height: 27.8 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gallons
Curb Weight: 498 pounds

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is essential for safety and longevity.

Service Item	Every 600 mi	Every 4000 mi	Every 8000 mi
Engine oil	Replace	Replace	Replace
Oil filter	-	Replace	Replace
Air cleaner	Inspect	Clean/Replace	Clean/Replace
Spark plugs	Inspect	Replace	Replace
Valve clearance	-	Inspect/Adjust	Inspect/Adjust
Brake fluid	Inspect	Replace	Replace
Drive shaft oil	-	Replace	Replace
Tires/Wheels	Inspect	Inspect	Inspect

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Essential maintenance tasks for proper motorcycle care.

Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with recommended oil (3.7 qt).
Air Filter: Remove side cover, clean or replace filter element as needed.
Spark Plugs: Remove old plugs, gap new plugs to 0.028-0.031 inches, install securely.
Chain Adjustment: Check drive chain slack (1.0-1.2 inches), adjust as necessary.
Brake Inspection: Check pad wear, fluid level, and lever/pedal operation.
Tire Pressure: Maintain front 28 psi, rear 32 psi (solo riding).

CAUTION! Always use genuine Honda parts and recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue, spark plugs	Check battery charge, verify fuel flow, inspect spark plugs
Poor acceleration	Clogged air filter, carburetor issues	Clean/replace air filter, service carburetors
Brakes feel spongy	Air in brake lines, worn pads	Bleed brake system, inspect/replace brake pads
Electrical issues	Blown fuse, loose connections	Check fuses, inspect wiring connections
Unusual noises	Loose components, engine issues	Inspect for loose parts, check engine components

Note: For complex issues, consult authorized Honda service center.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage procedures for extended periods of non-use.

Clean motorcycle thoroughly
Change engine oil and filter
Fill fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer
Remove battery and store with trickle charger
Inflate tires to recommended pressure
Cover motorcycle with breathable cover

WARNING! Store in dry, cool location away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when operating your motorcycle.

Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs
Observe all traffic laws and speed limits
Maintain safe following distance
Use turn signals and check mirrors frequently
Be aware of road conditions and weather
Ride within your skill level and ability

Warranty Information

1987 Honda Shadow 700 includes limited warranty coverage. Contact authorized Honda dealer for specific warranty terms and conditions. Keep all maintenance records for warranty validation. For service assistance, contact Honda Customer Service at 1-866-784-1870 or visit www.honda.com.