1988 Honda Shadow 800 Owners Manual

The 1988 Honda Shadow 800 is a V-twin cruiser motorcycle featuring a 805cc liquid-cooled engine, shaft drive system, five-speed transmission, dual carburetors, front disc and rear drum brakes, electric start, comprehensive instrumentation, and comfortable riding position. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fuel and Lubrication 8. Electrical System 9. Storage and Care 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 805cc V-twin engine, shaft final drive, five-speed transmission, dual carburetors, front disc brake, rear drum brake, electric start, comprehensive instrumentation.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type805cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Transmission5-speed constant mesh
Final DriveShaft drive
CarburetionDual 34mm constant velocity
Brakes FrontHydraulic disc, single piston
Brakes RearMechanical drum
IgnitionElectronic (CDI)
Starting SystemElectric with auxiliary kick starter
Fuel Capacity3.7 gallons (14 liters)
Seat Height27.2 inches (690mm)

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform pre-ride inspection before operating motorcycle.

  1. Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for intended ride.
  2. Inspect tires: Check pressure and condition for wear/damage.
  3. Test brakes: Verify proper front and rear brake operation.
  4. Check lights: Test headlight, brake light, turn signals.
  5. Verify controls: Ensure throttle, clutch, brakes operate smoothly.

WARNING! Failure to perform pre-ride inspection may result in accident or injury. Always wear proper protective gear.

Basic Operation

Starting and operating procedures for normal riding conditions.

  1. Starting engine: Turn ignition on, set choke if cold, pull clutch, press start button.
  2. Shifting gears: Use clutch lever to shift smoothly through five gears.
  3. Braking: Use both front and rear brakes together for maximum stopping power.
  4. Turning: Lean motorcycle smoothly into turns while maintaining throttle control.
  5. Parking: Use side stand on firm, level surface; turn fuel valve to OFF if parked for extended period.

CAUTION! Always use both brakes for stopping. Practice emergency braking in safe area.

Specifications

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls and instrument panel functions.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, horn button, turn signal switch, high/low beam switch.

Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, engine kill switch, starter button, throttle grip.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators, oil pressure warning light.

Additional Controls: Ignition switch, fuel valve, choke lever, side stand.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Service ItemEvery 600 miEvery 4000 miEvery 8000 mi
Engine OilChangeChangeChange
Oil Filter-ReplaceReplace
Air FilterInspectClean/ReplaceClean/Replace
Spark PlugsInspectReplaceReplace
Brake FluidInspectReplaceReplace
Drive Shaft Oil-ChangeChange
Valve Clearance-Check/AdjustCheck/Adjust

Fuel and Lubrication

Fuel requirements and lubrication specifications.

  1. Fuel: Use unleaded gasoline with octane rating of 86 or higher.
  2. Engine Oil: Use API classification SE or SF, viscosity SAE 10W-40.
  3. Drive Shaft Oil: Use hypoid gear oil SAE 80W-90.
  4. Brake Fluid: Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Tip: Check oil level with motorcycle on center stand on level ground.

Electrical System

Battery maintenance and electrical component information.

  1. Battery: 12V 14Ah, maintain proper electrolyte level.
  2. Charging System: Three-phase AC generator with solid-state regulator/rectifier.
  3. Fuses: Main fuse 30A, accessory fuse 10A located under seat.
  4. Bulbs: Headlight 60/55W, brake/tail 21/5W, turn signals 21W.

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal first when performing electrical work.

Storage and Care

Proper storage procedures and cleaning recommendations.

  1. Long-term storage: Fill fuel tank, add fuel stabilizer, change oil, remove battery.
  2. Cleaning: Use mild soap and water; avoid high-pressure sprays near seals and bearings.
  3. Chain maintenance: Clean and lubricate drive chain regularly (if applicable).
  4. Paint protection: Use motorcycle-specific wax for painted surfaces.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals that may damage finishes or rubber components.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage and owner responsibilities.

Honda provides 12-month unlimited mileage limited warranty. Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. Owner responsible for proper maintenance and normal wear items. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims. For warranty service, contact authorized Honda dealer with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compression issueCheck fuel level, spark plugs, battery charge, kill switch position
Poor performanceDirty air filter, clogged carburetorClean/replace air filter, inspect carburetor jets
Electrical failureBlown fuse, dead batteryCheck fuses, test battery voltage, inspect wiring
Brake problemsWorn pads, air in lines, low fluidInspect brake components, bleed brakes if necessary
Unusual noisesLoose components, mechanical wearInspect for loose parts, check engine and drive train

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for complex repairs. Keep maintenance records for resale value.

Parts: Use genuine Honda parts for optimal performance and reliability.

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