Honda Shadow Choice

[usarmykr]

I have the choice of a Shadow VLX 600cc (2005, 8k miles, $3000, stock, was dropped by wife and small dent in tank) and a Shadow Ace 750cc (1999, 2800 miles, goodies like sissy bar and bags, perfect condition, $2500) My wife is worried about the saftey and wants the newer bike because newer is safer typically, but I have never ridden a bike before and don't know if this is true. My friends all say go witht he cheaper one, it is nicer anyway, but what is the difference, if any, with a bike from 1999 and one from 2005. Keep in mind I know it is two different bikes, I just want to know what safety has been updated. Do the engines change over the years? I know the body has barely changed, but need an expert opinion.

[CB750F]

While true in cars,safety features change from year to year my guess is it doesn't apply to bikes. Most bikes don't have ABS or anything. My guess is nothing has changed safety wise from 1999 to 2005. Now if you go from like 1975 to 1999 then lots has changed but this isn't the case. The engines change some over the years but my guess is not enough in the Shadow 750 to even notice. Usually cruisers don't change a whole hell of a lot from year to year. They find a good design, as Honda has, and stick with it. Go with the 750 in your case, it's mellow enough for an adult beginner but has enough performance to keep you happy for years plus it sounds like an excellent deal. Take the MSF safety course.