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HONDA SHADOW VT 500

RESTORATION

My brother on the final stage of the restoration

Restoration of the 1983 SHADOW VT 500: A Tribute to my Father


The restoration of the Honda Shadow VT500 marked a significant moment in my life. After my father passed away, I decided to honor his memory by restoring the motorcycle he cherished, bringing it back to its former glory.
Before my father acquired the VT500 in 2007, it had several previous owners, which resulted in a few modifications. My father had a passion for custom motorcycles and their chrome accents, so when he first got the bike, we disassembled it and chromed the chassis. Once reassembled, we made a crucial modification by replacing the headlight with a safer and more efficient model.
In 2014, the bike began to experience electrical issues; it was overheating and not running well. My father set it aside, intending to repair the Honda at a later date. Unfortunately, he passed away before he could complete the restoration of his beloved bike. Now, as I embark on this restoration journey, I am not only reviving a motorcycle but also reconnecting with cherished memories of my father and the passion we shared for motorcycles.

In this restoration project, I had the invaluable assistance of my good friend, Eduardo Bernal. An exceptional engineer and avid biker, Eduardo and I have traversed countless kilometers together, united by our shared passion for the open road and the thrill of adventure.
My Father Guillermo Alfonso Rodriguez on his beloved Honda. I miss you!
2007
Acquisition of the Motorcycle
    • Black Chassis with some rust points
    • Turning signals not original
    • Small useless mirrors
    • Straight handle bar
    • Sissy saddle bags
    • Original grab rail was cut.
    • Custom headlight (useless)
  • BUT A LOTS OF POTENTIAL
2007
First Rebuild
    • Chrome Chassis
    • New original turning signals
    • Suspension Check Up
    • New Mirrors
2007
First Rebuild Test Drive
2010
Let it be Light
    • New Head light
    • New Windscreen 
2013
New Look
    • New Paint Job
    • New Flames (airbrushed)
    • New Original decals
    • Shadow badge airbrushed (side cover)
2018
Start of the Restoration
  • Engine overhaul 
    • Complete disassembly
    • Cylinder heads and crack case clean and checked.
    • New valves
    • New gaskets and seals

 

  • With the help of my good friend Eduardo "The panzer" Bernal
2018
Restoration half way
  • Electrical wiring 
  • New coils
  • New custom grab rail 
  • Reassembly 

 

2018
Restoration DONE
  • New original handle bar 
  • Chrome engine covers
  • New upholstery on the seat 
2018
Restoration DONE
  • Hear the bike

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