New to Honda shadow

[dustinthewind]

Hey all Im new here to honda shadow as i just purchased a 2000 Shadow spirit 1100. Got a great deal on it but got a few questions. First why does it have 4 spark plugs? Second the bike seems very sluggish. Im putting pipes on it in the very near future. But it seems like the power isnt quite there in low rpms. Is this just the way the bike is geared or should there be something I should be looking into. Any help Thanks

[sgtsmestad]

Welcome to the forum. I am not much of a mechanic on these bikes yet, but somebody else will be able to answer your questions. Enjoy your Shadow.

[gdb069]

Originally Posted by dustinthewind

...why does it have 4 spark plugs? Second the bike seems very sluggish.

The short answer: 2 spark plugs per cylinder provide more efficient combustion on larger bore cylinders. Let me know if you want the technical answer!

I have always found the VT1100 sluggish/underpowered at low RPM and had to rejet carbs and add bigger exhaust to get a few more hp in order to not stall out as much. See if you can dynotest or have someone who knows VT1100 test you bike to see if yours is the normal sluggishness or you have an issue.

G.

[rieckena]

They were designed to have 4 plugs, so you're good there.

While you're at it, pop them off and have a look, if they're fouled or discolored you may have found your power issue!

[GiveItToMikey]

Hello and welcome. If you were to follow honda's recommended shifting speeds your 1100 will definitely seem sluggish, especially from first to second. Higher RPMS and it shifts just fine (at least mine does).

The bike is definitely designed (in my opinion) for cruising at highway speeds which is mostly what I do. Fortunately where I live it's mostly highway and twisties and not stop and go traffic.

It wouldn't hurt to have your bike checked out. Could be other 'stuff' going on.

Enjoy your new 'toy' and ride safely!

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