Sun Coast Cycle Sports stocks inspected used parts for the Honda Shadow RS (VT750RS), produced from 2010 through 2013 for the North American market. The RS was the sportiest variant in the Shadow 750 lineup, combining a fuel-injected 745cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin with chain final drive, mid-mount foot pegs, and a flat-tracker-inspired riding position. Sold as the VT750S in Japan, Europe, and Australia, this model brought a standard/roadster feel to the cruiser-based platform. All VT750RS parts at Sun Coast are cataloged with individual SKUs, photographed, and ship from our Florida location.
VT750RS generation and parts compatibility
The VT750RS was produced for only four model years (2010-2013) with no significant mechanical changes during its run. All years share the same RC58E fuel-injected engine, five-speed transmission, and chain final drive. Annual updates were limited to color changes. This makes parts interchange straightforward within the model: any 2010-2013 VT750RS component fits any other year.
The RS shares its fuel-injected RC58E engine with the 2010-2016 VT750C Aero and the 2010-2016 VT750C2B Phantom. Engine internals, fuel injection components, and electrical systems (including the ECU and bank angle sensor) are compatible across these three models. The critical difference is final drive: the RS uses chain drive, while the Aero and Phantom use shaft drive. This means the transmission output, rear wheel assembly, swingarm, and rear suspension differ between the RS and its shaft-drive siblings. The RS frame geometry is also unique, with a shorter wheelbase (61.4 inches vs 64.5 inches on the Aero), higher seat (29.4 inches vs 25.9 inches), and mid-mount pegs versus forward controls.
The RS does NOT share bodywork with any other Shadow 750 variant. Its peanut-style fuel tank (2.6 gallons), minimal front fender, and flat seat are specific to this model. Handlebars and controls are also unique due to the more upright riding position.
Common VT750RS failure points and replacement parts
Bank angle sensor wiring (2010-2013): NHTSA Campaign 15V874000 covered 2010-2016 VT750 models, including the RS. Engine vibration caused the bank angle sensor wire to rub against the wiring harness joint connector, eventually causing a signal loss that triggers an unexpected engine shutdown. Honda dealers relocated the connector and replaced the sensor at no cost. Verify this recall has been completed on any used RS.
Chain and sprocket wear: As one of the few chain-drive Shadow 750s in its era, the RS requires periodic chain maintenance that shaft-drive models avoid. The O-ring sealed chain typically needs replacement between 15,000 and 25,000 miles depending on maintenance and riding conditions. Chain tension should be checked regularly.
Small fuel tank range limitations: The RS's 2.6-gallon peanut tank (including 0.7-gallon reserve) limits range to roughly 130-145 miles per tank. While not a mechanical failure point, fuel petcock and fuel pump components see more frequent use due to more frequent fill-ups, and the small tank can cause fuel starvation symptoms on long sweeping turns if the reserve is low.
Starter relay: Like all Shadow 750 variants, the RS can develop starter relay issues if left sitting for extended periods. A single click at the start button with no cranking is the typical symptom.
Commonly replaced VT750RS parts
- Chain and sprocket set
- Bank angle sensor
- Starter relay
- Fuel pump assembly
- Brake pads (front disc, rear drum)
- Exhaust system
- Peanut fuel tank
- Seat and handlebar assemblies
Frequently asked questions
Q: Will VT750 Aero or Phantom engine parts fit a VT750RS
Yes for engine internals. The 2010-2013 RS shares the same fuel-injected RC58E engine as the 2010-2016 Aero and Phantom. Pistons, connecting rods, cam chain, valves, fuel injection components, and the ECU are compatible. The transmission differs at the output side due to the RS's chain drive versus the shaft drive on the Aero and Phantom, so transmission cases and output shafts do not interchange.
Q: Is the VT750RS the same as the VT750S sold overseas
The VT750RS (North America) and VT750S (Japan, Europe, Australia) are the same motorcycle with the same engine, frame, and dimensions. Minor differences may exist in emissions equipment, lighting, and instrument markings. Mechanical and body parts are interchangeable between the two designations.
Q: Why was the VT750RS discontinued after only four years
Honda dropped the RS after the 2013 model year due to lower sales compared to the Phantom. The standard/roadster riding position was less popular in the US cruiser market than the conventional forward-control layout of the Phantom and Aero. The RS remains a unique model in the Shadow lineage and its parts are becoming harder to source, particularly the model-specific bodywork and peanut tank.
Inspected by Powersports Technicians • Only One in Stock • Ships Fast from Florida
