2023 Honda Shadow Phantom 750 vs 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 Comparison Review

Today’s article is about the comparison review of the 2023 Honda Shadow Phantom 750 vs 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50. The most popular motorbike among new riders is the small displacement model, which is light, easy to manage, and safe to ride.

Finding an ideal bike for your current riding abilities can be difficult. Cruisers are the top options for entry-level motorcycles with comfortable ergonomics and the ability to handle long-distance travel. However, entry-level cruisers are hard to find since most models have large, powerful engines.

Fortunately, Honda and Suzuki, two of the most reliable and economical motorcycle manufacturers, continue to produce factory-built custom cruisers for beginners with small displacement engines and simple designs. Suzuki Boulevard C50 and Honda Shadow Phantom are affordable vehicles.

In 1983, the Honda Shadow series with 500cc and 750cc engines was unveiled. Honda’s Shadow model range was designed with the American cruiser market in mind. They had V-Twin engines between 125 and 1,100 cc, like most cruisers. The Honda Shadow 750 is the only remaining model in the Shadow lineup.

Suzuki is meanwhile working on the Intruder series to broaden its global appeal. Suzuki had to change the bike’s name to the “Boulevard” in 2005 to appeal to traditional American motorcycle buyers.

2023 Honda Shadow Phantom 750 vs 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 – Features Comparison

Design

One of the lightest and most straightforward Honda models is the Shadow Phantom 750. It comes with a blacked-out frame, engine, front fork, and separate dual mufflers, in addition to two specific, one-tone color schemes. It is a compact cruiser with a chopper-style planted design, low seat height, and small size. To enhance control and linear stability, the front fork is slightly slanted out.

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A single-piece flat seat designed after a gunfighter that allows for two-up riding is included with the Honda Shadow Phantom 750. It has an integrated tail/stop light, bullet-shaped turn signals, and front and rear bobber-style fenders to reduce weight. The gauge cluster is fitted on a 3.7 gal—small gasoline tank shaped like a teardrop.

There is a tiny round headlamp enclosed in a black nacelle. To further the bobber style, the Honda Shadow Phantom also includes flat, semi-sweptback handlebars with standard risers and steel spoked wheels with black rims.

Visual appeal

Compared to the Honda Shadow Phantom 750, the Suzuki Boulevard C50 is slightly larger and heavier. Large cut front and back fenders, a vintage tail/stop light, and a classic cruiser look are all features of this vehicle.

Most components, including the front fork, big headlight nacelle, engine, gearbox, triangle-shaped air filter cover, and long slash-cut dual mufflers, are chrome-coated—the 4.1 gal. A peanut-shaped gasoline tank is attached to the chrome instrument cluster. A single rear shock absorber concealed under the seat gives the Suzuki Boulevard C50’s hardtail design a cleaner-looking rear end.

Additionally, the seat is two-up compatible and generously cushioned. Wide buckhorn-style handlebars and floorboards are also included on the Suzuki Boulevard C50 for a luxurious riding experience.

Engine and Performance

With its underpowered 745cc liquid-cooled, 52° V-Twin engine capable of 64.94 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm and a horsepower of 44.6 hp at 5,500 rpm, the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 is not a fast bike. Being straightforward, enjoyable, and uncomplicated to ride sets it apart from other motorcycles.

Beginners are attracted by the 745cc engine’s good throttle responsiveness and appealing exhaust tone. Despite the low output, the engine distributes torque and power evenly across all gear ratios for a comfortable ride. Also ensuring good low-end torque is the long-stroke crankshaft design.

The Honda Shadow Phantom 750 features a gear multi-plate clutch, cleaner shaft drive, and wide-ratio five-speed transmission for smooth gear changes and ride comfort. It lacks advanced features as it is a more affordable and essential motorbike, except for programmed fuel injection, which ensures smooth throttle response and fuel mileage of 56 mpg.

A low seat height of 25.8 inches on the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 ensures a low center of gravity for better handling and cornering. It’s perfect for daily commutes, highway cruising, and riding in traffic. The raked-out front end of the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 offers superior linear performance, making it stable, agile, and easy to handle.

The Honda Shadow Phantom 750 is a lightweight cruiser with 296 mm single front disc brakes and 180 mm rear drum brakes that offer reliable stopping power. Dual rear shocks with spring preload adjustment and a large, responsive 41mm front fork with neutral handling offer a comfortable ride.

Performance and Engine

An 805cc liquid-cooled, 45-degree V-Twin engine that produces 53 hp at 6,000 rpm and 69 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm powers the Suzuki Boulevard C50. At low RPMs, the 805cc engine delivers excellent torque. The long, wide dual exhaust pipes also guarantee fast power delivery and a powerful exhaust sound.

Additionally, the 45-degree V-Twin engine has offset crankpins to provide optimal firing intervals for improved V-Twin performance. To ensure better throttle response, the Suzuki Boulevard S50 also features a fuel injection system with two throttle valves for maximum air intake. To ensure trouble-free starting in cold weather, the fuel supply system is linked to AFIS (Auto Fast Idle System).

For smooth highway travel, the Suzuki Boulevard C50 features a wide-ratio five-speed transmission connected to the rear wheels via a shaft drive. The oil-damped front telescopic fork and single-link-style rear shock with coil springs on this contemporary cruiser lack preload adjustability, so they cannot provide a smooth long-distance ride.

The rear monoshock also has plenty of 4.1 inches of wheel travel, while the front suspension has plenty of 5.5 inches. Because the Suzuki Boulevard C50 weighs 611 lbs. Over the Honda Shadow Phantom 750, its single front disc and rear drum brakes are ineffective.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Due to its ample legroom and pleasant riding triangle, the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 is a small cruiser that is nevertheless comfortable for average and tall riders. Its long wheelbase, low seat height, and forward lean all contribute to its low center of gravity and agile handling. With its forward-mounted foot controls, the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 allows for comfortable leg adjustments for taller riders.

Although the handlebars are flat and slightly tilted, a straight back and pleasant riding position are still provided. The Honda Shadow Phantom 750 is a versatile motorbike that can be used for various tasks, including daily commutes, interstate commutes, and long-distance commutes. It is due to its low seat height, lightweight, and neutral handling. The motorbike can be modified to make it more suitable for long-distance travel and commuting by installing windscreens, saddlebags, and backpacks.

For intermediate and moderately trained riders, the Suzuki Boulevard C50 is a mid-size cruiser that is just right. Its ergonomics are perfect for comfortable long-distance riding, and it has a traditional cruiser design. This motorcycle has enough power and size for a comfortable two-up ride.

Shorter riders may find the Suzuki Boulevard C50’s 27.6-inch seat height uncomfortable. But the comfortable riding triangle makes it a welcoming motorcycle for all riders. It has floorboards placed at the front for a more comfortable ride. The large buckhorn-style handlebars of the Suzuki Boulevard C50 guarantee a relaxed riding position for continuous long-distance travel.

The bike is less suitable for inexperienced riders as it is heavy and has a good throttle response. The Suzuki Boulevard C50 can also be used as a touring bike if a windscreen, backrest, and saddlebags are added.

2023 Honda Shadow Phantom 750 vs 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Fast Can the Honda Shadow Phantom 750 Go?

The Honda Shadow Phantom 750 has a smaller displacement engine, which makes it an underpowered bike. However, due to its compact size, simple design, and lightweight, it can easily reach a top speed of 100 mph.

What is the top speed of the Suzuki Boulevard C50?

An 805cc engine that can deliver strong low-end torque, smooth acceleration, and quick throttle response powers the Suzuki Boulevard C50. But because it’s a bit heavier, the top speed is only 99.4 mph.

2023 Honda Shadow Phantom 750 vs 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 – Specifications Comparison

Engine and Performance

Wheels

Braking

Suspension

Dimensions and Weight