| Year | 1983 |
| Bore x Stroke | 71 x 62 mm |
| Capacity | 491 cc / 29.1 cu-in |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Cooling System | Liquid cooled |
| Dry Weight | 183 kg / 403.3 lbs |
| Engine | Four stroke, 52°V-twin, SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder. |
| Final Drive | Shaft |
| Front Brakes | Single disc 2 piston caliper |
| Front Suspension | Air-adjustable, leading-axle front forks with front brace |
| Front Tyre | 100/90-18 |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.5 Litres / 3.3 US gal |
| Ignition | Electronic |
| Induction | 2x 32mm Keihin carburetors |
| Max Power | 50 hp / 37.2 kW @ 9000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 42 Nm / 30.9 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm |
| Model | VT 500C Shadow |
| Rear Brakes | Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Pivoted fork dual adjustable shocks |
| Rear Tyre | 130/90-16 |
| Seat Height | 770 mm / 30.3 in |
| Starting | Electric |
| Transmission | 6 Speed |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm / 58.6 in |
