You've got to stare hard at the Shadow before you realise that what you're looking at is just a 125cc motorcycle that you can ride on L-plates.
Designed with classic American styling, the Shadow VT125 has the presence of a much larger machine, thanks partly to the heavily finned motor.
But don't let the fins fool you - this is no basic air-cooled unit. The smallest Shadow is a liquid-cooled, eight-valve, single-overhead cam 90-degree V-twin with an 11.8:1 compression ratio.
Its beautifully executed details include a teardrop petrol tank topped by a glittering, chrome finish speedometer, wide handlebars and deeply styled 'fenders' draped over wide, wire-spoked wheels, all underlined by a chromed two-into-one exhaust.
Power output is 15bhp at 11000rpm, substantially more than that other popular Honda lightweight, the CG125. That pumps out just 10.5bhp at 7500rpm.
The five-speed VT125 needs the extra poke because, at 145Kg, it tips the scales a whopping 38Kg more than the CG. But the weight gives the VT a solid, dependable feel - just what you'd expect of a cruiser.
Seat height is a lowly 680mm (27in) so planting both feet firmly on the ground when you stop shouldn't be a problem for anyone.
With Honda reliability and 8000 miles between services, the Shadow VT125 is a very attractive package.
