Honda VT750S on its way to Australia

Honda has launched a new roadster, the VT750S, showing off a smooth new design and taking advantage of the Shadow's 745cc twin-cylinder engine.

The new self-styled 'casual' roadster has a certain appeal about it, with 19 and a 16-inch wheels and a 750mm seat height. The low seat combined with flat handlebars and a slim 10lt fuel tank should combine to deliver a comfortable and fairly relaxed riding position.

The six-valve liquid-cooled V-twin is "full of beautiful figurative sense of rhythm" according to the Japanese media release, and sits within a double cradle frame.

The fuel injected donk is claimed to be ultra smooth, and outputs 42hp (31kW) at 5500rpm and 59Nm of torque at just 3500rpm. That strong bottom-end should translate to effortless acceleration, making it a relaxed urban cruiser as well. The engine is matched to a wide-ratio five-speed gearbox.

Combined with a pair of chrome exhaust pipes, Honda hasn't gone overboard with the shiny stuff, finishing the engine block in matte black while the cylinder head is chrome plated.

Weighing in at 232kg the new Honda VT750S's dimensions are fairly orthodox for this style of casual roadster, and it has a 1560mm wheelbase.

Honda Australia has confirmed the VT750S will be
coming to Australia in May at the earliest, June at the latest, and pricing is still to be bedded down. The Honda VT750C Shadow
Classic currently sells for $11,990.