[TheGr8erG00d]

I had a similar issue with my front end recently on my '96 Shadow. In my case, someone tried to steal it by attempting to break the fork lock by twisting the front fork and all they did was twist up the front end really badly. However, I found that once I'd loosened up all the bolts on everything, I was able to line it all back up again and retighten. Rather than actually bending anything, everything that had any point where it could twist and pivot, had done so instead so all of my parts were actually still good, outside of a couple scratches. Then I had it checked out to make sure it was straight and everything was squared up.

So, what I would do, as long as you don't visibly see an item that is very clearly damaged, is loosen up most of the front end and see if you can line everything back up and retighten. Then have it inspected at a shop to make sure everything is still tracking straight for some peace of mind.

You may find you still need to replace parts, but there's a chance you'll find you don't need anything or need fewer parts replaced than you initially expected.

 

[TheGr8erG00d]

Ah interesting.
I've gone straight down the insurance route and they're finishing up a valuation for a total loss. But will speak to the adjuster and see what the consequences would be if I try and fix it without buying more parts.

Once that's settled I might try unscrewing a few things and seeing what's what. Don't want to touch it until the insurance issue is sorted.

Oh, that's a shame, but you're probably down the path of no return. Once they have a look at it, they usually aren't willing to recant. Best of luck! However it ends up, I hope you get back on two wheels soon!

 

[TheGr8erG00d]

Ended up taking the total loss. Will let the forum know if I find it on my local salvage auction sites as I think it would be a quick fix. I've been toying with getting something bigger anyway and whilst I may have been able to fix it and sell it for more, this was less headaches.

Just in case anyone is looking at this in the future in similar circumstances insurance paid $2600 for the total loss in San Francisco California. -$200 deductible = $2400. Apparently $84 of that was for the top box and saddlebags though.

Now... Should I look for a 450 or a shadow? or a vtx1100? Need something bigger as I ride 2-up a lot of the time and want to be able to go on longer journeys more comfortably.

Sorry to hear it! The 450s are getting more difficult to find and you'll have a harder time getting parts, but they're great bikes. I keep toying with the idea of snagging one. My second bike is a Shadow and you can't go wrong with one. Lots of variety in the lineup, depending on what you're looking for. I opted for an ACE 1100, but am also in love with the VLX600s and recommend checking them out as well.

As for the VTX, they're only available in 1300 or 1800. Great bikes, but from what I hear, still feel pretty heavy, even at speed. I can't say myself as I've not ridden one, though. The Shadows still feel light and flickable, which I personally prefer, and would probably be less jarring to transition to from the Rebel.

 

[TheGr8erG00d]

One here if you want it:

HONDA 450 "REBEL" - motorcycles/scooters - by owner - vehicle...

450 HONDA REBEL SITTING IN GARAGE 35 YEARS 893 ORIGINAL MILES RUNS GOOD HAS A LITTLE IDLE ISSUE (DIES OUT INTERMITTENT) HAS 6 SPEED OVERDRIVE TRANSMISSION VERY SMOOTH RUNNER VERY QUIET CALLS ONLY...

fresno.craigslist.org

Yeh I think the 600 seems perfect for us! Just keeping an eye out for one now on Craigslist and Marketplace. Did you try the Yamaha Vstar at all? That seems a popular alternative to the Shadow.

I have not, so I can't speak for them. I'm largely just a Honda guy. Definitely check them out, if you're interested. As for the VLX600s, they're good looking bikes and even in stock form, I feel like they sound great! I love their exhaust note (they are also single pin, or semi-single, so they sound similar to a smaller Harley or the ACE 1100s). They are largely the same across their years of production, but there are a few minor aesthetic differences around where the rear fender meets the side cover and in the frame color (some are color matched and others are just black). The Sportster-inspired tank and the front rake are a great look, in my opinion.