Motorcycle Repair: spark plugs and ignition circuit, honda shadow spirit, iridium plugs

Question
I purchased a 96 vt1100c shadow. I want to learn to troubleshoot the ignition circuit. Which manual(clymer or haynes) would be most helpful to a novice. Also, what spark plug is the undisputed champ for my 1100 Honda Shadow Spirit? Lastly, do I need to be running premium gas?

Answer
If you can't get factory info... also check your Honda dealership, then go with the Hayne's books. I have not reviewed either Hayne's or Clymer's though and both should be sufficient for your needs.   Bill Silver



Todd....  Go to www.helminc.com for a factory shop manual.
The factory NGKs are fine, but check to see if there are any iridium plugs available for your machine, if you want to spend a lot of money on spark plugs.
Regular fuel is fine, as described in your owner's manual. If you don't have one, they are available from the same source as the shop manual. These engines are relatively low compression and built like an anvil, so it is hard to hurt them, as long as you do scheduled maintenance.

Check the wiring connector from stator to harness for any signs of corrosion or deterioration, which is a weakness on these bikes.

Bill Silver