How to Change the Battery on a Honda Shadow Motorcycle

by TJ Hinton

If you have a dead Shadow, check the fuses located behind the left side cover before replacing the battery on your 2010-through-2013 model, especially if the loss of power was sudden. Pull the cover straight away from the bike to detach it from the mounting grommets. Inspect and change the fuses as necessary, then retest the bike. Align the side cover with the grommets and snap it back into position. If you need to change the battery, do it in a location with plenty of ventilation to minimize the chances of a spark igniting accumulated hydrogen gas from the battery.

Step 1

Rest the bike on the side stand with the ignition in the "Off" position. Leave the bike in gear to prevent it from rolling.

Step 2

Locate the seat mounting bolts on each side of the seat near the passenger grab strap. Remove the bolts, using a ratchet and Allen driver. Lift the rear end of the seat slightly, then slide the seat towards the rear to disengage it from the frame, and remove it from the bike.

Step 3

Locate the battery cover retainer screw at the forward edge of the battery cover. Remove the screw, using a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the front edge of the cover until it disengages from the rear of the box, then lay it aside.

Step 4

Using wrenches, loosen and remove the negative battery cable hardware. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery and lead it away from the battery terminal to avoid accidental contact. Loosen and remove the battery positive cable.

Step 5

Lift the battery straight up and out of the battery box. Wipe the box with a clean shop rag and remove any debris or residue. Install the new battery in the battery box.

Step 6

Clean the battery cable terminals using a wire brush or terminal tool. Install the positive battery cable and hardware on the positive battery terminal, then tighten the hardware securely. Install the negative battery cable and hardware.

Step 7

Engage the battery cover in the rear of the battery box, then lower the front of the box down to its resting position. Install the screw and torque it to 8.8 inch-pounds, or just snug, using an inch-pound torque wrench and screwdriver tip. Be careful not to overtighten this screw since you can strip it with very little effort.

Step 8

Hold the seat in position with the rear raised slightly. Push down and forward on the front of the seat to engage the seat hook with the frame, then lower the rear of the seat into position. Install the seat bolts and torque them to 16 foot-pounds, using a foot-pound torque wrench and Allen driver.

Things You'll Need

Writer Bio