The VT500FT Ascot was only sold in the USA for two years ('83 and '84) and was the mechanical predecessor to the Shadow line of V-twins, the Hawk GT and the Pacific Coast with which it shares a common engine design (3 valves/cylinder 52 deg v-twin) The Ascot's out put was 48 BHP @ 9000 rpm and 4.5kg/m (32ft-lb) @7000 rpm. It is a shaft drive but has 6th gear and indicated top speed was around 110mph, I hear.
The Ascot has "standard" peg, bar and seat position and is bit more "sporting" than it's cruiser-style sister, the VT500C Shadow. Despite being well designed, the VT500FT Ascot did not sell well and Honda discontinued it in the second model year. Common understanding is that fewer than 10,000 VT Ascots were sold in the US although versions of the bike were sold in the U.K. and Europe through the late 80's.
By the way there are many vehicles from Honda that named Ascot. Confusing. This one got the name after Ascot Park, a California track where countless legends have been born.
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