I have a 2004 honda shadow aero. When I was riding lasst weekend the bike shut off like it ran out of gas. It would turn back on, but when I gave it throtle it would die. I let it sit for a few hours and then I could ride about 50 yards and it would shut down again. So on and so on...... please help. I am new to fixing bikes need some good advice.

sounds like a CDI issue!
could also be an ignition switch or run/stop switch issue.
is the bike lacking any power when running?
Maybe stator pick-up coil as well.
Have electrical components checked at the dealer.

Honda Shadow Aero 750 Motorcycle Test ' Motorcycle Cruiser

www.motorcyclecruiser.com/honda-shadow-aero-750-motorcycle-test
Apr 27, 2009 - Honda's all-new middleweight V-twin motorcycle finally brings shaft drive to Honda's 750 V-twin.

If you ran it low on oil, there's a sensor in the oil pan that relies on oil to cool, and have been known to fritz.

If you were sitting on the bike, it's on your left down at the bottom of the bike but not under it. Right above the kickstand. Has a single wire running to it

If you have a fuel pump, that could be the problem. If the pump is not working, only 1 cylinder will get some fuel. Maybe water came into electrical part of the pump and shot the fuse, just check the pump operation.

Drain the tank. You should be able to remove the petcock by simply turning the nut holding it on or turning the whole petcock assembly. It may be stuck in place by the o-ring/fuel filter inserted into the tank. Be sure the filter is in place when you put the petcock back on or you will have problems with leaking gas out the carburetor overflows (from tank rust getting into the carburetors). Chances are the leaking gas is not form the tank sealing o-ring, but from the vacuum diaphragm assembly attached to the back of the petcock. Part # 5 on the microfiche.
http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/2004-honda-vt750c-shadow-aero/o/m2881#sch407448

just start the bike up and shut the petcock off and let it run till it dies carbs will be clean no gas

sounds like bad fuel try adding some fuel stabilizer.

Check fuel pump. You might have a bad diaphragm.