Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar.

Cut in shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse meal.

In a separate small bowl, combine buttermilk and baking soda, stirring until soda dissolves.

Add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture, along with the cooked and crumbled bacon and shredded Cheddar cheese.

Stir until all ingredients are just moistened.

Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Knead the dough gently 4 to 5 times.

Roll the dough to 1/2-inch thickness.

Cut out biscuits with a biscuit cutter.

Place the biscuits on a lightly greased baking sheet.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.