The Honda Nighthawk 750 makes an excellent choice for an everyday commuter motorbike. From the design to its technical specifications, it is an impressive cruiser-style motorcycle.
Released in 1991, the Honda Nighthawk 750 was built for those who crave performance in an all-around and affordable ride. A modern version of the universal Japanese motorcycle is a competent machine with basic features that target those looking for a no-frills motorbike.
The table below presents a quick summary of the specs of the Honda Nighthawk 750:
Engine | Air-cooled, four-stroke, four-cylinder |
Displacement | 747cc |
Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 |
Brakes | Front – hydraulic disc, Rear – drum |
Suspension | Front – telescopic fork, rear – swingarm |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 4.76 gallons / 18 liters |
Average Fuel Consumption | 40 mpg |
Dimensions | 86 x 31.5 x 44.7 inches |
Weight | 463 pounds |
Read on to learn more about the Honda Nighthawk 750, including its features and specifications, as well as some of its pros and cons.
Honda Nighthawk 750 Features and Specs
While it is no longer a staple in the current line-up of Honda motorcycles, it left a mark because of its impressive features.
Here’s a walkthrough of some of its specs:
1. Engine
One of the most important parts of any motorcycle, the engine provides the necessary power. It directly impacts the overall performance.
The Honda Nighthawk 750 comes with an air-cooled engine common in older classic-style and cruiser bikes. It uses outside air to keep the internals cool. This way, there is no need for a coolant or liquid, making the maintenance a breeze. It has outside fins that allow air to pass through.
More so, the engine has four strokes. For the pistons to generate a power cycle, it has to go through four events. It is heavier and more complex compared to a 2-stroke engine. However, the main benefit is that it is more stable, efficient, and clean.
Another notable feature of the engine is that it has four cylinders. It is smooth running and has more revolutions per minute than a two-cylinder engine.
2. Displacement
In motorcycles, displacement is a measurement of the space that the pistons of an engine sweep in a single stroke. The more displacement there is, the more powerful an engine is. It allows more fuel combustion.
The Honda Nighthawk 750 has an engine displacement of 747 cc. For reference, most beginner bikes have a displacement of 250 to 300 cc. Meanwhile, monster rides can have as high as 2,500 cc.
3. Compression Ratio
The compression ratio measures the fuel and air that squeeze in a cylinder. It indicates the maximum size volume it holds versus the minimum size. This is an important spec for determining fuel efficiency and power output. A higher compression ratio means more power than a motorcycle can generate in a specific displacement.
With a compression ratio of 9.3:1, Nighthawk 750 is on the lower scale. For reference, many street motorcycles will have a compression ratio ranging from 9.5:1 to 13.5:1.
4. Brakes
The brake system is the most important safety feature in a motorcycle. Honda recognizes this, which is why they use innovative brakes in the Nighthawk 750.
For the front, the bike has a hydraulic disc brake. It comes in a sleek package while providing exceptional stopping power. With hydraulic actuation, it multiplies the force that you exert upon braking.
Meanwhile, for the rear, this motorbike has a drum brake. It has friction pads that generate force to halt the motorcycle.
5. Suspension
Aside from improving braking and handling, the suspension in a motorbike also improves comfort and safety. It is responsible for shock absorption, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of the terrain conditions.
It has a telescopic fork suspension in the front, which is the most common in motorcycles. It has fork oil and spring to absorb shock. The simplicity of this design makes it economical. Plus, it is non-intrusive on the bike.
Meanwhile, the rear suspension is a swingarm, which connects to the frame or chassis. It has a pivot bolt that allows the movement of the rear wheel and swingarm.
6. Transmission
The Nighthawk 750 has a five-speed transmission. It lets the engine spin up to draw more power. Plus, it is also versatile in different conditions since there are varying speeds.
7. Fuel Tank Capacity
Most motorcycles will have a tank that can hold anywhere from 3 to 6 gallons. In the Nighthawk 750, the tank holds 4.76 gallons of fuel, which is average.
8. Average Fuel Consumption
On average, this model consumes 40 mpg of fuel. This is important data in measuring the efficiency of a motorcycle while also considering its overall performance. With this number, we are confident that this bike is fuel-efficient.
9. Dimensions
It has an overall length of 86 inches, a width of 31.5 inches, and a height of 44.7 inches. This makes it a bit bigger than a traditional bike, yet it is compact enough to be easy to use. Even if you are a newbie, it is a breeze to drive.
10. Weight
This motorcycle has a dry weight of 463 pounds. It is quite lightweight, considering the size of its body. That said, it allows easy maneuverability, making it a breeze to use even for novice riders.
A Brief History of the Nighthawk
The Honda Nighthawk has a long history and has been through several modifications to improve and keep up with its competitors. It all started in 1982 with the introduction of three variants – CB450SC, CB650SC, and CB750SC.
In 1983, Honda introduced the Nighthawk’s hybrid version in the form of the CB550SC. It was a total redesign of the CB650SC, featuring improvements like self-adjusting cam chains and better ergonomics, handling, and braking.
A year after, Honda brought to the US market the CB700SC, which was its largest Nighthawk at that time.
The Nighthawk that we are talking about in this article, however, was released only in 1991. It was sold until 2003.
Again, the Nighthawk 750 is affordable, and an all-around ride fit for those who want a bike with excellent performance. Released in 1991, since then, it was considered a modern take of Japanese motorcycles with basic features without unnecessary accessories.
Honda Nighthawk 750 Pros and Cons
Below, we will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this motorbike:
The Good
Here are more compelling reasons to believe that the Honda Nighthawk 750 is a great option for an all-around ride:
1. Affordable
For a bike made by a reliable brand, the price is one of its best assets. Even with exceptional features, it is an economic model. This is because of having an air-cooled system, which is cheaper than those with liquid cooling systems.
When it was first released in the market, the Nighthawk 750 cost $3,998. However, since the manufacturer has discontinued it, it can be more expensive these days. It is a rare find, and if you are lucky enough to see one being sold, it might be expensive.
2. Easy Maintenance
This is another benefit that we can attribute to the engine that powers the motorcycle. It does not need liquids or coolants. Instead, it will rely on outside air to prevent the internal parts from overheating.
3. Simple but Attractive Retro Style
One look at this motorbike and you will see how attractive it is. Despite the simple appearance, it has an elegant design that will captivate the attention of many motorcycle enthusiasts. It is for people who want to keep a low profile while driving a good-looking bike.
4. Promotes a Comfortable Sitting Position
With the design of this motorcycle, your comfort is second to none. You can sit upright, which eliminates too much pressure on the back. Not to mention, it comes with a soft seat and excellent suspension to manage shock.
The Bad
Despite all the good things, it also has a few problems. Below are some of the drawbacks that you can expect from this motorcycle:
Difficult to Find
If you want to buy the Honda Nighthawk 750, you will have a hard time finding one. Production stopped years ago, and hence, buying a brand-new model is a challenge. Your best bet is to look for reputable online sellers.
Requires a Long Warm-up Time
Another issue with this motorbike is that it comes with a cold-blooded engine. With the latter, the warm-up can take quite a while, unlike in its more powerful counterparts. You will need some time before the engine is ready to roll without choking.
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Alternatives to the Honda Nighthawk 750
Looking for a motorcycle that is almost similar to the looks and performance of the Nighthawk 750?
Below, we’ll talk about some of the major competitors and alternatives that are worth considering:
1. Kawasaki Z1
Like the Nighthawk 750, this classic bike also sports an air-cooled and four-cylinder engine. It has a competitive price, making it a great option for novices looking for their first motorcycle.
Since its introduction in 1972, the Z1 has been through a series of modifications as a response to the market’s changing demands. With its muscular body, this is one bike that commands a second look on the road.
2. Suzuki GS850
This four-stroke motorcycle was first released in 1979. It has amazing technical specifications, including a top speed of 126 mph and a maximum output of 78.23 HP at 8,500 RPM.
One of the most notable features of the motorcycle is the high bars, which will make you feel like you are the king of the road. It promotes a more upright riding position, which is quite common in bikes during the 1980s.
3. Suzuki DR650
Another motorbike from Suzuki is a great choice if you are looking for versatility. It has a single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 644cc, which is a bit lower than Nighthawk 750.
It shares many similar features to Nighthawk 750. For instance, both models have a five-speed transmission, telescopic front suspension, and swingarm rear suspension. Nonetheless, the main difference is that the DR650 is still under production these years.
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Accessories for Honda Nighthawk 750
Take your motorbike to the next level. Here are some of the best accessories that can help elevate its appearance and functionality:
1. Venom Motorcycle Front + Rear Paddle Wheel Lift Stand
Click here to see it on Amazon.
Lifting a motorcycle is not a one-person job. Make it easier by investing in this stand. This will make it easy to elevate the position of the bike for DIY repairs at home. This way, it is effortless to access the different components. Plus, it makes the bike safer while minimizing the risk of an injury during the repair.
2. Mighty Maxx Battery YTX14AH 12V 12Ah
Click here to see it on Amazon.
Need a new battery for your motorcycle? This is an excellent option worth considering, especially because of its spill-proof design. It has the screws that you will need for its installation. Plus, it has a one-year warranty and a 30-day unconditional refund for your peace of mind.
3. Krator Motorcycle Vertical Side Mount License Plate Axle
Click here to see it on Amazon.
Made of billet aluminum with a black anodized coating, this accessory will redefine the way you install a license plate. It is pre-drilled for ease of installation. With this product, you can mount the plate behind the lower shock bolt or axle nut.
Conclusion – Honda Nighthawk 750 Specs and Review
Simple but attractive and affordable, the Honda Nighthawk 750 is a great option for beginners. It has an eye-catching design but is not as loud as many of its competitors. The motorcycle was first introduced in 1991, but production halted in 2003.
Many things make Nighthawk 750 an exceptional model. For instance, it has a simple air-cooled engine that requires minimal maintenance without compromising power. However, it also has several drawbacks, such as waiting quite some time before the engine warms up.
To sum it up, here are the specs of the Honda Nighthawk 750:
Engine | Air-cooled, four-stroke, four-cylinder |
Displacement | 747cc |
Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 |
Brakes | Front – hydraulic disc, Rear – drum |
Suspension | Front – telescopic fork, rear – swingarm |
Transmission | 5-speed |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 4.76 gallons / 18 liters |
Average Fuel Consumption | 40 mpg |
Dimensions | 86 x 31.5 x 44.7 inches |
Weight | 463 pounds |
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