Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk 1983 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 963373 |
|---|---|
| Category | Sport touring |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | CB 650 SC Nighthawk |
| Year | 1983 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frontbrakes | Double disc. (2) 2- piston calipers, with TRAC system |
|---|---|
| Frontsuspension | Air-adjustable, leading-axle forks with dual Syntallic bushings |
| Fronttyre | 100/90-19 |
| Frontwheeltravel | 39 mm (1.5 inches) |
| Rearbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake). single-leading-shoe rear brake |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 40 mm (1.6 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | two VHD shocks with four-way adjustable damping |
| Reartyre | 130/90-16 |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 60.0 x 58.0 mm (2.4 x 2.3 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | wet, multi-plate clutch actuates hydraulically |
| Compression | 9.5:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Oil & air |
| Displacement | 655.00 ccm (39.97 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | In-line four, four-stroke |
| Exhaustsystem | 4-2 double muffler |
| Fuelconsumption | 5.88 litres/100 km (17.0 km/l or 40.00 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Honda says 32mm; technically they are Keihin 29mm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 136.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Ignition | solid state |
| Lubricationsystem | Wet sump |
| Maxrpm | 10000 |
| Power | 63.00 HP (46.0 kW)) @ 9000 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Valvespercylinder | 4 |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Pearl Siren Blue and Candy Wineberry Red |
|---|---|
| Comments | Without doubt the new CB650´s most impressive features are its valve-lash adjustment and its low-maintenance design. Honda engineers seemto have removed the last tedious, time-consuming ritual from motorcycling´s Saturday afternoonHere is a machine that fulfills the 650 promise: it feels small, smaller than a 750, yet runs with 750s without even breathing hard. Its smoothness and comfort invite long rides. The rear suspension´s springing and damping rates do need tuning to provide a more supple ride; and for sporting riders, Honda´s engineering department should attend to the drive line´s irksome lash and shaft reaction. Having a motorcycle that needs barely more maintenance than a safetypin is a bargain only if its owner genuinely enjoys the way the motorcycle works. Diehards may complain sourly about ´appliance-like´ character, but few riders will quarrel with the way this motorcycle functions. For about six or seven years, first one manufacturer and then another has proclaimed that its 650s perform like 750s; certainly there´s been much sound to this proclamation but little real 750 fury. Now the 650 Nighthawk delivers.Everyone who has ridden the 650 Nighthawk has come back impressed. This 650 is the new measuring standard of the 40-inch class. And the standard has just been raised. A lot. |
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 197.0 kg (434.3 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 12.86 litres (3.40 gallons) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.3198 HP/kg |
| Reservefuelcapacity | 1.89 litres (0.50 gallons) |
| Seatheight | 790 mm (31.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk 1983
Introducing the 1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk, a motorcycle that effortlessly embodies the spirit of sport touring while making a bold statement in the competitive middleweight class. Positioned as a versatile option for both seasoned riders and those new to the sport, the Nighthawk strikes a fine balance between performance and practicality. Its sleek, classic lines and striking color options—Pearl Siren Blue and Candy Wineberry Red—invite admiration at every stoplight, while its low-maintenance design ensures that more time can be spent on the road rather than in the garage.
At the heart of the Nighthawk is a robust 655cc in-line four engine that produces an exhilarating 63 horsepower at 9,000 RPM. With a compression ratio of 9.5:1 and a clever 6-speed gearbox, this bike provides a thrilling ride that feels akin to larger displacement models without the accompanying bulk. Riders will appreciate how the Nighthawk performs dynamically; it feels lighter and more manageable than its competitors, allowing for quick lane changes and confident cornering. However, it’s worth noting that the rear suspension could benefit from additional tuning for a more plush ride, especially on longer journeys. Still, the Nighthawk delivers the kind of smooth acceleration that makes it a joy to ride, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising along open highways.
The 1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk is not just about power; it’s also equipped with thoughtful engineering that sets it apart in the sport touring category. The bike features an advanced air-adjustable front suspension and dual rear shocks with four-way adjustable damping, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup for comfort or sportiness. Additionally, the innovative TRAC braking system provides excellent stopping power with its double disc front brakes, enhancing both safety and performance. Maintenance is a breeze, thanks to Honda’s emphasis on low-stress valve-lash adjustment, ensuring that even novice riders can keep their machine in top shape with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Powerful yet Manageable: The 655cc engine delivers impressive performance while maintaining a lightweight feel, making it accessible for a variety of riders.
- Low Maintenance: The design features, including easy valve-lash adjustment, simplify upkeep, allowing more time on the road and less in the workshop.
- Adjustable Suspension: The advanced suspension system provides versatility for different riding styles, enhancing comfort and stability.
Cons:
- Rear Suspension Tuning Needed: The rear suspension may require adjustments for a more comfortable ride, particularly on longer journeys.
- Drive Line Lash: The slight lash in the drive line may be noticeable for athletic riders seeking immediate power delivery.
- ‘Appliance-like’ Character: While it excels in function, some diehard enthusiasts may find the Nighthawk's character a bit tame compared to more spirited competitors.
Overall, the 1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk stands as a testament to Honda's dedication to performance and practicality, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both spirited rides and the joy of motorcycling. Whether you're commuting, touring, or just enjoying a weekend ride, this motorcycle promises to deliver an engaging experience every time you hit the throttle.