Honda Nighthawk 750 Review 1991-2003 - Riding a Classic Honda 750!
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- Опубліковано 14 кві 2023
- In this ride review video I am looking at Honda's beautiful Nighthawk 750. Produced from 1991-2003, the Nighthawk 750 is a great choice for someone looking to get into their first classic/antique/vintage (older than 25 years) motorcycle. Produced to the same formula as the original CB750, Honda's Nighthawk offers more modern performance, lower maintenance, better handling, and an ease of use that the original CB750 just can't match! With an air-cooled, 750cc inline 4 cylinder motor, 5-speed transmission, and comfortable ergonomics, Honda's Nighthawk is a super-smooth ride. Let's listen to the classic 4-into-two exhaust sound and enjoy the beautiful Pennsylvania roads! What's it like to ride? Let's find out together!
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Geeze there is a guy who comments about selling his nighthawk. Well... I'm 70 years old and just bought one! This is the luckiest move I think I've made in well, a long time. Just on my bucket list. No title. No keys. In a container in another more southern state for ?. Sketchy story. But I traveled pretty far to buy the bike for (not much)! The sketchy story is turning out to be true. In a container for at least 10 years. I now am getting the keys set up and hoping that the paperwork is under the seat. Gotta negotiate for a title. All of that. 1995, a little dusty but all there unaltered. Low mileage. Easy to work on. My retirement project. So thanks for this one! Three cheers for old people! Forever young! 〰✨👍✨〰
Right on, Steve! Best wishes with the Nighthawk. Cheers!
I got my 99 nighthawk 4yrs ago from the gentleman who bought it new and its a great riding bike,very forgiving compared to my new kawasaki z900rs cafe
I had a 1996 model year Nighthawk. It was a tank. It wasn’t great at high speed but it was great universal bike for most types of riding. Maintenance was a piece of cake.
Right on Brett!
When you say high speeds, do you mean like highway speeds, i.e. 65-75mph, or like 100+?
It is funny how life works. These Nighthawks do not get the recognition they deserve. Yet they are either Better or just as Competent as their competitors, at a cheaper price ! The GOOD LORD does indeed work in mysterious ways !
Right on!
I've owned two Nighthawks, a 95 and currently a 92. Identical to the one in the video. Cannot deny how good looking the bike is. Has enough power to be fun, gets a lot of compliments from other riders.
Right on! They are great bikes. Cheers!
I've had a 2000 for 3 years now. Wasn't really looking for one, just kind of came into it. I love it! So smooth and comfortable. But just sporty enough for twisty canyon roads. I owned several v twin cruisers before and I love the smooth, quiet, and upright position of the NH. The low maintenance is great too!! The UJM'ness of it is great. Ride around town on errands or take it on a long trip. Quiet versatile! I plan on keeping it for a long time.
Right on! It sounds like you got a good one!
I just bought a ‘92 750 Nighthawk a week ago from the original owner with only 12,000 miles on it. Put some new tires on and about to add steel braided brake lines in the front. Really nice bike!
Very cool Mitch, enjoy!
I dd some 120K miles on two of these, mostly on a '92, the rest on a ;93. I enjoyed both, neither failed me in any major way (the tachs tended to quit and a starter needed to be rebuilt) but that was it. I let the other guys ride the flashy and the fantastic fast, but I just cruised on by. If I still had my balance at my age (79), I'd still have one.
Right on Jay - it sounds like you found the perfect bike for yourself!
Bought a used with 20,000 miles for my first bike in 97 and rode it for about 10 years (3 of those as a daily driver in San Francisco). It was an awesome bike. Super low maintenance, plenty of power in the city and you could park it anywhere without worrying someone was going to mess with it. Only down side was riding it on the highways where it tended to whine like a banshee. But that said it always felt stable and was an excellent lane splitter. Would buy it again in a heartbeat.
Right on! It was designed for the real world and functions great in it's intended role.
I went up to 17 teeth of the front sprocket on mine. It doesn't whine like a banshee anymore, and I don't reach for 6th gear so often.
@@bunnoatnichibei That's a quick, easy fix!
Thanks for a nice video. I'm a decades-long gearhead, but never on a bike. The flow and sounds of the road sequence made me realize for the first time what riding a bike is all about!
Thank you - that's what I want to share with people in my videos! I've been hooked since I was 17 and had my first ride on a street motorcycle. The interface of man, machine, and nature are more visceral on a bike. Cheers!
It's odd that I came across this video today as I am in the process of giving up riding due to my advanced years AND I'm in the mode of selling my vintage 1991 750 Nighthawk. I'd agree with everything said in this video about this bike's performance. The ergonomics of the Nighthawk series make them supremely comfortable for effortless cruising or commuting. While I will admit that my RED 1991 is not just quite as pristine as the unit you rode here, it is also in extremely good condition and runs flawlessly. It has just a hair over 50,000 kilometers on it (30,000) which means it has averaged a little less than 1,000 miles per year of it's life. I've been using ethanol free fuel anytime I can find it and there's Amsoil in the crankcase. The battery was replaced in 2021. I'll be sad to see it go BUT as I've told my wife of 52 years, I'd rather "get off before I fall off". The pleasures of motorcycling these past 45 years will always be a fond memory!
Hi Clayton, it's a sad day indeed when getting out of the sport, but I respect your reasoning and decision. Feel free to stop by the channel anytime to stir the memories! Cheers
This NIghrhawk is a downsize for me from the 1100-1300 cc. bikes I've owned. Mostly the weight as I get older. To stop riding completely someone is going to have to pry me off the seat.
Hi, I have a '91 with 40,000 miles. Anything you've learned over the years about maintenance or breakage on the bike? I've kept up on maintenance and haven't anything go wrong out of the ordinary (even the tach works) but wondering what to look out for. Thanks
@@Buddycoop1 I purchased my '91 Nighthawk in 2019 so I haven't owned it since new. However, in the 4+ years I had the pleasure of riding it NOTHING went wrong, other than a battery replacement, and I don't know how old that was when I purchased the bike. I've been surprised that there has been no need of any carburetor adjustments. I did change the oil and filter and put Amsoil Synthetic in the crankcase. I've used Amsoil in ALL my bikes over the years after finding an INCREDIBLE improvement in shifting quality the first time I used it. Although it is certainly not an inexpensive motor oil, in my mind I couldn't afford not to use it in my motorcycles.
Other than that, keep the chain lubed and properly tensioned. The 750 used in your Nighthawk has hydraulic valve lash adjusters (which is unusual for a motorcycle) so that is one less thing to maintain.
When I took it in for it's safety check prior to selling it, the mechanic was stunned at the overall condition along with how well it ran. It needed nothing to pass the safety inspection. The current owner is also delighted at the pristine status of this 32 year old machine. The buyer is a friend of my nephew so I'm sure I'll get updates on it's future.
I owned a 1982 450 Nighthawk Twin Cylinder for 15 years and actually never outgrew that bike as it was built on a 650 frame size. Like the 91, that old 450 was supremely comfortable with ergonomics which I consider Ideal. I started out riding on a Honda CB350 twin and have progressed through a Honda 400 Custom (terrible ergonomics on that one), to the 450 Nighthawk, to a Suzuki Volusia (now their C50). My wife hopped on the back of that one as our kids were now gone to their own careers. So we moved upscale to my favorite bike of all, a Honda VTX1300s. That bike was absolutely flawless with water cooling and shaft drive. Other than batteries, tires, and brake pads, nothing ever went wrong with that lovely machine which we enjoyed for 12 years. Then we picked up a low mileage used fully loaded 2009 Honda Goldwing. My wife absolutely loved that bike BUT I on the other hand felt like i was riding a car on two wheels. There's something just wrong about heated seats, heated grips, cruise control, navigation system, and 4 speaker stereo system on a motorcycle. Then for my own solo riding fun I picked up the brand new 2017 Honda CB1100EX "Retro Classic". This is an EXTREMELY rare bike, especially in North America and I doubt there are more than 25 of them in all of Canada. Wonderful bike with exceptional build quality BUT Honda Canada spent nothing on marketing this machine and the bike was discontinued in 2018, I believe it's still available in Europe. That bike has now been gifted to my son and he is so proud of it. The used 91 Nighthawk purchase was probably a memory jogger for me as it reminded me of the old faithful 450 Nighthawk I'd ridden during my early years of motorcycling.
Thanks for all that info! What a fun and very interesting read that was. Had me laughing too! @@claytonroot806
I have this exact bike here in Denmark, a1992 and i love mine, never any problems. Going on 50.000 miles
love to hear some high miles! Hope to get there on mine.
Awesome, sounds like you've gotten some good use out of yours!
I have always like the look of this one, how it blended UJM with more modern "connection" between tank and side panel. I'd pick a nice one up for sure.
Right on, they are nice bikes!
I own a 2001 CB750 Nighthawk that's black just like this one in this video! And I agree with every single thing you said about it as well! As others have mentioned here in the comments,It's not as pristine condition as the one in the video,BUT..........I work hard on keeping it looking flawless despite all the swirl-marks,and scratches,etc. that I've buffed out of the paint. I always keep up with regular oil-changes (Amsoil 10w40),drain/replace the brake-fluid every 2-3 years,lube the chain every 500-750 miles,run ethanol-free fuel in the tank,have never once adjusted or cleaned out the carbs. on mine in the years since I've owned it (has never once needed it!),due to the maintenance I keep on it! Always add "fuel-restorer" to it when it won't be ridden for awhile,and always keep it covered in the garage.I just recently put on a new featherweight Lithium battery and EBC brake-disc rotor to the front and look forward to riding it again when the warmer weather gets here! She's GREAT on gas,runs flawlessly,is one of the most reliable bikes I've ever owned,and is quieter than most bikes today,but get er up in the higher rpm's and she'll remind You to hold on! Lol. Thanks for the video! : >)
Right on! Your faithful maintenance should result in many more years of trouble-free riding. Cheers!
Thanks,I sure hope your right! Lol. : >) @@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538
I don't get why motorcycle companies don't build their everyday/commuter bikes with hydraulic valves. The big Harley and Indian are and the old V4 Suzuki Calvacade was hydraulic and may have been others. Nice looking bike . It was built during the time I was out of riding. Enjoyed the video Jon. RIDE SAFE OUT THERE!
Thanks Henry!
I agree. There should be way more bikes with hydraulic valves. since they are capable of 10k redlines you can still have high performance.
My first street bike was a 97 Honda Nighthawk 750. Black paint like that. I got it from an older gentleman who had it sitting for a while, but it started and ran. Tires were worn out. I upgraded them to Bridgestone Battleax S22 (rear) and T32 (front) tires on it and now it's much more fun to ride and handles better. I also added a black tinted Puig windshield, a black LED headlight, smaller turn signals, slip on foam grips, new plugs, new chain and sprockets, and small front side engine guards that I am going to put highway pegs on. I removed the baffles from the exhaust and the bike feels much more powerful now without being choked and fluttery like it was stock. I love the riding position of this bike, it's very comfortable. It would be nice to have a 6th gear/OD for highway riding.
The 80's Nighthawks were a bit better optioned with shaft drive, dual front disk brakes, a fuel gauge, and a gear indicator. The 84-86 Nighthawk 700 S is the one to get. I'd like to add one to my garage.
These bikes are great, low maintenance, fun to ride, classics. They keep up with modern bikes and you can find nice ones for under $3500.
I wouldn't mind a 700S myself. I rode one and really liked it. But the newer 750s are also nice. Pretty bulletproof and nice performers.
I have an 82 650 NH as it just fell in my lap. Love these years of 750's. good video.
Right on! I do love the shaft-drive of the 650!
I have the 92 in red. It was my daily driver when I worked out of state. I was putting down 1000 miles/week for a year. The only things it asked of me was tires, chain, sprockets, oil, filter, and brakes. I chose it because I was tired of adjusting the valves in my 1986 450 nighthawk.
Right on! I just wish Honda had retained the dual disc brakes and shaft-drive of the Nighthawk 700S.
Hey Jon, thanks for reviewing my bike! Got the video out fast. I know you're cautious testing other peoples bikes, which is good. Let me say it keeps pulling harder till the rev. limiter kicks in at 9k rpm.
I also had an 83 650 Nighthawk brand new way back and if memory serves this one has about the same power. The 650 was rated at 72HP, this one 75HP. The 650 had a 10k rpm redline though. The 650 also had 6 gears so they could have a close ratio for acceleration and still have a high 6th for cruising. My 750 also has a taller rear tire that is is equal to a 1 tooth increase on the front sprocket. It's only doing 4k rpm at almost 65 mph in 5th.
Thanks again Pete for letting me ride and review your beautiful Nighthawk!
Wow that’s some pretty relaxed top gear rpms for the open road, sounds like a fantastic all-rounder
The CB750 Nighthawk engine is based directly on the CBX750F, with 90hp, 6 gears (and an oil level window instead of the dipstick). The CB650SC and CB700SC basically used a shaft drive version of the CBX750F engine. The European version of the CB650SC was called the CBX650E.
@@64faffi Right on, and thanks for the info!
@petev.9357 question for you. I have a 93 that is nowhere near as clean as yours, though I am working on it slowly but surely. Did you modify the rack / backrest yourself? My seat is at war with the pad / extremely vertical backrest and I am considering a little trim (The bike was given to me after it sat for years in a garage so im in there constantlymessing with something till she is running right). Just curious if that was a different model and just a luggage rack or if you gave her the old chop yourself.
I wish Honda would bring these back. I love the old air cooled fours.
Right on!
I have a 99 Nighthawk 750 that I got in the early 00s from a guy in Missouri who took great care of it. It looks exactly like the one you reviewed. I love it. I've thought many times of selling it but I just love it too much to let it go. Everything you said in the review about the smoothness of the inline 4, even power, great handling along with a comfortable ride...I agree fully!
Thanks for the feedback! I'm always glad when long-time owners agree with the reviews. I'm glad you are enjoying your Nighthawk. Cheers!
Lovely classic bike, the Honda 750 engine when tuned and the 4 carbs properly synced, runs as smooth as a Swiss watch and will last for a VERY long time. A Vance & Hines 4 into one exhaust fitted, sounds AWESOME on the NH 750.
I agree, a 4-into-1 exhaust makes most 4-cylinder bikes sing!
That noisy, cheap vh is a big downgrade for such fine bike. I mean HUGE DOWNGRADE!! Nothing like the well balanced, high quality Honda made exhaust.
Mint - with only 20,000 miles it must have been stored really well for the first part of its life.
Those pipes are immaculate, zero scrapes, no specs of rust - looks like it has never been dropped.
Great review of a great bike. I also remember when they were new on the showroom floor. Love my '93 NH 750.
Thanks Bob! My friend Pete really found a nice one. They are neat machines!
I remember when the 83 650 Nighthawk was new on the showroom floor...I bought one!
I really should have skipped my last 3 bikes and got one of these years ago. They really are me. Wouldn't mind if Honda made an 1100 version like this. They kind of did, but went with shim under bucket, FI, too small tank, etc. Target missed.
It sounds gorgeous.
Right on!
Have the ‘98 version. Bought it months ago. It was a bit heavy for a first bike. Now that I’ve ridden a smaller bike and have a lot more confidence, I’m taking it out and see how it performs. But I’m not into speed. Just a nice pace cruise. Enjoy the scenery.
It's nice that you could get out and learn on a smaller machine and then transition to the 750. Cheers!
Had a 91 and liked it. Very low maintenance. Decided I was a “biker” rather than a motorcyclist, so I traded it and bought a Vulcan. In retrospect, I outgrew the cruiser scene and got back into sport bikes when I was in my 40’s. I just find sport bikes more engaging. Would grab another knight hawk 750 in a heartbeat!
Right on!
Just bought one 2 weeks ago. Carbs are a little goofy and I'm not bothering with them.. so I bought the Murray's Mikuni upgrades. Absolutely love this bike. They're fantastic
Very cool, enjoy it Jason.
Oh I will! And thanks for the video!
@@jasonworden8209 You're welcome!
I bought one of the CB 750s when they were first released back in the late 60s or early 70s. Later on I bought a Nighthawk 750 which I had for about 5 years. They were both great bikes and if I could buy either one of them back I would.
Right on!
I used to drive a friend's nighthawk 650, i Loved that bike i always had fun on it. It was a pretty fast little sucker it was manueverable quick pretty good acceleration low maintenance. Good seat height. Almost killed myself on it one day. 8 never did maintenance since it was a friend's. I've driven rode a lot of different bikes in my life and i never drove this 750 shown here. But I knew a guy with one. He liked it a lot. The other Honda 750s I've driven rode. I don't know how to word it. I've driven a lot of bikes you feature jon not all but many. My favorites probably were the Suzukis. But I like them All. I always loved the old XS 11. The XS 850. The magna's, the XJs and the Ltd's and GS and the in line Honda's. One of my favorites was the GS 850. Loved that bike. A friend had the GPZ 900. I favored the FJ 11. Back when. My daily Rider car then was the Nissan 280 zx turbo 5 speed fuel injected 24 valve 2+2. My company car i worked for Hollywood reporter then. In Los Angeles California in the early 80s it was a great place to live and ride motorcycles. I'm a UJM man myself. You're channel brings back many fond memories. I'm not ready to hang up my riding boots yet. I'm a huge fan of the Honda CB 1100. And the z1 900 the New retro bikes but still there's nothing like the originals. 70s and 80s for me I grew up in that ara.
So cool! Thanks for sharing the memories, Marc. Like you, I like the retro bikes, but I love the classics. Cheers!
Another great video... I bought one exactly like this a couple years ago, (same year, color, case guards, foot pegs, luggage rack) with only 10,000 miles and absolutely love it for the simple design that it is which reminds me of the Honda 550 and 750 I owned back in the early 80s... I don't ride much so I appreciate the cable clutch and rear drum brake which don't deteriorate as easily from lack of use like hydraulic parts. Also like the maintenance-free valvetrain and air cooled engine so no worries about radiator maintenance..
I have owned many more complex motorcycles over the years and this one has become my favorite for the reasons listed above and also reasons you stated in the video...I changed my sprockets from the stock 15/38 to 17/36 so now it runs 70 mph at 4,000 RPM instead of 60 MPH at 4000rpm...
It really did not affect acceleration much and the motor sounds and feels smoother and less buzzy at highway speeds.
Great points about the cable clutch and drum brake! Because of the simplicity, the Nighthawk 750s make great commuters and are a fantastic first vintage machine. Still a nice riding bike!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I also like that model because it was made for enough years so parts availability is better.
@@propdoctor21564 Good point!
I have a 96 750 nighthawk, it's a awesome bike lov it
Very cool Gerald!
Such an amazing machine!
Right on!
Had a 2002, sold it as I was gettingbolder than I like...late 70s. But great bike, a bit tipsy, but superb acceleration, solid, reliable, my last was my best.
Right on! These are great UJMs. Cheers!
Wow! Hit 20,000 views! Updates on my Hawk. New tapered head bearings, can now go no hands for miles even through light bends in the road with throttle lock on. Clutch parts on order. Seems all my increased HP has caught up with me. Prices seem to be going up on these lately on FB. Glad I got mine for $1900 when I did.
Thanks again, Pete, for letting me review your Nighthawk! I'm sure your mods are bringing out the best in it. What mods did you do to boost hp?
A bunch of little things that add up . Finding the gas it likes. 87 E10 Sunoco. I truly believe high octane in a bike that calls for 86 octane makes less power, burns slower. Sparkplugs with no resistors allow plug gap of .045 in. Getting the jetting dialed in.
A very beautifully maintained motorcycle. My friend has one of these, in red, bought 20 years ago low mileage (it is still fairly low mileage). I do like the easy to read and pretty instruments, the decently sized fuel tank, the hydraulic valve lifters, the center stand, the room offered by the big seat and the general ease of maintenance. I actually like that it has a drum rear brake as well.
Dislikes: The seat is, for me, a torture rack, despite its size. Way too soft, you are soon sitting on the base plate itself. 30 minutes is tolerable, and hour pain and two hours a torture. Reminds me of my 1978 CX500A. Speaking of soft, the suspension, particularly the rear shocks, are shockingly void of damping and spring rates are way too soft. The front fork is also overly soft, and the fork will bottom long before the single front brake has done its best to slow the bike. Come to think of it, the same thing could be said for the suspension on the CX.
The engine, while smooth and typically Honda-perfect manners, manage the sin of feeling slower than it is. My KZ650 felt quite eager in comparison, so it was a shock to watch the CB750 walk away quite smartly during top gear roll-ons. But that is just evidence of how gutless the KZ650 is/was, not the strength of the CB750; my GSX600F Katana, for instance, killed the CB750 in top gear roll-ons from 35 mph. About even up to about 45-50, from then on the little Suzuki passed 100 mph before the Honda got to 80. FWIW, the Katana also felt slower than it was.
The European version of the Nighthawk was called CB Seven Fifty. It featured the same engine, 17in wheels with radial tires, triple disc brakes, better suspension, more cornering clearance, sportier geometry and a much more active and, arguably, comfortable seating position.
Right on! This one had 1" spacers on top of the front springs that kept it from being a mushy dive master. Thanks for the roll-on comparisons as well.
This was yet another bike I had my eye out for when I was looking for my Covid winter project (when I bought the zr7S). I just couldn’t find one in nice condition near me. To me the hydraulic valve adjustment is it’s biggest draw. That and the fact when it comes to brake bleeding time you only need to deal with one front caliper. Cable clutch- yes, no bleeding. Air cooled- yes, no coolant change. Just oil and tires. Nice simple easy maintenance bike.
It's true, you can't ignore the simplicity of not ever adjusting valves. More bikes should have it.
If you have shim under bucket type, the cams have to come out. A real pain, and a chance of damage if you don't do it right.
@@petev.9357 You can’t get the high performance from a hydraulically adjusted valve train as you can from a shim adjusted system. There’s cavitation that occurs in the oil at high rpm. Me, I’d happily give away a few horsepower to never have to pull the cams as part of normal maintenance. Probably the best of the shim systems are systems with finger followers where you just move them aside to get at the shim sitting on top of the stem then pull the shim with a magnet. My ZRX has such a setup. Or shim over bucket where you depress the bucket with the cam then hold the bucket with a special tool and yank the shim with a magnet. Easiest of all are the screw with locknut adjusters, which requires no shims, but they need more tending to. But I’ll take them. I hate pulling the cams.
i like these alot.but loved the mid 80s 650s & 700s. awesome bikes for their size.& ran quite well too for not having massive cubes to push them.
Right on!
My 86 700 was a great bike, I really liked it, blew the later ones away.
@@MarkTurner-vs7uc Right on Mark.
I have to add: Just with richer jetting this bike's performance really picks up. I'm keeping the OEM pipes, like it quiet. Hard/impossible to find a Vance and Hines for it and I'm not convinced it would be even faster with it.
Right on!
Would you mind sharing the jet size you went up to??
115 main and small washer under each needle.
I had this Honda I got it brand new. 1996 drove it with Honda's rider club. I have been kicking myself in the ass for selling it back to the Honda dealer.
There are still some nice ones around...
One of my favorite bikes. I currently ride a Moto Guzzi but wouldn't mind having one of these too. Nice scenery where you're riding. I'm guessing PA or upstate NY? I'm in Phoenix AZ and the scenery is completely different out here.
Right on, Daniel! AZ is a different kind of beautiful. I'm in PA. Cheers!
Hello Jon. I know your tall, but i really wanted to see you drive off on it, like ive seen you do many times.. ive been looking at these Honda's and the yamaha 750-4's
I would think it being a honda it wouldnt have the 2nd gear probs?
Ot did seem to be a little low on HP.. compared to the xj750/ your thoughts between the 2 would be a big help..
Great Vid as all yours Vids are top of the line..
Thanks again😇😁😇
Thanks, Benny! Since the owner was waiting while I filmed, I didn't get the ride-away shot that I normally do. The Honda should be less maintenance overall, but I do like the shaft-drive, fuel guage, and dual front discs of the XJ750. The real trick is finding a really nice example of either bike at a reasonable price. I've looked at an XJ and a Nighthawk this year but didn't buy either due to purchase price and condition not lining up. Both bikes would require suspension and brake modification for me to be content with them as daily drivers (they are too soft in stock form). I hope that helps. Cheers!
I rode a 92 Summer of 2002. Nice bike, lots of power, comfortable ,but why not duel front brakes & fairing or windscreen.Thanks for the ride!!
Right on, James. I wish it was set up like the original Nighthawk 700S. Cheers!
😂just from watching this cruise down the road you can imagine the smooth power from this beautiful bike.
Right on Charles!
I've always wanted that bike 😢
Performance wise, your ZRX is much more capable with better quality components all around (suspension, brakes, chain adjusters, etc). The Honda is a nice bike though.
God-tier classic ujm. If I get a carbed in line 4 and it’s not a first gen fz1 (I own the second gen) it would be a nighthawk.
Right on Paul!
I first started riding in 1991 when this came out. I really liked them, but in 1993 I ended up buying a Kawasaki Zephyr 750 instead. The Zephyr was a little higher performance. In the last 10 years I've looked at Nighthawks a couple of times. I really like most things about the bike except the foot pegs seem higher than I would like. Every time I ride one I feel cramped.
If you feel cramped, then it's probably not the right bike for you. There are still lots of fun choices out there, though. Cheers!
I just bought one. Week ago I picked up a red 2003. 3800 miles. Mint condition runs and looks like a 2023. Previous owner pulled the baffles. So I just ordered a stainless 4 into 1 Delkevic complete exhaust. According to Delkevic, I'll be the first one in the states with this new exhaust. Megaphone style. Just over $400. Bike number 17.
I run Delkevic Megaphone Exhaust on three of my bikes - and I love them. The stainless will turn a golden brown at the head over time but looks so much better than blued chrome pipes (imho). They are better quality than the expensive pipes and cost less than a most cheap pipes. I did an install video on a GS1100L on this channel if it would help with installation. ua-cam.com/video/QyMiNwRSzIk/v-deo.html
By coincidence I just saw one of these in the parking lot at work a few days ago. A very honest continuation of UJM tradition rather than a purely nostalgia-driven retro-remake. I think they’re great. My one qualm is that they somehow managed to detune then quite a bit: a low 13 second no quarter mile stock, when the CB650SC that preceded it was a low 12 second bike! I guess that’s not the point of the bike, it’s emphasis is on friendly usable “real world” power.
Basically the Toyota Camry LE of the 90s. Reliable, easy to use, versatile, budget friendly. But at the same time maybe a bit boring like the Toyota 😅
Great analogy! It's good at everything but not great at any one thing - in the classic UJM style.
My favorite Honda 750/700 that I've ridden was the mid 1980s Nighthawk 700S. It was sportier and full of higher-end components - triple disc brakes, shaft drive, anti-dive, adjustable suspension, etc. But the Nighthawk 750 was designed to a very different criteria - it is a smooth, refined bike for a very competitive price.
I need to correct myself, I read CW’s 1991 Review of the 750 Nighthawl and theirs ran a very respectable 12.26 quarter mile, so the performance is very much in line with the rest of the 650/700 80s Nighthawks. With that in mind, I can hardly think of a bad thing to say about this UJM!
@@gtemnykh Right on! Thanks for the correction!
I have a 92 I just rode today with the hydraulic valves no radiator no shift modes to mess up . There is not much out there that will last an be as reliable as these .
Right on! They are simple, robust, reliable motorcycles. Cheers!
Exactly why I wanted one when I started looking around for another cycle
@@propdoctor21564 Right on!
Where did you get that rack in the back? I've been looking for one to add to my 92 Nighthawk!
It was on when my friend bought it. There is no name stamped on it. Sorry!
I'm in the UK and I've been looking at these bikes, there's not so many over here! But i do have a cb700 nighthawk s, Can you get one of those to work on and review?
I will pick one up if I can find the right bike for the right price in the right condition.
I have a 1998 but it hasn't ran in 10 years and my friend wasnt mechanically inclined so I'm going to fix it myself
Right on!
Man i love my nighthawk 750,its a 1998 awsome bike to ride i also have a 1998 kawasaki zx6r wich i adored until i found that nighthawk. My zx6r has more power compaired to the nighthawk ,yet the nighthawk is 2000% a more comfortable ride and is still fast. All in all i think i have a great pair😅(no pun intended)
Right on! They're both great bikes!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 for sure
Any major differences between a 1991 and a 2003? Wondering if every part is interchangeable? Thanks for the help.
Most parts are interchangeable. You can check www.partzilla.com if you are looking for specific part number and year comparisons. Happy New Year!
Thanks, you too!@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538
This is a classic. Called something else in Europe.
Do you know what it was called in Europe?
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I've forgotten. I'll have a think.
@@user-sw2lv3zp6o Right on!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Honda CB750. Plain and simple like I thought. Just checked.
@@user-sw2lv3zp6o Thanks!
❤❤❤❤
Right on!
Would this make for a good first bike?
They're not bad for taller riders, but I would recommend a smaller, lighter motorcycle for most first-time riders. Cheers!
I’m 5’7” and 54 years old … thinking one of these might be my first bike. What do you think ? I want a low seat height so I’m not sure my 275 lbs will help me on this 30.7” seat height .
The best thing to do is sit on one. You want to be flat-footed when at a stop. It will also let you get a feel for the weight. Good luck in your search!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I’m checking out a nighthawk 750 tomorrow, just to sit in it etc . Part of me thinks I should get a Honda rebel 300 for a first bike due to seat height , bike weight etc … but me being 275 lbs I’m thinking it might be too small too quick . The 750 nighthawks weight is 463, a Honda rebel 500 is 416, and. Rebel 300 is 340ish? Plus I’m just going to cruise lower speeds anyhow , I’m not a hot dog or a speed person .
Plus I’m in rural tennessee, not riding in a city at all of interstate ever
@jasonlohorn268 I would recommend at least the 500. The 300 doesn't have the suspension suitable for even a 200lb person. I weigh 220 and completely overwhelm the CB300 suspension. Just my opinion. I wouldn't want you to get a bike you'll be disappointed with. Cheers!
A little late here, but I've got a '92 I picked up off Craigslist about 7 years ago. It was beat to heck but I functionally restored it. I'm 5'8", 53 yo, a few pounds lighter (but not many). This bike will fit you perfectly, I can flat foot it without a problem and have never felt in over my head on it from anything other than my own stupidity. It neither feels underpowered for my, err, mass, nor does it feel like 500 lbs to me (except for the one time I forgot the kickstand). I did redo the seat as it was pretty shredded, and made it a little cushier when I did so I think mine is actually a little taller than stock now. Would definitely upgrade the rotor and add braided brake lines, made a huge difference to my stopping power. Also, putting some Pirelli Angle GT's on it really improved its willingness to lean in.
My biggest gripes: constantly reaching for a non-existent 6th gear, pretty klunky 1-2/2-1 shifts (though I suspect that happened between low sides by the previous owner), and the surprisingly long warm-up time in the winter here in Michigan (which means a fair amount of carb futzing, which does get old).
Those complaints aside, this is the perfect commuter bike for those not looking to pop nooners or validate Lorentz contraction. I have hit triple digits a few times during bouts of youthful reminiscence, but it's happiest cruising around 60-70. I would road trip on it as it is comfortable enough at my height, but the relatively short range (~120 miles to empty on mine) and lack of a fuel gauge has me looking for something newer (and fuel injected) for that roll.
If I ever do sell it, it will either be at an estate sale or for an irrationally irresistible offer. I love this bike, even with its imperfections.
I have a 99 yours is in better shape. Where can I get parts for it. Like that luggage rack on the back. And crash bar
I don't know where to get those parts. They were on my friends bike when he got it.
Ebay still carries the rack/backrest. $135 delivered. No directions and I think you have to source longer bolts and spacers.
Need to buy one.what is the average price of one?
$2500-$3500 for nicer ones.
I want a nice one.willcall back when ready
@@sidneydebusk2536 Sounds good. Cheers!
how do I even get one?
I usually find bikes for sale on Craigslist or Facebook marketplace.
Old maybe, but classic?
In your opinion, what makes a bike a classic?
Жаль не могу купить двигатель на него, у нас они стоят очень дорого 1100 $ в результате чего мой ястреб простаивает уже более двух лет( я купил его после измены жены и хотел его восстановить но потом инфляция подорожание и были трудности в семье когда погиб мой брат, стало совсем не до этого мы мечтали проехать на нем
Мне жаль слышать это. В прошлом я сталкивался с трудностями, из-за которых мне приходилось обходиться без мотоцикла в течение нескольких лет. Я определенно ценю возможность ездить на мотоцикле благодаря тем временам. Надеюсь, будущее скоро станет для вас светлее. Ваше здоровье!
.... and they say Honda are boring.
That bike is stunning.
Although I'd like to see it with dual front discs and a rear disc. Someone would know how to restomod it. Having said that though, it would seem a shame to alter a nice mint one.
The odd thing is that Honda made several Nighthawks in the 1980s with dual disc brakes up front. Cheers!
The UK, AUS, etc. bikes are exactly that. larger, flater gas tank, triple disc brakes, larger oil cooler, better foot pegs with brackets, Higher redline, but still same power, etc.
I wish we had got that version but I'm still happy. Put 4k miles on it this summer, still making improvements. Likes Shell Rotella T6 15-40 oil, big improvement in shifting.
@@petev.9357 Right on, Pete!
These were not nearly as good as the 86 nighthawk 700.
The Nighthawk 700S is my favorite of the breed. Great styling, shaft drive, dual discs up front, etc.
That is not classic my 1982 Honda nighthawk cb 750 is classic smh kids these days 🤔
Well, at 32 years old for a 1991, the first 7 years of production classify as antiques. And, some purists (not me) would argue that the only classic Honda CB750 is the first generation of SOHC bikes. 😉 Time marches on. I remember when these came out, and I can't believe they're antiques already. Cheers!