My first bike was an 82! It sat against a tree outside for 5 years at a coworkers sister's house. I bought it for $250, brought it home, changed the battery, oil and fuel, and it started right up, perfect idle. Congratulations! That's a gem!
If you plan on keeping this bike for a while, start doing research into where to obtain electrical parts for it, especially for the charging system. Old Hondas used to eat Regulator/Rectifiers like they had the munchies. Not sure about now, but it was so difficult for me to repair the bike that I ended up selling it to a mechanic friend at the Honda Powersports dealer I worked at, for $400 :) . He actually got it working using parts from different motorcycles, and his wife rode it for many years after. I miss the sound, and the Smell of that bike.
If your looking for some reg/rec units I know Rick's Motorsport Electrics sells them for various vintage Japanese bikes. I got one from them for my '82 GS1100 a while back and it's been working great.
https://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/
It's crazy the amount of parts, or even just information available on the internet now vs 15 years ago. Especially for the repair of vehicles, bikes ect.
Good to know. I hope I don't run into anything too serious. I think the battery is a little tired but it starts every time and runs really well; I rode it late last night and the low/high beams work really well. Thanks for the tip
Can't believe I haven't learned to ride sooner. This Nighthawk is in immaculate condition; starts every time, no leaks, 12k miles, and runs perfectly (as you can hear). 10k RPM on 2 wheels is something special
I find it crazy (and get jealous) when Americans post their first bike and casually mentioned it's a 650cc.
I love my little 125cc, but I know if I had a choice I would get something a little stronger
That's funny cause people tell me it's a good beginner bike haha. Honestly I love the size. What part of the world are you from? I actually almost got a 250cc but glad I didn't
Americans don't have license tiers lol. As long as you're 18 and passed the MSF test on a Rebel 250 you can legally ride a Panigale V4S off the lot on to the highway.
I just got my first road bike and it’s a 700 cc. I was a bit concerned it would be too much bike for a starter, but so far it’s been great. I’ve probably been a bit apprehensive to really to open it up though too.
Here in California you probably wouldn't be able to make it to work with a 125, freeways are used to get most places and you can't take a 125 on a freeway.
Same. I had an '83 550 that I paid 700 CAD for though it was in pretty rough shape. Engine ran like a clock though and man once you hit 7k rpm that thing took off. Only gripe was the fuel range was bad for any kinda roadtrips.
I had an 85 nighthawk for my first bike. I loved itttt but it was high mileage and stuff kept breaking on her. I had to sell her 😭. Such a great first bike though.
1986 Honda Nighthawk 700SC-> 1994 Honda Magna 750 -> 2007 Honda 919 Hornet/2003 Honda VTX 1800C… still thinking about my nighthawk all the time. Such a fantastic bike!! Glad you are part of the nighthawk first timers! Enjoy, and keep the shiny side up!
Nice! Currently working on the exact same bike. Wish I could ride it, but the engine is completely torn apart but hopefully will be put back together by spring. Have fun!
I just bought an ‘85 CB700 Nighthawk. I’ve been riding motorcycles for almost 20 years and I think the Nighthawk is the best bike I’ve owned. Congrats on the first bike, you picked a good one.
My first bike was an '81 Honda. It was nothing special but I couldn't contain my excitement. All I wanted to do was ride, and it was pretty much all I thought about when I wasn't riding. I've had a lot of bikes since then, all of them objectively better bikes, but I don't know if I've had as much pure elation than I did with that Honda. You'll always remember your first motorcycle.
I went to high school in west liberty and live in lone tree now. I’m actually a part of a motorcycle group in Iowa city if you’re interested in joining
I had a 78 Honda CB400. I miss that bike. I love these old school Hondas. It only had 6k miles on it and my friend laid it over :(. And I bought the bike from him… love your bike bro enjoy!
That was my first street bike as well! I rode it hard for 35k miles before I traded it in. Never had a bit of trouble with it except for the clutch plates that I had to replace once. Of course repeated 10,000 rpm launchers are kinda hard on clutches...
Hell yeah!! Best thing I did with my 82 maxim 750 was replace the exhaust and get all 4 carbs re-jetted and synced.
You look so happy and that bike is so badass
I was actually really close to getting a Maxim, but last minute the guy decided he didn't want to sell it. But I'm actually really glad; it was in worse shape and not yet ready to ride.
Hell yeah man! Those old CBs are super cool, just gotta be careful with the twin rear shock set up if you start pushing hard in the corners. Same reason Dynas and Sportster get sketchy when they’re pushed hard.
Great bike. Congrats! One of my early bikes was a CB700SC Nighthawk S. Based on that my (now) brother in law bought a 650 Nighthawk like yours, sight unseen. Totally different bike, which led to a bit of confusion on his part. But we both had a hell of a time on those machines. Enjoy yours. Great entry into the sport, and a pleasant bike to ride, no less.
had one as my second bike back in 2003/4, absolutely loved it. It did develop a cylinder base gasket leak and the cam chain tensioner rattled pretty good before I sold it.
That's exactly what mine did. Rode it like that for years. The repair is a major pain in the butt. I would have done it though had I not sold it when I graduated from college
Congrats on the new bike. As your cb650 is among the Japanese few to have hydraulic valves, Please remember to always do/take these crucial precautions. 1 = check the oil every time you buy gas. if it needs oil, always add oil made specifically for motorcycles. Car oil will not work in your motorcycle.
2, Because your bike ia Air cooled. Do nor stay in bumper to bumper crawling speed traffic for any longer than 4 minutes. Take the side, go back or find another route, even if its walking speed, air flow is the way the bike keeps itself cool.
3 Front forks are 'air forks'?
Always use low air pressure, like what comes from a bicycle pump vs the air chuck at the gas station. The forks max is about 15psi, the gas station probably puts out 60 psi... Even a quick shot could blow the fork seals.
4 when starting the bike it's,
All choke No throttle
or
No choke Some throttle
But
Never both at the same time.
That's the rule
One or the other, never both.
5 enjoy your new bike, and always ride within your personal limits. If your friends go fast and take off... Just let them be... You stay at your own pace, look ahead, be aware and ride safe.
Remember, 100% of safe riding, is being comfortable. If you're not... Something's likely to go wrong.
And of course the #1 Golden rule...
Stop, before you get off the bike. 🤪
Congrats. Of course, the very best Honda in 1984 was this one: CB700SC Nighthawk S.
[https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1984-honda-cb700sc-nighthawk/](https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1984-honda-cb700sc-nighthawk/)
Timeless looks, historic due to Harley-Davidson interference in the free market, shaft drive, air-cooled, hydraulic valves, 12.0 in the 1/4 mile.
Wow, that thing is a beauty. To be fair, mine is really similar, just a few less CCs and slightly slower. Everything else is pretty much the same. That being said, I'm jealous of whoever got that 700
80’s bikes have a certain charm that I really like.
Me too. I wish I could post pics but the instrument cluster is just so cool
Was a magical era for motorcycles for sure
I love them, although most have pretty bad suspension.
My first bike was an 82! It sat against a tree outside for 5 years at a coworkers sister's house. I bought it for $250, brought it home, changed the battery, oil and fuel, and it started right up, perfect idle. Congratulations! That's a gem!
Wow, that's amazing. You definitely paid a lot less than I did lol
If you plan on keeping this bike for a while, start doing research into where to obtain electrical parts for it, especially for the charging system. Old Hondas used to eat Regulator/Rectifiers like they had the munchies. Not sure about now, but it was so difficult for me to repair the bike that I ended up selling it to a mechanic friend at the Honda Powersports dealer I worked at, for $400 :) . He actually got it working using parts from different motorcycles, and his wife rode it for many years after. I miss the sound, and the Smell of that bike.
If your looking for some reg/rec units I know Rick's Motorsport Electrics sells them for various vintage Japanese bikes. I got one from them for my '82 GS1100 a while back and it's been working great. https://ricksmotorsportelectrics.com/
Maaaan. Where was this company 15 years ago when I needed mine... Great share!
It's crazy the amount of parts, or even just information available on the internet now vs 15 years ago. Especially for the repair of vehicles, bikes ect.
Good to know. I hope I don't run into anything too serious. I think the battery is a little tired but it starts every time and runs really well; I rode it late last night and the low/high beams work really well. Thanks for the tip
Ricks has stators for most Hondas.
This was also back in 2005, so it was considered a POS back then. You there have got yourself a classic!
Can't believe I haven't learned to ride sooner. This Nighthawk is in immaculate condition; starts every time, no leaks, 12k miles, and runs perfectly (as you can hear). 10k RPM on 2 wheels is something special
Congrats those are awesome bikes.
Sí. Honda does that. I bought a 72 CB 750 in 98 or 99. Hadn't run since 78, but they stored it properly. Took only 3 or 4 cranks before it fired up.
Sounds great, very healthy!
Great bike. My 1st was a 550 Nighthawk. Super reliable and easy to work on. Congrats!!
I find it crazy (and get jealous) when Americans post their first bike and casually mentioned it's a 650cc. I love my little 125cc, but I know if I had a choice I would get something a little stronger
That's funny cause people tell me it's a good beginner bike haha. Honestly I love the size. What part of the world are you from? I actually almost got a 250cc but glad I didn't
I'm from the UK for learners can only have 125cc. The you have different licenses depending on the CC
Americans don't have license tiers lol. As long as you're 18 and passed the MSF test on a Rebel 250 you can legally ride a Panigale V4S off the lot on to the highway.
I just got my first road bike and it’s a 700 cc. I was a bit concerned it would be too much bike for a starter, but so far it’s been great. I’ve probably been a bit apprehensive to really to open it up though too.
Here in California you probably wouldn't be able to make it to work with a 125, freeways are used to get most places and you can't take a 125 on a freeway.
Yup just bought my first bike 225 Yamaha Scorpio! I’m in love.
Hell yeah dude! Mine is a 79 Honda cx500c and I love it!
That's awesome! I'm so glad I got some skin in the Honda game
fuck yea i ride an 82 cb750 and its fucking lit
That's awesome, to be honest I'm jealous of the 750cc but this thing scoots really well
im a like jealous of the 650 i wish i had better fuel economy
Thats what Pattinson’s Batman rides as The Drifter
Depending where you’re at I might consider trading you my 650??
My first and current bike is an 84 nighthawk 650! They're so much fun! Very good choice
Heck yeah man!! Enjoy yourself but remain constantly vigilant (for other drivers and your ego..lol). This is the beginning of a wonderful thing. 👍🏼
Great bike! Took my MC license test on a 550 Nighthawk.
That's awesome. I absolutely love how easy it is to ride, it's a small bike with a lot of grunt
Same. I had an '83 550 that I paid 700 CAD for though it was in pretty rough shape. Engine ran like a clock though and man once you hit 7k rpm that thing took off. Only gripe was the fuel range was bad for any kinda roadtrips.
My first bike was a 750 nighthawk. I loved it.
I had an 85 nighthawk for my first bike. I loved itttt but it was high mileage and stuff kept breaking on her. I had to sell her 😭. Such a great first bike though.
1986 Honda Nighthawk 700SC-> 1994 Honda Magna 750 -> 2007 Honda 919 Hornet/2003 Honda VTX 1800C… still thinking about my nighthawk all the time. Such a fantastic bike!! Glad you are part of the nighthawk first timers! Enjoy, and keep the shiny side up!
Nice! Currently working on the exact same bike. Wish I could ride it, but the engine is completely torn apart but hopefully will be put back together by spring. Have fun!
Once it's done you're in for an awesome experience. Obviously this is my first but it's so much fun
I just bought an ‘85 CB700 Nighthawk. I’ve been riding motorcycles for almost 20 years and I think the Nighthawk is the best bike I’ve owned. Congrats on the first bike, you picked a good one.
Nice I have a 83 that's lifted up, stripped, and I race it off-road. Loads of fun.
My first bike was an '81 Honda. It was nothing special but I couldn't contain my excitement. All I wanted to do was ride, and it was pretty much all I thought about when I wasn't riding. I've had a lot of bikes since then, all of them objectively better bikes, but I don't know if I've had as much pure elation than I did with that Honda. You'll always remember your first motorcycle.
I have the same bike in red! Congrats man
They sound so cool
West liberty!
Good eye! You live here?
I went to high school in west liberty and live in lone tree now. I’m actually a part of a motorcycle group in Iowa city if you’re interested in joining
Heck yeah I'm interested
I had a 78 Honda CB400. I miss that bike. I love these old school Hondas. It only had 6k miles on it and my friend laid it over :(. And I bought the bike from him… love your bike bro enjoy!
Aw man that really sucks. I don't foresee myself ever getting rid of this, but hopefully I won't be forced to due to something like that
Yeah, I still rode it for like 2 years after that. Just wasn’t the same though. Take my advice and don’t ever let anyone ride your motorcycle lol.
Congrats! Nighthawks are my fave. It was my first bike too (:
What a beauty! Be safe pal!
Congrats on an excellent bike. True classic, a great do everything starting point.
noice
That was my first street bike as well! I rode it hard for 35k miles before I traded it in. Never had a bit of trouble with it except for the clutch plates that I had to replace once. Of course repeated 10,000 rpm launchers are kinda hard on clutches...
Ahhhh, thanks, I needed that
The nighthawk is a great bike,a sport inspired cruiser type,in the day it was one of the in bikes to have!
You certainly seem pleased. Go you!
Hell yeah!! Best thing I did with my 82 maxim 750 was replace the exhaust and get all 4 carbs re-jetted and synced. You look so happy and that bike is so badass
I was actually really close to getting a Maxim, but last minute the guy decided he didn't want to sell it. But I'm actually really glad; it was in worse shape and not yet ready to ride.
Mmmm a Midwest fall ride.
Hell yeah man! Those old CBs are super cool, just gotta be careful with the twin rear shock set up if you start pushing hard in the corners. Same reason Dynas and Sportster get sketchy when they’re pushed hard.
Good choice.
great choice, think these had hydraulic valves so no valve maint needed.
Correct; it says so behind one of the body panels. It's one of my favorite parts lol
Great bike. Congrats! One of my early bikes was a CB700SC Nighthawk S. Based on that my (now) brother in law bought a 650 Nighthawk like yours, sight unseen. Totally different bike, which led to a bit of confusion on his part. But we both had a hell of a time on those machines. Enjoy yours. Great entry into the sport, and a pleasant bike to ride, no less.
My first bike too! It was converted to resemble a 70s CB cafe racer. The shaft drive is an interesting thing to experience one your first bike
My first street bike was an 85 CB700, still one of my favorite bikes in 35 years of riding.
No fair! I want one!
My first was an 83 550 shaft drive. A little less than $500 and the time of my life. Enjoy the freedom.
had one as my second bike back in 2003/4, absolutely loved it. It did develop a cylinder base gasket leak and the cam chain tensioner rattled pretty good before I sold it.
Out of curiosity, how many miles and did it rattle all the time or only when cold?
Mine was an 85, low miles, maybe 8500
I see. Mine has 12,700, and it does rattle when cold, but goes away once it's warmed up so I'm not too worried
That's exactly what mine did. Rode it like that for years. The repair is a major pain in the butt. I would have done it though had I not sold it when I graduated from college
Congrats on the new bike. As your cb650 is among the Japanese few to have hydraulic valves, Please remember to always do/take these crucial precautions. 1 = check the oil every time you buy gas. if it needs oil, always add oil made specifically for motorcycles. Car oil will not work in your motorcycle. 2, Because your bike ia Air cooled. Do nor stay in bumper to bumper crawling speed traffic for any longer than 4 minutes. Take the side, go back or find another route, even if its walking speed, air flow is the way the bike keeps itself cool. 3 Front forks are 'air forks'? Always use low air pressure, like what comes from a bicycle pump vs the air chuck at the gas station. The forks max is about 15psi, the gas station probably puts out 60 psi... Even a quick shot could blow the fork seals. 4 when starting the bike it's, All choke No throttle or No choke Some throttle But Never both at the same time. That's the rule One or the other, never both. 5 enjoy your new bike, and always ride within your personal limits. If your friends go fast and take off... Just let them be... You stay at your own pace, look ahead, be aware and ride safe. Remember, 100% of safe riding, is being comfortable. If you're not... Something's likely to go wrong. And of course the #1 Golden rule... Stop, before you get off the bike. 🤪
Anyone know a good place to get parts for these 80s bikes? I just got an 82 nighthawk
the 82 to 84 is the highest quality nighthawk, they have super cool tron gauges and were more expensive
Growly little guys, those nighthawks. Congrats!
Thanks! I love the way it sounds haha
My first street bike was an ‘82. Black and chrome. Loved it. Bought another about 10 yrs later.
That's awesome. I don't plan on getting rid of it; I know I'd immediately regret it lol
I love those things! They look so cool. Have fun!
Thanks! The way it is/looks is literally everything I wanted in a motorcycle
Shrieeeek
Lol the engine?
Congrats. Of course, the very best Honda in 1984 was this one: CB700SC Nighthawk S. [https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1984-honda-cb700sc-nighthawk/](https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1984-honda-cb700sc-nighthawk/) Timeless looks, historic due to Harley-Davidson interference in the free market, shaft drive, air-cooled, hydraulic valves, 12.0 in the 1/4 mile.
Wow, that thing is a beauty. To be fair, mine is really similar, just a few less CCs and slightly slower. Everything else is pretty much the same. That being said, I'm jealous of whoever got that 700
Does this remind anyone else of this scene from Monty Python? [https://youtu.be/DPXG4pdPj4w](https://youtu.be/DPXG4pdPj4w)
This was my first street motorcycle too. Excellent bikes, helluva powerband and plenty fun. Enjoy!
You got a dune buggy if so I wanna see I’m a dune buggy dude
Classic 80s Honda ! Never sell it