Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk - 1983 Specifications and Reviews

The 1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk is a sport-touring middleweight designed for riders seeking a balanced blend of performance and practicality. Its 655cc inline-four engine delivers smooth, reliable power ideal for both commuting and weekend rides. Best known for offering accessible sportiness with genuine versatility, it appeals to riders wanting a capable all-rounder without extreme sportbike commitment.

1983
4 stars Average rating: 4 from 3 votes
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General information

CategorySport touring
Year1983
ModelHonda CB 650 SC Nighthawk

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Clutchwet, multi-plate clutch actuates hydraulically
Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Lubrication systemwet sump
StarterElectric
IgnitionSolid state
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemCarburettor. Honda says 32mm; technically they are Keihin 29mm
Bore x stroke60.0 x 58.0 mm (2.4 x 2.3 inches)
Compression9.5:1
Max RPM10000
Power63.00
Stroke4
Engine typeIn-line four
Capacity:655.00 ccm (39.97 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,461 mm (57.5 inches)
Seat height790 mm (31.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight197.0 kg (434.3 pounds)

Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk dimensions and frame

Exhaust system4-2 double muffler
Rear brakes diameter40 mm (1.6 inches)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake). single-leading-shoe rear brake
Front brakesDouble disc. (2) 2- piston calipers, with TRAC system
Rear tyre dimensions130/90-16
Front tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspensiontwo VHD shocks with four-way adjustable damping
Front suspension travel39 mm (1.5 inches)
Front suspensionAir-adjustable, leading-axle forks with dual Syntallic bushings
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.3198 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsPearl Siren Blue and Candy Wineberry Red
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)5.88 litres (1.55 gallons)
Reserve fuel capacity1.89 litres (0.50 gallons)
Fuel capacity12.86 litres (3.40 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

63 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track30%
City60%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding70%
Touring68%
Passenger65%

Rider Profile

Best ForA confident beginner or returning rider will feel comfortable, though the mid-size four-cylinder power delivery still rewards some prior riding experience.
PurposeBuilt as a shaft-driven sport tourer, this bike suits relaxed weekend rides and moderate-distance touring rather than outright performance riding.
Rider FitThe 790mm seat height and moderate 197kg dry weight make it approachable for riders of average height and build, with manageable low-speed handling.
CharacterIt has a smooth, classic air-cooled inline-four character with linear power delivery and shaft-drive reliability rather than aggressive urgency.
Not Ideal ForThis is not the bike for riders seeking modern sportbike acceleration, aggressive cornering clearance, or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 790mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1983 Honda CB 650 SC Nighthawk, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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