14 August. Friday 2026
Honda NT 650 Hawk - 1988 Specifications and Reviews
The 1988 Honda NT 650 Hawk is a middleweight naked bike that appeals to riders seeking accessible performance and everyday practicality. Powered by a smooth 647cc V-twin engine, it's renowned for its reliable liquid-cooled design, nimble handling, and approachable power delivery. The Hawk bridges the gap between cruisers and sportbikes, making it ideal for commuting and weekend rides.
1988
General information | |
| Category | Naked bike |
| Year | 1988 |
| Model | Honda NT 650 Hawk |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet Multiplate |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Wet sump, pressure feed |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | Digitalized full transistor |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. 2x36.5mm Keihin CV |
| Bore x stroke | 79.0 x 66.0 mm (3.1 x 2.6 inches) |
| Compression | 9.4:1 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 647.00 ccm (39.48 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,430 mm (56.3 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 155 mm (6.1 inches) |
| Overall width | 676 mm (26.6 inches) |
| Overall length | 2 mm (0.1 inches) |
| Overall height | 1 mm (0.0 inches) |
| Seat height | 772 mm (30.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Rear percentage of weight | 52.9 |
| Front percentage of weight | 47.1 |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 186.9 kg (412.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 178.3 kg (393.0 pounds) |
Honda NT 650 Hawk dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Two into one |
| Rear brakes diameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 315 mm (12.4 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/70-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 110/80-17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 119 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Showa adjustable pre-load |
| Front suspension travel | 140 mm (5.5 inches) |
| Front suspension | Showa non-adjustable 41mm |
| Trail | 5 mm (0.2 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 28.0° |
| Frame type | Aluminum with ELF single sided swingarm |
Speed and acceleration | |
| 1/4 mile (0.4 km) | 12.700 seconds |
| Top speed | 185.1 km/h (115.0 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Modifications compared to previous model | First year production model. |
| Color options | Red, Blue |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 2.00 litres (0.53 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 12.00 litres (3.17 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
4.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
115 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track45%
City70%
Cornering78%
Daily Riding68%
Touring45%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some experience who want a light, engaging V-twin that rewards confident cornering rather than outright power. |
| Purpose | Best suited to spirited backroad riding and city commuting where its light weight and sporty chassis shine over long-distance cruising. |
| Rider Fit | The 772mm seat height and compact, lightweight chassis make it manageable for shorter or less physically strong riders. |
| Character | A quirky, underrated Honda with sportbike-derived running gear and a distinctive V-twin character, appealing to riders who value handling and individuality over raw speed. |
| Not Ideal For | Not ideal for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, big passenger accommodation, or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Shop This Bike
Rider Reviews
Add a Comment
Related Motorcycle Specifications
More Honda Motorcycles
- Motorcycles in database: 45863
- Technical specifications: 1490298
- Images of motorcycles: 72681
- Videos: 339
- Manufacturers: 501
Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.