2008 Honda Nighthawk Review ~ High Speed Cars

Lightweight. Dependable. Performance packed. And as easy on your wallet as it is to use. That’s the Nighthawk, Honda’s 250cc all-arounder that goes way beyond what typically defines an intro bike (although it is peerless in that respect). Whether a total beginner or a seasoned vet, the Nighthawk offers every rider the perfect combination of performance, Honda reliability, and perhaps best of all, value.

Introduction

The Nighthawk is where full-size motorcycling meets small-sized budgets in a lightweight, easy-to-use package. Being introduced as the cheap and reliable naked bike that is supposed to initiate beginners in the world of motorcycling, the 2008 Honda Nighthawk, following the previous introductions, completes that exact purpose and more.

History

1991 Honda Nighthawk

Honda fist launched the Nighthawk series in 1982 featuring relatively big models initially produced in three sizes, CB450SC, CB650SC, and CB750SC. These models were more than inspired from the existing CB’s but they were enough styling and substantive improved in order to be introduced as brand new.

1987 was the year of sporty motorcycles and cruisers but the Nighthawk series didn’t fit any of the descriptions so Honda quickly adapted. This meant that no Nighthawks were going to be produced until the manufacturer would decide where the company needs to be directed.
Now, the Honda Nighthawk continues its purpose of initiating new riders while still bringing an old feel with its looks and standard features.

Competition

I kept thinking at a strong competitor for the Nighthawk and I simply couldn’t find it. Honda produces this fun providing motorcycle in order to offer variety and affordability in a general competitive market but no other manufacturer targeted this area because it is not a very important segment and they all know the naked bike expert.
The GZ250 is also styled so you’ll fit right with your riding buddies. It has classic Suzuki styling – long, low and lean – which doesn’t make it quite the competitor for our naked Honda. Suzuki considers the machine as being standard and this was enough for me to arrange a battle between the two although I already know the winner.

2008 Honda Nighthawk and Suzuki GZ250

Exterior

The Nighthawk is probably the simplest machine featuring the Honda signature but this does not necessarily mean that reliability and comfort aren’t covered in smooth lines and healthy design characteristics.

Price

Your first big step in motorcycling can be marked with the retail price of on only $3,699 for which the Honda Nighthawk will be commercialized. Apart from being reliable, easy to maneuver and comfortable, the Honda is also cheap which means that it can also stand for a simple way of transportation without needing replacement.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine and Transmission

Displacement: 234cc
Type: air-cooled vertical twin-cylinder
Bore and Stroke: 53mm x 53mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Valve Train: SOHC; two valves per cylinder
Induction: Single 26mm CV carburetor
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: Five-speed
Final Drive: O-ring chain

Chassis and Dimensions

Front Suspension: 31mm fork; 4.8 inches travel
Rear Suspension: Dual rear shocks with five-position spring preload adjustability; 3.9 inches travel
Front Brake: Drum
Rear Brake: Drum
Front Tire: 90/100-18
Rear Tire: 120/90-16
Wheelbase: 56.3 inches
Seat Height: 29.3 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.3 gallons, including 0.8-gallon reserve
Curb Weight: 315 pounds