How Fast Is the Honda Nighthawk 750?

The Honda Nighthawk 750 can reach about 120–125 mph (193–201 km/h) under ideal conditions. In everyday use, riders typically see GPS-verified speeds around the low 120s, with acceleration figures that place it solidly among capable standard motorcycles from its era.

What That Top Speed Means in Context

Honda’s CB750 Nighthawk, sold primarily through the 1990s and early 2000s, is an air-cooled, four-cylinder standard known more for reliability and ease of ownership than for outright performance. Even so, its real-world top speed sits comfortably around 120 mph, which aligns with its roughly mid-60s rear-wheel horsepower and its relaxed, five-speed gearing.

Key Performance Figures

Below are the headline performance numbers enthusiasts and prospective buyers most often ask about when evaluating the Nighthawk 750’s pace.

• Top speed: approximately 120–125 mph (193–201 km/h), with GPS-verified results typically near the low 120s
• 0–60 mph: roughly 4.5–5.0 seconds, depending on rider, surface, and conditions
• Quarter-mile: about 12.5–13.0 seconds at around 100–105 mph
• Power: roughly mid-60s hp at the rear wheel (around 75 hp at the crank, factory-claimed)
• Wet weight: roughly 500+ lb (fuelled and ready to ride), which influences acceleration more than terminal speed

Taken together, these figures paint a picture of a versatile, everyday motorcycle that still delivers brisk acceleration and a genuine 120-mph capability without the peaky powerband of supersport machines.

What Influences the Nighthawk’s Top Speed

Several variables affect whether a Nighthawk 750 will nudge the top of its range on a given day, and why different testers report slightly different results.

• Aerodynamics: The upright riding position and minimal bodywork create drag that caps terminal speed.
• Gearing: The five-speed box and factory final drive balance cruising comfort with performance; gearing limits can be reached before power does.
• Condition and tune: Tire pressure, chain condition, carburetor sync/jetting, and overall maintenance materially influence top speed.
• Altitude and weather: Higher elevation, headwinds, and high temperatures reduce available power and increase drag.
• Speedometer vs. GPS: Factory speedometers often read optimistically; GPS or timing equipment gives more conservative, reliable numbers.

These factors explain why some owners report an indicated 125–130 mph while independent tests commonly verify speeds closer to 120–123 mph.

How It Compares

Against contemporary standards and “UJM” peers, the Nighthawk 750’s top speed is competitive, even if modern middleweights with fuel injection and six-speed gearboxes may edge it in outright pace. Its enduring appeal comes from smooth power delivery, low maintenance (hydraulic valve lifters), and everyday usability rather than maximum speed bragging rights.

Summary

The Honda Nighthawk 750 is realistically a 120–125 mph motorcycle, with most GPS-verified runs clustering in the low 120s. Expect 0–60 mph in roughly 4.5–5.0 seconds and quarter-miles in the mid-12s to about 13 seconds. While not a top-speed specialist, it delivers dependable, accessible performance that has made it a long-standing favorite among riders who value reliability as much as speed.

What is the top speed of the Honda Hornet 750?

The top speed for the Honda CB750 Hornet is officially listed as 205 km/h (127 mph) by Honda. However, some sources and reviews suggest the top speed can reach around 130 mph in real-world conditions. 
Key Details

• Official Specification: Honda lists the top speed as 205 km/h (127 mph) in its official specifications for the UK and other markets. 
• Reported Figures: Reviewers and other reports mention figures closer to 130 mph, which is a bit higher than the official speed. 
• Engine Performance: The 755cc parallel-twin engine produces around 90-91 horsepower, which is sufficient for highway speeds but not a top-tier performance figure for a motorcycle of that class. 

Is the Honda Shadow 750 fast?

3.1 What is the Honda Shadow 750 Top Speed? The 745 cc engine of the later Honda Shadow models produces 45 horsepower, allowing for a top speed of 95 mph.

How much is a 1982 Honda Nighthawk 750 worth?

Typically, you can expect to pay around $3,000 for a 1982 Honda CB750SC Nighthawk in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1982 Honda CB750SC Nighthawk? The highest selling price of a 1982 Honda CB750SC Nighthawk at auction over the last three years was $5,932.

How fast is a Honda Nighthawk 750?

The Honda Nighthawk 750’s top speed varies by model year, with the original 1970s CB750 reaching around 125 mph and later models like the 1990s Nighthawk potentially reaching speeds in the 120-130 mph range, though performance can be affected by the bike’s condition and specific components. 
Specific Top Speeds by Model:

• Original CB750: Sources indicate that the early 1970s CB750 models had a top speed of about 125 mph. 
• Later Nighthawk 750s (e.g., 1980s/1990s): These models are generally considered to have a top speed of 120-130 mph. 

Factors Affecting Top Speed:

• Condition of the bike: A well-maintained bike with original sprockets will achieve its intended top speed, whereas an older or poorly maintained bike may not. 
• Component modifications: Changes to the bike, such as different handlebars, can affect performance and potentially lower its top speed. 
• Real-world vs. advertised speeds: Real-world speeds achieved by owners can vary from published specs due to factors like rider weight, wind, and road conditions.