How much horsepower does a 1984 Honda Nighthawk S have?

The 1984 Honda Nighthawk S (CB700SC) was rated at about 80 horsepower by the manufacturer, with period dyno tests typically showing roughly 68–72 horsepower at the rear wheel. This gap reflects the difference between crankshaft (factory-claimed) and rear-wheel measurements, a common distinction in motorcycle performance figures.

What that horsepower figure represents

Honda’s claim refers to power measured at the crankshaft under controlled conditions, which tends to read higher than real-world rear-wheel outputs due to drivetrain losses. The Nighthawk S was engineered for the U.S. market’s sub-700cc tariff era, using a 696 cc, DOHC, 16-valve inline-four with a shaft final drive—an advanced and relatively high-revving setup for its class in the mid-1980s.

Key specs for the 1984 Nighthawk S (CB700SC)

The following highlights place the horsepower figure in the context of the bike’s overall design and era-specific engineering choices.

• Engine: 696 cc, DOHC, 16-valve inline-four
• Factory-claimed power: approximately 80 hp (crankshaft), around 9,500 rpm
• Typical period dyno results: about 68–72 hp at the rear wheel
• Final drive: shaft
• Production context: U.S.-focused “under 700 cc” design; non-U.S. 750 cc versions generally made slightly more power

Taken together, these specifications explain why owners and reviewers may cite different horsepower numbers, with both the claim and dyno results being correct in their respective contexts.

Why you may see different numbers

Horsepower figures can vary across sources and tests for several technical and practical reasons.

• Measurement method: Crankshaft (manufacturer) vs. rear wheel (dyno) introduces drivetrain losses in the latter.
• Test conditions: Temperature, altitude, and correction standards can shift readings by a few percent.
• Model/version differences: U.S. CB700SC (696 cc) vs. non-U.S. 750 cc variants.
• Bike condition and tuning: Carburetion, exhaust, and maintenance affect real-world output.

These variables mean published figures can legitimately differ without any one number being “wrong”—they’re simply measured under different assumptions and conditions.

Context in its class

In the mid-1980s middleweight segment, the Nighthawk S’s roughly 80-hp claim put it near the sharp end for street-focused standards. Its blend of responsive four-cylinder performance, hydraulic valve lash adjustment, anti-dive front suspension, and shaft drive made it a distinctive, low-maintenance alternative to more overtly sport-oriented rivals.

Summary

The 1984 Honda Nighthawk S (CB700SC) is commonly cited at about 80 hp by the factory, with real-world dyno readings typically in the high-60s to low-70s at the rear wheel. The difference stems from measurement methods and normal drivetrain losses, placing the bike firmly among the stronger performers in its 1980s middleweight class.

How fast can a Honda Nighthawk 250 go?

The Honda Nighthawk 250 has a real-world top speed typically around 75 mph (120 km/h), though some riders have reported slightly higher speeds of up to 80-85 mph, especially on downhill or in a full tuck position. Its indicated speedometer may show higher, but the engine lacks the power to reach those speeds.
 
This video shows a review of the Honda Nighthawk CB250: 42sYorkshire BikerYouTube · Aug 28, 2021
Factors that influence the Nighthawk 250’s top speed:

• Rider weight: A lighter rider will generally achieve a higher top speed than a heavier rider. 
• Wind and terrain: Wind conditions and whether the bike is on flat ground or a downhill slope significantly affect speed. 
• Motorcycle maintenance: Proper carburetor cleaning and a well-maintained engine are crucial for optimal performance. 
• Sprocket size: The size of the sprockets can impact the top speed, with aftermarket or different stock sprockets affecting the output. 
• Riding position: A full tucked position can help a rider to achieve a slightly higher speed. 

How much is a 1984 Honda Nighthawk worth?

Typically, you can expect to pay around $4,500 for a 1984 Honda CB700SC Nighthawk S in good condition with average spec.

How much horsepower does a 1984 Honda Nighthawk 700 have?

The 696cc inline four engine produced 80 horsepower, good for a top speed of about 120 miles per hour. It’s a little heavier than expected at 516 pounds – and all those pounds were available for a MSRP of $3,398.

How much horsepower does a Honda Nighthawk S have?

In the performance department, the Honda CB750SC Nighthawk took its muscles from a 749 cc four-stroke four-cylinder air-cooled engine fitted with four Keihin carburetors and delivered an output power of 70 hp with a peak at 7,200 rpm and 56 Nm (42 lb-ft) of torque available at 7,500 rpm.