Nighthawk 450

 

 

Originally the smallest Nighthawk , the 450 was a popular bike. It was light and nimble, yet with its 6 speed transmission was capable of reasonably long trips. Honda took great pains to insure that the little 450cc motor would be durable. Let's hear from all of you 450 owners. How good has the "little guy" been to you? Does it have any quirks? Pass on your valuable knowledge.


This is a very basic bike. Valve cover is kept in place with only two bolts and the gasket is reusable. Always put in the correct size feeler in both inlet valves simultaneously to ensure correct gapping. One at the time might slightly twist the arm, leading to false values. Cam chain can be adjusted with either the engine running or stopped at TDC. I'd advise to put the engine at TDC and jiggle the tensioner slightly as well to ensure it moves freely and adjusts correctly. The balancer is adjusted by first removing the small "coin" cover on the front of the right engine cover. Loosen the locknut, and a built-in spring should provide correct adjustment. Sometimes the spring breaks and it must be adjusted manually. Tighten just enough to remove unwanted noises - too tight will give an unneven idle and accelerate wear. Tip: if all adjustment has been used, remove the adjster arm and reposition it to the top again. Oil filter can be a bit of pain to change, but not beyond the average wrench. There is no oil-pain in the normal sense of the word. Change fork oil and brake fluid every year, keep air in the tires and ride. Properly maintained, the engine can't be broken.

Eirik

  Eirik.Skjeveland@Bedrift.telenor.no


 

 

Back to Maintenance Main Page

Back to the Nighthawk Main Page