When I took my [then] 34 year old
motorcycle on a 1000 mile trip, what was I thinking? The bike was not restored (although
it was well maintained) and was approaching the
14,000 mile anniversary. Actually, the risk was a calculated one. Since I performed every
repair and maintenance task myself, I had developed a feel for just about every component.
The bike had been on a shorter trip before - about 500 miles long - and had performed
without a flaw. There was every reason to believe that a long journey would be a success
as well. Every reason, that is, in terms of the eccentric nature of those who ride these
old bikes.
What happened surprised me at
first, but on second reflection became an obvious fact. Not only did the bike make the
trip there and back, but it managed to reveal some of its more important yet subtle
attributes. I would have preferred the usual "back road" pace, but the 500 mile
leg of the homeward journey had to be all highway. This is where the true origin of the
CB77 Superhawk was finally revealed. This
vintage motorcycle was able to travel at a
sustained average speed between 65 to 80 MPH, with the RPM range between 6K to 7K, over
the course of many hours. The motor would just sing and the power was available at all
times. Remarkably, not only was there no degree of fade, but the more it was ridden under
full load, the better it performed. Truly a testament to this Honda's Racing Heritage!
As you browse through this area,
you will see that the racing nature of the Honda Superhawk is a part of its past, its
present and - no doubt - its future. |