I bought my brand new 1985 CB700SC Nighthawk S in March 1986 (I still have it). At the time my main ride was a 1979 Yamaha XS-1100 which had massive mid-range torque but handled like it had a rubber frame. The Nighthawk took care of that with it's razor sharp handing but I missed the torque of the Yamaha.
I was
SO hoping that Honda would follow the Nighthawk S with a 1,000cc or 1,100cc version. If they had done so, I would not have this today:
This is a 2003 Kawasaki Concours that I have extensively modified. The list of mods include the following:
01) Replaced engine with 2003 ZRX 1200 R engine and converted it to shaft drive and six-speed transmission from another Concours engine.
02) Replaced the front forks from the same bike I took the engine from. Larger tubes (43mm vs, 41mm), fully adjustable damping, huge brakes and 17" wheel.
03) Added Audiovox electronic cruise control.
04) Replaced the stock rear wheel with a modified Kawasaki 2006 VN1600 Mean Streak wheel which is 17" X 5". With this modification, I have 17" wheels front and rear vs. stock 18" front, 16" rear.
05) Many, many minor modifications too numerous to mention here.
The result is a huge increase in mid-range torque, razor sharp handling and massive brakes. All without compromising the comfort of the long haul touring capabilities. I can cut up the canyons in full combat mode and take no prisoners or pack up the saddlebags and head across the country in total comfort.
Best of both worlds.
JMHO
Dan
