1986 Honda Nighthawk 700S Manual

The 1986 Honda Nighthawk 700S is a sport-standard motorcycle featuring a 674cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four engine, shaft drive, hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, ComStar wheels, and a unique parallelogram rear suspension system. This manual covers maintenance, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for owners and technicians.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Systems 7. Operating Procedures 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 674cc inline-four engine, shaft final drive, parallelogram Pro-Link rear suspension, dual hydraulic disc brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine	674cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Suspension Front	Air-assisted telescopic fork
Suspension Rear	Parallelogram Pro-Link system
Brakes Front	Dual hydraulic disc
Brakes Rear	Single hydraulic disc
Wheels	ComStar aluminum
Fuel Capacity	4.8 gallons (18.2 liters)
Weight	529 lbs (240 kg) wet

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure proper assembly before operation.

Handlebar installation: Align and tighten clamp bolts to specification.
Mirror attachment: Thread mirrors into handlebar ends securely.
Battery connection: Connect positive terminal first, then negative.
Fluid filling: Add engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid as specified.

WARNING! Motorcycle is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification.

First-Time Setup

Complete pre-ride inspection and adjustments before initial operation.

Fluid levels: Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and fork oil.
Tire pressure: Inflate to recommended pressures (front 28 psi, rear 32 psi).
Chain/shaft: Check final drive fluid level and condition.
Controls: Verify proper operation of throttle, clutch, brakes, and switches.

CAUTION! Always perform complete pre-ride inspection. Use center stand for stability during maintenance.

Specifications

Engine Type: 674cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four
Bore x Stroke: 67.0mm x 47.6mm
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Fuel System: Four 34mm constant velocity carburetors
Ignition: Electronic CDI
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Travel Front: 5.9 inches (150mm)
Suspension Travel Rear: 4.3 inches (110mm)
Brakes: Dual disc front, single disc rear
Tires: 100/90-19 front, 130/90-17 rear

Controls and Settings

Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.

Right Handlebar: Throttle, front brake lever, engine stop switch, start button.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, choke, turn signals, horn, headlight dimmer.

Adjustments: Handlebar position, lever reach, suspension preload, idle speed, mirror position.

Connecting Systems

Proper connection of electrical and mechanical systems is critical.

Battery: Ensure clean, tight connections with proper polarity.
Fuel system: Connect fuel lines securely with clamps.
Brake systems: Bleed brakes after any disconnection.
Electrical: Verify all connectors are fully seated and weatherproof.

Tip: Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.

Operating Procedures

Follow proper starting and riding procedures.

Pre-start: Turn fuel petcock to ON, check neutral, apply choke if cold.
Starting: Turn ignition on, pull clutch, press starter button.
Warm-up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature before riding.
Shifting: Use smooth clutch operation and positive shifts.
Braking: Use both brakes together for balanced stopping.

WARNING! Always wear proper protective gear. Never operate without functioning brakes and lights.

Safety Features

Integrated safety systems: Dual disc brakes, neutral safety switch, sidestand safety switch, bright lighting.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

CAUTION! Always support motorcycle securely during maintenance. Use genuine Honda parts and fluids.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured to meet 1986 DOT and EPA standards. Compliance with FMVSS 108 lighting and 122 brake systems. Copyright © 1986 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. For technical support, contact authorized Honda dealership or American Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel flow, spark plugs, battery charge, and compression.
Poor idle	Carburetor adjustment needed	Clean and sync carburetors; adjust idle mixture and speed.
Brake fade	Contaminated fluid or pads	Replace brake fluid and inspect pads/rotors for wear.
Electrical issues	Battery or connection problems	Test battery voltage; check grounds and connections.
Vibration	Wheel balance or engine mount	Balance wheels; check engine mounts and shaft drive.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset electronic systems.

Service: 1-800-999-1009; authorized Honda dealerships