2,684-Mile 1985 Honda CB450SC Nighthawk

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Introduced as part of the Nighthawk series, the Honda CB450SC motorcycle was designed to offer a balance of performance, reliability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced riders. Powered by a 450cc (technically 447cc) air-cooled, four-stroke parallel twin engine, the CB450SC produced around 43 horsepower at 8500 rpm. It featured a six-speed transmission, a relatively advanced feature for its class. The engine used three valves per cylinder and dual chain-driven counter balancers, which helped reduce vibration and allowed for a lighter frame design. 

The 1985 Honda CB450SC Nighthawk came with cast alloy wheels, a front disc and rear drum brake setup, and a telescopic front fork with a swingarm rear suspension. The bike’s styling was modest but clean, with options like Candy Empire Blue paint and silver Honda wing emblems. The CB450SC earned a reputation as a dependable “do-it-all” motorcycle, and it was often praised in period reviews for its solid build quality, ease of maintenance, and versatility.  

"For years the Honda 450 twin has earned high marks in handling, and the Nighthawk furthers that tradition," Cycle Magazine wrote in 1986. "With light, neutral steering, a stable chassis, responsive suspension, good brakes, excellent tires and generous cornering clearance, the CB performs well." 

Highlights 

• Two-owner 1985 Honda CB450SC Nighthawk showing 2,684 original miles, an average of 67 miles per year 

• Finished in Candy Empire Blue paint (PB117CU) with royal blue trim 

• Powered by a 450cc air-cooled, four-stroke parallel twin engine rated at 43 hp 

• Six-speed transmission 

Features 

• Housed in climate-controlled storage since 1997 

• 105 mph speedometer and 10,000 rpm tachometer  

• Cold Seal F11 100/90-19 57S tire in front, Dunlop K627 130/98-16 67S tire in rear 

• Service under current ownership (August 2024): 

  • New battery 

  • New fuel filter 

  • New air filter 

  • Fresh oil 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor oxidation on some of the aluminum and chrome and some fine scratches 

• Tires are older; new tires recommended

Included 

• Owner’s manual 

• Tool kit 

• Key 

Ownership History

The Ohio seller of this 1985 Honda CB450SC Nighthawk has owned it since August 2024. The seller says, “I am the second owner of this motorcycle, having purchased it from the estate of the original owner in August 2024. This motorcycle was stored in a climate-controlled building under cover since 1997 and is all-original except for battery, spark plugs, fluids, and filters. The fuel tank and carbs/bowls were flushed prior to initial startup.”