First ride: 2004 Honda Super Hawk

With 996cc, and a six-speed transmission, the Super Hawk is meant to have ample torque available for any circumstance. Although the bore and stroke of the engine is substantially over-square (large bore and short stroke), a low 9.4-to-1 compression ratio, and softish cams help create a broad, smooth power band intended for spirited street riding, but not racing (the Honda racing v-twin was later introduced as the RC51 -- with a different motor).