I tried to search for threads that answer my question, but I didn't find any. My question is whether the Super Hawk is a sensible bike for all-around riding - little bit of freeway, little bit of open road, some twisties, lots of commuting, some long-range riding (2000 mile trips). I like twin power delivery and I am trying to choose between a used Super Hawk and a used Ducati Monster or an ST2/ST4. Cost and ease of maintenance are factors. Whaddya think?

Oh, right now I am riding a really great 1984 VF750F Interceptor. I am used to riding and maintaining Hondas (last three out of five bikes were Hondas), but any of these bikes is a quantum leap forward technologically ffrom what I have been riding.

 

The superhawk is a great bike and a very good all-rounder: you will be amazed at the improved all-around performance from even a great bike like the 84 interceptor. Reliability and maintenance would be miles easier/better than the ducs and a good deal cheaper.

Sport riding and commuting - great. The sport touring category is very subjective. Everyone is different in what they can tolerate/enjoy on long trips. I'm a wimp and over 40, so keep that perspective in mind. I don't find touring on a sports bike that enjoyable - and I don't find the SH to be an exception - sure you can do it but if you are putting in 500+ miles days you'll be more tired than a true sports-tourer like the ST3 in particular. I have friends that can tour on RR bikes, if you are one of them than the Superhawk would be very comfortable. Also, consider how much time you'll be carrying a passenger - while the subframe isn't canted as high as race-replicas, its still a pretty tenous place to expect a passenger sit for very extended trips. Again, the ST3/4 have a pretty good passenger provision. Even the updated interceptors aren't bad. Also, how much luggage are you going to take? the low pipes make soft-luggage saddlebags possible and the metal tanks is nice for a large magnetic bag.

thats my opinion - you'll get plenty more I'm sure. Depends on where you put your emphasis. Good luck

bill

 

The Super Hawk was built for "all-around riding - little bit of freeway, little bit of open road, some twisties, lots of commuting, some long-range riding (2000 mile trips)." As far as cost and ease of maintenance..... it's a Honda! I think you will be very happy on a Super Hawk.

 

For what you're looking for my opinion is a superhawk is definitely going to give you the most bang for your buck. I've not ridden any of those Ducati's but I've read that while it doesn't have the top end power of the ST4, the ST2 have more torque down low. I have ridden a 916 though and while dead even in a top end roll on with a superhawk, it also feels fairly weak down low compared to the superhawk. On the other hand the Ducati suspension and brakes did make the superhawk feel like an old bike, but I only noticed this after going straight from one to the other. I would imagine the Monster is big fun everywhere but on the open highway for any period. I'm sure they're all good choices though, just more maintenance and higher prices both for purchase and maintenance. Keep in mind superhawk parts must be much easier and cheaper to come by (if you end up needing them at all). Other good choices would have to include the VFR750/800's and definitely bikes like the Bandit 1200 and FZ1. But for the price superhawks are selling for I simply don't feel you can get much like it for the money. Happy hunting and let us know how it turns out.

 

The Superhawk has a pitiful range, so long-distance commuting/traveling requires careful planning of gas-stops. That's from my experience; others say their SHawks are capable of 130+ miles on a tank, but I never got past 100.