In Honda’s lineup of naked bikes, the CB400 series stands out as a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts. However, there is one model that often goes unnoticed – the Hondamatic CB400A Hawk. Produced in 1978 and discontinued the same year, the CB400A Hawk was the first naked bike from Honda to feature an automatic transmission. Setting it apart from larger bikes with 4-5 speed transmissions, the CB400A Hawk boasted a 2-speed automatic transmission. This means that riders would not experience the thrill of manually shifting gears. Instead, they simply had to start the engine, shift into gear, twist the throttle, and enjoy a smooth ride forward. This unique aspect of the CB400A Hawk is what makes it intriguing.
At its core, the heart of the Hondamatic CB400A Hawk is a dual-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC engine with a displacement of 395cc. With this engine configuration, the CB400A Hawk generates a power output of 26.8 horsepower at 8,000 RPM. While not an impressive figure for a motorcycle of this size, during its time, the CB400A Hawk was often compared to a smaller version of the Moto Guzzi V1000 Convert, which also featured a 2-speed automatic transmission.
One of the notable differences between the CB400A Hawk and other naked bikes lies in the absence of a clutch lever. Instead, Honda equipped the CB400A Hawk with a Parking Brake, allowing riders to secure the bike on inclined terrains. Additionally, the bike can only be started when in neutral.
Riding the Hondamatic CB400A Hawk can be described as “simple” and “relaxed.” Riders do not need to worry about properly engaging the clutch and shifting gears smoothly. With the CB400A Hawk, all they need to do is shift gears when the motorcycle reaches around 80km/h or when they feel the engine’s RPM requires a higher gear. The downside, however, is that the CB400A Hawk lacks the ability to accelerate rapidly through gear changes like a conventional manual naked bike. Instead, it gradually accelerates in response to the rider’s throttle input.
If you are a speed enthusiast, the CB400A Hawk may not meet your demands. However, if you are simply looking to add a classic and unique motorcycle to your collection and enjoy a relaxed riding experience, the CB400A Hawk is not a bad choice.
Additional images of the Hondamatic CB400A Hawk:
Front Disc Brake with a size of 282mm
395cc engine of the Hondamatic CB400A Hawk with a power output of 26.8 horsepower
Equipped with 5-spoke star rims, adding a touch of American style
Rear tire of the motorcycle equipped with a drum brake, with a size of 183mm
Classic exhaust pipe on the CB400A Hawk
Classic round headlight of the Honda CB400A Hawk
Front turn signals
Parking Brake – hand brake for the CB400A Hawk
Engine Start/Stop switch
2-speed automatic transmission provides a comfortable riding experience
Helmet hook and seat lock
Equipped with dual-girder telescopic front suspension
Simple and classic instrument panel of the Honda CB400A Hawk
13-liter fuel tank
Equipped with a kickstarter, a detail essential for motorcycles of that era
Rear view of the Honda CB400A Hawk
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