The Honda HawkGT NT650 was designed by Toshiaki Kishi and was the second Honda with Pro-Arm having the model designation RC31 coming immediately after the RC30. The Japanese version model was named the Honda Bros. The RC model designation is for bikes up to 750cc, though the Honda Pacific Coast (PC800) has an engine of more than 750 cc and a model designation of RC34. The bike's main distinction is in its frame and swingarm. The dual spar aluminum frame and single sided swingarm (licensed from ELF) was very technologically advanced in 1988. The mildly tuned motor is descended from the VT500 and has been seen, in one guise or another, in several other models.

The bike was ahead of its time in many regards and as a result was not a strong seller despite the bike having grown to cult status. The Hawk GT was one of the first modern Naked bikes along with the Yamaha SRX, which were both released several years before the Ducati Monster and eventually the Suzuki SV650. Some sources claim that Triumph found much of the inspiration for the t509 Speed Triple/t595 Daytona from the Hawk GT and if one compares the two bikes side by side, the Triumph mimics many of the Hawks lines and shapes. There are also many visual similarities between the Hawk GT and the very popular 2003 (and up) Suzuki SV650 (standard version), further evidence as to the merits of the Hawk GT's advanced design concepts from 15 years prior.

During the initial production run, the cost difference between the Hawk GT and the CBR600 was less than 1000 dollars, resulting in very slow sales for the naked bike. However, by the mid-90's, left over models were being snatched up and current owners are passionate about their Hawks. Clean examples can fetch upwards of $3500 to $5000, more than the bike sold for new.

Also called Hawk GT / Bros / RC31 /NT650
Production 1988 - 1991
Class naked bike
Engine 647cc Four-stroke V-Twin
Transmission 5 speed manual
Wheelbase 56.3 in.
Seat height 30.4 in.
Weight 393 lb. (dry), 412 lb. (wet)
Fuel capacity 2.9 gal
 

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