The paint code most commonly associated with “Nighthawk Black” on Honda Nighthawk motorcycles is NH-1, though the exact code can vary by year and market.
Color labeling on Honda motorcycles is year- and region-specific, and the same color name can correspond to different codes across generations. This article explains how to identify the precise paint code for your bike and why codes may differ, so you can order an exact match for touch-ups or a full repaint.
How Honda labels paint colors
Honda uses color codes that are tied to specific model years and regional markets. The name “Nighthawk Black” can refer to a family of black finishes that each have their own code, so the exact code for a given bike may not be identical to another bike with the same color name.
Where to look and how to verify
To confirm the correct color code for your specific bike, use these steps:
- Inspect the data plate or sticker on the frame (often located near the steering head or under the seat) for an alphanumeric color code.
- Check the owner’s or service manual, which usually lists the color code alongside the model’s paint options.
- Look for a color chip label on the original paint or consult documentation from the dealership or history records of the bike.
- Provide your VIN to a Honda dealership or a vintage-bike specialist to retrieve the exact factory color code.
With the color code in hand, you can confidently order touch-up paint or arrange for a precise color match from suppliers or body shops.
Common considerations by year and market
Because Honda’s color codes have varied over time and across regions, the same color name can map to different codes. A Nighthawk Black finish on an American-market CB750 Nighthawk from the late 1980s might use a different code than a European-market example from the same era. Always verify against the specific model year and market using the color plate or official catalogs.
In practice, many owners refer to the traditional black finish used on classic Nighthawk models as part of the NH-1 family of codes, but the exact designation may differ for newer generations or regional variants. The most reliable approach is to confirm the exact code on the bike itself or through the manufacturer’s records.
Summary
The paint code for “Nighthawk Black” is not universally fixed across all Honda Nighthawk models. NH-1 is a commonly cited reference for classic black finishes, but the precise code depends on year and market. To ensure an exact match, locate the color code label on your bike, consult the official color charts for your model year, or contact a Honda dealer with your VIN.