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What causes vibration on acceleration your 1982 Honda CB 450 Nighthawk It happens in fifth or sixth gear between 40 and 60 MPH?

Potential Causes of Vibration on Acceleration in a 1982 Honda CB 450 Nighthawk:

1. Driveline Issues:

- Loose or Damaged Drive Chain: Check the tension and condition of the motorcycle's drive chain. A worn, stretched, or poorly lubricated chain can cause vibrations, particularly under load (acceleration) and at higher speeds.

- Chain Sprockets: Inspect both the front and rear chain sprockets for wear or damage. Worn sprockets can cause the chain to run unevenly, leading to vibration.

- U-Joints (if equipped): If your bike has U-Joints in its driveline, check for excessive play or damage. Worn U-Joints can cause vibrations throughout the bike.

2. Engine Issues:

- Spark Plugs: Check the spark plugs for proper condition, ensuring they are the correct type and are not worn or fouled. Incorrectly gapped or failing spark plugs can cause rough engine operation and vibrations.

- Ignition Timing: Improper ignition timing can lead to poor combustion, resulting in vibrations. Verify the ignition timing as per your bike's specifications.

- Engine Mounts: Inspect the rubber engine mounts for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Worn engine mounts can allow excessive engine movement, causing vibrations to be transmitted to the rest of the bike.

3. Wheels and Tires:

- Tire Balance: Make sure the front and rear tires are properly balanced. Unbalanced tires can induce vibrations at certain speeds.

- Wheel Bearings: Check the wheel bearings for any play or roughness. Worn or damaged bearings can cause the wheels to wobble and lead to vibrations.

4. Aerodynamic Issues:

- Wind Turbulence: In certain circumstances, aerodynamic disturbances caused by wind can result in vibrations. If the problem seems speed-dependent, investigate any changes made to the bike's fairings or other components that could affect airflow.

5. Overall Motorcycle Maintenance:

- Regular Servicing: Ensure that your motorcycle has received proper maintenance as per the manufacturer's recommendations. This includes keeping up with oil changes, air filter cleaning, proper coolant levels, and other maintenance tasks.

6. Consult a Professional:

- If you've checked the above components and vibration still appears, it's best to consult a professional mechanic who can diagnose and resolve the issue accurately.

Remember to address these potential causes with care and always operate your motorcycle safely.