The Honda CB600 Hornet is probably one of the coolest bikes you can have in your garage. Similarly, the CB750, which is now considered by many as one of Honda’s finest creations, is a must-have in your garage.
Honda has stopped production for both models but has recently released a model that would kind of combine both bikes in a compact packaging: the CB750 Hornet.
New Hornet
Unveiled at this year’s Intermot motorcycle show in Germany, the new Hornet features a claimed class-leading power-to-weight ratio combined with the balance, stability and agile handling of a Universal Japanese Motorcycle (UJM).
The all-new, compact and lightweight parallel twin-cylinder 755cc engine packs a great deal of Honda engineering prowess into a small space. The traditional top-end Hornet ‘sting’ lives on, with a peak power of 92 PS arriving at 9,500 rpm. It’s now coupled with hard-hitting torque throughout the rev range (peaking at 75 Nm at 7,250pm) to provide the kind of low to mid-range usability that delivers joyful acceleration across a full range of riding situations.
The new engine is replete with Honda’s engineering know-how. The 270° crank and uneven firing order create a ‘V-twin-like’ pulse feeling for maximum character and – in tandem with the bespoke exhaust – an engaging soundtrack; patented Vortex Flow Ducts evenly distribute airflow into the airbox to deliver razor-sharp throttle response and pick-up; the twin cylinders benefit from a Nickel-Silicon Carbide coating inherited from the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade; intelligent packaging and the 8-valve Unicam head layout deliver all this in an ultra-compact unit.
Cradling the new engine is a brand-new lightweight steel-diamond frame weighing a mere 16.6kg and tuned to give full expression to the new engine’s performance. The agility and feedback are aided by Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BPTM) USD forks clamped to the new top and bottom yokes. Also maximizing the fun factor is a rear shock with adjustable pre-load operating via Pro-Link together with a new steel swingarm.
Riding enjoyment, practicality, and pride of ownership are enhanced with a rich specification list, headlined by a 5-inch TFT color display that vividly supplies all the crucial information and allows management of all systems. Connectivity is available in the form of a Honda Smartphone Voice Control system for both Android and (for the first time) IOS devices. All lighting is LED; the indicators auto-cancel and also include Emergency Stop System for increased rider safety.
The new Hornet also features 3 default riding modes featuring pre-set combinations of Engine Power, Engine Brake, and Honda Selectable Torque Control with integrated Wheelie Control. A fourth ‘User’ mode allows the rider to select their preferred combination to match conditions and riding style.
With styling led by Honda’s R&D Centre in Rome – also chiefly responsible for hit products like the Africa Twin, X-ADV, and Neo Sports Café naked series – the new Hornet is a sharp, contemporary expression of technical beauty with the silhouette, lines, and shaping in compact, aggressive proportion. The sharply chiseled fuel tank, which takes inspiration from the shape of a hornet’s wing, is a signature feature. From the aggressively angled nose-fairing front to the razor-sharp, minimal tail, there are hallmarks of tension and aggression throughout that underline the Hornet’s sporting intent.
A full range of official accessories will be available for the CB750 Hornet, including three packs – Sport, Style, and Touring – to suit any rider’s intentions. It will be available in four colors: Pearl Glare White, Graphite Black (which both feature a classy Metallic Red Flame frame and anodized Red forks), Matte Iridium Gray Metallic, and Matte Goldfinch Yellow.
