Honda CB500 Hornet 2024
The Honda CB500 Hornet proves to be a mature and well-balanced naked bike that is an excellent choice in the A2 class.
Smooth but really sufficient engine power
good revvvy even at low engine speeds
precise and smooth clutch and gearstick
vibration-free riding performance
stable and pleasant chassis damping
excellent turning-in behaviour
powerful brakes with double disk front brakes
clear and informative display
good handling and agility, user-friendly electronic Advanced Rider Assistance Systems
comfortable seating position
good balance between riding pleasure and safety.
higher weight compared to some competitors could be annoying for very light riders
suspension can be overloaded with a sporty riding style or higher rider weight
possibly less comfortable for taller riders
KTM 990 Duke 2024
The new KTM 990 Duke offers terrific power, both in relaxed everyday riding and on winding country roads.
Sachs with the disappointing braking performance is therefore particularly painful here. In my opinion, the KTM remains virtually unrivalled in the upper mid-range when it comes to road fun. Even the excessively high price, when compared with the competition, is not an exclusion criterion for me. According to me, there is no other bike in this segment that is so lively, that combines stability and nimble handling so superbly and also offers such a height of everyday usability. A modern KTM Duke with two cylinders is quite simply a unique bike.
Lively and powerful engine with manners
Comfortable riding position
Excellent chassis with lots of feedback and stability
Modern electronics with lean angle-dependent traction control and cornering ABS
Smooth 2-cylinder in the lower rev range without jerking
Strong acceleration in the lower rev range
Versatility for both everyday riding and sporty riding
Confident riding performance even in wet conditions
High-quality display and pleasant operation of the switches
Price/performance ratio below average compared to competitors
gearstick on the test bike too bony and harsh this time
blipper function could give more intermediate throttle
feedback from suspension not perfect
engine slightly raw at low revs compared to three- or four-cylinder bikes
