Honda CB1000 Hornet 2025 also available as an SP version!

Much about the new Honda CB1000 Hornet was already known to us, and it was clear that it wouldn't be a complete redesign but rather a comprehensive update of the CB1000R - albeit with an entirely new look. What is surprising now, however, is that there will also be a more powerful and better-equipped SP variant of the CB1000 Hornet. The differences are likely to hit the right spots, infusing the SP version with more sportiness: more power, more grunt, a standard quickshifter, better chassis, and improved brakes!

The engine used in both variants is the well-known potent yet smoothly operating powerplant from the 2017 CBR1000RR Fireblade. In the Honda CB1000 Hornet, it delivers 152 hp at 11,000 rpm and 104 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm (and features a short gear ratio), while in the SP version, it even produces 157 hp at 11,000 rpm and 107 Nm at 9,000 rpm. This is achieved through an electronically controlled exhaust valve that opens at 5,700 rpm, increasing the gas flow. The commanding drive is paired with a new steel frame that boasts high torsional rigidity, along with a Showa "Big Piston" SFF-BP upside-down fork and Nissin brake calipers in the CB1000 Hornet.

In the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, superior components are also utilized: It features an adjustable Öhlins TTX36 shock absorber at the rear, a standard quickshifter, and a Brembo Stylema braking system! In terms of electronics, the two large Hornets agree on everything except the quickshifter: five riding modes with different combinations of power, engine braking, and traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control), throttle by wire, wheelie control, adjustable engine braking, a 5-inch TFT color display with "Optical Bonding" technology, Honda RoadSync connectivity, and a Honda ESS emergency stop signal function (Emergency Security System).

Honda describes the visual appearance of the new large Hornet quite well: it appears both minimalist and energetic, with striking LED twin headlights defining the front signature. The silhouette is contrasted by a broad-shouldered tank and a tailored rear section. The narrow waist of the seat unit emphasizes the traditional Hornet look. The subtly blackened frame and the lattice-like rear frame accentuate the lines. It actually fits surprisingly well, considering that marketing writers often overshoot the mark with descriptions. Interesting for agility is also the decision to forego increasingly wider rear tires; both Hornets rely on a 120/70-17 tire at the front and a 180/55-17 at the rear.

The CB1000 Hornet will be available in the 2025 model year in color variants Grand Prix Red, Mat Iridium Gray Metallic, and Pearl Glare White. The SP variant of the CB1000 Hornet will be offered in the special exclusive paint Mat Ballistic Black Metallic with gold-colored fork and rims in "Desert Gold" Metallic - which even reminds me, a non-smoker, of the legendary John Player Special paint schemes.

Finally, a pleasant surprise: The prices of the 1000 Hornet models are a real statement from Honda. Among new motorcycles, there is no powerful naked bike with over 150 HP for so little money. As of now (as of 15.10.24), only the Austrian prices are known. The Honda CB1000 Hornet is available starting at €11,990, and the SP variant is available from €13,990. Customers in Germany can likely look forward to even lower price levels. We will report further prices as soon as they are published.