Honda CB750 Hornet vs. CB1000 Hornet SP: A Tale of Two Bikes

Honda Hornet Launch in Sacramento

• 캘ifornia correspondent Joe attended Honda's press launch for the new CB1000 Hornet SP and CB750 Hornet in Sacramento.
• 🎯 The two bikes, while sharing a name, offer distinct riding experiences catering to different customer types in the middleweight and higher naked bike segment.

Honda CB1000 Hornet SP: Performance and Quirks

• 🚀 The CB1000 Hornet SP features an engine based on the 2017 CB-1000RR, refined for better around-town usability with a fantastic slipper clutch and easy low-RPM chugging.
• ⚠️ However, the fueling was noted as problematic, especially the initial throttle application and roll-off, which could upset the chassis on fast, flowy roads.
• 🛠️ While adjustable ride modes exist, the lowest power mode, intended for rain, smoothed throttle response but reduced overall power, leaving sporty riding wanting.
• 🤏 Nitpicks included the large exhaust pipe interfering with the rider's heel and rubber brake lines, which offered good initial bite but lacked feel deeper in the lever travel.
• 💡 Despite its flaws, the CB1000 Hornet SP is praised as a good platform offering a serious analog sensation and great value under $11K, with excellent suspension and chassis balance.

Honda CB750 Hornet: Fun and Accessible

• 🌟 The CB750 Hornet is highlighted as potentially faster for most riders on similar roads due to its smooth, accessible power delivery and easy-to-modulate throttle.
• 🏍️ Its engine, a parallel twin variant also found in the Transalp, is described as a "peach" and the best in its competitive segment, offering excellent torque and rewarding the rider at every RPM.
• 😊 The bike exudes fun, with a more relaxed riding position, comfortable seat, and a super light clutch lever with great feedback, making it ideal for urban riding and spirited canyon carving.
• 🏆 While the suspension is noted as slightly under-damped and not fully adjustable, the overall package is considered a great option for its price point (under $8K), offering legendary Honda reliability and a fun, forgiving ride.
• ✅ The inclusion of a stock quick shifter is called the icing on the cake, enhancing the fun factor without needing overly complicated electronics.

Key Differences and Rider Experience

• ⚖️ The core difference lies in their approach: the CB1000 Hornet SP offers a more aggressive, analog inline-four experience that requires more rider effort, while the CB750 Hornet prioritizes accessibility, comfort, and sheer fun with its parallel-twin engine.
• 💯 The reviewer emphasizes that a good riding experience comes from feeling safe, comfortable, and having fun, which the CB750 Hornet delivers exceptionally well, making it a more universally appealing choice for many riders.