The new CB1000 Hornet SP was officially announced at EICMA 2024. It will be released together with the CB1000 Hornet. As it is the top-of-the-line street fighter, there are high expectations.
With a specially tuned engine, the SP delivers +6PS.
This HONDA CB1000 Hornet can basically be considered the same as the European spec, and according to the information we have just received, it appears that the "SP" grade available for the European spec will also be included in the lineup.
The higher-grade "SP" model, which comes with a number of exclusive features.
Even the standard model has more than enough performance, and you can expect an extreme and sporty riding experience.
The overseas version will be available in three colors.
The SP will be available in a single color, "Matte Ballistic Black Metallic," just like the overseas model.
The engine is a 999cc water-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, in-line 4-cylinder engine based on the 2017 CBR1000RR model, with lightweight die-cast pistons and a newly designed air cleaner box to achieve powerful torque at low and mid-range speeds and smooth acceleration up to high revolutions. The throttle-by-wire system improves torque and drivability at low and mid-range speeds, and a slash-cut funnel based on racing machines is used to further improve throttle response. The standard engine specs are tuned to a maximum output of 112kW (152PS)/11000rpm and a maximum torque of 104Nm (10.6kgm)/9000rpm. The SP is equipped with a variable valve system inside the muffler, which further increases the maximum output to 116kW (158PS)/11000rpm and the maximum torque to 107Nm (10.9kgm)/9000rpm.
It has a massive street fighter design and is equipped with a CBR1000RR power unit mounted on a steel frame.
The design of the voluminous tank with shrouds converging towards the rear gives a sense of speed.
The low-set headlights create an impressive front view, while the rear view emphasizes the presence of the tank.
The power unit is based on the 2017 CBR1000RR and is combined with special pistons and an air cleaner box.
The maximum output is 112kW (152PS)/11000rpm, but the SP, which has a dedicated exhaust valve, increases it to 116kW (158PS)/11000rpm.
The clutch is equipped with an assist & slipper clutch that reduces lever operation and hopping when engine braking is applied, and the SP comes standard with a quick shifter that allows shifting up and down without using the clutch. The riding modes are composed of a combination of "Power Selector", "HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) / Wheelie Control", and "Selectable Engine Brake". In addition to the default "STANDARD", "SPORT", and "RAIN", two patterns of "USER" can be registered, which allows you to freely combine each parameter.
It has a sporty body, and the SP model is equipped with Brembo and Ohlins.
The frame is a twin-spar steel type that combines high rigidity and flexibility, and rigidity is optimized by adopting a seat rail structure and a separate engine hanger plate. The engine is rubber mounted to ensure comfort, and the compact design combines Hornet-like styling with foot reach.
The front suspension uses a 41mm diameter Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Front Fork Big Piston) inverted fork. The SFF is equipped with a damping mechanism and spring on the right fork, and the left fork is spring only, which contributes to reducing sliding resistance and weight. In addition, it is a fully adjustable type that allows adjustment of initial and extension/compression damping, and the standard model has a silver outer tube, while the SP model has a gold outer tube.
The front forks are Showa SFF-BP. The standard brakes combine a 310mm diameter disc rotor with a Nissin 4-pot caliper.
The rear suspension is Honda's proud Pro-Link, and the standard rear shock is a Showa separate pressurized single tube type shock, while the SP is an Ohlins TTX36. The swingarm is made of high-rigidity aluminum, and by using a gull arm on the right side, the exhaust pipe is avoided and the banking angle is secured.
The swingarm is made of aluminum, and the standard rear shock is a Showa-made separate pressurized single tube type.
The rear shock of the SP is an Ohlins TTX36. If purchased as a part, this alone would cost around 200,000 yen.
The standard model comes with a Nissin radial mount 4-pot brake on the front, while the SP model has a Brembo STYLEMA 4-pot brake on the front. On the rear, both the standard and SP models are paired with a Nissin single-pot caliper and 240mm disc rotor.
The SP's front brake is equipped with a 310mm diameter disc rotor and Brembo STYLEMA 4 pot.
In addition to increased power, the SP also features upgraded suspension, allowing the Hornet to unleash its full potential.
Fully equipped with enhanced safety features
The compact headlights are 4-lamp projector type and equipped with LED type DRL. The taillights have a beautiful design with line-shaped light emission, and the stop lamp's light-emitting part is separated to improve visibility when turned on. In addition, it is equipped with an emergency stop signal that flashes the turn signal at high speed in an emergency, improving safety by improving communication with surrounding motorcycle.
The headlight is a four-lamp projector built into the compact cowl that is typical of a street fighter.
The meter uses a 5-inch full-color TFT display, and three display types can be selected: "bar," "circle," and "simple." The background color can also be chosen between white and black. The design is basically the same as the European model, but an ETC icon seems to have been added for the Japanese model. In addition, Honda RoadSync technology allows you to connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth and control the meter with navigation, weather, incoming calls and emails, music playback, and more.
The handlebars are pipe-type and appear narrow. The left switch box is equipped with a multi-function switch for operating the meter.
The meter uses a 5-inch full-color TFT screen. The display can be changed and it also has a smartphone linking function.
The tank area has an impressive large protruding shroud. The fuel tank has a capacity of 17L, so you can ride with peace of mind even on long distance runs.
The single-seat style design around the seat gives it a racy look. It appears to be designed for tandem riding for very short distances.
It is expected to be released on January 23rd next year.
The CB1000 Hornet is packed with attractive features, but the one to pay attention to is the upper grade SP. With improved engine power, Brembo brake calipers, Ohlins rear shocks, and a quick shifter, it looks like it can be used on the circuit as is.
The question is when and how much it will cost in Japan, but the standard and with the standard expected to be priced at $8954.43 including tax ($8140.39 excluding tax), and the SP at 1,584,000 yen including tax ($9608.33 excluding tax). If the price difference between the standard and SP is around $1668.11, the SP will be a bargain, so we're looking forward to it.
The fully equipped SP is certainly attractive. The question is how much the price difference will be between it and the standard model.
HONDA CB1000 Hornet/SP (2025)
Overall Length x Width x Height: 2140 x 790 x 1085 mm
Wheelbase: 1455mm
Seat Height: 809mm
Vehicle Weight: 211[212kg] Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-valve inline 4-cylinder 999cc
Maximum Output: 112 kW (152 PS)/11000rpm[116kW (158PS)/11000rpm]
Maximum Torque: 104 Nm (10.6kgm)/9000rpm[107Nm (10.6kgm)/9000rpm]
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17L
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tire: F=120/70-17, R=180/55-17
Estimated Price: $8954.43 (including tax)[$10569.16 (tax included)]
※Figure inside [] is SP spec.