Top 5 things we love about the Honda Hornet CB750
Honda revived the Hornet moniker in 2023, and riders around the world went crazy for the budget middleweight machine. The Hornet represents a perfect balance between performance, styling and budget, and these are the five reasons we love the machine as well.
The Honda CB750 Hornet has landed in South Africa with a value-for-money factor that’s hard to ignore. In a market where high performance often comes with a massive price tag. The Hornet has shaken up the market by offering middleweight agility with almost litre-bike punch.
Related: Honda CB750 Hornet (2023) Review
We thoroughly enjoyed our test with the Hornet and found that the middleweight naked bike is pretty much perfect for our market and exciting commuting. Here are the top 5 things we love about the Honda Hornet CB750, specifically in the South African context.
How does the Honda CB1000 Hornet compare to the Suzuki GSX S1000?
1. Exceptional Value for Money
In the current SA economy, the Hornet’s pricing is its "killer app." Starting at approximately R198 799, it significantly undercuts several European rivals while providing more power and better tech. It offers a premium feel and Honda’s legendary reliability without the "luxury tax" often found in this performance bracket.
2. The African-Friendly Power Plant
The 755cc parallel-twin engine features a 270° crank, giving it a characterful, V-twin-like rumble that sounds fantastic on the open road. With 67.5 kW and 75 Nm of torque, it has the lungs to handle South Africa’s high-altitude performance drops like at the Reef and better than smaller 650cc competitors, making highway overtaking effortless.
3. Precision Showa Suspension & Handling
South African roads can vary from pristine mountain passes to bumpy city streets. The Hornet comes equipped with 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks and a Pro-Link rear shock. This setup is sophisticated enough to soak up road imperfections while remaining stiff enough for a spirited Sunday morning run through Bainskloof or Long Tom Pass.
4. Advanced Tech as Standard
Unlike many budget middleweights, the Hornet doesn't compromise on electronics.
5-inch Colour TFT: High visibility even in the harsh SA sun.
Honda RoadSync: Recently launched in SA (June 2024), it allows for seamless smartphone integration for navigation and music.
Safety Net: The HSTC (Traction Control) and Wheelie Control are adjustable, offering peace of mind on our sometimes unpredictable road surfaces.
5. Urban Agility & Commuter Efficiency
With a wet weight of only 190kg and a narrow profile, the Hornet is an incredible lane-splitter for heavy Jo'burg or Cape Town traffic. Beyond the fun, it’s remarkably efficient, with a claimed fuel consumption of 23km/L (4.35L/100km), making it a viable high-performance commuter when petrol prices are on the rise.
Bonus Point
Honda South Africa often includes Free Rider Training with the purchase of a new motorcycle, which is a massive win for riders stepping up from a 300cc/400cc bike to this 90 HP beast.
