Honda CB750: welcome back Hornet

All that is left of the old Hornet is the name, because everything has changed in this new work of art from Honda. Very easy to ride, intuitive, technological, responsive, powerful, but also rideable without problems by beginners. We tested it on the beautiful roads of the Pedemontana Veneta and had a great time.

The distinctive feature is certainly the tank inspired by the shape of a bumblebee’s wing. The whole look is angular and aggressive with clean and essential lines, a true naked sports bike character.

Those who thought they would see the heavy inline four-cylinder of a couple of decades ago had to think again. This CB750 has little to do with the model that accompanied many of us for a long time (and still does).

Let’s start with the engine: there are two cylinders that offer optimum power and performance considering the naked segment. The 755 cc parallel twin-cylinder, with single-shaft timing and two countershafts, has an impressive 92 hp and 75 Nm of maximum torque.

After this brief parenthesis, we move on to some interesting data, especially for us motorcyclists: the weight of 190 kg when full and the seat height of 795 mm. The riding position is upright with the footpegs set slightly back, while the wide handlebars guarantee excellent control.

And the technology? The Honda CB750 Hornet offers 4 riding modes, HSTC traction control, TFT screen with HSVC connectivity and Anti-Wheelie system as standard. Let’s see them in detail.

The 4 available riding modes are Sport, Standard, Rain and User and manage three power levels, three engine braking and three traction control levels with integrated anti-wheeling. Easy to select even on the move, they adapt perfectly to riding style and road and weather conditions. The Sport riding mode makes the bike more responsive and aggressive, while the standard mode is perfect for relaxed riding in the city or in traffic.

An additional technology on the CB750 that makes riding in low-grip conditions such as on wet asphalt even safer is the HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) traction control, which constantly monitors wheel speed and acts to prevent rear wheel spin.

From the 5-inch TFT colour screen you can keep an eye on all the bike’s functions: speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, riding mode selection parameters, engaged gear and customisable shift point on the tachometer. At the bottom, it is possible to select which data to make visible to the rider, and everything can be conveniently controlled from the left-hand electric switch.
The screen also features Honda’s Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCs) connectivity that allows you to connect your smartphone to the dashboard via Bluetooth and, via an intercom in the helmet, allows the rider to manage voice calls, messages, music and audio navigation.

Last but not least, the assisted clutch with slipper clutch that lightens the effort on the lever, makes shifting smoother and prevents loss of grip on the rear wheel during sudden downshifts.

To ensure maximum agility and optimum response Honda chose to mount a 41 mm Showa SFF-BPTM upside-down fork and Showa shock absorber with Pro-Link linkage. Twin four-piston radial-mount calipers ensure powerful and controllable braking at all times, while tyre sizes have been chosen to ensure a high level of grip.

Consumption is 23 km/l on the average WMTC (World Motorcycle Test Cycle), for a range of 340 km on a 15.2-litre fill-up.

Honda Hornet CB750: our road test

Comfortable, agile and intuitive. The Hornet CB750 goes beyond expectations and is a perfect bike for beginners but also fun for the more experienced.
The twin-cylinder engine is responsive and dynamic and the different riding modes allow you to adapt the power to the rider’s mood and the weather conditions. Among other things, with the riding mode user can customise the level of power, engine braking and traction control.

The new Hornet’s light and well-balanced weight makes you feel immediately confident in riding. The seat is comfortable and ergonomic. Full LED headlights and turn signals offer excellent visibility.
On hilly roads it is the agility that surprises and raises the adrenaline level. In the curves the new Hornet is quick on entry and quick in changes of direction. It is a real pleasure to feel it flowing smoothly in the tight mix.
For those approaching the world of motorbikes, it could be the best choice, since there is also a 35 kW depowered version for A2 licence.

Thanks for the test ride and availability of the dealer De Negri Moto – Pederobba (TV)