Honda CB600F Hornet (2007-2013) Review, Specs & Prices | MCN

Highlights

• Great handling
• Easy to ride
• New European styling

At a glance

Prices

Overall rating

The original Honda Hornet 600 (or officially CB600F) was released at just the right moment to catch the wave of a new middleweight naked sector. It sold well and remained unchanged until 2007 when it was completely redesigned.

• Latest review: 2023 Honda Hornet CB750
• Previous model: 1998-2206 Honda CB600F Hornet review

Honda went back to the drawing board for the second generation Hornet, keeping nothing but the name form the original. The engine was taken from the Honda CBR600RR supersport of the day tuned for more grunt in the mid-range.

The Japanese firm also moved away from the tired single round headlamp design style of the old bike in favour of a bang up-to-date European approach – from Italian designers, no less. Despite all of these changes, the Hornet retained its characterful, easy to ride personality.

The Hornet 600 may have been predictable and unintimidating for newer riders (it made an ideal first big bike for these reasons) but that doesn’t mean it was boring. More experienced riders were able to find a sporty edge for a weekend scratch, too.

And at just over £5000 brand-new at its launch, the second-generation CB600F was also exceptional value for money.

Ride quality & brakes

The Honda CB600F Hornet is so damn easy to ride and should appeal to new riders, yet at the same time has sporting potential if the mood should take you.

The new bike is incredibly light and agile thanks to its slimfast plan over the last few years, however there is only pre-load adjustment on the rear suspension and the front is slightly on the soft side.

Engine

The new Honda CB600F Hornet uses the same new engine from the Honda CBR600RR, obviously slightly detuned for this market. The cylinder head has been reworked and there are different pistons and camshafts. The fuelling map is different, too.

What's more, the new engine produces 5bhp more than the old lump, too, and is considerably lighter. It also offers more torque than the sporty CBR, making it considerably more user friendly.

That said, it’s still a four cylinder 600 and therefore you still have to rev it to get the most out of it. Thankfully, when you do wind it on, it sounds an absolute peach.

Reliability & build quality

Considering the price Honda hasn’t let the build quality of the Honda Hornet 600 drop. Like the old bike, it feels solid and secure and should last, the old Hornet was renowned for its reliability as couriers in London proved.

The new design Honda CB600F Hornet looks funky and really stands out from the crowd.

Our Honda CB600F owners' reviews show this to be a very reliable bike. There is some corrosion reported but nothing too concerning.

Value vs rivals

At just over £5000 the Honda CB600F Hornet was exceptional value for money new: it can commute, tour, the jack of all trades.

By the time the second generation baby Hornet had arrived, the middleweight naked market had moved on, with the original rivals also receiving updates, thanks to ever-stricter Euro emissions laws.

Alongside these, the CB600F now also had to contend with the three-cylinder Triumph Street Triple 675, Suzuki’s GSR600, the Kawasaki Z750 and various iterations of the Ducati Monster.

Despite its dependable, revvy four-cylinder engine, in 2007, the Hornet was king of the Japanese middlings. However, top honours of the day went to the Street Triple, who’s three-cylinder engine offered more punch and character.

Equipment

For a few hundred pounds you can chose the combined linked ABS braking Honda CB600F Hornet model, ideal in tricky conditions and especially for new riders.

The Honda CB600F Hornet fuel tank has also increased in size and there is a long list of genuine accessories to personalise the bike. Up front, the clocks are taken directly from Honda’s Fireblade, although the instrument panel arrangement is very similar to Kawasaki’s ER-6.

As with most Hondas, there’s the HISS immobiliser security system available for the Honda CB600F Hornet.

HONDA CB600F HORNET for sale with MCN

• CB600F HORNET (60) £2,595 Northants
• CB600F HORNET (08) £2,991 Cheshire
• CB600F HORNET (06) £2,991 Buckinghamshire
• CB600F HORNET (10) £3,691
• CB600F HORNET (2009/09) £3,899 Bucks

Model history & versions

Model history

• 1998: Honda CB600F Hornet launched, combining the steel backbone frame from thr Japanese-market CB250F with a detuned 92bhp engine, lifted from the CBR600F.
• 2000: Hornet gains 17in front wheel, improving feel and tyre choice. Power is upped to 94bhp, with other improvements including improved brakes.
• 2003: Subtle restyle highlights 17-litre fuel tank, up from 16. New slash-cut silencer added and power upped to 95bhp. Now meets Euro2 emissions laws.
• 2005: Bike gains 41mm upside-down cartridge forks, based on 2005 Honda CBR600RR. Other updates include revised rear shock for greater comfort.
• 2007: New Honda CB600F Hornet launched, with larger 19-litre tank, 101bhp engine and Fireblade dash, optional ABS and more.
• 2009: Minor update sees the forks gain rebound damping and new shock. Dash is improved, too.
• 2014: Hornet replaced by Honda CB650F, with a longer stroke 649cc motor.
• 2023: New Hornet 750 arrives.

Other versions

There are no other versions if this bike available.

Owners' reviews for the HONDA CB600F HORNET (2007 - 2013)

35 owners have reviewed their HONDA CB600F HORNET (2007 - 2013) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your HONDA CB600F HORNET (2007 - 2013)

Year: 2013

Annual servicing cost: £260

Brilliant budget first big bike but I don't think it will keep me happy for long.

Very comfortable bike, can ride for hours without much discomfort from me or pillion. Brakes are not amazing unfortunately, not as sharp as I expected for a 600. Feels comfortable leaning into corners but it is my first big bike so hard to compare.

Absolutely love 4cyl 600s, as with all 600s you have to rev it high to get it to fly but wow it sounds amazing above 10k. Get it to 12k and it'll rip your arms off. Throttle feels a bit choppy at low speeds but still comfy for town riding.

Mine only has 11k miles on it but everything seems solid and I haven't had any issues

Full yearly service keeps it happy, £18-20 for a tank of fuel which gets me around 100 miles (not amazing but it is a 600), paid £270 for a new chain and sprockets fitted - looks amazing.

Combined ABS but cant really feel the difference from regular brakes. SC project slip on fitted which sounds lovely but nothing else really. Not an expert on tyres, will be getting a new set next year.

Buying experience: Privately from a van dealer who had the bike for personal use. No issues, was delivered across the country. Paid £3750 (+delivery)with less than 10k miles back in June, I was happy with this price.

Year: 2011

Engine very buzzy, leads to tingly fingers. Only real drawback for comfort.

Rear shock on hardest preloaf. Would benefit from fully adjustable suspension, but generally suits all round use; commuting and occassional track days.

As mentioned vibrations at cruising speeds leads to numb fingers. 21000 miles in 10 years. Regular servicing eady to do. Valve clearances harder due to lack of space. Like previous Honda's all within spec for first check.

Some corrosion on fixings after 10 years, but no corrossion prevention other than regular washing through the winter.

Struggle to get fuel consumption above 45mpg. Local commuting 35 to 40 mpg. Fast riding easily brings it below 35mpg. Own servicing, very easy and good parts supply from Wemoto.

Where are the mudguards? I ride all year, all weathers. Have had install mudguard ectenders front and rear. Gearinf lowered to reduce first gear use and get more pep for day to day use. Changed the handle bars to slightly wider/ lower set for more control and comfort.

Buying experience: Bought second hand from dealer, very well served. Bellevue Motorcycles.

Version: C-ABS

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £120

Bought this bke as my first "big bike" after my 125. She had 47,500 but was owned by a motorcycle instructor and maintained by a Honda dealer. Had her for 2 years and covered nearly 10,000 miles both solo and two up. With routine maintenance nothing major needed working on (other than needing to replace the Reg/Rec). She came with heated grips, crash protection, rear hugger, aftermarket headers & exhaust. Gem of a bike and hope to have her for many years.

Previous owner added a small fly screen but it does help to keep the wind off your chest. Stock seat, so it is well run in by now and is comfy for the rider but pillion seat is firm and vibrates a lot at motorway speeds. Only had the ABS kick in once and with ceramic carbon pads the brakes are decent enough for street riding. Suspension is adequate for solo use but the preload on the rear shock doesn't help out a lot for 2 up riding.

As a 600 middle weight naked sports bike, damn she goes! The roll on is incredible and when you wind her up past 7 grand she absolutely sings! Classic sport bike noise. The I4 block is idle enough round town not to tempt you into any trouble but it becomes a bad influence once you're on the twisties or on an open straight. Really need to keep yourself in check when you have this thing rumbling between your legs. But she is reliable, dependable and commendable.

Corrosion on the frame under pillion seat and down both sides of the rad. Previous owner sanded down and repaired them but still worth noting. But for a bike if this age, mileage and location she still looks and rides flawlessly. Reliability is much the same really. Absolutely awesome. Have had to replace the Regulator Rectifier at 55,250 and previous owner replaced the original about 2013/14 so keep an eye on that.

I do my own services so I only pay for parts. Odds and sods are cheap to come by in the right places.

It's an old bike with basic tech. Diguo Speed meter, Trip A, Trip B, overall miles, clock, fuel gauge and an analogue rev counter. Abs light, H. I. S. S light, kick stand light, check engine light and a neutral gear light.Everything you need to know with no waffle.

Buying experience: I bought privetly from my motorcycle instructor bout a month after my test. Brilliant man and still rely on him for maintenance support and troubleshooting if I need it.

Version: Cb600f7 ABS

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £120

The bike rides like a dream. Has plenty of torque and power to keep me smiling when you blow other bikes off the road. A shift of the head has the bike smoothly moving into a corner and it handles like a dream. Power to weight ratio is quite substantial enough to have you at 70mph in a blink. I cannot fault the bike. 14years old and in showroom condition. I ride it with pride and a big grin on my face.

The standard pipe has a surprising growl for a stock pipe. Gearbox could be a bit smoother but that's how Honda's are as I've had a few.

Buying experience: Bought privately for £3k about three and a half years ago.

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £150

An all-new bike compared to the 1998-2006 Hornet, updated in every single area without losing anything that made the original as good as it was. Comfortable, fast, reliable, cheap and suited to riders of all sizes.

Very noticeable improvement from the original thanks to a far stiffer and lighter frame that is purpose-built rather than adapted from the JDM 250cc model and new inverted forks. Brakes are adequate, at least on the non-ABS version. The ABS version has a primitive combined system and is best avoided.

Based on the CBR600RR but retuned for more midrange, it is a typical 600cc inline-4. Very smooth low end and likes to be revved hard. Good fuel economy and smooth power delivery thanks to a well-programmed ECU, unlike some of its Japanese rivals.

It's built in Italy by Honda, not much more to say here. Very good quality materials, good fit and finish, and little chance of rusting thanks to the new all-aluminium chassis.

inexpensive to run and to maintain thanks to its reliability and good fuel economy.

Basic yet efficient. Comes with pillon grab rails and a mixed digital/analog dash that is easy to read and features a clock, fuel gauge and temperature gauge; this is another significant improvement from the original. There is also an ABS model available, though I would not recommend it. Storage space is very limited.

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £130

Always brings a smile to my face enough power for the road cheap to run 😀

Buying experience: Honda dealer £4250 the bike only had 2350 miles on clock,payed asking price

Year: 2009

really easy to ride but the seat for the passenger can a bit hard on long rides

can not fault it. I managed to nurse it back from the Alsace region fully loaded 2 up on one fork seal

Buying experience: from a dealer in Kent, very good service

Year: 2009

I see a lot of riders leave reviews with this as their first bike. That’s great but I’m offering a different perspective as I’ve had 24 bikes and this is my 25th! And it’s absolutely great. A typical Honda in that it’s understated and nice to live with but if you can ride, it will keep up with almost anything. You’ll see plenty of instructors on these on track days, coming round the outside, knee down, calm as you like. obviously it’s a 600 four and you have to enjoy revving it, but beyond 8, it’s a feisty little thing. I have a bike with almost double the power but I doubt it’s much quicker until 100mph and on the road forget it. you really feel you can rag this thing to death, and it’s totally solid. My tyres are shot and I’ll invest in some roadtec 01s next. Some springs front and rear at some point would be a treat but stock are ok and I’m 90kg. Brakes are great. Ergonomics suit me perfectly and I’m comfy up to 75 for long periods. A quiet autobahn saw almost 140 mph and boy do you have to hang on, but it’s fun. overall, especially as a used buy, it’s 5* from me. My advice is go for latest with no kids and zero corrosion. Happy riding.

Nothing has broken at all. Sensible on fuel and consumables.

Super smooth low down screams up top. Slightly snatchy FI removes one point. You learn to ride around it.

Benchmark naked sports 600

Has all you need. I added the usual heated grips and rear hugger.

Buying experience: £4K for an 09 (ten years old!) but basically as new.

Version: 2007 fuel injected, non abs

Year: 2007

I bought this motorcycle after obtaining my full A license. My previous motorcycle was the MT03 660cc single. Compared to that bike, the hornet feels much smoother (IL4), but also the gear changes feel smoother. The Hornet is a great allrounder. I use it to commute and weekend fun. The profile of the engine is very slim so it is great for filtering. The power buildup starts around 6k rpm but once you go over 7, it really takes of. On the highway you do get blasted by the wind, but that is normal with a naked motorcycle. The hornet also handles great and inspires me to take my corners sharper and sharper, something I was not comfortable with on the MT03 (even though that motorcycle also handles very well, I just did not feel comfortable on it). I was afraid that the fuel consumption on this motorcycle would be high, but actually, it is always between 5,5 - 6,5 L/100 km (or around 47 mpg), which is very good! Also, the stock exhaust sounds good, but I will probably change it to a slip on anyway. Another mod I would like to do, is a different seat, as my behind does feel like a brick after 2 hours on the bike. I bought mine for 3300 euro (2930 GBP) with 15400 miles on the clock (non abs model)

Compared to my Yamaha MT-03 (660cc), the suspension feels stiffer, but not uncomfortable. Taking corners feels gooood. Brakes are good (I have the non abs version). Gear changes are smooth. Windblast present (naked bike, so obviously!), might get a windshield. I am 6 foot tall and I fit on it perfectly, only the seat will turn your behind into stone after 2 hour rides, so I will fit an aftermarket one.

Very smooth engine. Takes of very easily, does not give the impression that it will stall, revs up nicely. Can be cruised around, even tho the nature of the inline 4 is to rev it up. If you do so, the powerband really picks up after 7k rpm (redline at 13k rpm). Sometimes I do have to keep myself in check because of this character, you will find yourself riding too fast very easily. The gearing is quite low, if you cruise around 75 - 80 mph, you are around 7K rpm. The engine does not mind, but some people will not like this, because the engine feels busy. There is also a light vibration at this speed. Personally, I do not mind this, but again, some people will not want that.

I only had one issue: during a ride, the motorcycle lost power and stalled. I took off the seat and the previous owner had fitted a new battery but he did not tighten it properly, so it became lose! after fixing this, I had no more problems. There is a little bit of rust on some bolts, but that is because my particular model did not ride for 2 years before I bought it and it was stored on a farm in a damp garage. After I bought the motorcycle, all the fluids were changed (oil, brake fluid,...) and I also changed the tires. I would advise to do this as well to new riders who also buy a motorcycle which has been sitting for a long time.

Hornets do keep their value well. In fact, I was not looking at hornets because they were above my budget, but I could get this one cheaper as it had been sitting and the previous owner wanted to get rid of it.

I have the non abs model, can be had with ABS. Fuel injection is smooth. The dash shows everything you need (clock, revometer, trip,...). Only the fuel gage goes down too fast. It starts flashing too early, which can be a bit annoying. When I go fuel up with the reserve flashing, there is still enough fuel left.

Year: 2007

My first bike, not being the tallest and also a new rider I think this was the perfect bike for me. I think the narrow profile helps the seat feel lower, and after a couple of low speed drops it's light enough for me to pick it up again. Having ridden bigger bikes now I can appreciate how smooth and forgiving the Hornet is. Fuel economy is brilliant, I have a givi screen for a bit of extra wind protection, givi topbox, and heated grips. The only genuine fault I've found during my time with it is the vibration on the mirrors, which really impairs how well you can see. Anything else I'd like to change with this bike is purely personal preference - I'd like more wind protection, and my friends and I have a bit of a laugh about how incredibly quiet it sounds with the stock exhaust (is it on yet?) but again, these aren't faults with the Hornet, just personal preferences I've found over time.

For a naked bike I think it's a decent all rounder. I'm comfortable on long trips, and carry everything I need in a top box and tank bag. Like any bike, twisty roads are better than motorways. Narrow profile is great for filtering through traffic.

I bought my Hornet in 2016 with 38k miles on the clock, now it has 51k miles. Aside from consumables like tyres, headlight bulb and chain and sprocket, it's had front forks resealed and only recently had an electrical issue with the dashboard. For a bike with this mileage and out in all weathers I think it's done brilliantly.

MPG is great and work on the bike has been almost entirely consumables. I bought my Hornet for about £2400, and now I'm looking around at bikes again I can see in terms of performance it's great value for money. Current bikes in the same category don't seem to have the Hornet's power or torque, and are often taller and/or heavier.

Having ridden something without a clock or fuel gauge, I can now really appreciate these basic features on the Hornet. Standard now but worth mentioning as they're nice to have. The givi screen improves wind protection a bit, heated grips are fantastic in cold weather.

Version: CB600FA8 ABS

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £150

Excellent in all department. Good handling, great build quality, good design and colour. Decent city mileage with avg mpg between 52-56 mpg. If you want sports bike with less strain on wrists than go for this bike, you won't regret it. Go far the ABS 2009 up.

Buying experience: Bought it from a private ebay seller. decent price (£3000) for less than 8000 miles, good colour (Gold).

been riding over 25years. previous 4 bikes are ZX9R, CBR1000rr, Husky TE610 and a Ducati Monster S4R. This little Honda is great for me, I commute 24 miles each way through London, I love its riding position, size, flickability and MPG, its comfy and has everything you need to city commute. I have a screen fitted and used a tail large Givi tailpack. Only downside, and I mean only, is that its a bit too revvy, I dont need the high rpms when cruising and would prefer lower RPMs at speed (60mph is 5k rpm), other than that its fantastic. plenty powerful enough, spot on riding position, good headlight, not too loud, great looks, solid reliable performer. I'm getting 58mpg commute.

Bought "BUZZ" beginning 2011 after passing my Direct Access. I always knew this would be the bike I'd want to own one day after sitting on many bikes without even test riding them. My nearest Honda Dealer refused to let me test ride their DEMO as there policy was to refuse anyone who had just passed their licence. Venturing into the unknown not having roadtested any new big bikes and splashing a considerable amount of money was a dawnting afare. First impression sitting on a brand spanking knew CB600FA(ABS) in Pearl White on start-up for the very first time was like entering a marriage and not wanting to let go of this love afare. Originally not wanted ABS as Salesman told me they had none left so paid the extra for Combined-ABS version. I am so happy I did as a truck pulled out in front of me doing high speed on the freeway recenlty and jammed on the brakes without any loss of control! Wow I am happy to be alive! On riding in the engine for the first time was tough as you don't get the best oil from run in oil with all detergents thrown in. Patience was a virtue and the more oil changes I had done over time the more this engine performs as everything starts settling in. Done 8K miles on clock & this CBR engine rocks! Excellent overtaking at high speed. The torque is at high speed unlike the Triumph Speed 1050 triple(Rocking horse on steroids) which just wants to lift it's front wheel dangerously between 1st&2nd gear due to it's short wheel base. The Hornet is much more composed and well pleasing with it's race bread engine reving wright through 12-13K RPM with ease. Extremely well balanced when slowing down stopping at traffic lights due to its fantastic center of gravity design 'Made in Italy'. I have the upgraded syspension version and Ohlins rear fully adj. After 1 mth I have fine tuned the suspension to my liking. Brilliant! I've tested Speed Triple, Thunderbird & Tiger. I must say I have already made up my mind that I have finally made a lifetime purchase with this beauty who will take me to places. I have 'the power of dreams' The engine is a doddle to service. Gearbox is ultra smooth. No jumping out of gear nonsense. Power on tap straight from the word "GO!" Best I had was 58MPG and worst around 44mpg if you keep doing 90-100mph. The updated Hornet is out with sharper looking tail and no grab rail.... Go figure... Put a nice touring screen on this baby and who knows what the furture holds. Get your hands on one you won't be sorry. Italian made and designed. I'm glad Honda made that decision. Enough of my boasting. When you see me, pull over. Safe driving :))

I bought a '09 Hornet after having had a CBR600F (lovely bike, but low-ish bars hurt my wrists...) for a few years and I've never looked back; it is a fantastic bike. What I can't understand is that, apart from BIKE magazine, everyone in the press seems to think that it isn't very good. It never gets put into many tests despite being better than the bikes that are selected! Anyway, who cares I love my Hornet, so stuff the press....

I have an 07 ABS Hornet, which I bought a year old and have now had for 2 years. The bike is great, uses no oil at all, is light on the tyres, good on fuel, smooth, well built and safe. I think it is the best 600 you can buy. It has never let me down. The good points for me are the build quality, materials, engineering and safety. The entire bike is made of aluminium, stainless steel and plastic (with very few parts to rust). The bike still looks factory fresh, and there are no issues with any part of the finish. The CBS and ABS are great from a safety perspective, it must be one of the safest bikes about. The engineering is also top notch. Honda have put a lot of thought into the materials of the bike, for example the entire exhaust is 100% stainless steel, and the frame is aluminium. The engine is great, and very powerful for a 600. Don't forget that 600s are at power levels of 1000s+ of a decade ago, so you rarely need more power. Lastly, the seat and bars are very neutral, and easy on the wrists and shoulders, unlike the 600RR. There are several disadvantages of the bike as well, but they are mainly small faults, rather than actual issues, none of which would make me choose differently. One fault that becomes apparent after about a week of ownership is the fuelling between 3000-4000 rpm with a steady throttle... it is a bit hit and miss, and there is a characteristic rev-hunt that I think should be addressed. Also, the rebound on the rear shock is a tad harsh. There is a slight howl from the intake manifold at about 3000 rpm that is annoying. Lastly, there is a lack of low-end torque from all 600-4s, also displayed here, but the engine is sweet when you open it up. Other than that, I think the Hornet makes perfect sense. Not to costly, not too crazy, economical, superbly well built, safe, fun, won't let you down. Thoroughly recommended, but make sure you get the ABS version. A friend has a 2009 Aprilia, and the Honda build and finish is superior in all respects. Honda come top in reviews because they make bikes like this. If I never ride another bike, it would be no tragedy.

I have an abs equipped model with a hugger and seat cowl so I rated equipment higher than most

Mine is the 2009 model with new preload and rebound adjustability front and rear. Not cheap in Spain. Agile and great build quality. I recommend it.

Nice bike for urban riding. Perfect for new riders but as soon as you start to ride harder you will surely need an other bike.

I choose a honda hornet for my first big bike. As i didn't know what to expect it was interesting riding it for the first time. Once i passed my test, i found a 2nd hand 09 Hornet with 1600 miles (ABS) for £4100, in mint condition, not ridden in the wet etc. Its so easy to ride and this is what many people know it for. The power delivery is very smooth and its brilliant for a day trip. I sometimes use it for commuting and easily filter though the traffic. Its very hard to explain the + and -, until you actually ride it. 5*** !!!!

The MCN review is largely accurate. My experience of my 2007 ABS Hornet has been: Pros: * Brilliant high and low speed handling and chassis set up. Best naked I've ridden, ever. * Decent ~45mpg consumption even if you thrash the hell out of it. * Build and materials quality appears almost up to "old skool" Honda standards. Still perfect on my 2007. * ABS is non-intrusive, unlike old Honda ABS or the BMW systems. * Good value for money - under 100mph as fast as a supersport 600, no plastics to break, with cheap insurance. * Long seat cover, huge grab handles and no painted rear fairing means it's brilliant for bungeeing stuff on without the inevitable scuffed paint. Cons: * The shock is shit. Oversprung and lacking any compression damping, it pogos over the slightest bump, will lose any damping by ~10k miles and is not rebuildable. You then either suffer Fear or pay £3-400 for an aftermarket unit. * It's a 600 four. Needs downgearing at the sprockets if you're not a pipe-and-slippers rider. Blisteringly fast when wound up, but feels like the final drive is made of rubber bands - twist throttle and wait for the engine to catch up. Street Triple, by comparison, gives instant drive when you open the taps. * Pegs are low-ish and the bike tends to sit on its tail unless you jack up preload (which just makes the rear shock more harsh), or I guess unless you weigh 120 pounds or less. Although Honda manages to make this feel great to ride, your toes will hit the ground before your knee sliders you're over about a size 8. * Wind protection even by naked standards is poor (my Duke II was actually better...and it didn't even have a flyscreen), and the Honda option flyscreen looks good but doesn't do much to protect you. Puig, Givi and a bunch of others do higher aftermarket ones for £££. * Typical horrible Honda EFI jerkiness going from shut to open throttle which you have to ride around. Overall, a great A and B road do-anything bike. Not what I'd choose for urban commuters however - the power delivery and EFI issues are a PITA in town.

Owned my Hornet since aug'08 and ridden 7500 miles. I've been riding for nearly 4 years and this is my second Hornet. I ride all year, all weathers and this bike is great. Build quality is excellent, ride is agile, sporty and fun and great in town too. You have to push the brakes hard for the abs to cut in and it is a refined and sensitive system, complementing the whole package. Fuel consumption is 45 - 50 mpg (even hard riding), I have got 170 miles from a full tank, with some to spare but I usually fill up at 150 miles. The engine is a diamond with good torque throughout the rev range. The only 'fault' is the seat - a tad uncomfy after a couple of hours, but hey, either buy a bagster seat or take a break! Fantastic value and probably the best middleweight roadster out there!

Great bike, perfect for commuting, popping around town. Light and agile with a cracking engine

I picked up a snow white Hornet June 1st last year, since then i added 120km to its counter each day, except for when it is raining - which does not happen a lot, as i live in Southern Spain. I had a small color matching fairing and a rear hugger mounted to it - a matter of taste. In the white skin i have it, it is a true looker. The response i had with this bike is unlike anything i ever experienced. Passer by's just stopped and circled around it when it is parked in the street. Anyway, about the ride, after 8 months and 17000km on the clock i can say this: the new Hornet is truly a great ride. Comfortable, agile and swift in acceleration, no a lot of traffic has passed me by i have to say. The combined abs is superb on sudden straight stops and makes the bike drift sideways when braking heavy in sharp bends, but is always keeping the bike in perfect control. One thing that i have experienced a couple of times - and consider a downer just for happening - was the gearbox jumping out of gear between 5th and 6th gears, causing the engine to rev in the red zone. besides this i give this bike a five star rating.

Firstly you should know where I'm coming from: This is the first 'proper' bike I've tested in my search since passing my test just recently, and I come from a CBR125. I've got little to compare it with therefore though there may be those in similar situation who may appreciate my feedback so here goes: I gave it a good long ride, including Junc 23-17 and back! Really easy to ride, plenty of speed and great delivery, sounds fantastic, looks great I think. Delivery is smooth yet veeery aggressive if you want it to be. Steering is light at very low speed, I was able to do some very controlled manoevres easily in a quiet narrow street. (I tried to test everything.) My only complaints, which are important to me is Motorway riding. Of course, I've got nothing to compare it to, least of all other nakeds, but I got well blasted by the wind and could only cope with short bursts of high speed. However please note I wasn't wearing leathers and my lid is a Multitec pull-up. The other complaint is Mirrors. These seem ok when you're sitting on it in the shop but out on the road I couldn't see squat, and wasn't able to adjust them favourably. On the motorway at speed this is even more of a problem as you're leaning forward to cope with windrush and theyr're obviously not mounted on any frontal fairing. Take it or leave it, this is my review - discount it if you like re. my experience but don't get me wrong - I think it's an awesome bike!!!

I recently purchased a new Hornet after selling my 02 CBR 600 F-Sport. I do a lot of commuting and was after something practical, good-looking but still sporty enough to be exciting to ride. And the Hornet is all of these things and more. It's sooooooo easy to ride, it looks and sounds great, and the engine is fantastic. Decent amount of grunt low down where you need it, but with it being the CBR 600RR engine it has loads of top end power too. Im really, really pleased with it.

Got mine back in September, wrote a comment on the day I've purchased. Bike is really fun.Sometimes I enjoy just going to my garage and turning on just to hear the noise. Looks great, aggressive, easy to ride, fast,beautiful piece. Yeah it needs a flyscreen for motorway and the one from honda it is quite small and it doesn't look nice. As matter of fact can't find a nice one yet.Have 5000 miles so far, change the tires from the Bridgestone for a sweet pair of Michelin Pilot Power 2ct and I am loving it. and FYI, I always clock my mileages and I have been riding 150 miles in the city with one tank,and because the tank warning starts flashing at 120 miles I am always afraid of wait for longer before I stop.But when I top up my tank can't get more than 16/17 liters so I reckon I may be able to ride 160 with the 19 liters tank. :)

When I was looking for a new bike I spent ages looking for reviews from people who have actually owned and ridden the bike they were pimping, and to be honest good reviews are hard to find. So I decided that as soon as I could write a review that was useful, I would ……. So hear we go. Bought it back in Nov 07 Red / ABS, and have covered 5000 miles so far. My last bike was a Honda CBF 500 (we all have to start somewhere). I have had no problems with the bike at all (well it’s a Honda what else would you expect?). It’s good points are, as mentioned before it’s a Honda and it looks cool and I mean cool. It’s so easy to ride (easier than the old man bike I had before), I have never had the feeling it was going to bite me for making small mistakes. Its got a clock. It has a proper size fuel tank (19l). It’s narrow, so whipping through traffic on he A12 is actually a pleasure (BMW bike owners please pull in and let us pass). I have no idea what the fuel economy is like and with the way that I ride it at the moment I don’t want to, so sorry I can’t be of help on that point. It has just the right engine range that you need i.e. if you are commuting and need to get from A to B it will deliver all you need with good power output at low revs so you don’t have to change gear every 30 sec. Like wise if you are commuting, sat at traffic lights and a chav in a Honda civic R decides that he owns the road, with very little effort at all you can show him the true meaning of ‘power to weight ratio’ and still have room for as smug glance backwards. Oh did I mention that it sounds as cool as it looks when employing the ‘educating chav mode’. Combined ABS well what can I say wet / dry / icy, when you press on the brakes ….. the bike stops …. I don’t think that needs any more said about it except this, on two occasions this amazing invention has prevented me from a trip to the local A+E department, and being that this is Queens in Romford its not a bad thing. Bad points, the mirrors, as you have seen from other reviews you need to move your shoulders to use them. It needs the optional extra rear hugger to protect the underside from all the salt, grit and dirt on the road. So all in all this is a top bike with great reliability and all the performance you need for the commute and the weekend. Oh did I mention it looks and sounds cool. R

Just got my new Hornet 10 days ago and I am very very happy with it, sorry but no faults (maybe I am easily pleased?).

This is first proper bike and just getting used to it. Really can't fault it at all, would advise the ABS version for the weather we have, though I got a good deal on the non-abs version so went for it. Love the acceleration on the open road and its really nimble when in town, buy one- you won't regret it..and looks great to..

Hi all. Done 1500 miles on my new hornet now and it's been great so far. No problems (just the weather!) Increased rear preload 2 notches to take account of my weight (15st) and handling feels better to me. only complaint is struggling to get the mirrors in a nice position. Otherwise, brilliant. Have fun!

Just got my one, so can't go to fast. But the engine is so sweet and I am really enjoying.Looking forward to buy a fly screen once I have some spare cash.

It may be my first bike, so you can take this with a pinch of salt, but I love everything about this bike. The power, brakes and handling seem amazing and now the first service is out of the way the extra revs are astounding. I find this bike easy to ride both around country lanes and filtering through London and i've not had a single 'moment' where I felt the bike didn't like me. I bought this bike because I felt I could learn to ride properly on it and so far it feels like the best purchase I've ever made. PS If you get stuck behind me filtering on the A13, Sorry, but not for long

Bike is superb, road tested a lot of makes and models but had to have this one as soon as it felt right after covering only a number of miles on it. The handling is spot on and the engine is fantastic throughout the rev range. Honda have got this hornet bang on, excellent

just bought 2 for the bike tours the wife and me are doing the first few km on them to get to know them, i must say well impressed found the seat a bit hard on a long run,need more padding!,the wife said that was the only moan she had with it ,she loves the handling,and and the chimney!!it will suit the women and not so experienced, rider, but us pros will love it for its fun factor.!!

Well, I picked up the bike this morning and its awesome! Still have to ride it in, so I've kept it under 7000rmp. Maneuverable, sounds great and built damn well. I'll have to ride it some more to make sure I'm happy with ratings I've given it...and well get it up to speed, but I can't imagine my mind changing.

• News
  • Latest News
  • New Bikes
  • New Kit
  • New Tech
  • Sport
• Bike Reviews
  • Latest Reviews
  • MCN Fleet
• Bikes For Sale
  • All Bikes
  • Brand New Bikes
  • Bike Check
• Bike Kit
  • Accessories
  • Base Layers
  • Boots
  • Communication
  • Gloves
  • Helmets
  • Jackets
  • Jeans
  • Leathers
  • Luggage
  • Security
  • Tools
  • Trousers
  • Tyres
• Advice
  • Learn To Ride A Motorbike
  • Group Tests
  • Used Bike Guides
  • Bike Type Buying Guides
  • Riding Tips
  • How-Tos
  • Buying and Selling
  • Inspiration
  • Travelling and Touring
• Insurance
• Events
  • London Motorcycle Show
  • Motorcycle Live