The iconic Honda Hornet nameplate has made a powerful return to the global stage—and now to India—with the launch of the CB750 Hornet, priced at Rs 8.60 lakh (ex-showroom). This new-age middleweight streetfighter is not just a nostalgic nod to its predecessors but a bold step into the future of performance biking.
With aggressive styling, an all-new parallel-twin engine, and class-leading electronics, the Honda CB750 Hornet brings the sting back to the streets, promising adrenaline and everyday usability in one muscular package.
Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this bike worth every rupee of its premium price tag.
Design: Sharp, Minimal, and Purpose-Built
One look at the CB750 Hornet and it’s clear—this machine means business.
The design is minimalistic yet aggressive, with sharp lines and a muscular stance. The fuel tank, inspired by a wasp’s thorax, adds a dynamic look, while the slim tail section and underbelly exhaust emphasize its streetfighter DNA. Full-LED lighting all around—headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators—not only improves visibility but adds a modern touch to its visual appeal.
Honda has offered the bike in Striking Colors like Pearl Glare White, Graphite Black, and Matte Goldfinch Yellow, each amplifying the Hornet’s athletic character. The trellis frame peeking through adds a touch of rawness—perfect for those who like their machines to look as mean as they ride.
Engine and Performance: A New Parallel-Twin Beast
Under the tank lies an all-new 755cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine developed from the ground up. This engine churns out 90.5 bhp at 9500 rpm and 75 Nm of torque at 7250 rpm, delivering a potent mix of low-end grunt and high-rev excitement.
What stands out is Honda’s decision to go for a parallel-twin configuration instead of an inline-four—keeping the bike lighter, more compact, and more affordable.
The Unicam technology, borrowed from Honda’s motocross range, allows for a more compact head design and contributes to weight reduction. The result? A dry weight of just 190 kg, which makes it one of the lightest in the middleweight class.
The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and features a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts during spirited riding.
Riding Modes and Electronics: Smart and Adaptable
The CB750 Hornet isn’t just about raw power—it’s also smart. Honda has packed this streetfighter with a host of modern electronics to tailor the ride experience for different conditions.
- 3 Pre-set Riding Modes: Sport, Rain, and Standard
- 1 Custom User Mode: Fine-tune power delivery, engine braking, and traction control
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): Keeps rear wheel slip under check
- Wheelie Control: A rare feature in this segment
- Throttle-by-Wire System: Smooth and responsive power delivery
- 5-inch TFT Display: Customizable layout with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and call/SMS alerts
This level of tech brings the Hornet close to higher-end naked bikes in terms of rider assistance and safety.
Chassis and Handling: Light, Agile, and Responsive
Built on a steel diamond frame, the CB750 Hornet is engineered for both urban agility and high-speed stability. Its light weight and compact dimensions allow for quick flicks in traffic and confident cornering on twisty roads.
- Front Suspension: 41 mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks
- Rear Suspension: Mono-shock with preload adjustability
- Brakes: Dual 296mm front discs with Nissin radial calipers and a 240mm rear disc
- Tyres: 120/70 front and 160/60 rear 17-inch wheels (Michelin Road 5s in many markets)
The suspension setup is tuned for road use, offering a plush ride without compromising handling. The Michelin Road 5 tyres provide excellent grip and confidence in all weather conditions.
Ergonomics and Comfort: Daily Usability Intact
Despite its aggressive design and performance orientation, Honda hasn’t forgotten rider comfort. The seat height of 795 mm is manageable for most riders, and the upright handlebars with slightly rear-set footpegs ensure a neutral and comfortable riding position.
The split seat design offers good comfort for both rider and pillion. Combined with decent wind deflection from the front headlight cowl and a well-padded seat, the CB750 Hornet remains practical for both weekend blasts and daily commutes.
Competition: Where Does It Stand?
The Honda CB750 Hornet enters a highly competitive middleweight naked segment in India, currently occupied by:
- Yamaha MT-07 (yet to officially launch in India)
- Kawasaki Z650
- Triumph Trident 660
- Suzuki GSX-8S (price may vary)
- Ducati Monster
Here’s how the Hornet stands out:
- Power-to-weight ratio is among the best in the class
- Tech package rivals or beats premium European options
- Aggressive pricing at Rs 8.60 lakh undercuts many rivals while offering more
For a rider seeking premium features, solid performance, and everyday comfort—all wrapped in an aggressive streetfighter design—the CB750 Hornet presents unbeatable value.
Who Should Buy the Honda CB750 Hornet?
The Hornet 750 is an ideal motorcycle for:
- Riders upgrading from 300–500cc bikes
- City commuters who crave performance and tech
- Weekend warriors and touring enthusiasts wanting lightweight performance
- Enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly European alternative
If you’re a fan of versatile performance with cutting-edge electronics, and you’re not chasing the inline-four nostalgia, this Hornet is the sting you’ve been waiting for.
Conclusion: A Worthy Revival of a Legendary Name
The Honda CB750 Hornet lives up to its legacy—not by copying the past but by rewriting the rules for the present. With its all-new engine, featherweight handling, tech-rich dashboard, and aggressive styling, it’s more than just a middleweight streetfighter—it’s a benchmark for what this segment should deliver.
At Rs 8.60 lakh, it’s not cheap—but for the refinement, reliability, and performance Honda brings, it’s a package that punches well above its weight.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a fresh upgrade-seeker, the new Hornet doesn’t just buzz—it bites.
FAQs
Q1: Is the Honda CB750 Hornet good for beginners?
A: It’s manageable for experienced beginners upgrading from smaller bikes, but not ideal as a first motorcycle due to its power.
Q2: What is the fuel efficiency of the Hornet 750?
A: It delivers around 22-25 km/l in real-world conditions.
Q3: Does it support navigation and smartphone pairing?
A: Yes, via Honda’s RoadSync app and the 5-inch TFT display.
Q4: Is it good for long rides?
A: Absolutely. Comfortable ergonomics, refined engine, and good wind protection make it great for weekend touring.
Q5: How does it compare to the Triumph Trident 660?
A: The CB750 Hornet offers more power, better tech, and a lower price point, though the Trident has a triple-cylinder charm and premium brand feel.