The naked CB500F – originally launched in 2013 alongside the adventure-styled CB500X (now NX500) and fully-faired CBR500R – quietly proved that one of Honda’s tried-and-trusted formulas for building popular motorcycles had an enduring relevance.
That formula? An entertaining twin-cylinder engine wrapped in a simple, lightweight, sporty chassis. And, while a 35kW peak power output made it suitable for A2 licence holders, the CB500F always offered so much more than ‘entry level’ performance. Sure, it was an easy machine to manage, ride and learn on, but those same attributes also made it a genuine pleasure for those stepping up from a 125 or coming down from a bigger machine. Sensible running costs, whatever the situation, added strongly to the appeal.
In 2019, the CB500F was redrawn with uncompromising lines that elevated its technical and mechanical aspects and 22YM saw it receive high-quality suspension in the form of Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks and dual front discs, plus new lightweight wheels and swingarm.
For 24YM Honda’s formula for the 500 streetfighter continues to evolve. Joining an iconic Honda family, the new CB500 Hornet follows in the wheel tracks of the impressive CB750 Hornet. Now, with aggressive new styling, high-end technology and a variety of detail upgrades that are sure to make it one of Europe’s most popular motorcycles.
Honda’s A2 naked twin-cylinder streetfighter joins the Hornet family, with aggressive new styling and aerodynamic improvements befitting the iconic name. Power and torque for the 471cc engine meet maximum A2 licence requirement– at 35kW and 43Nm – while an ECU update improves acceleration feel and Honda Selectable Torque Control is now standard. The high-quality chassis specification includes 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks, Showa rear shock and dual discs up front with four-piston calipers. A brand-new LED headlight opens up better visibility at night, while a new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, operated by a simplified and backlit 4-way toggle switch.
A new name and new look give the CB500 Hornet a fresh edge as it rides into 24YM. Premium new tech too, in the form of a 5-inch TFT screen – operated by an intuitive and easy-to-use lefthand switchgear – features the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync. The A2-compliant, slipper clutch-equipped twin-cylinder engine benefits from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as ECU updates to improve acceleration. Chassis specification includes Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks as before, with dual radial-mount four-piston brake calipers.
The 24YM CB500 Hornet will be available in the following colour options:
Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic
Grand Prix Red
Pearl Himalayas White
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In the wake of the hard-hitting CB750 and CB500 Hornet, a brand-new, big-bore Hornet spreads its wings, packing aggressively stripped back styling, stunning four-cylinder CBR Fireblade performance, high specification chassis and premium equipment.
The 23YM CB750 bought the evocative Hornet name back to Europe. And its combination of taut street fighter silhouette, exhilarating power and razor-sharp agility has justifiably earnt much praise and impressive sales, making it 2023’s best-selling naked bike in Europe year to date through August.
Now, for 24YM, the Hornet family has expanded with the introduction of not one, but two exciting new members. With the CB500 Hornet taking its place alongside the CB750 Hornet, headlining the trio is the new CB1000 Hornet which turns the excitement dial up to maximum. Powered by the 17 year model CBR1000RR Fireblade’s formidable engine, and designed as a potent cocktail of strong in-line 4 engine performance and ultra-sharp handling, the CB1000 Hornet delivers maximum riding fun from busy city block to twisting back road.
Designed in Japan, its transformative looks are driven by two words: AGGRESSIVE and PURE. Led by the piercing gaze of super-compact dual LED projector headlights, the Hornet-signature fuel tank – with wings folded forward – is broad shouldered up front but tapers radically to the rear. This is all mirrored by the minimal seat unit that underlines the traditional narrow-waisted Hornet look. The new frame is also used as a design feature, but subtly blacked out – like the tubular trellis-style rear subframe.
The 24YM CB1000 Hornet will be available in the following colour options:
Grand Prix Red
Mat Iridium Gray Metallic
Pearl Glare White
TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS
999cc, inline four-cylinder DOHC 16V engine: over 110kW peak power and more than 100Nm torque
Downdraught intake, 4-2-1 exhaust system
Throttle By Wire (TBW), 3 default riding modes plus Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and assist/slipper clutch
All-new steel twin spar frame
Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks, adjustable for compression and rebound damping
Showa rear shock operating through Pro-Link
Radial-mount four-piston front brake calipers and 310mm floating discs
180/55-17 rear tyre; 120/70 ZR17 front
Full colour 5-inch TFT screen with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity
All LED lighting, with dual LED projector headlights
