Honda Motor Southern Africa proudly introduces the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, the new flagship naked machine that redefines performance, control, and aggression in its purest form. Following the success of the CB750 Hornet, the CB1000 Hornet SP steps into South Africa’s spotlight as the ultimate expression of Honda’s engineering mastery and bold naked bike styling.
With no fairings, no windscreen, and no compromise, the CB1000 Hornet SP is designed for riders who demand raw power and unfiltered exhilaration.
A Legacy Reborn for South Africa
South African riders will remember the Honda CB600F Hornet, sold locally between 2008 and 2012, as a cult classic that combined performance, reliability, and everyday usability. The nameplate now returns in a bigger, more aggressive form.
Together with the CB750 Hornet, the arrival of the CB1000 Hornet SP marks Honda’s comeback in the 1000cc naked bike segment, joining icons such as the Fireblade and Africa Twin. This new-generation Hornet is a fearless evolution of a name that has always stood for fast, fun, and uncompromising riding.
Honda CB1000 Hornet SP at a Glance
- Engine: 1000cc DOHC inline-four derived from the Fireblade
- Power: 115.6kW @ 11,000rpm
- Torque: 107Nm @ 9,000rpm
- Braking: Brembo Stylema radial-mount calipers with 310mm floating discs
- Suspension: Fully adjustable Showa 41mm SFF-BP forks & Öhlins TTX36 rear shock
- Electronics: Throttle By Wire, 3 preset riding modes, 2 customisable USER modes
- Technology: 5-inch full-colour TFT with Honda RoadSync smartphone integration
- Styling: Twin LED projector headlights, exclusive Matt Ballistic Black Metallic finish with Desert Gold wheels
Key Features
Fireblade-Derived Power
At its heart lies a 1000cc DOHC inline-four engine from the 2017 Fireblade, tuned for maximum torque and acceleration. Revised gear ratios, an RC exhaust valve, and an assist/slipper clutch with quickshifter complete the high-performance package.
Advanced Rider Control
Honda’s Throttle By Wire system offers three preset riding modes—Rain, Standard, and Sport—plus two fully customisable USER settings. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with integrated Wheelie Control ensures precision when pushing the bike to its limits.
Premium Chassis & Braking
Engineered for control, the SP features fully adjustable Showa front suspension and a race-bred Öhlins TTX36 rear shock, paired with Brembo Stylema radial-mount calipers for confidence-inspiring stopping power.
Technology & Connectivity
A 5-inch full-colour TFT display with optical bonding provides crystal-clear visibility. Honda RoadSync integration allows riders to stay connected with navigation, calls, and music. Safety is enhanced with Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) technology.
Aggressive Styling
Defined by its twin LED projector headlights, minimalist tail section, blacked-out twin-spar frame, and exclusive Matt Ballistic Black Metallic paint with Desert Gold highlights, the CB1000 Hornet SP makes a bold, unmistakable statement.
Built for South African Roads
From Cape Town’s urban streets to Mpumalanga’s mountain passes, the naked design delivers key advantages:
- Agility & Responsiveness – Lightweight, with no bulky fairings.
- Improved Cooling – Engine benefits from direct airflow, ideal for hot climates.
- Immersive Riding – No windscreen means riders feel every surge of power.
- Ergonomics & Control – Upright seating and wide handlebars provide comfort and command.
A Global Milestone
The CB1000 Hornet SP launches as Honda celebrates a monumental achievement: over 500 million motorcycles produced worldwide. This milestone highlights Honda’s enduring commitment to innovation and rider satisfaction.
How We Move You – Honda’s Brand Promise
The CB1000 Hornet SP embodies Honda’s global brand slogan, “How We Move You”. It’s more than just a motorcycle—it’s a visceral connection between rider and road, performance and emotion, machine and passion.
International Acclaim
On the world stage, the CB1000 Hornet SP has already proven itself. At the 2025 MCN Awards in the UK, it claimed both Best Performance Naked and the ultimate honour of Overall Bike of the Year—cementing its status as a class-leading machine.
See It First – Zwartkops Raceway
South African riders can get their first close-up experience at the Honda Sunday Brunch Cruise on 28 September 2025 at Zwartkops Raceway. This lifestyle event celebrates Honda’s riding culture, complete with food, camaraderie, and the chance to witness the Hornet SP in action.
Availability & Pricing
- Exclusive Colour: Matt Ballistic Black Metallic with Desert Gold wheels
- Price: R265,000 (Incl. VAT)
- Availability: Select Honda Wing dealerships across South Africa
