The BIG Difference Between the Honda CB750 Hornet and the CB1000 SP
Tom Roderick spent a day riding the CB1000 Hornet SP and then another on the CB750 Hornet—having the chance to ride the bikes back-to-back makes the differences between the two clear.
The 1000 uses an inline four-cylinder with roots in the CBR1000RR, a motor that thrives on revs and rewards a committed hand. It comes wrapped in premium suspension, brakes, and electronics, making it a serious tool when the pace rises and the road opens up.
Watch the video below:
Video: Is the Honda CB750 better than the CB1000 Hornet SP? Maybe...
The 750, on the other hand, relies on a parallel twin with a 270-degree crank that delivers torque in a more relaxed and accessible way. It’s lighter, easier to manage, and more adaptable to everyday riding. In tight, technical sections or in a big group ride, the midrange punch feels perfectly matched to the gearing, allowing it to hang with literbikes until the straights stretch too far.
The Hornet name now straddles two very different machines. One leans toward outright performance, the other toward usability and approachability.
Choosing between them depends less on which is better and more on how you prefer to ride.
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I could use a little more leg room but it's not bad at all. As soon as someone comes out with bar risers that will fit, I will put them on. Because of the angle of the bar clamps, ones for older MT09's will not fit. My wrists aren't what they use to be. The only other thing is I will get a new seat this winter. I'm going to try Russell seats. They make a touring seat & one a little more for sport riding.
Couldn't decide between the two so ended up getting an RSV4 😄