By ravikiran kasturi, Motorcycle Expert | June 12, 2025

Hey, riders! If you’re eyeing a high-performance naked sports bike that blends power, style, and reliability, the 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP is turning heads. Launched in India at a jaw-dropping on-road price of ₹14.79 lakh (~$17,500 USD), this bike delivers specs that rival pricier competitors like the Triumph Street Triple RS, but at a better value. As a motorcycle enthusiast who’s tested countless bikes, I’m breaking down the top 10 reasons why the CB1000 Hornet SP is a must-buy in 2025, based on its thrilling features and my hands-on insights. Let’s rev up and explore why this Honda is stealing the show!

Why the 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP Stands Out

The 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP is a 1000cc inline-4 naked sports bike that combines aggressive styling, cutting-edge electronics, and Honda’s legendary reliability. With 155 bhp, premium components like Brembo brakes and Öhlins suspension, and a feature-packed SP variant, it’s a direct competitor to bikes like the Triumph Street Triple RS and Ducati Streetfighter V2—but at a lower price. Here are the top 10 reasons to make it your next ride.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy the 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP

1. Unmatched Power and Torque for a Naked Bike

The CB1000 Hornet SP’s 999cc inline-4 engine pumps out an impressive 155 bhp and 109 Nm of torque, rivaling top-tier naked bikes. This power delivers exhilarating acceleration, with first and second gears offering explosive thrust, perfect for spirited rides or track days. Compared to competitors like the Street Triple RS (123 bhp), the Hornet’s torque ensures effortless low-end grunt, making it ideal for city cruising and highway sprints.

2. Premium Brembo Stylema Brakes

The SP variant features Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers with dual 310mm semi-floating front discs, providing exceptional stopping power. These top-tier brakes offer precise feedback, crucial for high-speed cornering or emergency stops. The rear 240mm disc with a Nissin single-piston caliper ensures balanced braking, while standard ABS adds safety without compromising performance.

3. Öhlins TTX36 Rear Suspension

Unlike the standard model, the SP boasts an Öhlins TTX36 rear suspension with manual compression, rebound, and preload adjustments. Paired with adjustable front forks (preload on the left, compression/rebound on the right), it offers a customizable ride, whether you’re carving corners or cruising. This premium suspension enhances handling, absorbing bumps with ease and keeping the bike planted at high speeds.

4. Advanced Electronics Suite

The Hornet SP matches 80% of the Triumph Street Triple RS’s electronics, including:

• Three Riding Modes: Rain, Standard, and Sport, plus two customizable User modes for tailored power, engine braking, and traction control.
• Three-Level Traction Control and Engine Braking: Adjustable for grip and deceleration, reducing brake reliance at high speeds.
• Quick Shifter with Sensitivity Settings: A standard up/down quick shifter with soft, medium, and hard options for personalized gear changes, a rare feature in this segment. This suite ensures versatility, from wet roads to aggressive track sessions.

5. Competitive Pricing at ₹14.79 Lakh

At ₹14.79 lakh (Hyderabad on-road price), the CB1000 Hornet SP undercuts competitors like the Triumph Street Triple RS (~₹15.5 lakh) while offering comparable or superior specs. Its value is unmatched, delivering high-end features like Brembo brakes, Öhlins suspension, and advanced electronics at a price that shocked the Indian market. For a 1000cc naked bike, it’s a steal in 2025.

6. Honda’s Legendary Reliability

Honda’s Japanese engineering shines in the CB1000 Hornet SP, with a refined, smooth engine built to last. The transcript notes its low maintenance costs, a major advantage over European rivals. Riders can keep this bike for years without worrying about frequent repairs, making it a smart long-term investment for enthusiasts who value durability.

7. Aggressive, Compact Styling

The Hornet SP’s naked design is both sleek and menacing, reminiscent of the Ducati Panigale’s aesthetic. Key styling highlights include:

• Dual Projector LED Headlights with DRLs for a sharp, modern look.
• Matte Black Finish with Gold Rims: A standout combination that turns heads.
• Large, Growling Muffler: Enhances the bike’s aggressive sound and presence. Its compact layout belies its 1000cc power, offering a nimble feel without the bulk of heavier rivals.

8. High-Quality Bridgestone Battlax Tires

The bike comes equipped with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport tires, known for excellent grip and durability. These tires complement the Hornet’s high power output, ensuring confident handling on twisty roads or wet surfaces. The 17-inch wheels provide agility, making it a joy to flick through corners.

9. Customizable 5-Inch TFT Display

The 5-inch TFT display offers three layouts (Bar, Circle, Simple) and Bluetooth connectivity for navigation or calls. Riders can adjust settings like riding modes, traction control, and quick shifter sensitivity via a joystick, with clear visuals even in sunlight. Optional heated grips can be activated through the display, adding comfort for colder rides (accessory purchase required).

10. Transmission and Handling Enhancements

The Hornet SP includes a slipper clutch and quick shifter for seamless gear changes, reducing rear wheel hop during downshifts. The six-speed transmission is assisted, ensuring smooth shifts under aggressive riding. While the lack of a steering damper is a minor drawback at high speeds, the bike’s precise handling, thanks to its Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes, makes it a corner-carving machine.

Comparison Table: 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP vs. Triumph Street Triple RS

Feature	Honda CB1000 Hornet SP	Triumph Street Triple RS
Engine	999cc Inline-4, 155 bhp, 109 Nm	765cc Inline-3, 123 bhp, 80 Nm
Price (₹, on-road)	14.79 lakh	~15.5 lakh
Brakes	Brembo Stylema, 310mm discs	Brembo M50, 310mm discs
Suspension	Öhlins TTX36 (rear), adjustable forks	Öhlins STX40 (rear), Showa forks
Electronics	3 modes, 3-level TC/EB, quick shifter	5 modes, cornering ABS, quick shifter
Weight	~212 kg	188 kg
Tires	Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport	Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP

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My Experience: Why the CB1000 Hornet SP Excels

As a rider who’s tested bikes from Honda, Triumph, and Ducati, the CB1000 Hornet SP feels like a revelation. Its engine is buttery smooth, with a growling exhaust note that’s addictive. The quick shifter’s customizable sensitivity is a game-changer, letting me fine-tune shifts for city or track riding. The Öhlins suspension soaks up bumps effortlessly, and the Brembo brakes inspire confidence. At ₹14.79 lakh, it’s a no-brainer for riders seeking high-end performance without breaking the bank. My only gripe? A steering damper would’ve been nice for high-speed stability, but careful riding mitigates this.

Tips for Buyers

• Test Ride: Visit a Honda BigWing dealership to feel the Hornet’s power and handling.
• Accessories: Consider heated grips or a tail tidy for a sleeker look (removes rear tail piece).
• Maintenance: Budget for regular servicing, though Honda’s low upkeep keeps costs down.
• Compare: Check the Triumph Street Triple RS or Ducati Streetfighter V2, but note the Hornet’s price advantage.
• Insurance: Factor in comprehensive insurance (~₹30,000/year) for peace of mind.

Conclusion: Is the 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP Worth It?

The 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP is a masterpiece of power, technology, and value, making it one of the best naked sports bikes of the year. With 155 bhp, Brembo Stylema brakes, Öhlins suspension, and advanced electronics, it delivers high-end performance at a mid-range price. Honda’s reliability ensures years of trouble-free riding, while its aggressive styling turns heads wherever you go. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or upgrading from a 750cc bike, the Hornet SP is a thrilling choice.

Ready to ride? Visit your local Honda BigWing dealership or book a test ride at honda2wheelersindia.com. Share your favorite feature in the comments, and subscribe to Techmo for more bike reviews! Need personalized advice? Contact us at techmo.com/motorcycle-consultancy.

Disclaimer: Prices vary by city; confirm on-road costs with dealers. Always wear safety gear and ride responsibly.