
INTRODUCTION
The 2025 Honda Hornet 1000 SP marks Honda’s premier entry into India’s litre-class naked-bike segment, blending aggressive streetfighter styling with race-bred performance. Powered by a high-revving 998cc inline-four cylinder engine, the Hornet 1000 SP delivers a thrilling mix of power delivery and handling agility, making it the most affordable inline-four litre-class streetfighter on sale in India today.
GALLERY
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
DISPLACEMENT
998cc
MILEAGE
15-19km/l
POWER
157.17PS @ 11,000rpm
TORQUE
107Nm @ 9,000rpm
FUEL SYSTEM
PGM-FI
TANK CAPACITY
15L
REAR SUSPENSION
Öhlins TTX36
KERB WEIGHT
211Kg
Ratings
- %
Performance
- %
Features
- %
Handling
- %
Comfort
- %
Build Quality
- %
Styling
- %
Value for Money
- %
Total
Price

SPECIAL FEATURES
1
998cc INLINE-FOUR ENGINE
2
SHOWA SFF-BP FORKS
3
ÖHLINS TTX36 REAR SHOCK
4
5-INCH TFT DISPLAY
5
BREMBO STYLEMA BRAKES
6
BI-DIRECTIONAL QUICKSHIFTER
7
FIVE RIDING MODES
8
ROADSYNC CONNECTIVITY
9
FULL-LED LIGHTING
10
STEEL DIAMOND FRAME
11
TRELLIS-STYLE SUBFRAME
12
EMERGENCY STOP SIGNAL
Full Specifications
City | 15-17km/l |
Highway | 17–19km/l |
Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-Stroke, DOHC, Inline Four-Cylinder |
Displacement | 998 cc |
Power | 157.17 PS @ 11,000 rpm |
Torque | 107 Nm @ 9,000 rpm |
Bore x Stroke | Not officially specified |
Compression Ratio | Not officially specified |
Fuel Supply | Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) |
Speedometer | 5-inch Full-Colour TFT |
Tachometer | Digital |
Tripmeter | Dual Trip Meters |
Fuel Gauge | Digital |
Low Fuel Indicator | Yes |
Gear Indicator | Yes |
Start Type | Electric Start |
Riding Modes | 5 Modes (Standard, Sport, Rain + 2 User-configurable) |
Honda RoadSync | Yes (Smartphone Integration for Navigation, Music, Calls) |
Quickshifter | Bi-directional |
ABS | Single-Channel with Emergency Stop Signal |
Traction Control | Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with Wheelie Control |
Headlight | Twin LED Projectors with DRL Signature |
Tyres (F) | 120/70-ZR17 M/C (58W) (Tubeless) |
Tyres (R) | 190/55-ZR17 M/C (75W) (Tubeless) |
Brakes (F) | Dual 310mm Brembo Stylema Discs with 4-piston calipers |
Brakes (R) | 240mm Disc with Single-piston caliper |
ABS | Single-Channel (Front optimized) with Emergency Stop Signal |
Frame Type | Steel Diamond Frame with Trellis-Style Rear Subframe |
Front Suspension | Showa SFF-BP 41mm USD Fork (Fully Adjustable) |
Rear Suspension | Öhlins TTX36 Monoshock (Fully Adjustable) |
Front Wheel Travel | 120mm |
Rear Wheel Travel | 130mm |
Wheelbase | 1,480mm (approx.) |
Ground Clearance | 135mm |
Length × Width × Height | 2,105mm × 789mm × 1,090mm (est.) |
Kerb Weight | 211kg |
Fuel Capacity | 17.1L |
Seat Height | 809mm |
Electrical System | 12V DC |
Battery | 12V, 8.6 Ah (MF) |
Head Lamp | Twin LED Projectors with DRL Signature |
Tail Lamp | Full-LED |
Indicators | LED |
Instrument Console | 5-inch Full-Colour TFT with Honda RoadSync |
OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE & ENGINE
At its heart, Honda Hornet 1000 SP houses a 998cc liquid-cooled, DOHC inline-four engine that revs to 11,000 rpm. This muscular powerplant produces 157.17 PS at 11,000 rpm, with peak power, and 107 Nm at 9,000 rpm, with peak torque. This combination of high-end horsepower and substantial mid-range torque ensures explosive acceleration and seamless roll-on performance, whether carving through city traffic or blasting down open highways.
The Hornet 1000 SP channels its power through a six-speed manual gearbox with an assist-and-slipper clutch. This setup delivers crisp, precise shifts while reducing lever effort and smoothing out aggressive downshifts, enhancing both performance riding and everyday usability. Capable of reaching a top speed of 230 km/h, the Hornet 1000 SP lives up to its streetfighter character.
FUEL EFFICIENCY & MILEAGE
The Hornet 1000 SP, with its litre-class engine, achieves an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 17 km/l. This demonstrates Honda’s ability to strike a balance between performance and fuel economy.
In real-world conditions, fuel consumption varies based on riding style. Riders can typically expect 15-20 km/l, influenced by urban traffic, touring speeds, and throttle usage. This range serves as a valuable reference for daily commutes and weekend rides.
FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY
Honda has equipped the Hornet 1000 SP with a suite of rider aids and convenience tech typically found on far more expensive machines:
- 5-inch Full-Colour TFT Display: with Honda RoadSync™ smartphone integration for turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls
- Comprehensive Digital Readouts: Speedometer, tachometer, gear position indicator, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, and clock
- Five Riding Modes: (Standard, Sport, Rain, + two User-configurable) to tailor throttle response, engine braking, and traction control
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): with three levels and integrated wheelie control for confident acceleration
- Bi-directional Quickshifter & Assist and Slipper Clutch: for lightning-fast, clutchless up/down shifts and reduced lever effort
- Showa SFF-BP™ 41 mm USD Fork: (Separate Function Big Piston) – preload, compression, and rebound adjustable for track-like feedback
- Öhlins™ TTX36 Rear Shock: fully adjustable preload, compression, and rebound for poised handling
- Steel Diamond Frame: with Trellis-Style Rear Subframe for optimal rigidity-to-weight balance
- Dual 310 mm Brembo® Stylema® Front Discs and 240 mm Rear Disc: for superb stopping power
- Single Channel ABS: (optimised for front) plus Emergency Stop Signal to flash hazards under hard braking
- Twin LED Projector Headlamps: with distinctive DRL signature for enhanced night visibility
- Full LED Tail & Indicators: for rapid illumination and low power draw
- Muscular Fuel Tank & Sculpted Knee Indents: Trellis Subframe and blacked-out frame elements reinforce its aggressive streetfighter stance
BUILD QUALITY
Honda’s reputation for bullet-proof manufacturing shines through in the Hornet 1000 SP. Up front is a Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) with a Big Piston (BP), and at the rear is an Öhlins TTX36 shock – components usually reserved for superbikes – ensuring durability and precise damping control.
The 998cc DOHC mill is noted for its smoothness and minimal vibration, a hallmark of Honda’s inline-four build quality, even under hard acceleration. Panel gaps, welds, and fasteners meet exacting tolerances; the bike feels rock-solid whether pushing hard through corners or idling at traffic lights.
HANDLING
Honda Hornet 1000 SP delivers razor-sharp agility and steadfast stability, thanks to its race-derived chassis and electronics. A steel-diamond frame strikes a balance between rigidity and feedback, enabling quick direction changes while maintaining stability at high speeds.
The Showa SFF BP fork and Öhlins rear shock both offer preload, compression, and rebound adjustments, so you can fine tune the setup for street commuting or spirited canyon runs. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with integrated wheelie control allows you to exploit the Hornet’s punch without risking traction loss, thereby boosting rider confidence in varied conditions.
A wide handlebar, rear set pegs, and a well balanced 211 kg kerb weight give the Hornet an intuitive, flick and point feel—ideal for slicing through urban traffic or carving sweepers on the outskirts.
COMFORT
Despite its performance focus, Honda Hornet 1000 SP caters to rider endurance and all-day usability. The premium suspension smooths out rough tarmac and potholes, ensuring you arrive fresh rather than fatigued.
An upright seating position, wide handlebars, and 809mm seat height strike a balance between sporty control and reduced wrist/back strain – ideal for both city commutes and longer runs. Generous padding in the split-seat layout cradles the rider, while the sub-212 kg kerb weight makes low-speed manoeuvres and parking a breeze.
STYLING
Honda has styled the Hornet 1000 SP around its “Aggressive X Pure” streetfighter philosophy, resulting in a machine that looks every bit as potent as it performs. Twin LED Projectors with sharp DRL signatures give the bike a predatory gaze and excellent night time illumination. A muscular fuel tank with pronounced knee indents not only enhances its visual heft but also improves rider grip and control at speed.
The trellis style rear subframe and blacked out frame elements underscore the Hornet’s bare knuckle streetfighter DNA, while carefully sculpted side panels and a minimalist tail section keep the profile taut and purposeful. Subtle gold accents on the suspension and badging add a premium touch, setting the SP apart from more utilitarian naked-bike designs.
COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
In India, the Hornet 1000 SP is offered in a single, commanding finish:
- Pearl Igneous Black
This deep, matte-textured black is complemented by gloss-black frame treatments and gold-anodised suspension components, reinforcing the bike’s stealthy, premium character.
Honda currently retails the Hornet 1000 SP as a standalone, flagship variant in its litre-class roster:
- Hornet 1000 SP
The sole SP model combines high-spec suspension, electronics, and styling upgrades over the standard Hornet, without splitting it into multiple trim levels. Buyers seeking the inline-four streetfighter in India should opt for this SP variant, which comes fully loaded from the factory.
VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING
The Honda Hornet 1000 SP price start at ₹ 12,35,900 (Ex-Showroom, Gurugram), which translates to an approximate ₹ 12.36 lakh across Honda’s BigWing network in major metros. For a mere ₹ 29,000–55,000 premium over the Triumph Street Triple RS, you gain a complete litre-class inline-four engine, Öhlins™ rear shock, Showa SFF BP™ forks, and Brembo® Stylema® brakes.
Unlike others that offer multiple trim levels, the Hornet 1000 SP comes fully specified—quickshifter, five riding modes, full-colour TFT, and advanced rider aids—without upsells. That “one trim only” strategy simplifies buying and maximises equipment value when comparing ex-showroom tags.
Honda’s reputation for reliability and extensive service network (BigWing Topline) helps maintain resale values better than niche European rivals, thereby cushioning the total cost of ownership over 3–5 years. Some of the competitor models for the Honda Hornet 1000 SP are:
- Triumph Street Triple RS
- Kawasaki Z900
- Suzuki Katana
- Ducati Monster SP
- BMW S 1000 R
VERDICT
The Honda Hornet 1000 SP stands out in India’s litre-class naked-bike segment by marrying race-derived suspension with a high-revving, butter-smooth inline-four and an advanced electronics package. While its bold styling and single-colour option may not suit every taste, and its exclusivity can delay deliveries, few competitors pack this level of performance, specification, and refinement at the Hornet 1000 SP’s price point. For riders seeking an engaging, tech-rich streetfighter that punches above its weight, the Hornet 1000 SP remains a compelling choice.
PROS
- Design: Aggressive streetfighter styling with a muscular stance.
- Headlights: Twin LED projectors.
- Subframe: Trellis-style subframe highlighting big-bike credentials.
- Engine: 999 cc inline-four engine.
- Performance: Delivers 157 PS smoothly and refined without vibrations.
- Rider Aids: Honda Selectable Torque Control with wheelie mitigation, Five riding modes and Bi-directional quickshifter.
- Usage: Confidence-inspiring and enhances engagement for urban and open-road riding.
CONS
- Limited Availability: The Hornet 1000 SP is in short supply at BigWing dealerships, resulting in lengthy waiting lists for interested buyers.
- Colour Options: The bike is only available in a single colour—Pearl Igneous Black—which limits personalisation options for riders who prefer more colourful or diverse designs.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL HONDA NEW BIKES & MOTORCYCLES WITH PRICE
ABOUT HONDA COMPANY
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Japan, has been a dominant force in the Indian two-wheeler market since its establishment in 1999. Known for its innovation, quality, and intense focus on customer satisfaction, HMSI has steadily grown to become one of the leading players in the industry. gold wing Offering a wide range of products, from new bikes to well-established models, the honda company caters to the diverse needs of Indian consumers by providing motorcycles and scooters that excel in performance, reliability,affordable price and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re exploring Honda motorcycles for daily commuting or seeking performance-driven models, HMSI continues to deliver options with cutting-edge technology at competitive pricing. For those interested in staying updated with Honda bike’s prices or exploring their lineup, Honda’s commitment to excellence makes it a trusted brand across the country, cementing its position in the growing Honda Bikes India market.
History and Growth
HMSI was incorporated in 1999 and commenced its Indian operations in May 2001 with the launch of its first model, the Honda Activa. Over the years, HMSI has expanded its manufacturing capabilities and product portfolio, becoming the second-largest two-wheeler company in India with over 60 million customers.
Key Milestones and Developments
- 2001: Honda entered the Indian market with the Activa, marking its debut in the scooter segment.
- 2002: Honda started exports from India and obtained ISO 14001 certification.
- 2004: The brand launched the CB Unicorn, entering the 150cc motorcycle segment.
- 2006: Diversified into the motorcycle segment with the launch of the 125cc CB Shine.
- 2008: Introduced the Combi-Brake System with Equalizer technology, an industry first.
- 2009: Introduced Combi-Brake System with equalizer technology, an industry first.
- 2011: Honda split with Hero and became the only Honda in the Indian two-wheeler industry. This year also marked the entry into the 110cc motorcycle segment with the Dream Yuga. The second manufacturing plant was inaugurated at Tapukara, Rajasthan
- 2012: Achieved the milestone of 1 crore cumulative domestic sales and inaugurated a new Technical Centre with integrated SEDBQ function.
- 2013: The third manufacturing plant, with a capacity of 1.2 million units, was inaugurated at Narsapura, Karnataka. Honda Eco Technology (HET) was introduced to improve mileage.
- 2015: Achieved the two crore sales milestone and launched 15 new models, including the first in-India big bike, CBR 650F.
- 2016: The fourth manufacturing plant, with a capacity of 1.2 million units, was inaugurated at Vithalapur, Gujarat. Honda 2Wheeler India sales crossed the 5 million mark annually for the first time.
- 2017: Expanded capacity at the third manufacturing plant to 2.4 million units, bringing the total capacity to 6.4 million units annually from 11 assembly lines at four plants. The iconic Activa became India’s No. 1 selling two-wheeler, trusted by 1.5 crore families.
- 2019: Established the exclusive premium big bike business vertical ‘Honda BigWing’.
- 2021: Reached the 5 crore domestic sales milestone.
- 2022: Honda 2Wheelers India celebrated its 35 millionth two-wheeler landmark.
- 2023: Honda overtook Hero in domestic wholesales, clocking over 18.53 lakh units in the April-July period.
- 2024: Expanded capacity with a new assembly line at the Vitthalapur plant.
Manufacturing Facilities
HMSI operates four manufacturing plants across India:
- Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana: The first plant started production in 2001.
- Tapukara, Alwar, Rajasthan: The second plant was inaugurated in 2011.
- Narsapura, Kolar, Karnataka: The third plant was inaugurated in 2013.
- Vitthalapur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat: This is the fourth plant, inaugurated in 2016 and recently expanded in 2024.
These plants collectively have a production capacity of 7.05 million units per annum.
HMSI is the only two-wheeler manufacturer in India with a product portfolio ranging from entry-level 100cc models to the flagship 1800cc Gold Wing Tour.
Market Position and Achievements
HMSI is the second-largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India, following Hero MotoCorp. The company has a strong market presence with a wide range of products catering to different segments from 100cc to 1800cc. HMSI has achieved several significant milestones, including:
- Six crore domestic sales milestone in 2024.
- 35 million two-wheeler mark in 2018.
- First motorcycle manufacturer to achieve 800 Grand Prix victories globally in 2020.
Future Plans
HMSI is set to enter the electric mobility segment, with plans to launch an e-scooter and e-motorcycle later this year. The company also focuses on developing fuel-efficient products and integrating flex-fuel technology into its portfolio. Additionally, HMSI aims to strengthen its Manesar plant as a global resource factory and expand its export horizons.
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