NIMBLE , QUICK CHASSIS Overall , the chassis is excellent with a quick , light turn-in , no doubt helped by the sharp 25-degree steering head angle . Nimble and highly manoeuvrable , yet planted and feeling totally trustworthy , the light-feeling Hornet is a joy to throw around . At 190kg wet it truly is light too , but the fuel tank only holds 15.2 litres , which will compromise range a little . The chassis is a steel diamond construction and weighs only 16.6kg . The suspension is from Japanese experts , Showa , but not ultra-high tech nor particularly adjustable . Only shock preload can be altered . Don ’ t let that fool you , though , it works and works very well , considering . It is supple , well controlled , rides comfortably and is bottom resistant . The fact is suspension does not have to be ultra-adjustable to work well . If the factory settings are right and there is a nice linear progression built in to the shim shacks , then happy days ... adjustment is hardly necessary . Upside-down 41mm SSF-BP ( Showa Separate Function - Big Piston ) forks offer 130mm of
wheel travel and the rear linkage mounted shock delivers 150mm of axle travel . So , while not super flash and expensive , the suspension action is great and better than many I ’ ve ridden at a higher price point . Likewise , the braking performance is excellent . The twin front discs are only 296mm in diameter , not 330mm superbike issue items , but this Honda doesn ’ t miss the huge rotors . Strong Nissin four pot brake calipers bite in to the discs well , stopping the Hornet with authority and offer a nice progressive lever feel . Out back a 240mm disc and single piston caliper do the business nicely . ABS is standard front and rear , works great and is not switchable .
THE LOW DOWN Overall , the Honda CB750 Hornet is a blast . A practical machine to commute on , great for weekend warrior duties and even a little light touring - it covers the bases . However , its true element is high intensity fun , accessible to the masses , wrapped in a solid safety envelope of good geometry , light weight , and a decent chassis , but most of all - a lovely motor .
KIWI RIDER 35