Honda's latest anti-theft system features a fail-safe electronic interlock that prevents the engine from being started by any other than the motorcycle's two original keys. Since H.I.S.S. disables the motorcycle at the heart of its ignition system, it cannot be bypassed by either hot-wiring the ignition or exchanging the ignition switch module, thus effectively deterring thieves.

Mono merchants will be pleased that the Hornet is a great tool for those with a fine enough sense of throttle control to do a proper balance point wheelie.  It will come up easily in first and can be shifted through the gears from there.  Those not quite practiced in the art would perhaps be more comfortable doing slightly lower monos more off the power.  If you are comfortable keeping it up nice and high and using fine throttle adjustments then the Hornet will reward you by happily sitting up for as long as you like, I got as high as 5th gear before losing my bottle.

A range of optional equipment is available from Honda including a small screen and a centre-stand.  For $13,990 the 900 Hornet is an exceptional touring or commuting mount with plenty of performance to keep the sportsbikes honest when the corners arrive.  However something makes me think that some customers might go elsewhere, simply for adjustable suspension, which seems a little harsh, but the compulsive 'twiddlers' will always want more knobs to twiddle with.  Even if they do just end up tuning themselves to a standstill.

2002 Honda CB900 Hornet Specifications

• Engine ≈ Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC in-line-4
• Bore x Stroke ≈ 71 x 58mm
• Displacement ≈ 919 cc
• Compression Ratio ≈ 10.8:1
• Induction ≈ Electronic fuel injection
• Power ≈ 81kW/9,000min
• Torque ≈ 92Nm/6,500min
• Ignition ≈ Computer-controlled digital transistorised with electronic advance
• Starter ≈ Electric
• Transmission ≈ 6-speed
• Final Drive ≈ 'O'-ring sealed chain
• Dimensions (L x W x H) ≈ 2,125 x 750 x 1,085mm
• Wheelbase ≈ 1,460mm
• Seat Height ≈ 795mm
• Ground Clearance ≈ 145mm
• Fuel Capacity ≈ 19 litres (including 4-litre reserve)
• Front rim ≈ 17 x  3.50 hollow-section triple-spoke cast aluminium
• Rear rim ≈ 17 x 5.50 hollow-section triple-spoke cast aluminium
• Front tyre ≈ 120/70 ZR17
• Rear tyre ≈ 180/55 ZR17
• Front Suspension ≈ 43mm cartridge-type telescopic fork, 120mm axle travel
• Rear Suspension ≈ Monoshock damper with 7-step adjustable preload, 128mm axle travel
• Front brakes ≈ 296 x 4.5mm dual hydraulic discs with 4-piston calipers, floating rotors and sintered metal pads
• Rear brake ≈ 240 x 5mm hydraulic disc with single-piston caliper and sintered metal pads
• Dry Weight ≈ 194kg
• Colours - Red or Blue
• RRP - $13,990
• Warranty - Two years, unlimited kilometres

 CB 900 Hornet wallpaper

Check out our first images from the CBR 954 Fireblade and VTR SP2 launch