International Honda Hornet to make a comeback

Honda has made multiple announcements at EICMA, including the return of the Hornet, new ADV350, updated Fireblade models and new colour schemes.

• Fireblades get an updated sprocket

• Honda ADV 350 introduced

• International Hornet to make a comeback

Honda Hornet

Honda has confirmed that the Hornet name will return to its line-up in the near future. The Hornet is a well-known street-fighter that was first introduced in Europe in 1998. The concept version of the upcoming motorcycle has been showcased in 3D using projection mapping. The concept appears to have a hint of the older bike’s styling, but with a much more modern touch. While there are no details on the motorcycle yet, we expect it to be powered by a parallel-twin engine.

Honda ADV350

Honda has said the ADV350 mixes the “sophistication of a premium scooter with the ability to deal with the roughest of tarmac and comes wrapped in rugged adventure styling.” The ADV350 uses the same 330cc, single-cylinder engine that makes 29.2hp and 31.5Nm of torque in the Forza 350. The ADV350 uses block-pattern 15-inch front and 14-inch rear tyres, a 37mm USD fork and twin rear shocks.

As far as features are concerned, there’s underseat storage space for two full-face helmets and a USB charger. The windscreen is height-adjustable, and the LCD instrumentation also integrates the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is fitted as standard.

Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, Fireblade SP and Fireblade SP 30th Anniversary 

Honda has made changes to address the known tall gearing issue of the Fireblade. The rear sprocket of the 2022 model is now significantly larger, going from 40 to 43-tooth, lowering gearing overall. This is expected to improve acceleration. The company has also made changes to improve intake and exhaust flow on both the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and Fireblade SP.

Honda has said that the intake ports have been tweaked to increase airflow speed. The company also raised the compression ratio of both bikes from 13.2 to 13.4:1. However, power and torque figures remain unchanged. Other changes include updates to the traction control system.

The SP variant, meanwhile, gets slightly reduced spring load in its ride-by-wire throttle, for improved response. The SP is also available as a limited-edition, 30th Anniversary model featuring a Tricolour homage paint scheme.

Colour schemes

Honda has also introduced new colours for its SH125i, X-ADV, Forza 125, Forza 350, CB650R, CBR650R, CMX500 Rebel, CMX1100 Rebel, Gold Wing and Gold Wing ‘Tour’ models.

SOURCE