The stage at EICMA 2025 in Milan was set for a significant debut, and Honda did not disappoint. The Japanese manufacturer has officially unveiled the all-new CB1000 GT, a serious contender in the competitive litre-class sport-touring segment. This machine signals a clear intent, transforming the raw, street-focused energy of the CB1000 Hornet into a sophisticated, long-distance companion ready to take on rivals like the BMW S 1000 XR and Kawasaki Versys 1100.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the CB1000 GT beats the same formidable 1000cc inline-four engine found in the Hornet, but its character has been deliberately reshaped for the open road. Honda’s engineers have prioritized mid-range torque over top-end scream, a strategic move that pays dividends when overtaking or carrying a passenger and luggage. This retuning results in slightly lower peak figures of 149.7 hp and 102 Nm of torque, but riders will feel a stronger, more accessible pull from the middle of the rev range. Complementing this, revised gear ratios ensure relaxed highway cruising and more intuitive power delivery when navigating winding mountain passes.
Chassis and Ergonomics
To fulfill its grand touring, the CB1000 GT’s foundation has been thoughtfully redesigned. The swingarm has been lengthened and the subframe extended, a technical change that translates directly to two key benefits: enhanced high-speed stability and more generous room for a passenger and its standard-equipped detachable panniers. With a rider-friendly 825mm seat height and a kerb weight of 229kg, the GT aims to be both accessible and substantial. It even manages to offer a slight 3mm advantage in ground clearance over the Hornet, now at 133mm, promising confident cornering clearance.
Premium Suspension and Electronics Suite
The CB1000 GT arrives with a top-shelf electronic suspension system from Showa that automatically adapts to changing conditions. By continuously processing data from a six-axis IMU and suspension sensors, the system adjusts damping in real-time based on your speed and riding style. For more direct control, riders can select from four pre-set modes: Standard, Rain, Sport, and Tour.
The electronic aids are comprehensive, managed through a clear 5-inch TFT display. The suite includes:
- Multiple Riding Modes
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
- Cornering ABS
- Cruise Control
- A bi-directional quickshifter
Notably, Honda has made features like heated grips, knuckle guards, the centre stand, and the panniers standard equipment, positioning the CB1000 GT as a truly ready-to-tour package straight from the showroom.
This strategic launch places Honda firmly in the high-performance sport-touring arena, offering a compelling new option for riders who refuse to choose between exhilarating power and continent-crossing comfort.
