In 2005, when this CB600F Hornet came off the assembly line of a distant Japanese factory, I was still riding around Kiev in the “old Java”. Our relationship was wonderful: after the purchase, I restored it and painted it; she also thanked the fact that she went without a hitch and did not break.
However, at a certain point, I nevertheless realized that for a full-fledged motorcycle life with travel and daily trips to work, you need to buy a “Japanese”.
And my heart was set on a 600cc Hornet. It was this middle-sized naked or neoclassic, as it was then called, that seemed to me the embodiment of an ideal motorcycle. Its wiry and stubby body, merrily upturned tail, and round headlight teased me from the photo above my desk.
At that time Hornety in Ukraine could be counted on the fingers. Half of those who traveled on our roads are still undocumented. Therefore, when the decisive moment came, I bought what was available - Yamaha FZS600S Fazer. And Hornet remained an unrealized dream until 2012, when I first managed to test it. To be precise, I have already tested the latest injector generation model before. However, the original carbureted Hornet with a round headlight fell into my hands for the first time.
Looking at the motorcycle from the side, you immediately notice its compact dimensions. I have noticed before that in many photos the Hornet riders seem very strong. It turns out that this motorcycle is small, and the people are big. Therefore, it makes sense to pay attention to motorcyclists of small stature on this Honda, but pilots above 180 cm will look a little funny on it.
The low seat - only 790 mm - organically complements the compact dimensions of the bike and helps to keep it in any situation. This will be appropriate during learning to ride on two wheels and adaptation when moving from a smaller cubic capacity.
The rider's footpegs are set back, hinting at the bike's energetic nature, but positioned at a comfortable height. At least in urban mode, the triangle "steering wheel - seat - footpegs" completely suited me. Perhaps on the highway, when you have to spend more time in the saddle of a motorcycle, your knees will get tired.
In the instance that I tested, the “native” steering wheel was replaced with a tuning one. As for me, it is too narrow, and it is located far from the seat. Unfortunately, it was not possible to evaluate the fit with the original steering wheel.
Retired sportsman
As with many Japanese straights, the Hornet's engine has sporting roots. This fact attracts gullible buyers who want to have a city-friendly and at the same time “incendiary” bike. In practice, the Hornet's sporty pedigree shows up in a very illogical distribution of power and torque over the operating range for a city bike.
The bike actively starts from a place, but then the dynamics of speeding up ...
Another traditional forte bikes of the Japanese concern - the balance of the chassis. And the Hornet is no exception. For the CB600F, the engineers opted for a rather unusual vertebral frame for the street, the main rectangular beam of which runs on top of the engine. In addition, this design is quite light, it maximizes the view of the engine - an important aesthetic factor for naked.
Either way, the bike's steel frame and aluminum swingarm provide superior handling and control on the highway. Hornet holds the road and trajectory well even at 150 km / h. Fast turns, such as S-shaped zigzags with a height difference on the Lviv ring road, the bike passes very clearly and accurately, writing out a given arc predictably. Is that quite a bit resists laying in such turns. At lower speeds, there are no comments on handling at all.
Due to the compactness and successful geometry of the steering column, the Hornet is just as easy to maneuver in the city. A narrow handlebar with a less stable chassis on our curved roads could cause a lot of problems, but the Hornet flies through surprise pits with a bang. Hard potholes at a speed of 80-100 km do not lead to emergency situations. Showa's simple non-adjustable upside-down fork swallows them with taste.
1. Since 2003, the classic round headlight has received separate high and low beam reflectors. 2. Thanks to the spinal frame, which is not standard for this class of motorcycles, the engine is as open as possible for inspection. It is literally suspended from frame 3. The bike is equipped with a non-adjustable inverted fork and 2-piston front calipers. Such a kit no longer meets the modern standard of urban neukid 4. Stock exhaust system 4-in-1 format produces a good sound 5. The aluminum swingarm is stiff enough for the requirements that its owner can put forward on a motorcycle. brake calipers by Nissin
Perhaps the most big disadvantage motorcycle in the city - problems with finding a neutral at traffic lights that arise from time to time. In general, the gear lever works easily and smoothly, as it should be in a Honda gearbox.
Of course, the picture will be incomplete without assessing the performance of the braking system. During vigorous deceleration, the front calipers do not show modern efficiency, and the moment of wheel lockup is difficult to predict and capture. This is not surprising: the front of the Hornet is modest by today's standards, Nissin 2-piston calipers.
On the one hand, this test drive destroyed my long-standing idealized image of the Honda CB600F, because a lot of time has passed, and motorcycle technology has taken a tangible step forward. Yes, and my preferences have changed under the pressure of experience. Now the 95-horsepower engine is no longer enough, and I get more pleasure from the V-shaped two-cylinder engines.
However, nostalgic emotions aside, we can state that the Hornet is a really good bike. And if you turn back time to eight years ago, I would not hesitate to buy it
Specifications
| TSINA | $6000 |
| DVIGUN | |
| PUSHING | 95 K.S. AT 12000 RPM/HV |
| POWERFUL TORQUE | 63 Nm at 9500 rpm |
| TYPE | 599 CM 3 , P4, 16V, DOHC, SINGLE COOLING |
| PISTON DIAMETER x HID | 65 x 45.2 mm |
| STEP STEP | 12:1 |
| LIFE SYSTEM | CHOTIRI CARBURETORY, 34MM THROTTLE BODIES |
| CHEPLENYA | BAGATODISKOVE IN OIL BATH |
| TRANSMISSION | 6-STEP., LANTSYUG |
| SHACE | |
| FRAME | CHREBTOVA STALEV |
| KUT NAKHILU / VINOS KERMA | 25.45° / 98 mm |
| FRONT PIDVISKA | 41MM INVERTED TELESCOPIC FORK, REGULAR, 120MM XID |
| REAR | ALUMINUM SINGULUM, MONO SHOCK ABSORBER, ADJUSTABLE FRONT SPRING, HID 128 MM |
| GALMA FRONT | 2X296 MM DISCS, 2-PORSH. SUPORTI |
| REAR | 220 MM DISC, 1-PORSH. SUPORT |
| TIRE FRONT | 120/70 R17 |
| REAR | 180/55 R17 |
| ROZMIRI | |
| WHEEL BASE | 1420 mm |
| HEIGHT BY SIDLU | 790 mm |
| CLEARANCE | 140 mm |
| TANK | 17 L |
| ORGANIZED VAGA | 200 KG |
The naked model Honda CB 600 Hornet was first introduced in 1998 and has since won a huge army of fans around the world. The model was based on the engine from sports version The Honda CBR600F3, which was slightly deformed (by changing the profile of the camshaft cams, reducing the diameter of the carburetor diffusers and changing the ignition system) and reconfigured to increase traction at low and medium speeds, as a result, the engine began to produce 94.69 hp. power and 62.76 Nm of torque, while remaining quite resourceful ( maximum performance motors were reached at 9500-12000 rpm.). Over time, the motor was subjected to improvements and changes that concerned both the engine itself and the intake system, due to which the power of the modern Honda Hornet 600 has grown to 102 hp. (The key point was the use of the engine from the sports version of the Honda CBR600RR).
This model may have the following names:
Honda Hornet 600
Honda CB600F Hornet
Main generations of Honda CB 600 Hornet:
Honda Hornet 600 (1998-2002) - I generation.
Honda Hornet 600 (2003-2006) - II generation.
Honda Hornet 600 (2007-2012) - III generation.
In more detail, the differences between each generation of the motorcycle are described in the subsection. Short story models.
The main modifications of the Honda CB 600 F Hornet:
Honda Hornet 600 - the usual naked version of the motorcycle
Honda Hornet 600 S - version with front fairing (produced from 2000 to 2003)
Model range of the Honda Hornet series:
Honda Hornet 250
Honda Hornet 600
Honda Hornet 900
The main competitors of the Honda CB600 Hornet in the class:
Kawasaki Z750 / Kawasaki Z800
Yamaha FZ6N / Yamaha FZ8N
Suzuki GSF600 Bandit / Suzuki GSF650 Bandit
2012 was the last year of production for the Honda CB 600 F Hornet. Since 2014, the Honda CB650F has been introduced as the official successor.
Model History
1998 - start of production and sales of the Honda Hornet 600. The first generation of the motorcycle. The model has a steel spinal frame, front wheel on 16".
2000 - The Honda Hornet 600 is slightly updated with a slightly larger 17" front wheel. wheelbase and a modified front fork. In parallel with the usual modification, the S version (with a fairing) is being produced.
2003 - the second generation of the motorcycle. The Honda Hornet 600 is getting a major upgrade, getting a little more modern design both the motorcycle itself and dashboard. The capacity of the fuel tank is increased by 1 liter (up to 17 liters), an inverted plug is installed instead of the usual plug, the brake system is slightly updated (the Nissin of the 2nd generation is replaced by the 3rd generation Nissin), the HISS immobilizer appears. Modification S is no longer offered for purchase.
Compare motorcycle Honda CB 600 F Hornet with Honda CBR600F4i
2007 - the third generation of the motorcycle. Honda Hornet 600 is seriously updated both externally and technically. Appearance becomes similar to modern nakeds, the engine is now installed from sports Honda CBR600RR (producing 102 hp), an injector is used instead of carburetors, the brake system is updated (combined is optionally available anti-lock system- C-ABS), fuel tank increases to 19 liters.
2012 - Last year production Honda models CB 600 Hornet (official sales continued until 2013).
2014 - as the official successor to the Honda CB 600 Hornet was introduced Honda motorcycle CB650F.
Specifications:
Comparative specifications different Generations of Honda CB 600 Hornet:
| Generations | Honda CB600F Hornet (1998-1999) | Honda CB600F Hornet (2000-2002) | Honda CB600F Hornet (2003-2006) | Honda CB600F Hornet (2007-2012) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle type | Road (street, naked) | |||
| Frame | steel | aluminum | ||
| engine's type | 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, in-line | |||
| Working volume | 599 cu. cm. | |||
| Bore/Stroke | 65mm x 45.2mm | 67mm x 42.5mm | ||
| Compression ratio | 12,0:1 | |||
| Cooling | liquid | |||
| Number of valves per cylinder | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | |||
| Fuel supply system | carburetor, 4x 34mm Keihin CV (flat throttle) | electronic injection PGM-FI | ||
| Ignition type | fully transistorized | |||
| Max power | 94.69 HP at 12000 rpm | 94.00 HP at 12000 rpm | 96.50 HP at 12000 rpm | 102 HP at 12000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 62.76 Nm at 9500 rpm | 61.78 Nm at 10,000 rpm | 63.00 Nm at 10,000 rpm | 63.50 Nm at 10500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6 speed | |||
| type of drive | chain | |||
| Front tire size | 130/70ZR16 61W | 120/70ZR17 58W | ||
| Rear tire size | 180/55ZR17 73W | |||
| Front brakes | 2 discs 296 mm, 2-piston calipers | 2 x 296mm discs, 2-piston calipers (option C-ABS - 3-piston) | ||
| Rear brakes | 1 disc 220mm, 1 piston caliper | 1 disc 240mm, 1-piston caliper (optional ABS) | ||
| Front suspension | 41 mm telescopic fork, travel - 112 mm | 41 mm inverted telescopic fork (since 2005), travel - 109 mm | ||
| Rear suspension | pendulum with monoshock absorber (adjustable preload), stroke - 127 mm | |||
| Length x Width x Height | 2080 x 740 x 1055 mm (2100 x 740 x 1070 mm - 2005-2006) | 2085 x 760 x 1090 mm | ||
| seat height | 795 mm (790 mm - 2005-2006) | 800 mm | ||
| Wheelbase | 1420 mm | 1435 mm | ||
| Acceleration to 100 km/h | 3.3 sec | |||
| Max speed | 225 km/h | |||
| Gas tank capacity | 16 l (including reserve - 3 l) | 17 l (including reserve - 2.6 l) | 19 l | |
| Motorcycle weight (curb) | 196 kg (200 kg - 2005-2006) | 198 kg (205 kg - versions with ABS) | ||
The moment when Honda introduces its new Hornet have been waiting for a long time. Moreover, even those fans of "bikes" who are not fans and fans of motorcycles of this series were waiting. The reason for this was simple - Honda promised to introduce something incredibly powerful and at the same time stylish, which, in principle, they did. In 2007, the company not only introduced a new clone that has more powerful features, Honda presented in all aspects perfectly new model.
Interest in this model was quite large also for the reason that after the presentation of the original model, in 1997, the motorcycle immediately became popular and famous. After all, it was a wonderful "bike" with excellent running features, a very high level of reliability and durability, as well as an acceptable and affordable price.
Appearance and positioning
The difference between the 1997 and 2007 models is huge, in this case the expression "like heaven and earth" would be appropriate. In the 2007 model, not only the concept has changed, but the positioning in the market has been changed. If in 1997 the Hornet was considered a reliable and powerful “horse” that belongs to the segment, then since 2007 it has been not just a powerful and reliable unit, it is a very stylish and most modern “bike” with an ergonomic and original design. By the way, in terms of design, one can single out such moments as very well combined optics, a relief seat, side kinks in the gas tank and, of course, the rear.
Specifications Honda CB 600 Hornet
As for the technical components - there are also huge changes. Since now 2007 is a real streetfighter, then here all the components must correspond to this status.
Engine
The engine here is one of the best - CBR600RR. This unit produces 102 liters. s., which is quite a serious indicator. Plus, the motorcycle has an advanced fuel injection system, which provides a very smooth return, as well as accurate distribution of all the power, and, of course, improved fuel economy. It is also worth noting that, thanks to the new engine, the motorcycle not only became the owner of great power, but also lost five kilograms, which is very good. The engine itself can also be called compact - this has a positive effect on the weight distribution.
Mass concentration problem solved!
Engineers from Honda took a fresh look at the problem of mass concentration. Now the exhaust system, which is a four-channel pipeline, reaches only the crankcase, where it forms one single, but large, so-called "bank", from which there is a resonator branch located under the "belly". Thus, quite a lot of problems are being solved, though new ones also make themselves felt.
Hornet series motorcycles have always been known as "top-of-the-line" bikes, which means frequent crashes and other damage that the bike itself must be prepared for. So, it is rather difficult to imagine with such an unusual design what will happen if the muffler comes into contact with curb asphalt.
Plus, the fact that you should not fall on this bike is evidenced by the front cast brackets. They are located far enough away that increases the chances that they can easily break off if dropped. And of course you won't be happy with that. So it is not advised to fall on this “bike”, since even from a slight fall, the owner of the motorcycle will have to take it to repair.
New frame
Regarding innovations, it is worth noting new frame. The CB 600 uses a special backbone frame with aluminum subframes. Thanks to it, high strength is ensured, so even on high speeds you don't have to worry about reliability. Also noteworthy is the advanced brake system. There are two discs in the front, which have a six-piston caliper, due to this you can feel the excellent dynamics of deceleration. And all this despite the fact that the total dry weight is only 173 kg.
Outcome
Summing up, we can say the following: despite the minus in the design, which is not designed for falls and damage, it is an excellent bike. This is a bike that has great performance, as well as good features that allow you to use it to the maximum.
Translated from English, Hornet is a hornet, this is a ferocious insect that can cause a lot of trouble. A talking name that should somehow justify itself and indeed, to a certain extent, the “hornet” can give out very impressive performance, so up to 100 km / h the motorcycle can accelerate in just 3.5 seconds and this is without suitable tuning, with it the performance improves even more. The most interesting thing is that this indicator is not achieved due to the colossal power, which, by the way, is only 92 hp in the device. The maximum speed is achieved depending on the weight of the driver, a person of average build will be able to disperse the “hornet” and more than 200 km / h, but obese drivers are unlikely to be able to reach this mark. Hornet does not consume much gasoline, on its 16-liter tank it is realistic to drive more than 200 kilometers.
Now about the stuffing more specifically. The engine can be called more elastic compared to the previous version, although it is the engine power that is not enough, sometimes you want the hornet to fly faster than it is capable of. Since the engine of the Honda Hornet belongs to previous version CBR600F PC25, which is the most reliable in the history of the company, you should expect the same from the "hornet". The engine is extremely reliable, if you change the oil and filters on time, then in this case you should expect your “insect” to fly on the roads even with a mileage of more than 100,000 thousand kilometers. Now for some negatives. It's not a hornet, it's some kind of drone! The motorcycle has a fair appetite and with an immoderate drive, it is able to gobble up more than 10 liters of fuel easily. When driving in dense stream, especially for traffic jams, the engine may overheat. This is due to a too small radiator, which simply does not have time to remove all the heat.
The best moment for a sharp explosion is 6500 rpm, it is then that the hornet is able to demonstrate all its best qualities. However, on high speed still not very comfortable to move around, so cruising speed is any that goes up to 140 km / h.
Regarding the frame it can be said that it is very light, which allows you to control the motorcycle quite well. The suspension forgives some flaws in handling, the driver on a more serious technique would easily fly away in a turn where the “hornet” passes quite easily.
Rear wheel wide, and this once again confirms that the Hornet will feel confident on almost any surface.
Since the frame itself is of a spinal type, in the event of a serious accident it will have a hard time, in best case she will break.
Suspension very good for its level.
Lighting work at a high level and are practically not subject to breakdowns.
brakes not very informative, but they become such when they are changed with reinforced hoses.
Landing the driver is not the worst and not the best, it is comfortable.
