As the days pass and we move closer to 2023, the various motorcycle manufacturers are starting to unveil their new machines. On September 9, 2022, it was not a new motorcycle that Honda Europe pulled the covers from. Instead, it was an entirely new engine, the beating heart of the revived Honda Hornet: a 755 cc inline-twin with 8-valve Unicam timing. Honda announces a power of 92 hp with a “spicy delivery” of Hornet style but reinforced by constant torque at low and mid revs.
Rumors of an all-new 750cc engine within the Honda range have been rumored for some time. Although the firm already has a 745cc inline-twin that currently powers the NC750X, Forza 750 and X-ADV, it was understood that it would be a completely new and different engine. Until now, however, these were just rumors.
Today, however, Honda finally unveils its new mill, still referring to the “Hornet Concept”: a 755 cc inline twin with 8-valve Unicam distribution. It develops a maximum power of 92 hp (67,5 kW) at 9 rpm with a maximum torque of 500 Nm at 75 rpm. As seems to be de rigeur in other competitive inline-twin mills, it has a 7-degree crankshaft.
The existing 745 cc inline-twin in Honda's lineup, by comparison, produces around 58 hp at 6 rpm. There may only be a 750cc difference in displacement, but it is clear from these figures that there are significant differences in the intended use of each engine. The new Hornet mill will clearly be more dynamic and, if we can be bold enough to predict it, probably also a bit more fun.
“The Hornet has always been a very special motorcycle for Honda. Exciting and engaging performance has always been combined with flexible and agile handling,” Honda deputy director of major projects Fuyuki Hosokawa said in a statement.
“Before starting this project, we thought a lot about what kind of performance we wanted to give the pilot. We knew it was essential to maintain the power punch of the classic Hornet and at the same time, as a new generation Hornet for modern times, we wanted the engine to have a typical zesty delivery in Hornet style. perfect reinforced by constant torque at low and mid revs for pure driving pleasure and maximum usability on any route", he continued.
“To achieve the kind of performance and lightweight handling we were looking for, we knew we had to develop an all-new, short-stroke, twin-cylinder engine with a 270° crankshaft. This would provide not only that power, but also the sporty low-end torque ideal for urban driving and exiting corners. For us, the Hornet has always been the epitome of the streetfighter concept and this new Hornet concept proudly continues that tradition.", concluded Fuyuki Hosokawa.
Does the timing of this reveal mean we'll see a less conceptual Honda Hornet at EICMA? It's impossible to say for sure, but we can certainly hope. Also, is this the engine that will also power the new Transalp 750? This seems like a distinct possibility.
