Honda CB1000 Hornet SP vs KTM 790 Duke

Verdict

The KTM 790 Duke wins this comparison clearly, 62.3 points to 57.8.

The gap of 4.5 points is built mostly in engine and performance, where the 790 Duke takes 10 points out of the CB1000 Hornet SP. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the CB1000 Hornet SP is the quicker machine: 157 hp and 107 Nm moving 212 kg, against 95 hp and 87 Nm moving 184 kg for the 790 Duke. That is 0.74 hp per kilo playing 0.52.

The 790 Duke costs €8,999, which leaves €4,991 in your pocket against the CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990. Service intervals run 15,000 km on the 790 Duke and 12,000 km on the CB1000 Hornet SP.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP or the KTM 790 Duke?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. It carries 0.74 hp per kilo (157 hp, 212 kg wet) against 0.52 hp per kilo for the KTM 790 Duke (95 hp, 184 kg).

Is the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP cheaper than the KTM 790 Duke?

The KTM 790 Duke is cheaper at €8,999 list, €4,991 less than the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990.

Which is better for shorter riders?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. Its 809 mm seat is 16 mm lower than the KTM 790 Duke, and at 212 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the CB1000 Hornet SP or the 790 Duke?

The KTM 790 Duke, which scores 8.3 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity. The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP counters with a TFT dash, traction control, a standard quickshifter and phone connectivity.

Which goes further on a tank?

The KTM 790 Duke: 311 km from its 14 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 288 km for the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 790 Duke, scoring 62.3 of 100 against 57.8 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.