Honda CB1000 Hornet SP vs Yamaha MT-09

Verdict

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP wins this comparison narrowly, 57.8 points to 55.6.

The gap of 2.2 points is built mostly in engine and performance, where the CB1000 Hornet SP takes 7.2 points out of the MT-09. 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 119 hp and 93 Nm moving 193 kg for the MT-09. That is 0.74 hp per kilo playing 0.62.

The MT-09 costs €10,519, which leaves €3,471 in your pocket against the CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990. Service intervals run 10,000 km on the MT-09 and 12,000 km on the CB1000 Hornet SP.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP or the Yamaha MT-09?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. It carries 0.74 hp per kilo (157 hp, 212 kg wet) against 0.62 hp per kilo for the Yamaha MT-09 (119 hp, 193 kg).

Is the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP cheaper than the Yamaha MT-09?

The Yamaha MT-09 is cheaper at €10,519 list, €3,471 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 Yamaha MT-09, and at 212 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the CB1000 Hornet SP or the MT-09?

The Yamaha MT-09, which scores 10 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control, a standard quickshifter, cruise 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 Honda CB1000 Hornet SP: 288 km from its 17 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 280 km for the Yamaha MT-09.

Which bike wins overall?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, scoring 57.8 of 100 against 55.6 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.