Okay, here is my story about riding the Honda Hornet CB600F.
So, I’ve been riding bikes for a while now, and I’ve always been a fan of naked bikes. They just have this raw, stripped-down feel that I love. I’d heard good things about the Honda Hornet CB600F, especially the 2007 model, which they say is the last true generation. People who know bikes say it is a reliable machine, so I thought, why not give it a shot?
First off, getting my hands on one was a bit of a mission. These bikes have been around since 1998, and they were a big hit in the UK and Europe, so finding a well-maintained one took some time. But eventually, I found a beauty. It was in pretty good shape, considering its age. I did notice some corrosion on the bottom yoke and the stainless steel downpipes had some discoloration, which is apparently common, but the rest of the finish was surprisingly tough.
The first time I took it out for a spin, I was blown away. This bike is just so much fun to ride. It’s got a 600cc engine that pumps out around 15.8PS, which doesn’t sound like much, but on a bike this light, it feels like a rocket. The handling is superb, it’s so easy to throw around corners. The riding position is comfortable, even for longer rides. I could tell why racers liked setting these up, it’s just so responsive.
I started taking it on longer trips, and it handled them like a champ. It shrugs off miles better than most Japanese bikes I’ve ridden. Even in winter, it performed well, although I made sure to give it a good wash after riding in salty conditions. You have to keep up with the maintenance if you want to avoid heavy corrosion, it is common sense.
My Riding Experience
- Daily Commute: This bike is perfect for the daily commute. It’s nimble enough to weave through traffic, and the fuel economy is pretty decent, around 60kmpl, which is good for a 160cc vehicle.
- Weekend Rides: On weekends, I took it out to the twisty roads, and that’s where it really shines. The acceleration is smooth, and it just hugs the road. It’s a joy to ride.
- Long Trips: I even took it on a few longer trips, and it was surprisingly comfortable. The seat is decent, and the riding position doesn’t tire you out too much. It’s not a touring bike, but it can handle a few hundred miles without any issues.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. One thing I did notice is that Honda’s service network isn’t as extensive as some other brands. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind. If you’re planning on getting one, make sure there’s a reliable mechanic nearby.
Overall, I’m really happy with my Honda Hornet CB600F. It’s a solid, reliable bike that’s a blast to ride. It’s not the newest or the flashiest, but it’s got character, and it’s a great all-arounder. If you’re looking for a fun, affordable naked bike, you should definitely check out the Hornet. You won’t be disappointed. Just keep up with the maintenance, give it a good wash after riding in the salt, and you’ll have a great time.
It is a good bike to start your riding journey, highly recommend it.
