2026 Honda CB1000GT: Touring Awakened

Quick summary: The Honda CB1000GT adds to Honda Motor Southern Africa’s motorcycle range for riders looking for a fully equipped, tech-rich touring motorcycle capable of covering long distances in supreme comfort, while ready to deliver high thrills when the open road gives way to sweeping corners. With a suggested retail price of R315,000 (Incl. VAT), the Honda CB1000GT comes already equipped with panniers and combines Fireblade-derived performance, premium touring comfort and advanced rider technology, with an exceptional level of equipment included as standard.

1. Introduction

With the introduction of the 25YM Honda CB1000 Hornet - a hard-edged naked armed with an intense hit of four-cylinder Fireblade power wrapped in a compact, agile chassis - Honda reset the bar both in terms of performance, customer expectation and price point.

Its overwhelming reception confirmed the platform had huge potential and 26YM sees a brand-new model drawn from Hornet stock - the Honda CB1000GT. 

Expanding Honda’s range the original concept for the bike was headlined by the banner ‘High Performance Tourer: Faster. More Distance. More Comfort.’ The result is a motorcycle that injects pure sports adrenaline into genuine long-distance ability.

Well suited to Africa’s diverse riding conditions, the Honda CB1000GT combines long-range comfort and practicality with the dynamic performance needed for wide-open roads, weekend riding and extended touring escapes.

Boasting effortless, smooth power and torque, the GT also sports sharply styled, functional aerodynamics as well as Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) Suspension, upgraded electronic package and premium equipment. Incredible on winding back roads, effortlessly comfortable everywhere else. The Honda CB1000GT redefines the modern sports tourer.

2. Model Overview

In creating the Honda CB1000GT the goal for Honda’s development engineers was simple: take the stunning Honda CB1000 Hornet and turn it into a sports tourer with increased comfort, range and class-leading performance.

The GT’s sharply chiselled front end was refined through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)ios to deliver optimum efficiency through the air, at all speeds, without disturbing either rider protection or handling. Sitting above this is an easy-adjust five-position screen.

For riders, the aerodynamic package offers valuable wind protection during longer highway journeys, helping reduce fatigue over extended distances.

Equipment levels are high: standard fit are rear panniers alongside cruise control, heated grips, knuckle guards, centre stand and quick shifter. Honda’s proven optically bonded five-inch TFT screen serves up intuitive usability, clarity even in bright light and Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity through the simple switchgear on the left handlebar.

This comprehensive standard specification is one of the Honda CB1000GT’s strongest value propositions for the market. At a suggested retail price of R315,000 (Incl. VAT), the Honda CB1000GT arrives ready for touring from day one, with the major comfort, convenience, luggage and performance features already included.

A power-to-weight ratio of 2.08kg/kW is thanks to the 1000cc, inline four-cylinder engine originally found in the CBR1000RR Fireblade, that produces 110.1kW and 102Nm torque to push a kerb weight of 229kg. Throttle-By-Wire (TBW) and a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) manage the default riding modes, USER mode parameters and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

The Hornet donates its diamond-style steel main frame with a revised subframe to increase rider and pillion room, as well as geometry adjusted for sharp handling and fully loaded stability. 

Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa-EERA™) suspension offers optimised damping in all riding conditions and situations, as well as the ability to adjust rear spring preload on the move. 

Braking power is provided by dual four-piston radial-mount calipers up front biting 310mm floating discs, and a mono-piston rear caliper operating on a single 240mm disc.

To offer increased confidence in a variety of scenarios and environments, the system operates through the IMU, which has facilitated the inclusion of Cornering ABS.

The 26YM Honda CB1000GT will be available in the following paint options:

• Grand Prix Red with extended Graphite Black livery
• Pearl Deep Mud Gray
• Graphite Black

3. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Aggressive bodywork provides maximum aerodynamic protection
• Detachable rear panniers standard
• Five-position screen adjusts with one hand
• Cruise control, heated grips and knuckle guards standard fit
• Five-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity
• Honda Smart Key convenience
• Auto-cancelling indicators with Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function

A product of collaboration between Honda’s styling studios in Italy and Japan, the bodywork of the Honda CB1000GT is made up of sharply cut surfaces, outlining an aggressive riding character led by the piercing dual projector headlights. By positioning the bodywork above the chassis, starting from shroud tips integrated with the front cowl, the perception is of a high, mass-forward centre of gravity with fast steering performance.

But it’s not just about style. Brought to reality using CFD the front fairing achieves maximum wind protection with neutral handling characteristics, through every pitch/roll/yaw riding situation. 

The five-position screen - operated by one hand - adjusts through a total range of 81mm. Set low, it gives a sense of freedom. Set high it provides comfortable wind protection. 

Standard detachable 37L left and 28L right panniers offer convenient carrying capacity, whilst standard heated grips ensure year-round comfort.

For riders who regularly cover meaningful distances between destinations, the combination of luggage capacity, weather protection and touring-focused comfort enhances the Honda CB1000GT’s ability to perform as a true long-distance sports tourer without requiring extensive additional preparation.

In alignment with Honda’s long-term environmental goals (Triple Action to Zero) the GT’s standard screen is made of Durabio™, a plant-based biomass, while the front and rear seat base plates use pre-consumer recycled PP (polypropylene).

All lighting is long-life, energy-efficient LEDs. Cruise control, with an operating window between 50 and 160km/h, is standard as are knuckle guards and heated grips. 

For added convenience a Honda Smart Key (kept in the rider’s pocket) operates the main ignition switch, sited on the handlebar and contains a ‘jackknife’ internal key to open the fuel cap/seat. A centre stand, for easy chain maintenance, is also standard fit.

Premium technology, in the form of Honda’s proven five-inch full colour TFT screen, uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced and backlight transmittance improved. 

It’s customisable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns and offers the iOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

This feature - alongside a simple, easy-to-use, backlit four-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar - allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music.

All the owner does is download the Honda RoadSync app from either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, connect to the Honda CB1000GT, and go - USB Type-C socket located at the bottom right of the screen for smartphone charging also enhances the convenience of the model.

The indicators autocancel after changing lanes or completing a turn. They also incorporate an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function: under hard braking, the hazard lights flash to warn other road users that a hard stop is in process.

3.2 Chassis

• Steel diamond-style twin-spar frame, with revised subframe increasing rider/pillion room
• Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa-EERA™) suspension standard fit
• Six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
• Four-piston, radial-mount front brake calipers, 310mm floating discs
• Cornering ABS improves braking security
• 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres

The Honda CB1000GT’s frame is a one-piece diamond-style steel unit and - through narrow pivot point width - delivers a slim-waisted feel with smooth, supple handling response.

The country’s varied road conditions place unique demands on rider comfort and chassis performance.

The Honda CB1000GT’s combination of increased rider and pillion accommodation, electronically controlled suspension and stability-focused chassis geometry helps deliver confidence and comfort across a broad range of road surfaces and riding scenarios.

A new, extended subframe features a supporting cross pipe and optimised cross plate to open up room for GT duties: rigidity overall has been carefully balanced with weight increase minimised. Length of the cast aluminium Pro-Link swingarm goes from 619 to 635mm, improving high-speed stability while fully loaded and the rear shock mount design reduces vibration. Die-cast aluminium foot pegs also make long-distance riding more comfortable for the pillion.

Stability of a touring bike and the handling of a naked sports bike sums up the Honda CB1000GT’s handling potential. Rake and trail are set at 25.0° and 106.3mm with wheelbase of 1,465mm. Ground clearance is 133mm, 3mm more than the Hornet. Weight distribution is 51% / 49% and works with the riding position for light steering feel. Kerb weight is set at 229kg.

Seat height is 825mm and the riding position is upright, allowing free movement and excellent forward vision. For comfort, the seat thickness has increased by 15mm for the rider and 39.5mm for the pillion, with handlebar position also optimised along with the footpegs for a riding triangle comfortable over long distances.

Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa-EERA™) suspension is standard fit on the Honda CB1000GT – as is a Nippon Seiki six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) – and works to provide optimum compression/rebound damping response over a wide range of conditions.

This adaptability is particularly beneficial when transitioning between urban environments, open highways and more demanding riding roads, allowing the Honda CB1000GT to maintain a composed and comfortable ride throughout.

The system automatically provides optimum damping force relative to the stroke speed and adjusts within 15 milliseconds of calculations being made.

3.3 Engine

• CBR1000RR Fireblade engine re-tuned for super-smooth throttle response
• Strong mid-range torque with exhilarating top-end power
• Assist/slipper clutch control

Based originally on the 17YM-specification CBR1000RR Fireblade engine, the 1000cc DOHC inline four-cylinder unit has been given bespoke PGM-FI and TBW settings for its application in the GT. In keeping with its long-distance performance persona, the changes are aimed at producing a smooth power delivery on initial throttle opening, ultimately reducing fatigue for riders and pillion on longer journeys.

Bore and stroke are set at 76 x 55.1mm respectively, with compression ratio set at 11.7:1. The GT is armed with an almost identical, full-fat top-end rush: maximum power of 110.1kW arrives at 11,000rpm, with 102Nm torque at 8,750rpm.

Honda engineers invested significant time and effort in ensuring that the power delivery is linear, with a torque curve bulging through the mid-range for effortless performance throughout the rev range.

The strong mid-range torque and refined throttle response are especially well suited to real-world riding, providing effortless overtaking performance and relaxed cruising capability when covering longer distances.

Ratios for gears two through five are optimised for acceleration while sixth offers relaxed highway cruising. An assist/slipper clutch offers a light load at the lever, reducing fatigue whilst managing rear wheel hop under hard, rapid downshifts and braking.

A quick shifter is also standard fit for seamless clutch-less upshifts and downshifts with auto-blip function.

The engine returns fuel efficiency of 16.5km/L and the fuel tank holds 21L, giving a potential touring range of over 340km.

Combined with the generous fuel capacity and standard touring equipment, the Honda CB1000GT is designed to deliver the practicality and range demanded by riders who enjoy exploring beyond the city limits and through our picturesque African landscapes.

3.4 Advanced Rider Electronics

• Six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) management of all ride systems
• •Throttle By Wire (TBW) control with four default rider modes plus USER customizable options
• Three levels of Engine Power and Engine Brake
• Three levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)

Key to striking that balance between winding road sportster and long-distance tourer is a modern, comprehensive electronics package. At the heart of the Honda CB1000GT is a combination of advanced TBW control and a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU).

TBW allows the rider maximum control over the engine via four default riding modes with preset combinations of Engine Power (EP), Engine Brake (EB) and HSTC settings, plus a USER-defined option that allows the rider to choose their own preferred mix of settings.

The suspension also adjusts to deliver the appropriate damping force for the mode selected.

Rider Modes:

1. STANDARD mode uses the middle setting for EP, HSTC and EB. It is designed to replicate the feel and drive of a bank of carburetors, with an easy-going character.
2. SPORT uses the highest EP delivery and lowest levels of EB and HSTC to deliver maximum big-bike performance, with enhanced throttle response.
3. RAIN mode employs the lowest EP setting for the least aggressive throttle response, medium amount of EB and maximum HSTC.
4. TOUR has the same output characteristics as STANDARD, but the damping force adapts according to speed; the only mode that does.
5. USER mode allows the rider to choose between the settings for each parameter and save the setting for future customized use.

4. Warranty & Pricing 

Warranty: 2 year / Unlimited Km

Price: 2026 Honda CB1000GT – R315,000 (Incl. VAT)

The Honda CB1000GT arrives with an extensive list of premium touring, comfort and convenience features included as standard equipment. This gives African riders a fully equipped sports tourer from the moment it leaves the showroom.

Free-Rider Training for all experience levels offered with every new Honda Motorcycle sold.

Standard Touring Value

For riders seeking one motorcycle that can deliver sports performance, touring comfort and everyday convenience, the Honda CB1000GT presents a compelling package in the premium sports touring segment.

ENDS