Honda CB1000 Hornet SP Recalled in India Over Gear-Shift Risk

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has announced a voluntary recall of its premium CB1000 Hornet SP motorcycles in India, affecting units manufactured in 2025. The move responds to a safety concern, where excessive heat from the exhaust system may soften the painted seat surface and lead to the gear-change pedal pivot bolt loosening — potentially compromising gear shifting while riding.

Why the Recall?

According to HMSI, radiant heat radiated from the exhaust can soften the painted seat, which in turn may destabilise the change-pedal pivot bolt. Over time, this bolt could loosen and even fall off during riding — a serious risk, as it directly affects the ability to shift gears. The company emphasises that this is a precautionary move in line with its global safety action.

What Will Honda Do?

From January 2026, Honda will begin inspecting and replacing the faulty component free of cost, regardless of warranty status. The service campaign will be carried out exclusively at BigWing Topline dealerships across India. Honda is proactively contacting affected customers via calls, SMS, and e-mails; owners can also check whether their bike is part of the recall by entering the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on Honda’s website.

CB1000 Hornet SP: Key Specs & Performance

• Engine & Power: The CB1000 Hornet SP is powered by a 999 cc inline-four, liquid-cooled DOHC engine producing roughly 155 bhp and 107 Nm of torque.
• Transmission: It uses a 6-speed gearbox and features a slipper clutch, along with a bi-directional quick-shifter.
• Riding Modes & Aids: The bike has five riding modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, plus two custom User modes), as well as Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
• Chassis & Suspension: It rides on a double-beam frame, with Showa SFF-BP USD forks up front and an Öhlins TTX monoshock at the rear.
• Brakes & Wheels: Braking is handled by twin 310 mm discs up front and a 240 mm disc at the rear. Tire sizes are 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear.
• Dimensions & Weight: The bike weighs around 212 kg, has a ground clearance of 135 mm, and a seat height of 809 mm. Fuel tank capacity is 17 litres.
• Price (India): Launched in India in mid-2025, its ex-showroom price is ₹ 12.35 lakh.

Why This Matters & Who Should Care

This recall reflects Honda’s proactive approach to rider safety, especially for its litre-class flagship sold via BigWing Topline dealerships. For owners of the 2025 CB1000 Hornet SP, it's crucial to act — check your VIN on Honda’s website, wait for Honda’s communication, and schedule a service appointment early to avoid delays. While the defect is not reported to have caused major incidents yet, it can impair gear shifting — a serious concern for both city commuters and performance riders.

The CB1000 Hornet SP remains a performance monster — but until this issue is fixed, it’s wise for owners to take Honda’s recall seriously, get their bikes inspected, and ensure their gear-linkage integrity is fully restored, at no cost.