However, before everyone gets too excited about the news, the brand new Hornet will not have an inline-four that makes 97 bhp over the original Hornet. Instead it will be powered by a new parallel twin like the Yamaha MT-07. If reports are to be believed, it will be 750cc, most likely to be found on the internationally sold NC750X.
Honda is yet to confirm these reports on the engine specifications. However, the Hornet is considered an affordable middleweight and replacing the inline-four with a parallel twin will make it so. In addition, a twin is easier to comply with existing emissions regulations than a four.
The affordable roadster segment is very popular, something that has been proven by the MT-07. Not just the Hornet, Honda will build a range of motorcycles around this twin engine, noting that it will be tossed on a tubular steel trellis frame, highlighting its ‘versatility’. For example, the MT-07 is used as the base for the Tenere 700. So, in yet another good news, we may see the arrival of a smaller, more affordable Africa Twin in the form of the Honda Transalp mid-range Adventure. Touring Bike. When and if Honda launches these in India will have to wait and see.