Honda enters the competitive sports tourer segment with the CB 1000 GT, a motorcycle that promises to reshape the market. ‘For those who don't want to compromise on performance but want to travel in comfort, this is the ideal solution,’ explains Andrea Venturini of Honda Moto Italia.

At its heart is a 150 hp four-cylinder engine derived from the Fireblade, the same as the CB 1000 Hornet but with a redesigned chassis: an elongated rear frame and a 16 mm longer swingarm to ensure stability when fully loaded. A bold choice in an era of twin-cylinder engines, but one that Honda justifies with the sporty soul of the project.

The standard equipment is breathtaking: Showa electronic suspension, cruise control, heated grips, quickshifter, 65-litre panniers and USB-C socket. There is also a six-axis IMU with cornering ABS. Attention to detail, such as simplified windscreen adjustment, makes all the difference in everyday use.

Despite the rich equipment, it is only 15 kg heavier than the Hornet. The price, yet to be officially confirmed, is expected to be around £12,000: an aggressive positioning for a complete motorcycle that will arrive at the beginning of the year.