Honda is preparing to take its premium motorcycle lineup to the next level with the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT. Leaked images from an Australian homologation document have revealed the first look at this exciting new sports tourer.
The CB1000 GT will be based on the CB1000 Hornet platform and will focus on long-distance touring, combining performance with rider comfort. Positioned as a rival to the Kawasaki Versys 1100 and BMW S 1000 XR, it aims to become Honda’s flagship model in the litre-class touring segment.
Let’s explore everything we know so far about this upcoming motorcycle — from design and engine to features, rivals, and expected launch details.
Expanding the CB1000 Family
Honda has been busy strengthening its 1000cc motorcycle range. After unveiling the CB1000 F neo-retro model earlier this year, the company is now expanding the CB lineup with the CB1000 GT.
The “GT” stands for Grand Tourer, and that perfectly sums up its purpose — a motorcycle built for powerful yet comfortable long-distance riding. The leaked images suggest that the CB1000 GT is more than just a faired version of the Hornet; it’s a thoughtfully designed machine aimed at riders who love touring in style.
Design and Styling: Sporty Yet Touring-Friendly
From the leaked pictures, the Honda CB1000 GT looks muscular and adventure-ready. It features a semi-fairing with the “CB1000 GT” logo on the sides, giving it a strong road presence. The overall design takes inspiration from adventure-tourers, with an upright stance and wider proportions.
Some of the key design highlights include:
- A tall windscreen for wind protection during highway rides
- Twin-pod LED headlights for a sharp and modern look
- A sculpted fuel tank with muscular extensions
- Split seat setup for both rider and pillion comfort
- Chunky grab rails and handguards for safety and convenience
- Upswept exhaust and blacked-out engine components for a sporty finish
The bike looks ready for long rides, offering a relaxed riding position and better wind protection. Honda seems to have tuned its ergonomics for comfort, with neutral handlebar positioning and slightly forward-set footpegs that reduce fatigue during long journeys.
Engine and Performance
Under the fairing, the CB1000 GT will use the same engine as the CB1000 Hornet — a 999cc inline-four, liquid-cooled motor. In the Hornet, this engine produces 157 horsepower and 107 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
For the GT version, Honda is expected to slightly retune the engine to deliver smoother performance and improved low-end torque — ideal for highway touring.
The transmission will likely include advanced features such as:
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Bi-directional quick-shifter
- Cruise control for effortless long-distance riding
- Traction control with multiple riding modes
With these additions, the CB1000 GT aims to provide a balance of power, refinement, and comfort that suits both spirited riders and long-distance travelers.
Chassis and Suspension
The CB1000 GT will share much of its frame design with the CB1000 Hornet, but it will get touring-specific adjustments. The leaked information suggests:
- A longer wheelbase (10mm more than the Hornet)
- Aluminum swingarm for added stability
- Long-travel suspension for improved comfort on bumpy roads
At the front, the bike uses USD (Upside Down) telescopic forks, while the rear features a monoshock suspension tuned for a softer, more comfortable ride.
The CB1000 GT will run on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with road-biased tires — offering good grip for highways and moderate touring conditions.
Braking duties will be handled by dual front discs with radially mounted Nissin four-piston calipers and a rear single disc, ensuring strong and consistent braking performance.
Comfort and Touring Features
Honda seems to be focusing on rider comfort and convenience for the CB1000 GT. The bike’s upright seating posture, wide handlebars, and soft seat cushioning will make it ideal for long rides.
Expected features include:
- Full-color TFT display with smartphone connectivity
- All-LED lighting setup (headlamps, taillights, indicators)
- Adjustable windscreen for personalized comfort
- Heated grips and handguards for added touring convenience
- Center stand for easier maintenance and parking
- Multiple ride modes and ABS for safety
The homologation listing mentions a kerb weight of around 213 kg (with 10 liters of fuel), which makes it slightly heavier than the Hornet but still manageable for its class. The fuel tank capacity hasn’t been officially confirmed, but it’s expected to be around 17–18 liters — suitable for long highway stretches.
Expected Launch and Price
The 2026 Honda CB1000 GT is likely to make its global debut at the 2025 EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, one of the world’s biggest bike expos. The European market will probably receive it first, followed by markets like Japan, Australia, and India.
If Honda brings it to India, the CB1000 GT will be positioned as a premium litre-class sports tourer. Expected pricing in India could be around ₹14 lakh to ₹17 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on import duties and local assembly plans.
Rivals in the Segment
The upcoming Honda CB1000 GT will take on several established players in the sports-touring and adventure-touring space. Its closest rivals include:
- Kawasaki Versys 1000 / 1100
- BMW S 1000 XR
- Suzuki V-Strom 1050
- Triumph Tiger Sport 660 (lower segment rival)
Each of these models offers a mix of performance and comfort, but Honda’s edge could come from its refined engine, reliability, and touring comfort.
CB1000 GT vs CB1000 Hornet: What’s Different?
Feature CB1000 Hornet CB1000 GT
Type Naked Streetfighter Sports Tourer
Suspension Street-tuned Long-travel
Riding Position Aggressive Upright
Wind Protection Minimal Tall windscreen
Seat Comfort Firm Plush touring seats
Purpose Performance & city rides Long-distance touring
The CB1000 GT is essentially the touring-focused sibling of the Hornet. While it shares the same engine and frame base, the GT offers added comfort, practicality, and a more relaxed riding feel — making it perfect for long weekend getaways or cross-country adventures.
Why the CB1000 GT Matters
Honda’s move to introduce the CB1000 GT highlights a growing demand for performance-touring motorcycles. Riders today want machines that can handle both high-speed highways and comfortable cruising. The CB1000 GT aims to bridge that gap, offering:
- Superb inline-four power
- Touring-focused ergonomics
- Advanced electronics
- Signature Honda refinement
If priced competitively, it could become one of the most desirable touring bikes in its class.
Disclaimer :-
The information in this article about the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT is based on leaked reports and early homologation data. Official specifications, features, and pricing may vary once Honda makes an official announcement. Readers are advised to wait for verified details from Honda before making any purchase decisions.
Q&A: 5 Common Questions About the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT
Q1. What engine does the Honda CB1000 GT use?
Ans. It uses the same 999cc inline-four engine from the CB1000 Hornet, expected to deliver around 150–157 hp.
Q2. Is the CB1000 GT suitable for long rides?
Ans. Yes, it’s designed for touring comfort with a tall windscreen, soft seats, and upright ergonomics.
Q3. What are the main rivals of the CB1000 GT?
Ans. It will compete with the Kawasaki Versys 1100, BMW S 1000 XR, and Suzuki V-Strom 1050.
Q4. When will the Honda CB1000 GT be launched?
Ans. The global launch is expected at the 2025 EICMA Show, with sales beginning in 2026.
Q5. Will the CB1000 GT come to India?
Ans. Honda has not confirmed yet, but given India’s growing premium motorcycle market, a launch here is quite possible.
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