[1][2][3] It is powered by a 599 cc (36.6 cu in) liquid-cooled inline-four engine, originally a detuned version of that in the Honda CBR600 sport bike, which currently produces around 102 bhp (76 kW).

As a sport-oriented motorcycle that provides an upright riding position, it is considered a standard or "naked bike".

In 2005, the instrument cluster was modernised, and more importantly, it was fitted with inverted front forks, to improve road-holding and cornering stability.

Honda took the Hornet to the United States and Canadian market beginning for the 2004 and 2006 model years respectively.

This bike shared many of the same components – swingarm, fork, frame, engine – as the Honda CBR600F that was reintroduced in 2011.