2026 Honda CB1000 GT Leaked Ahead of Launch – Versys 1100 Rival
Honda’s litre-class motorcycle family is expanding once again. After unveiling the CB1000 F neo-retro earlier this month, leaked homologation documents from Australia have revealed a new adventure tourer based on the CB1000 platform. Called the Honda CB1000 GT, this ADV could make its official global debut at the 2025 EICMA Show.
With ADV styling, a four-cylinder engine, and premium equipment, the CB1000 GT is shaping up as a direct rival to the Kawasaki Versys 1100.
Expanding the CB1000 Family
Honda Motor Co Ltd appears to be strengthening its CB1000 portfolio with motorcycles across different genres. While the CB1000 Hornet and CB1000 F focus on street and neo-retro styling, the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT takes the platform in the adventure-touring direction.
The leaked images show similarities with the CB1000 Hornet’s frame, although the CB1000 GT gets a unique rear subframe and long-travel suspension to match its ADV positioning.
ADV Styling and Design
In the leaked images, the Honda CB1000 GT is seen in a white paint scheme with bold ADV proportions. A semi-fairing with “CB1000 GT” branding and a tall windscreen emphasize wind protection for long-distance rides.
Other notable design elements include a twin-pod LED reflector headlight setup, muscular fuel tank shrouds, a sculpted fuel tank, and blacked-out engine bay panels. The split seats, chunky grab rails, knuckle guards, and four exposed exhaust headers further add to its adventure appeal.
Engine and Performance
The new ADV is expected to use the same 999cc inline-four engine found on the CB1000 Hornet and CB1000 F. In its current form, this engine produces 157 bhp and 107 Nm, paired with a six-speed gearbox.
Honda could tweak the engine mapping for the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT to better suit adventure-touring. Features like slipper clutch, bi-directional quickshifter, traction control, cruise control, and multiple ride modes are also likely.
Suspension, Brakes, and Hardware
Unlike the Hornet, the CB1000 GT comes with longer-travel suspension and increased ground clearance, highlighting its ADV focus. The bike runs on 17-inch alloy wheels with road-biased tyres.
Suspension hardware includes USD telescopic front forks and a rear mono-shock. Braking duties are handled by dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear with Nissin callipers.
According to homologation documents, the CB1000 GT weighs 213 kg with a 10-litre fuel capacity. Rider ergonomics are upright, with a neutral riding triangle and centre-set footpegs designed for comfort over long rides.
What to Expect at Launch
The 2026 Honda CB1000 GT is likely to make its official debut at the 2025 EICMA Show in Milan before entering international markets in 2026. Its biggest rival will be the Kawasaki Versys 1100, a motorcycle that has long dominated this segment.
With Honda’s strong brand recall and its proven four-cylinder platform, the 2026 Honda CB1000 GT could become a highly competitive option in the litre-class ADV space.
