2025 Middleweight Naked Comparison: Honda CB750 Hornet vs Suzuki GSX-8S vs Yamaha MT-07

Welcome to Motorcycle.com's 2025 Middleweight Naked Comparison! The middleweight category is popular for a variety of reasons: approachable performance, versatility, and affordable pricing. Nearly every manufacturer has an offering on tap, but we decided to compare some of the most recent additions to this broad class.

The Honda CB750 Hornet is powered by a 755cc Parallel-twin producing 76.6 hp at 8,200 rpm, making it the horsepower leader of the group. Its rev-happy nature provides a sportbike-like character, though softer 50.9 lb-ft of torque at 7200 rpm torque doesn't offer as much punch below 4,600 rpm makes it less engaging in city riding. The chassis is sharp and agile, aided by a narrower and taller 160/60-section rear tire, while the bi-directional quickshifter works nicely, though performs better as the as the engine hits its stride. Ergonomics are compact and can feel cramped for taller riders, and its menu navigation is less intuitive than rivals. At $7,999 it is the least expensive option tested.

Suzuki rolled out its all-new Suzuki GSX-8S in 2023, which utilizes the brand's 776cc Parallel-twin producing 73.5 hosepower at 7,900 rpm and 53.4 lb-ft of torque at 5,400 rpm, offering the strongest midrange and the most usable torque across real-world conditions. The chassis is stable and compliant, giving the GSX-8S a comfortable and predictable feel between all the bikes tested here, though not as sharp handling as the Honda or Yamaha. Brakes are balanced and confidence-inspiring, while ergonomics provide room to move and a sensible riding position. Its bi-directional quickshifter is less refined and the clutch pull is heavier, but overall it presents the most versatile package. Priced at $9,209, it is the highest cost but delivers consistency in all areas.

The Yamaha MT-07 uses a 689cc CP2 Parallel-twin engine producing 65.1 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 46.3 lb-ft. of torque at 6,300 rpm. Due to having the smallest displacement of all three bikes, it also produces the lowest peak performance figures, but still holds its own with engaging midrange torque. The 2025 updates include an all-new chassis, with a stiffer frame and 41 mm inverted fork, improving composure compared to earlier models. The MT-07 feels lively in canyon riding but its front-end feedback can be vague, and the upright ergonomics catch wind at speed. It lacks a standard quickshifter, requiring more clutch work, though the lever is light. At $8,599 it sits between the Honda and Suzuki on price.

Nic's In Gear:
Helmet: Arai Contour-X - https://imp.i104546.net/193ZMm
Jacket: Spidi DP Progressive Hybrid Leather - https://imp.i104546.net/EEjRY4
Pants: Spidi Supercharged Tex - https://imp.i104546.net/3J3mMB
Gloves: Spidi Power Carbon - https://imp.i104546.net/zxknDM
Boots: XPD Moto Fast H2Out - https://imp.i104546.net/bOejgx

Ryan’s In Gear
Helmet: Schuberth C5 Carbon - http://imp.i104546.net/bOej09
Jacket: REV'IT! Tornado 4 H2O - https://imp.i104546.net/OeJyWQ
Pants: Pando Moto Boss DYN 01 - https://imp.i104546.net/vPrEOd
Gloves: Cortech Mirror Breaker - https://imp.i104546.net/3J3mLK
Boots: Cortech Slayer Checkered - https://imp.i104546.net/yq54BV

Troy’s In Gear
Helmet: Arai Corsair-X Cadalora - https://imp.i104546.net/0935xL
Jacket: Vanson Full Throttle - https://www.vansonleathers.com
Airbag: Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma - https://imp.i104546.net/dOAv7y
Pants: Alpinestars Cult-8 Riding Jeans - https://imp.i104546.net/MA1VNN
Gloves: Alpinestars Phenom Leather Air - https://imp.i104546.net/LKG1ZO
Boots: Alpinestars SuperFaster - https://imp.i104546.net/raxy2B


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