The Honda Hornet 900, also known as the CB900F or CB919, is a naked bike lauded for its powerful engine, comfortable riding position, and classic aesthetics. However, like any motorcycle, it's not without its quirks and potential issues. Understanding these common problems can help you make an informed purchase, properly maintain your Hornet, and troubleshoot issues should they arise. This guide will delve into the most frequently reported problems with the Hornet 900, offering insights and potential solutions to keep your ride smooth and enjoyable.

So, What Are the Biggest Gripes Owners Have?

Let's be honest, no bike is perfect, and the Hornet 900 is no exception. While it's generally a reliable machine, some issues pop up more frequently than others. These aren't necessarily deal-breakers, but knowing what to look out for can save you time, money, and frustration.

  • Fuel Injection Quirks: One of the most common complaints revolves around the fuel injection system.
  • Suspension Softness: Many riders find the stock suspension a bit too soft, especially for spirited riding or carrying a passenger.
  • Regulator/Rectifier Woes: Like many Hondas of this era, the regulator/rectifier can be a potential weak point.
  • Exhaust System Corrosion: Age and environmental factors can take their toll on the exhaust system.
  • Clutch Basket Noise: Some owners report a rattling noise coming from the clutch basket, particularly at idle.

We'll dive into each of these in more detail below.

Decoding the Fuel Injection Mystery

The Hornet 900 utilizes a PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system, which, while generally reliable, can sometimes exhibit some less-than-ideal behavior.

  • Cold Start Issues: Some owners report difficulty starting the bike when cold. This can manifest as extended cranking times, a reluctance to idle smoothly, or even stalling shortly after startup. Possible causes include:
    • Weak battery: A weak battery can struggle to provide sufficient power to the fuel pump and ignition system, especially in cold weather.
    • Dirty injectors: Over time, deposits can build up in the injectors, restricting fuel flow and affecting spray patterns.
    • Faulty fuel pump: A failing fuel pump may not deliver adequate fuel pressure.
    • Incorrect valve clearances: Improper valve clearances can affect engine compression and starting.
  • Hesitation or Stuttering: Another common complaint is hesitation or stuttering at low RPMs, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or cruising at a steady speed. Potential culprits include:
    • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): A faulty TPS can send incorrect signals to the ECU, leading to improper fuel delivery.
    • Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor: A malfunctioning IAT sensor can provide inaccurate temperature readings, affecting fuel mixture.
    • Vacuum leaks: Leaks in the intake system can disrupt the air/fuel ratio.
    • ECU Mapping: While less common, issues with the ECU mapping itself can contribute to these symptoms.
  • Surging or Erratic Idle: An unstable or surging idle can also be a sign of a fuel injection problem. Consider these possibilities:
    • Idle Air Control Valve (IACV): A dirty or malfunctioning IACV can prevent the engine from maintaining a stable idle.
    • Vacuum leaks: Again, vacuum leaks can play a significant role.
    • Throttle body synchronization: Improperly synchronized throttle bodies can lead to uneven airflow and an unstable idle.

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Start with the basics: Ensure your battery is in good condition and fully charged.
  • Use a fuel injector cleaner: Regularly using a fuel injector cleaner can help prevent deposits from building up.
  • Check for vacuum leaks: Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or leaks.
  • Consider a professional tune-up: If you're not comfortable working on the fuel injection system yourself, take your bike to a qualified mechanic for a diagnosis and tune-up.
  • Check for error codes: Though the Hornet 900 doesn't have a sophisticated diagnostic system, some fault codes can be accessed via the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp). Consult your owner's manual for instructions.

Taming the Soft Suspension: Upgrades and Adjustments

The Hornet 900's stock suspension is often described as being tuned for comfort rather than performance. While this is fine for casual riding, it can feel inadequate when pushing the bike harder or carrying a passenger.

  • Front Suspension Issues: The front forks are often considered the weakest link. They can feel soft and underdamped, leading to excessive dive under braking and a vague feeling in corners. Common solutions include:
    • Fork spring replacement: Upgrading to stiffer fork springs is a relatively inexpensive way to improve the front suspension's performance.
    • Fork oil change: Replacing the fork oil with a higher viscosity oil can also improve damping.
    • Fork cartridge emulators: These replace the stock damper rods with adjustable cartridge-style dampers, offering a significant improvement in performance and adjustability.
    • Complete fork replacement: For the ultimate upgrade, consider replacing the entire front fork with a higher-spec unit from another motorcycle or aftermarket manufacturer.
  • Rear Suspension Issues: The rear shock absorber is also often criticized for being soft and lacking adjustability. Possible upgrades include:
    • Aftermarket shock replacement: Replacing the stock shock with an aftermarket unit offers improved damping, adjustability, and overall performance. Look for shocks with adjustable preload, rebound damping, and compression damping.
    • Shock rebuild: If your stock shock is in good condition, you may be able to have it rebuilt and re-valved to suit your riding style.

Suspension Setup Tips:

  • Start with the basics: Set the sag correctly. Sag is the amount the suspension compresses under the weight of the bike and rider. Consult your owner's manual or a suspension specialist for proper sag settings.
  • Adjust damping: Experiment with different damping settings to find what works best for your riding style and road conditions.
  • Consider professional help: If you're unsure about suspension setup, consult a qualified suspension specialist.

Battling the Regulator/Rectifier Gremlins

The regulator/rectifier (R/R) is responsible for converting AC voltage from the alternator to DC voltage and regulating the voltage to prevent overcharging the battery. Unfortunately, the R/R is a common point of failure on many Hondas of this era, including the Hornet 900.

  • Symptoms of a Failing R/R:
    • Overcharging the battery: This can lead to a bulging or leaking battery.
    • Undercharging the battery: This can cause the battery to drain quickly, leading to starting problems.
    • Burnt-out bulbs: Overvoltage can damage bulbs.
    • Melting connectors: The R/R connector can overheat and melt, causing electrical problems.
  • Prevention and Solutions:
    • Relocate the R/R: The stock R/R is often located in a poorly ventilated area, which can contribute to overheating. Relocating it to a cooler location can help prolong its life.
    • Upgrade to a MOSFET R/R: MOSFET R/Rs are more efficient and run cooler than the stock shunt-type R/Rs.
    • Check the wiring: Inspect the wiring and connectors for signs of damage or corrosion.
    • Regularly monitor battery voltage: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage while the engine is running. It should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts.

Combating Exhaust System Corrosion

The exhaust system is exposed to harsh conditions, including heat, moisture, and road salt, which can lead to corrosion over time.

  • Common Areas of Corrosion:
    • Headers: The headers are particularly susceptible to corrosion due to their proximity to the engine.
    • Collector box: The collector box, where the headers join together, is another common area for corrosion.
    • Muffler: The muffler can also corrode, especially at the seams and welds.
  • Prevention and Solutions:
    • Regular cleaning: Regularly cleaning the exhaust system with a mild soap and water solution can help remove dirt and salt.
    • Protective coatings: Applying a heat-resistant protective coating can help prevent corrosion.
    • Stainless steel exhaust: Upgrading to a stainless steel exhaust system is a more expensive but long-lasting solution.
    • Repair or replacement: If the exhaust system is severely corroded, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Addressing Clutch Basket Noise

Some Hornet 900 owners report a rattling noise coming from the clutch basket, particularly at idle. This is often caused by wear in the clutch basket dampers.

  • Causes of Clutch Basket Noise:
    • Worn dampers: The clutch basket dampers are rubber or plastic pieces that absorb vibrations. Over time, these dampers can wear out, leading to increased noise.
    • Loose rivets: The rivets that hold the clutch basket together can also loosen over time, contributing to noise.
  • Solutions:
    • Clutch basket replacement: Replacing the entire clutch basket is the most effective solution.
    • Damper replacement: In some cases, it may be possible to replace the dampers individually. However, this can be a more complex and time-consuming process.
    • Live with it: If the noise is not excessive and the clutch is functioning properly, you may choose to simply live with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the Hornet 900 a reliable bike? Yes, the Hornet 900 is generally considered a reliable motorcycle, but like any machine, it has its potential issues. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly can ensure its longevity.
  • How often should I change the oil? Honda recommends changing the oil every 8,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, many owners prefer to change it more frequently, especially if they ride aggressively.
  • What's the best fuel for the Hornet 900? The Hornet 900 is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Premium fuel is not necessary.
  • Where can I find a service manual? You can purchase a service manual from your local Honda dealer or online retailers. A service manual is an invaluable resource for performing maintenance and repairs.
  • Are there any common modifications that improve the Hornet 900? Popular modifications include upgrading the suspension, installing a Power Commander to fine-tune the fuel injection, and adding aftermarket exhaust.

In Conclusion

The Honda Hornet 900 is a fantastic naked bike that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style. By understanding the common issues and knowing how to address them, you can keep your Hornet running smoothly and enjoy many years of riding pleasure. Addressing these potential problems proactively will help you keep your Hornet 900 on the road and performing at its best.