Honda Hornet 2.0 tyre size and horn guide

Honda Hornet 2.0 tyre size chart

All Hornet 2.0 bikes use these sizes. The Hornet 160R that came before used a narrower 100/80-17 front with the same 140/70-17 rear, so do not assume an old front tyre from that bike will suit the newer one.

Reading 54S and 66S

Load index 54 means the front tyre can carry 212 kg; 66 on the rear means 300 kg. The S letter certifies 180 km/h, comfortably past this bike's top speed. When you buy, match or beat both codes. A bargain tyre rated lower on load may wear fast and feel vague two up with luggage. See our speed rating page for the letter chart.

What the Hornet 2.0 tyre size means for handling

The front 110/70-17 stands about 586 mm and the rear 140/70-17 about 628 mm. That broad, low front spreads a big footprint when you brake hard, a good match for the inverted fork and petal disc. The rear's 98 mm wall cushions potholes better than lower profile options, a good match for city roads full of patchwork.

A 150/60-17 rear tempts owners chasing a beefier stance. It stands near 612 mm, around 2.5 percent shorter, and can touch the chain or swingarm. Honda never fitted one, so that gamble is yours.

Pressure and puncture care

Honda's cold inflation values appear in the Hornet handbook plus a sticker on the frame; switch to the raised rear number with a passenger. Check weekly, since tubeless tyres lose air slowly and the bike still feels fine until it squirms in a corner. Tread punctures normally accept a mushroom plug or external string; damage near the shoulder or wall needs a specialist's eye. Bike tyre pressure has a full checking routine.

Horn on the Hornet 2.0

Many owners find the stock horn too soft in heavy traffic and upgrade it when they visit the tyre shop. Before you do, note three points:

• A louder twin horn draws more current. Fit a horn relay so the handlebar switch does not burn out.
• Check that the bracket clears the radiator shroud and front mudguard at full steering lock.
• A loud horn does not replace good braking tyres; use it to warn, not to clear the road.

The bike horn guide explains horn types, and horn switch covers fixing a button that sticks or fails.

When to replace Hornet 2.0 tyres

• Tread worn flush with the indicator ridges, or a flattened band across the rear's middle.
• Cracks in the grooves or tyres older than five years by the date code.
• Cuts, bulges or exposed cords: stop riding and get the tyre checked at a shop.
• A front that feels like it falls into turns: often uneven wear from low pressure.

Other Honda models and rival streetfighters appear in the two wheeler size directory, grouped by maker.