Hornet 900s are great doing what they do. I have 2 of them. 1) removing the P.A.I.R. makes no performnce difference at all. However, on decleration the bike sounds, sounds, like it has a rag over the exhaust - no popping - I like the crackle of the exhaust so I keep my P.A.I.R. fitted (I have Akrapovics and de-cat "Y" link pipes). 2) by going down a tooth on front sprocket your speedometer will be reading incorrectly - probably not a huge issue on speedometers with the needle, but will with digital. Speedometer is fed from the gear, not the wheel. DRD make a speed adjuster (Model H1). Inexpensive and easy to fit/program. 3) for $10 you can get a direct replacement electronic flasher relay - plug-n-play. Nice ride.
Thank you for this awesome content on a forgotten masterpiece! I bought my 03 919 in March of 2022. $3300.00 and only 13,000 miles!!! I love this bike! I plan on doing many of these upgrades and maintenance this fall when I put er up for the long Hoosier winter. My bike is blue and painted by the previous owner to match his Chevy Colorado. I would like to have it repainted back to it's original matte black. The previous owner owned the bike for 16 years and was an excellent caretaker of it. I don't think I'll ever sell this bike. The first mod I did was this summer when I replaced the stock chain and sprockets. I went with a 520 D.I.D. ZVM-X gold chain and the 17/44 sprockets to help with vibration and lowering the rpms at freeway cruising. I commute 70+ miles a day for work and 58 of it is expressway. It did make a noticeable difference. And I believe we have the same mirrors as well. They definitely give you a better view than the stock mirrors and definitely a welcome upgrade. I look forward to seeing more videos of your bike, I just subscribed. That is my favorite color of the 919! Cheers!
Thanks for sharing the story of your 919! I don't think I'll ever sell mine either. It doesn't take long once you're riding it to realize that even if you sold it for what you paid it wouldn't be enough.
awesome video. I love all those upgrades. I bought my 2004 919 new off the showroom floor. I've done the 520 chain and new sprockets (down 1 front, up 1 rear), renthal bars, Pazzo Racing aluminum levers and rear fender delete. I'm replacing brake lines and spark plugs this spring and painting the tank and plastics and re-upholstering the seat. I'm buying those mirrors and bar ends and brake lines off your list now. 919 is a classic!!!!
I bought mine new in 2007 for $6000 and its been great. I added a power-commander and aftermarket muffler and then installed the map to match. I also changed the front sprocket to lower the rpm on the highway. Im 6 foot and it was a little short for me. I realized later that I could raise or lower it with the spanner wrench on the back and that made a big diff. The bike is cammed to have strong low and midrange power. When it came out it was ranked as THE HONDA RACING TEAMS FAVORITE BIKE TO RIDE ON THEIR DAY OFF.
Had my 919 for almost 10 years now. Great bike. Funny that you dropped a tooth up front because that's the opposite of what other 919 owners have always done. lol
Very profound and insightful opinion on why we ride bikes during your spin. Fantastic video and everything done tastefully in your modifications. Can't ask for more. Pat on the back well earned😊.
I own one of these. Its my first bike. Love this thing. For people looking for other options for mirrors. I put cb1000r mirrors on mine. They fit nicely and dont vibrate. Thanks for the videos by the way
I have had my 2002 for almost 10 years. Bought as a first bike and plan on it being my only. I have ridden other bikes and liked several, but my 919 is a grin producing PIA. Won't find a more enjoyable machine.
@gameplayhub8580 currently doing a whole upgrade and repair, she sat for a while and needs some TLC. I recommend a headlight upgrade for sure. I waited too long. Lots of new parts.
Very nice bike. Similar to my Kawasaki 2001 ZRX 1200R in its simplicity and inline 4 grunt. Very tasteful upgrades and totally a great machine for having some two wheeled fun. I would love to have its bigger brother the CB1300 but unfortunately we don't get them in the US.
Yup, another great video. Nice presentation and what a great upgrade on the 900. The bike definitely looks better now and seems to run perfect. You are absolutely going to love that bike. Maintenance is going to be literally minimal and really that bike is bulletproof. Enjoy your daily riding it's a nice look and a sweet ride.
Thank you for this informative video. I just ordered engine case cover that you introduced. I was exactly looking for such product as I just dropped the bike and scratched the cover... Looking forward to your next mods to the beautiful candy red hornet.
Not sure I agree with removal of engine vacuum lines and solenoids, Honda engineering is tops- nothing is there without reason. Do you know more than they do? Maybe. I believe that would be an involved discussion.
You're probably new to the 900/919 itself but there's a very old European forum about them, and this question popped up. Strangely enough, a guy who ID'd himself as one of the engineers responsible for testing and launching the bike in EU grounds explained the issue and why you can / should remove but it's just an opinion. Engineers aren't always right, as being one, I've been wrong several times. So don't do that stuff of engineering is always right and the rest is wrong, just because you don't have a degree doesn't mean you cannot be right.
I have that exact same bike, year and color. 11 year owner, 50,000+ miles. Love it. I changed the gearing that reduced the RPM by about 400 on the freeway. 17/44/520 and I really didn't like it. I liked the stock gearing and should have done the PCIII mod to smooth out the low RPM jerk. The PCIII and suspension (rear shock mainly) really hare the best mods. TBH the bike can be much improved for pretty cheap. Even if you do the shock and PCIII, you're still not in for too much.
great to hear from 50k+ mile owners! I don't mind the jerkiness (the lower gearing sort of exacerbates it anyway), but you're definitely not the only one telling me I need to update the suspension.
Hello there! I do have similar 919, bike is amazing, but smell from the exhaust is killing me. Clothes are stinks after riding. I need to trick intake air temperature sensor with resistor for about 900ohm. But have no idea how to connect it :D Have you had similar problem with smell from exhaust?
@@motopsychol I've heard about the smell problem, but it's not a big problem for me. My bike is a California bike, so it has a Cat and I think that changes things. I've heard of three solutions: 1. a small pipe at the exhaust the points the exhaust out of the area where it gets drawn back in. Maybe out to the side or down. 2. change the exhaust to a low mount. I think the 929 or other exhaust works, but IDR. 3. PCIII controller box. They are expensive, but with fuel mapping you can solve a few problems. IDK anything about the resistor, but you could do a simple test. I guess you're trying. to lean out the mix, so if you take a variable resistor (pot) and hook in inline to a sensor (coolant temp or air temp? ) then adjust it to the point you like. Then you can use a volt meter to find its value and install the resistor. You might have cold start issues, so you'd want to maybe use a ESP32 or ATINY chip to control when it kicks in. Even a simple transistor might do the trick if you need two stages (start vs run). Maybe even tap the RPM if that signal is there. I'd follow the wires and put it at the box under the seat. I was actually thinking about making a mod chip because the PCIII is so damn expensive. It would do what you're looking to do, but more and interactive with a screen.
@@karljay7473 Thank you so much for your thoughts! I need to try it out somehow! I was thinking about to change the exhaust to a low mount, but Don't want to do it. Because I have central stand... PCIII also great solution, but... $$$ ahahah.
Thank you for the awesome vid! Love my 03 hornet. Are you planning to do the valves? If so, please post video of the valve work. My Hornet is due for valve inspection/adjustment and I really want to do it myself.
Yes I did. The sliders linked to have instructions on how to drill out the frame holes to mount them. The only thing you need to buy is the OEM bolts to put in place of the the OEM sliders.
I have a 2003 919. Love it. Just wish it was more comfortable for longer rides or commuting. I don’t want to put a big ugly windscreen/fairing on it, but may have no choice. Can’t afford a big touring bike.
I know what you mean, fairings make a huge difference. Even a sport bike is more comfortable on a short commute because of the discomfort above 70 mph on the 919.
@@two-cargarage for sure. I love my 919 and don’t want to bastardize it just to make it comfy. I wonder what it would look like with a monstrous front fairing like a big HD front end or Goldwing fairing 🤣. Then your hands are covered, body protected from wind, AND you could wire up all sorts of doodads and speakers like a true geezer glider.
You kept asking whether there is another bike in the Hornet 919 (price/performance) league and my answer would be the Suzuki GSF1200 S (Bandit). They are about the same wet weight 485 lbs and 489 lbs., and 67 ft/lbs at 6.5k rpm and 65 ft/lbs at 4.5k rpm. The Hornet having a sportier seating position: handlebars further forward and foot pegs slightly higher and further back. You can change the sprockets on either one up or down but the Bandit is more amenable to GIVI bags and trunk and sport touring, and it's about $1,500 cheaper. I consider the Hornet 919 a middleweight "sporty" bike like my old Nighthawk 700 S and my Thunderbird Sport 900. And I can't resist mentioning my light-middleweight "sporty" bike champion: the SV650 variants. 🙃
@@two-cargarage yes the fuel light helps but a gauge will at least tell you roughly how much fuel you have on a journey. It's almost as if there was a space intended for a fuel gauge next to the temperature gauge in the tacho.
Really great video. I normally do not comment on TH-cam content, but this was exceptional. I just bought a 2003 example with 9k miles and couldn't be happier; however, I really like all of your mods. I was able to find many of the items you changed. Is there a chance you could provide links to the headlight LED, turn signals, integrated rear tail light, and mirrors you used? I really liked your reflection as well. If I could only adequately express the simple joy of riding to my wife. Cheers!
I appreciate the kind words! You had a great idea, I edited the description to include the links where I purchased everything from to help future viewers out.
@@two-cargarage I just wanted to say thank you very much for adding the links, I have already ordered a few items. The only item I did not see was the LED H4 headlight you installed. Is there a chance you can add that to the list if you get a moment? Again, really great content.
Thanks for the video. I bought 07 919 last year. Same color. Had a small accident, but all good. Had to replace my bars and turn signals. Looking for LED for head light and taillight, so glad to find you channel. Question, when replacing your handlebars, did you have any issues with cable lengths? I had to make slight adjustments to the throttle and the brake lines seem a bit tighter but all in all work. I have the same 755 handlebars
Great video, I've had my 05 since 08. (spent most of her life in the garage)Just dusted her off last summer and started to ride again. I've done a few mods (MIVV cans, mirrors wind screen) Do you have the name of the integrated taillight? There's a few different items I've seen on ebay. Just want to be sure i purchase a quality item. You builta nice Hornet! Ride safe 🤙
the link to the one I used is in my description. The quality is 8/10, doesn't come with any instructions, but for the price I can't imagine it being any better.
I have a 2002 919, and am interested in a led headlight. It looks as though you may have done this but the audio cut out. Was wondering what you went with.
Nice mods. I have a black 🖤 2005. Mods black renthal flat bars, Aprilia looking mirrors, similar Led indicators and headlights. The seat has been upgraded with the gold highlight, matching brakes and shock. Someone debaffled the stock pipes. Incredible tones.. You need some tyres bro. T32 or S22 Battlax 👍🏼💦 or dry.. These bike are a blast
I'm really looking forward to nicer tires next year...not just for the cornering but these dual-sports start to vibrate a bit at ~100mph. It's not exactly confidence inspiring!
Hi, could you show up on another video how you installed the handlebar grips and weights? Why you drilled, as I can see in this video? I just bought a 2007 919, and I need to replace the handlebar because it is bent. I'm looking to replace Renthal eventually if it is available not easy to find nowadays.
When you were moving the sliders from the engine mount to the frame, did you support the engine form the bottom (to prevent the engine from dropping down a bit) to remove them and install the OEM bolts in place?
Hey thank you for showing me what I can do to a recently purchased 2005 Hornet for $3,500.00. !!! Now where can I purchase all the items you install on your bike. I'd like to get it as closed to your if possible. CONGRATS MAN, IT IS AWESOME BIKE....I love this bike it is a beauty to ride!
sure thing! Most of the parts are in the description of the video. If a part isn't available anymore, at least you can see what it is so that you can source it or something similar to it somewhere else.
@@edgarsotomayor6692 What parts? Plenty still out there. Depending on where you are on the Globe. Steering damper, wavy brake discs (and HH sintered pads), titanium caliper pistons and fittings (front & rear), led rear light with integral indicators, reusable billet/stainless oil filter (beautiful they are! and available primarily in USA), tail tidy, Akrapovic exhausts, rear shock, Power Commander... loads of after market goodies... depends on your budget, time and geographical location (budget wise)... I will say, buy OEM when critical, such as fork seals, clutch plates, plastic bitz (DON'T buy chinesium plastics) Wrist Twisters has a good forum... perhaps they are closer. I am in UK. Safe trails and glad you like your Hornet. (Don't buy 2, then you'll treat them as twins - very expensive!)
Hi! ...first of all, congratulations for such a good video! I would like to know if the power increased noticeably with the modifications you made to it? ...and also know how much fuel consumption increased? ...excuse my ignorance, I'm new to the subject of mechanical modifications....by the way; I just bought a 2007 hornet 919 with 12,000 miles on it.
Nah, I know people will say that you can feel the difference with some of the mods that I made, but the only thing that is noticeable is the sprocket changes. Dropping a tooth in the front sprocket gives it a lot more punch in the bottom end. I've never measured its fuel consumption so I can't speak to that, but I imagine it dropped a couple MPGs. When you actually look at the cost difference between 40 and 45 MPGs though it seems irrelevant. Congrats on your low mileage find!
Is the flashing break light work also with your foot break? Very good content for this video by the way 👏 👌 waiting impatiently for new video for the hornet 919!
Yes it does, the flashing mechanism is built into the tail light itself so either brake light switch will activate it. Now that you mention it, maybe I'll put out an update video and review now that I have a few thousand miles on it!
Since this is a great video and helpful because I have one of these bikes and I am Not a mechanic I can't resist the opportunity to poke fun at you: ~15:00 you said you were going to remove the "forks." Actually, you were going to remove the fork tubes. The front end has one fork and two fork tubes just as a dinner fork may have several tines. 😝
Hey man, thanks for answering my question!... one last question: what model of tires do you have mounted on your 919 hornet? ....do they have good grip in curves or on wet surfaces?...is there any noticeable difference compared to the "classic" track or sports motorcycle tires? ...they are not "somewhat" noisy because of the large segments? ....Thanks again.
these are Shinko 705's that came with the bike. They wouldn't be my choice, I'm just keeping them for the time being because they have plenty of tread left and I'm riding mostly highway so I might as well eat through them before buying others. They feel okay, but I get a little front end wobble at 100mph+ that I think is the tire's inability to balance as well as sport tires. I don't notice any noise or humming coming from them though.
I am so looking forward to buying a Honda 919. Does Honda Japan still make the plastic rear cowl, tank and headlight assembly for this motorcycle..??? I had a horrible experience with my 2004 Yamaha Majesty 400 :(
Check Fowlers in Bristol. They can source a new tank (17500MCZD10ZG) and many parts. You'd also want the rubber seal (17574MCZ000) for the fuel pump - you'll find the original to be distorted when you remove it. You'll probably find an affordable aftermarket headlight (most likely LED), you'll might have to adapt the wiring as the bulb is H4. The seat cowl is available too - but you might get a used on on eBay.
I used a couple of rubber vacuum caps where needed. All of the electronics were simply unplugged with no ill effects. The only real modification that had to be done is a block off plate for the hole left in the plastic intake where the solenoid was. I just used a scrap piece of plastic and JB weld.
hey my friend, how are you doing? how is the hornet coming along? I am working on mine still....Working on slipping on the Delvekic on mine but I am having a hard time. I've never removed the Y pipe connector. Any recommendations, how do you do that? Maybe I can get some help from you. I sure would appreciated it. thank you and safe riding...
From what I understand most people who check theirs don't need any adjustment within the first 20,000 miles. From that point on, it would probably be wise to check every few thousand
Hi! Is it possible to rip out the pair valve system, but keeping the original caps? And just blocking the holes for the rubber hoses on the cap? Would not that be the same as buying after marker block off plates? Thanks,
Only thing this bike needs is progressive springs. Factory springs are too soft! Btw my 919 has little over 75000 miles on it... And try Vesrah brake pads, they are amazing.
@@two-cargarage total travel of front fork is like 4.25 inches, I push it constantly to 4 and that is not even a track. So if you are doing major maintenance definitely get some stiffer springs. And one thing I want to mention, one of my wheel bearings failed at 35000 miles, luckily when I was replacing tire, so I just change them all every 30-35k miles.
Great tutorial video. Thankyou.. love the upgrades, and will probably do the same to my CB.. but need to know why you got rid of the solenoids and hoses from the engine. What would be the outcome of removing the vacuum hoses etc? would it affect performance at all? Overall, this was an epic video.. thanks again👍
I remove the vacuum stuff on most bikes for the main reason of simplification. When you do routine maintenance there are much less hoses and things to work around now. The vast majority of it is there simply to satisfy emissions requirements, so I'm not worried. Regardless of what people say, there is very little performance improvement.
@@two-cargarage - this is quite late but as you wrote, for the exhaust emission control system, there won't be any performance benefit from removing it, just more unburnt fuel and carbon monoxide. So isn't removing something that actually helps lower emissions at no performance hit, just being a little too contrary? Nice video though, and it did help me go out and buy a (still stock) 2007 CB900 Hornet yesterday 🙂
I think suspension adjustability was one of the biggest changes. Additionally, muffler and brake caliper colors. For example, my brake calipers are gold but I don't think yours would be
Yes, the 2004->2007 have adjustable preload and rebound adjustment on the front forks (no compression damping). Other than that, the 2002->2007 models are identical. Good luck on your purchase. You'll really enjoy it.
Not a bad idea. Not a great one, but not the worst. It's not a "fast" bike, nor is it a sport bike. But you'll have to take it easy for quite a while...
@@BlackRecoil hmmm the fz07 would be another good choice to start out with, but it'll cost more. I think you will grow out of the fz07 quicker than you would grow out of the 919. So if that's a consideration, go with the Honda.
@@two-cargarage yeah exactly, i could have something to ride now or in a couple months and i wanna keep my 1st for a while and grow into it , i think ill go for the honda
Very true! I've been a bit disappointed in its ability to comfortably cruise on the highway as well. Naked bikes sure do look cool, but fairings sure are practical.
@@two-cargarage I love the naked bike look so much I’m happy just to ride a bit slower on longer cruises. And when I’m pushing on in the corners, the wind noise and buffeting makes me feel like I’m going faster than perhaps I am :)
Just their website. they didn't have some things in stock that I ordered though in addition to what you saw in the video, so maybe give them a call and make sure that they have what you need. www.t-rex-racing.com/
Thanks man. Appreciate you posting the parts list as well. 👍 May have left out the brake lines though, where would I pull those from? Bikes dope dude, working on mine presently. Would've went the t Rex route rather than the Ukrainian bars route if they were in stock for the multiple weeks I checked Rex to pull some. At least the sliders and engine guards are back now ill throw em in the cart.
@@two-cargarage Good catch on the pair valve block off plates. Already performed that operation, so out of sight out of mind on my part, apologies. I'll order the stainless lines shortly. Thanks man 👍
@@two-cargarage Yeah the axle sliders and spool adapters seem to have gone the way of the dinosaur. Would've liked to grab the 4 part package n save like 20 whatever bucks but honestly I'm good with the main sliders and guards as well. Thanks for the Intel man. 👍
I lane split when traffic is stopped at a light. No way I want wider handle bars on my daily commuter honda 919 that I affectionately call “Horny”. I own three motos and Horny is super fun. A bit light in the ass for highways so I mainly ride from the suburbs into the city nine miles each way daily.
I have some input...Your idea of concepts is great, but people want to see at least part of the work being done...like tail fabrications. There are some who would say you've taken a fine condition survivor motorcycle and screwed it up. Hey, it's your bike.
Man I wish my 06 919 was as clean as yours’sh#t i’ve got 128 thousand Kilometres on my 2006 919 hornets & she still goes strong & would like ask what tyres are you running on this hornet especially that retire ?
Hornet 900s are great doing what they do. I have 2 of them. 1) removing the P.A.I.R. makes no performnce difference at all. However, on decleration the bike sounds, sounds, like it has a rag over the exhaust - no popping - I like the crackle of the exhaust so I keep my P.A.I.R. fitted (I have Akrapovics and de-cat "Y" link pipes). 2) by going down a tooth on front sprocket your speedometer will be reading incorrectly - probably not a huge issue on speedometers with the needle, but will with digital. Speedometer is fed from the gear, not the wheel. DRD make a speed adjuster (Model H1). Inexpensive and easy to fit/program. 3) for $10 you can get a direct replacement electronic flasher relay - plug-n-play. Nice ride.
Thank you for this awesome content on a forgotten masterpiece! I bought my 03 919 in March of 2022. $3300.00 and only 13,000 miles!!! I love this bike! I plan on doing many of these upgrades and maintenance this fall when I put er up for the long Hoosier winter. My bike is blue and painted by the previous owner to match his Chevy Colorado. I would like to have it repainted back to it's original matte black. The previous owner owned the bike for 16 years and was an excellent caretaker of it. I don't think I'll ever sell this bike. The first mod I did was this summer when I replaced the stock chain and sprockets. I went with a 520 D.I.D. ZVM-X gold chain and the 17/44 sprockets to help with vibration and lowering the rpms at freeway cruising. I commute 70+ miles a day for work and 58 of it is expressway. It did make a noticeable difference. And I believe we have the same mirrors as well. They definitely give you a better view than the stock mirrors and definitely a welcome upgrade. I look forward to seeing more videos of your bike, I just subscribed. That is my favorite color of the 919! Cheers!
Thanks for sharing the story of your 919! I don't think I'll ever sell mine either. It doesn't take long once you're riding it to realize that even if you sold it for what you paid it wouldn't be enough.
@@two-cargarage What about exhaust fumes with oem exhaust? Heard about fuel smell on the rider.
This bike is like a great , faithful dog that is always happy to see you, ready to play and obedient.
Great way of putting it! I plan on doing a "long-term" review of it once the weather starts warming up. I'll use that line!
@@two-cargarage I can never bring my self to sell my CB919, there are better bikes but this one is a solid, well engineered machine.
I found this video completely by accident but I like what you did with this Honda, very tasteful and clean upgrades. Hope she is serving you well!
still going great!
If I wasn’t sure about this bike before, I definitely am now. Thanks dude
awesome video. I love all those upgrades. I bought my 2004 919 new off the showroom floor. I've done the 520 chain and new sprockets (down 1 front, up 1 rear), renthal bars, Pazzo Racing aluminum levers and rear fender delete. I'm replacing brake lines and spark plugs this spring and painting the tank and plastics and re-upholstering the seat. I'm buying those mirrors and bar ends and brake lines off your list now. 919 is a classic!!!!
I bought mine new in 2007 for $6000 and its been great. I added a power-commander and aftermarket muffler and then installed the map to match. I also changed the front sprocket to lower the rpm on the highway. Im 6 foot and it was a little short for me. I realized later that I could raise or lower it with the spanner wrench on the back and that made a big diff. The bike is cammed to have strong low and midrange power. When it came out it was ranked as THE HONDA RACING TEAMS FAVORITE BIKE TO RIDE ON THEIR DAY OFF.
Had my 919 for almost 10 years now. Great bike.
Funny that you dropped a tooth up front because that's the opposite of what other 919 owners have always done. lol
Yes more relax highway rpm tooth up
I hate engine working hard at 75 80
Very profound and insightful opinion on why we ride bikes during your spin. Fantastic video and everything done tastefully in your modifications. Can't ask for more. Pat on the back well earned😊.
I own one of these. Its my first bike. Love this thing. For people looking for other options for mirrors. I put cb1000r mirrors on mine. They fit nicely and dont vibrate.
Thanks for the videos by the way
I was doing my due diligence in regard to this bike. After watching you're video, i'm sold! I love the mods you made, can't wait to find one!
Great! Glad the video had value to you
I have had my 2002 for almost 10 years. Bought as a first bike and plan on it being my only. I have ridden other bikes and liked several, but my 919 is a grin producing PIA. Won't find a more enjoyable machine.
Just picked up my 2002 919.
Great ride. It Pulls in any gear its in ❤
@gameplayhub8580 currently doing a whole upgrade and repair, she sat for a while and needs some TLC. I recommend a headlight upgrade for sure. I waited too long. Lots of new parts.
Just bought a 2007 model and love the build you did!! Hoping to replicate the same...I agree, this a very fun bike to ride!
i just got a cb600 hornet absolutely love it
Yes for the addictive meditation of presence that comes with the riding of a motorcycle, even more a great motorcycle !
I have the same bike and have refreshed it like you. Great bike
Very nice bike. Similar to my Kawasaki 2001 ZRX 1200R in its simplicity and inline 4 grunt. Very tasteful upgrades and totally a great machine for having some two wheeled fun. I would love to have its bigger brother the CB1300 but unfortunately we don't get them in the US.
ive got its older sibling. 82 cb900F supersport. they are a blast to ride
Great review mate got a 02 blue one in UK great all rounder with scorpion blue flame cans.
I agree! Enjoy it!
Yup, another great video. Nice presentation and what a great upgrade on the 900. The bike definitely looks better now and seems to run perfect. You are absolutely going to love that bike. Maintenance is going to be literally minimal and really that bike is bulletproof. Enjoy your daily riding it's a nice look and a sweet ride.
I've put a few thousand miles on it in just a couple months and it's been flawless. Looking forward to many trouble free years commuting with it!
What a beautiful bike!
Great video & as usual … great skill set! Man I wish we were neighbors!
Thank you!
Thank you for this informative video. I just ordered engine case cover that you introduced. I was exactly looking for such product as I just dropped the bike and scratched the cover... Looking forward to your next mods to the beautiful candy red hornet.
I'm glad you got something worthwhile from the video, thanks for watching!
Not sure I agree with removal of engine vacuum lines and solenoids, Honda engineering is tops- nothing is there without reason. Do you know more than they do? Maybe. I believe that would be an involved discussion.
You're probably new to the 900/919 itself but there's a very old European forum about them, and this question popped up.
Strangely enough, a guy who ID'd himself as one of the engineers responsible for testing and launching the bike in EU grounds explained the issue and why you can / should remove but it's just an opinion.
Engineers aren't always right, as being one, I've been wrong several times.
So don't do that stuff of engineering is always right and the rest is wrong, just because you don't have a degree doesn't mean you cannot be right.
I can not describe this job ❤️ It's so beautiful, amazing great awesome.... ❤️
I'm looking forward to see more and more !
Keep going bro ✌️
I appreciate it! I plan on updating with a "long-term" ownership video when it starts to get warmer.
@@two-cargarage ❤
I have that exact same bike, year and color. 11 year owner, 50,000+ miles. Love it. I changed the gearing that reduced the RPM by about 400 on the freeway. 17/44/520 and I really didn't like it. I liked the stock gearing and should have done the PCIII mod to smooth out the low RPM jerk.
The PCIII and suspension (rear shock mainly) really hare the best mods.
TBH the bike can be much improved for pretty cheap. Even if you do the shock and PCIII, you're still not in for too much.
great to hear from 50k+ mile owners! I don't mind the jerkiness (the lower gearing sort of exacerbates it anyway), but you're definitely not the only one telling me I need to update the suspension.
Hello there! I do have similar 919, bike is amazing, but smell from the exhaust is killing me. Clothes are stinks after riding. I need to trick intake air temperature sensor with resistor for about 900ohm. But have no idea how to connect it :D Have you had similar problem with smell from exhaust?
@@motopsychol I've heard about the smell problem, but it's not a big problem for me. My bike is a California bike, so it has a Cat and I think that changes things. I've heard of three solutions: 1. a small pipe at the exhaust the points the exhaust out of the area where it gets drawn back in. Maybe out to the side or down. 2. change the exhaust to a low mount. I think the 929 or other exhaust works, but IDR. 3. PCIII controller box. They are expensive, but with fuel mapping you can solve a few problems. IDK anything about the resistor, but you could do a simple test. I guess you're trying. to lean out the mix, so if you take a variable resistor (pot) and hook in inline to a sensor (coolant temp or air temp? ) then adjust it to the point you like. Then you can use a volt meter to find its value and install the resistor. You might have cold start issues, so you'd want to maybe use a ESP32 or ATINY chip to control when it kicks in. Even a simple transistor might do the trick if you need two stages (start vs run). Maybe even tap the RPM if that signal is there. I'd follow the wires and put it at the box under the seat.
I was actually thinking about making a mod chip because the PCIII is so damn expensive. It would do what you're looking to do, but more and interactive with a screen.
@@karljay7473 Thank you so much for your thoughts! I need to try it out somehow! I was thinking about to change the exhaust to a low mount, but Don't want to do it. Because I have central stand... PCIII also great solution, but... $$$ ahahah.
Thank you for the awesome vid! Love my 03 hornet. Are you planning to do the valves? If so, please post video of the valve work. My Hornet is due for valve inspection/adjustment and I really want to do it myself.
You’re making me want to buy the one I see on FB marketplace 😅.
Great on camera persona
Hey thanks for the video man real helpful and informative! Question, did you relocate the sliders from the engine case to frame?
Yes I did. The sliders linked to have instructions on how to drill out the frame holes to mount them. The only thing you need to buy is the OEM bolts to put in place of the the OEM sliders.
Can you share the Color code which can be found below the seat? Want to paint mine this color
Your oil filter link goes to a page with the mirrors. Just letting you know.
fixed! Thanks
Nice job on your 919! If you still had the OEM parts you removed, I would be interested in purchasing them for a restoration project 919.
Email me! contacttwocargarage@gmail.com
I have a 2003 919. Love it. Just wish it was more comfortable for longer rides or commuting. I don’t want to put a big ugly windscreen/fairing on it, but may have no choice. Can’t afford a big touring bike.
I know what you mean, fairings make a huge difference. Even a sport bike is more comfortable on a short commute because of the discomfort above 70 mph on the 919.
@@two-cargarage for sure. I love my 919 and don’t want to bastardize it just to make it comfy. I wonder what it would look like with a monstrous front fairing like a big HD front end or Goldwing fairing 🤣. Then your hands are covered, body protected from wind, AND you could wire up all sorts of doodads and speakers like a true geezer glider.
You kept asking whether there is another bike in the Hornet 919 (price/performance) league and my answer would be the Suzuki GSF1200 S (Bandit). They are about the same wet weight 485 lbs and 489 lbs., and 67 ft/lbs at 6.5k rpm and 65 ft/lbs at 4.5k rpm. The Hornet having a sportier seating position: handlebars further forward and foot pegs slightly higher and further back. You can change the sprockets on either one up or down but the Bandit is more amenable to GIVI bags and trunk and sport touring, and it's about $1,500 cheaper. I consider the Hornet 919 a middleweight "sporty" bike like my old Nighthawk 700 S and my Thunderbird Sport 900. And I can't resist mentioning my light-middleweight "sporty" bike champion: the SV650 variants. 🙃
The bandit! You're right, I totally forgot that they made them that large
15:47 un ottimo lavoro complimenti
Nice upgrades, particularly the performance ones, let me know if it’s ever for sale…
I have one of these, great bike has everything but I would have liked a fuel gauge
that's a good idea! a little needle within the tach would be nice. At least we have a fuel light, though!
@@two-cargarage yes the fuel light helps but a gauge will at least tell you roughly how much fuel you have on a journey. It's almost as if there was a space intended for a fuel gauge next to the temperature gauge in the tacho.
Really great video. I normally do not comment on TH-cam content, but this was exceptional. I just bought a 2003 example with 9k miles and couldn't be happier; however, I really like all of your mods. I was able to find many of the items you changed. Is there a chance you could provide links to the headlight LED, turn signals, integrated rear tail light, and mirrors you used? I really liked your reflection as well. If I could only adequately express the simple joy of riding to my wife. Cheers!
I appreciate the kind words! You had a great idea, I edited the description to include the links where I purchased everything from to help future viewers out.
@@two-cargarage I just wanted to say thank you very much for adding the links, I have already ordered a few items. The only item I did not see was the LED H4 headlight you installed. Is there a chance you can add that to the list if you get a moment? Again, really great content.
@@kylesvideos4681 oh dang! I forgot that one. Thanks for pointing that out, I just threw it in the list now. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
@@two-cargarage Just ordered the Headlight. Thanks again for all of the work you put into your video and description.
I heard that fz9 comment thrown in there! 😁
Haha, Thanks for watching Cory!
Thanks for the video. I bought 07 919 last year. Same color. Had a small accident, but all good. Had to replace my bars and turn signals. Looking for LED for head light and taillight, so glad to find you channel. Question, when replacing your handlebars, did you have any issues with cable lengths? I had to make slight adjustments to the throttle and the brake lines seem a bit tighter but all in all work. I have the same 755 handlebars
like yours, all my cables fit fine! Glad you came away from the accident relatively clean!
140MPH for just some days, part of the day
Awesome final product! I am thinking of adding aftermarket mirrors to mine. Which one did you throw on your 919?
thanks! the link should be in the description.
Great video, I've had my 05 since 08.
(spent most of her life in the garage)Just dusted her off last summer and started to ride again. I've done a few mods (MIVV cans, mirrors wind screen)
Do you have the name of the integrated taillight?
There's a few different items I've seen on ebay. Just want to be sure i purchase a quality item. You builta nice Hornet! Ride safe 🤙
the link to the one I used is in my description. The quality is 8/10, doesn't come with any instructions, but for the price I can't imagine it being any better.
I have a 2002 919, and am interested in a led headlight. It looks as though you may have done this but the audio cut out. Was wondering what you went with.
I'll take your old parts if you still have them lol doing my 04 cb600f here in TX.
Nice mods. I have a black 🖤 2005. Mods black renthal flat bars, Aprilia looking mirrors, similar Led indicators and headlights. The seat has been upgraded with the gold highlight, matching brakes and shock. Someone debaffled the stock pipes. Incredible tones.. You need some tyres bro. T32 or S22 Battlax 👍🏼💦 or dry.. These bike are a blast
I'm really looking forward to nicer tires next year...not just for the cornering but these dual-sports start to vibrate a bit at ~100mph. It's not exactly confidence inspiring!
Hi, could you show up on another video how you installed the handlebar grips and weights? Why you drilled, as I can see in this video?
I just bought a 2007 919, and I need to replace the handlebar because it is bent. I'm looking to replace Renthal eventually if it is available not easy to find nowadays.
When you were moving the sliders from the engine mount to the frame, did you support the engine form the bottom (to prevent the engine from dropping down a bit) to remove them and install the OEM bolts in place?
Hey thank you for showing me what I can do to a recently purchased 2005 Hornet for $3,500.00. !!! Now where can I purchase all the items you install on your bike. I'd like to get it as closed to your if possible. CONGRATS MAN, IT IS AWESOME BIKE....I love this bike it is a beauty to ride!
sure thing! Most of the parts are in the description of the video. If a part isn't available anymore, at least you can see what it is so that you can source it or something similar to it somewhere else.
Thank you, happy riding...
@@edgarsotomayor6692 What parts? Plenty still out there. Depending on where you are on the Globe. Steering damper, wavy brake discs (and HH sintered pads), titanium caliper pistons and fittings (front & rear), led rear light with integral indicators, reusable billet/stainless oil filter (beautiful they are! and available primarily in USA), tail tidy, Akrapovic exhausts, rear shock, Power Commander... loads of after market goodies... depends on your budget, time and geographical location (budget wise)... I will say, buy OEM when critical, such as fork seals, clutch plates, plastic bitz (DON'T buy chinesium plastics)
Wrist Twisters has a good forum... perhaps they are closer. I am in UK.
Safe trails and glad you like your Hornet. (Don't buy 2, then you'll treat them as twins - very expensive!)
Hi! ...first of all, congratulations for such a good video! I would like to know if the power increased noticeably with the modifications you made to it? ...and also know how much fuel consumption increased? ...excuse my ignorance, I'm new to the subject of mechanical modifications....by the way; I just bought a 2007 hornet 919 with 12,000 miles on it.
Nah, I know people will say that you can feel the difference with some of the mods that I made, but the only thing that is noticeable is the sprocket changes. Dropping a tooth in the front sprocket gives it a lot more punch in the bottom end.
I've never measured its fuel consumption so I can't speak to that, but I imagine it dropped a couple MPGs. When you actually look at the cost difference between 40 and 45 MPGs though it seems irrelevant.
Congrats on your low mileage find!
Sound went out when you were explaining new headlight bulb. What bulb brand and kind was it?
What tires please? Love those!
Is the flashing break light work also with your foot break? Very good content for this video by the way 👏 👌 waiting impatiently for new video for the hornet 919!
Yes it does, the flashing mechanism is built into the tail light itself so either brake light switch will activate it. Now that you mention it, maybe I'll put out an update video and review now that I have a few thousand miles on it!
...the failure of the regulator / rectifier on early bikes is a real pain ....though it's an easy bike to jump start !
Good to know, I didn't know these were particularly notorious for it
Put 6 years of riding and over 20000 miles with no electrical problems.
What length stainless steel brake lines did you install on the front? Awesome build!!!
Whatever stock was. I didn't measure, but instead bought a kit made for the bike.
I recently replaced mine with speagler stainless and the front t part doesn't allow the lines to fit very well.
Since this is a great video and helpful because I have one of these bikes and I am Not a mechanic I can't resist the opportunity to poke fun at you: ~15:00 you said you were going to remove the "forks." Actually, you were going to remove the fork tubes. The front end has one fork and two fork tubes just as a dinner fork may have several tines. 😝
Hey man, thanks for answering my question!... one last question: what model of tires do you have mounted on your 919 hornet? ....do they have good grip in curves or on wet surfaces?...is there any noticeable difference compared to the "classic" track or sports motorcycle tires? ...they are not "somewhat" noisy because of the large segments? ....Thanks again.
these are Shinko 705's that came with the bike. They wouldn't be my choice, I'm just keeping them for the time being because they have plenty of tread left and I'm riding mostly highway so I might as well eat through them before buying others. They feel okay, but I get a little front end wobble at 100mph+ that I think is the tire's inability to balance as well as sport tires. I don't notice any noise or humming coming from them though.
Hi, what model of renthal bars did you fit and did you have any issues with the cable length?.Great video by the way!!!
Thanks! The link to the bars is in the description, they are the street mids. None of the cables needed lengthened with the setup I ran.
What Renthal bar did you use? The streetbar, but what size?
I love those tyres! what are they?
Shinko 705's
Another stock Hornet bites the dust.
RIP!
I am so looking forward to buying a Honda 919. Does Honda Japan still make the plastic rear cowl, tank and headlight assembly for this motorcycle..???
I had a horrible experience with my 2004 Yamaha Majesty 400 :(
Looks like the headlight and rear cowl is still available but the tank is not. The rear cowl alone is $250+ though!
Check Fowlers in Bristol. They can source a new tank (17500MCZD10ZG) and many parts. You'd also want the rubber seal (17574MCZ000) for the fuel pump - you'll find the original to be distorted when you remove it.
You'll probably find an affordable aftermarket headlight (most likely LED), you'll might have to adapt the wiring as the bulb is H4.
The seat cowl is available too - but you might get a used on on eBay.
All of that air stuff you took off ,pipes, solenoid wires etc . what blanks did you use and did you have to rewire anything.
cheers from yorks UK.
I used a couple of rubber vacuum caps where needed. All of the electronics were simply unplugged with no ill effects. The only real modification that had to be done is a block off plate for the hole left in the plastic intake where the solenoid was. I just used a scrap piece of plastic and JB weld.
@@two-cargarage Thanks mate 👍👍
hey my friend, how are you doing? how is the hornet coming along? I am working on mine still....Working on slipping on the Delvekic on mine but I am having a hard time. I've never removed the Y pipe connector. Any recommendations, how do you do that? Maybe I can get some help from you. I sure would appreciated it. thank you and safe riding...
I imagine it's just a lot of corrosion holding it together at this point. If possible, I would try to pull it apart when it's fully heated up
Those tyres are a blasphemy on that hornet
Hahaha right!?! I'll burn through them with highway miles and get some good rubber on asap
@@two-cargarage Bridgestone Battlax
@@mikemet1744 I only hear great things about them
@@two-cargarage I have them on both my bikes. They are grippy.
Hi,
When do you think it is time for a second valve check/adjustment? Do people do that? And if so, is it often out of specs the second time?
From what I understand most people who check theirs don't need any adjustment within the first 20,000 miles. From that point on, it would probably be wise to check every few thousand
Do you have a video on removing the Y pipe connector on the 919 Hornet?
Gotta remove the rear shock.... uuuuggghhhhh... a center stand is GOD's creation!
Hi!
Is it possible to rip out the pair valve system, but keeping the original caps? And just blocking the holes for the rubber hoses on the cap? Would not that be the same as buying after marker block off plates?
Thanks,
yes, you could just put vacuum caps over the spouts on the covers.
Yup, just cap the holes - BUT WHY??? When the P.A.I.R. is capped the bike sounds like a wet rag when decelerating... weight isn't that important. YMMV
Does removing the pair system and adding the block off plate trigger the check engine light at all?
Nope!
Did you fit either resistors on the indicators or a specific led relay to combat the hyper flash?
No I didn't, I decided to wait and see how fast they would flash without. It's actually not that bad and doesn't look silly
Only thing this bike needs is progressive springs. Factory springs are too soft! Btw my 919 has little over 75000 miles on it... And try Vesrah brake pads, they are amazing.
Great suggestions, thanks!
@@two-cargarage total travel of front fork is like 4.25 inches, I push it constantly to 4 and that is not even a track. So if you are doing major maintenance definitely get some stiffer springs. And one thing I want to mention, one of my wheel bearings failed at 35000 miles, luckily when I was replacing tire, so I just change them all every 30-35k miles.
@@maroshek19 the wheel bearings seemed okay when I pulled the wheels, but I'll be sure to keep an eye on them next tire change, thanks!
i have a 600 hornet....next time ill get a 919
❤
Are you riding without the vacuum lines and solenoids since? Did the removel of those cause any troubles?
Thanks,
Correct. I have put thousands of miles on it since and it's perfect, no problems at all! In the spring I'll do a few thousand mile update video.
How is the crank case vented with the plumbing removed and blanked off? Thanks, Fellow hornet owner
How do you pop the caps off the bolts holding the handlebars on? I feel dumb that I can’t figure it out.
a pick....or a small flathead screwdriver
use a very small screwdriver and pry them up.
Where are u located in Pa ? I have an 07. Would u work on mine ?
Is this the Renthal 755 road medium bar?
If not, can you put a link to the bar you use? :)
Yes, the 755
What's at the top of your steering stem?
A ball mount to attach a RAM mount for a phone. The mount attaches to the steering stem nut.
Did you have any problems with the LED tail light?
Nope, it still works great!
Great tutorial video. Thankyou.. love the upgrades, and will probably do the same to my CB.. but need to know why you got rid of the solenoids and hoses from the engine. What would be the outcome of removing the vacuum hoses etc? would it affect performance at all? Overall, this was an epic video.. thanks again👍
I remove the vacuum stuff on most bikes for the main reason of simplification. When you do routine maintenance there are much less hoses and things to work around now. The vast majority of it is there simply to satisfy emissions requirements, so I'm not worried.
Regardless of what people say, there is very little performance improvement.
@@two-cargarage - this is quite late but as you wrote, for the exhaust emission control system, there won't be any performance benefit from removing it, just more unburnt fuel and carbon monoxide. So isn't removing something that actually helps lower emissions at no performance hit, just being a little too contrary? Nice video though, and it did help me go out and buy a (still stock) 2007 CB900 Hornet yesterday 🙂
Were there any significant changes from 02-06? Thinking of buying an 02 this week.
I think suspension adjustability was one of the biggest changes. Additionally, muffler and brake caliper colors. For example, my brake calipers are gold but I don't think yours would be
Yes, the 2004->2007 have adjustable preload and rebound adjustment on the front forks (no compression damping). Other than that, the 2002->2007 models are identical.
Good luck on your purchase. You'll really enjoy it.
should put a belly pan
@two car garage what tires are you running?
Shinko 705's !
theres one of these posted for around the same price u got yours for but ive only done my beginner course.. bad idea for a first bike?
Not a bad idea. Not a great one, but not the worst. It's not a "fast" bike, nor is it a sport bike. But you'll have to take it easy for quite a while...
@@two-cargarage yeah its just that i was saving for an fz07 and these seemed like another good option. thanks
@@BlackRecoil hmmm the fz07 would be another good choice to start out with, but it'll cost more. I think you will grow out of the fz07 quicker than you would grow out of the 919. So if that's a consideration, go with the Honda.
@@two-cargarage yeah exactly, i could have something to ride now or in a couple months and i wanna keep my 1st for a while and grow into it , i think ill go for the honda
Where will I get, Fender, Engine Crankcase Cover for Honda 900 F Hornet 2007?? Please someone help me..
eBay!
t-rex-racing
It does have everything except fuel economy which puts me off in the Uk . Otherwise it’s perfect .
Very true! I've been a bit disappointed in its ability to comfortably cruise on the highway as well. Naked bikes sure do look cool, but fairings sure are practical.
@@two-cargarage I love the naked bike look so much I’m happy just to ride a bit slower on longer cruises. And when I’m pushing on in the corners, the wind noise and buffeting makes me feel like I’m going faster than perhaps I am :)
Where'd you get the trex guards from?
Just their website. they didn't have some things in stock that I ordered though in addition to what you saw in the video, so maybe give them a call and make sure that they have what you need.
www.t-rex-racing.com/
Thanks man. Appreciate you posting the parts list as well. 👍 May have left out the brake lines though, where would I pull those from? Bikes dope dude, working on mine presently. Would've went the t Rex route rather than the Ukrainian bars route if they were in stock for the multiple weeks I checked Rex to pull some. At least the sliders and engine guards are back now ill throw em in the cart.
updated with brake lines and block-off plates, thanks! Yea I would have ordered more from TRex (axle sliders) but they were out of stock too.
@@two-cargarage Good catch on the pair valve block off plates. Already performed that operation, so out of sight out of mind on my part, apologies. I'll order the stainless lines shortly. Thanks man 👍
@@two-cargarage Yeah the axle sliders and spool adapters seem to have gone the way of the dinosaur. Would've liked to grab the 4 part package n save like 20 whatever bucks but honestly I'm good with the main sliders and guards as well. Thanks for the Intel man. 👍
How much did u pay for the bike bro ??
I say it in the video, but I think $3400
Okay thanks bro 😁👍
I lane split when traffic is stopped at a light. No way I want wider handle bars on my daily commuter honda 919 that I affectionately call “Horny”. I own three motos and Horny is super fun. A bit light in the ass for highways so I mainly ride from the suburbs into the city nine miles each way daily.
It's perfect for a short ride like that
I have some input...Your idea of concepts is great, but people want to see at least part of the work being done...like tail fabrications. There are some who would say you've taken a fine condition survivor motorcycle and screwed it up. Hey, it's your bike.
man, when u start and ride it, people wanna hear the engine and exhaust sound man, not your voice
Good idea, it's just stock exhaust so I figured nobody cared
By removing the P.A.I.R. he's already quietened the bike on roll-off.
Man I wish my 06 919 was as clean as yours’sh#t i’ve got 128 thousand Kilometres on my 2006 919 hornets & she still goes strong & would like ask what tyres are you running on this hornet especially that retire ?
If I wasn’t sure about this bike before, I definitely am now. Thanks dude