The game received positive reviews. "Computer and Video Games" gave the arcade version a rave review. The reviewer called it the most realistic arcade game to be released, citing the need to tilt the bike and the placement of the throttle and brake controls being where they are on a real motorcycle. Also cited were the quality of the graphics, being compared to "Pole Position". The same magazine later reviewed the Master System port and scored it positively. "Sinclair User" commended "Hang-On" for its simple-yet-fun gameplay, responsive controls, and unique tilt-based arcade cabinet. "ACE" praised the quality of the Master System conversion, though noted there were some minor graphics jerks compared to the original as well as the loss of the crashing graphics of the arcade version. British magazine "Sega Pro" called the Master System port "a damn fine racing game".