Honda is making a strong statement where it was least expected. Just when the market seemed to have definitively turned the page on small-displacement four-cylinder sport bikes, the winged brand is preparing a comeback that is as discreet as it is strategic with a new model that is already generating a lot of buzz: the Honda CBR500R Four.
Spotted almost surreptitiously at CIMA trade fair in ChinaThe motorcycle is now starting to emerge from the shadows. And this time, it's no longer just rumors: Chinese homologation documents reveal its key features.
Forget the sensible twin-cylinder engines. The CBR500R Four adopts a 502cc inline four-cylinder engine, with a 60mm bore and a claimed power output of 70,8 hpA symbolic figure, but above all a declaration of intent: Honda wants to put mechanical pleasure back at the heart of the segment.
Another strong point: the integration of the second generation of theE clutch, already seen on the Honda CBR650R and Honda CB650R.
Thanks to ride-by-wire, gear changes can be made without using the clutch, with an automatic blip of the throttle on downshifts. Purists will be reassured: the lever remains functional for 100% manual driving.
Honda It remains true to its philosophy of balance. The engine is housed in a steel frame, paired with an inverted fork (most likely Showa) and Nissin four-piston brakes with radial calipers. At the rear, there's an aluminum swingarm and a central monoshock.
In terms of figures, it has a wheelbase of 1,410 mm, 120/70-17 tires at the front, 160/60-17 at the rear, and a dry weight of approximately 189 kg.
This is clearly not a supersport radical, but rather a versatile sports car, designed to be high-performing without becoming demanding.
Honda's global strategy... which includes China
Trademark filings are clear: the CBR500R Oven It is planned for Japan, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Colombia, Turkey… and Europe. This is far from insignificant information.
To comply with local regulations, Honda also plans a 400cc version, called CBR400R Four, intended primarily for Japan and Singapore.
Initial production will be handled by the Wuyang-Honda plant in China. This is a logical choice from an industrial standpoint, even if the question of global distribution remains open, particularly due to... tariffs in certain markets such as the United States.
Honda isn't stopping there. Alongside the faired sport bike, a roadster version has already been shown: the Honda CB500 Super Four.
Same engine, same frame, but without fairing and with a more upright riding position. A clear nod to the legendary four-cylinder CBs of yesteryear, brought up to date with modern electronics and an automatic clutch.
La CBR500R Four It's not just a new model. It's a signal. At a time when standards and costs are pushing everyone towards twin-cylinder engines, Honda dares to put back on the table an accessible four-cylinder, an emotionally engaging mid-range sports car, and a differentiating offering in the face of competition that has become very homogeneous.
Now the crucial question remains: the price. Because if Honda manages to position this CBR500R Intelligently designed, it could well become the new benchmark for driving pleasure in the segment. The four-cylinder engine may not have had its last word yet.
