At the CIMAMotor exhibition in Chongqing, China, Honda unveiled two new motorcycles featuring an inline four-cylinder 502 cc engine. The first is the retro-styled naked CB500 Super Four (CB500SF), which is sure to attract fans of classic bikes. The second is the sporty CBR500R Four. Both models are expected to enter mass production in early 2026.

It has not yet been specified which markets these new models will be available in or how Honda plans to promote them. Nevertheless, it has been confirmed that the motorcycles will be produced on a large scale, especially following the discontinuation of the popular CB400SF. This announcement has already generated significant interest among Honda enthusiasts.

Technical Features

Both models are built on an entirely new platform. Instead of updating the old engine, Honda has developed a brand-new 502 cc four-cylinder motor, which, according to preliminary data, will deliver 80 hp. For comparison, the previous 400 cc engine produced a maximum of 56 hp. Such a power increase in the half-liter class has been eagerly awaited by motorcyclists.

Photos from the exhibition reveal an elegantly curved 4-into-1 exhaust manifold. Additionally, both models will feature the second generation of Honda’s proprietary E-Clutch system. The new version is more compact and possibly lighter than the previous one, which weighed 2 kg.

Innovative E-Clutch System

The second-generation E-Clutch system almost fully automates clutch operation: it electronically engages and disengages the clutch and shifts gears with a touch of the lever. For daily city riding, this could be a real breakthrough. At the same time, riders can always manually disable the system and retain full control.

It’s worth noting that the first version of the E-Clutch only appeared in 2024 and is currently available exclusively on 650 cc four-cylinder models. That’s why the debut of the second-generation E-Clutch on the CB500 Super Four drew special attention at the show.

Chassis and Electronics

The motorcycles are equipped with a new diamond-shaped steel frame, where the engine serves as a stressed member. Up front is an inverted Showa fork with increased travel, while the rear features a new aluminum swingarm connected to a monoshock via Honda’s ProLink system.

For braking, the front uses radially mounted Nissin calipers, and the rear is fitted with a dual-piston sliding caliper. Electronics include a ride-by-wire throttle with five riding modes. The curb weight is expected to be under 200 kg, which, combined with the 80 hp output, should deliver impressive performance.

Design and Styling

The CB500 Super Four is styled in a classic retro design inspired by the CB1000F concept. Meanwhile, the CBR500R Four follows the sporty CBR line from Honda, standing out with a silver color scheme accented by two blue stripes.

Market Prospects

More information on pricing and availability is expected at the EICMA show later this year. It is anticipated that the new models will first appear in Asia, Europe, and Japan. It remains unclear whether these motorcycles will be available in America.