After several rumors from around the world, Honda has finally put the money where its mouth is. The bikemaker has whipped up its first modern-day four-cylinder entry-level sports bike that goes by the name CBR500R Four. It is aimed squarely at the emerging small-capacity inline-four segment, headlined by the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R. While complete details remain under wraps, there is plenty to excite you. Let’s jump in.
The Honda CBR500R Four Boasts A New 502cc Inline-Four Engine
This is the highlight of the motorcycle. The new CBR flexes a 502cc, inline-four engine, which is about 100cc more than the Ninja ZX-4R. That extra capacity helps it boast ~80 horsepower–four more than the Ninja. We’re not sure whether this is the base number or with RAM Air, however.
Moving on, the mill works in tandem with a six-speed transmission and an E-Clutch system lets you forget about the clutch lever. You can shift up and down without using the clutch, and even start off from a standstill without it. Interestingly, the E-Clutch assembly is now on the right side of the bike, unlike the existing setup seen on the CBR650R.
Honda CBR500R Four Engine Specs
|
Capacity |
502cc |
|
Layout |
Inline-four |
|
Power |
~80 HP |
|
Torque |
NA |
|
Transmission |
Six-speed |
Simple Suspension And Sporty Ergonomics Make Up The Underpinnings
Engine aside, the CBR500R Four is a rather simple machine. Right from the Showa forks to the Nissin brakes with petal discs, much of it resembles the parallel-twin CBR500R we get in the US. The wheels are identical, too, although the tubular chassis visible near the seat appears new. It’s the same story ergonomically. We see slightly rear-set pegs, not too aggressive clip-on bars, and a split saddle. Once aboard, you’ll also notice the cockpit is familiar with Honda’s staple 5-inch TFT with RoadSync app connectivity.
The big difference then comes to the design. The Four does its own thing here, featuring new fairings, a sleek LED headlight, and no aerodynamic protrusions. Likewise, the fuel tank is new and appears much more muscular than the p-twin CBR500R. A special shout also goes to the lower fairing that has slits, so you can enjoy looking at the four shiny headers.
Honda CBR500R Four Key Features
- 5-inch TFT
- App connectivity
- LED lights
- USD forks
- All-new design
Honda Has Yet To Launch The CBR500R Internationally
We’ll be honest: we like what we see here, and we’re rather excited about the latest CBR. At the same time, we’re curbing our enthusiasm, which is also what you need to do. That’s because the CBR500R Four has only been shown in China for now. There hasn’t been any confirmation about the international arrival, either. We’re keeping our fingers crossed, though, and hoping to have some official confirmation by Honda around EICMA 2025. Oh, and a neo-retro naked version of the CBR is also in the works (shown above).