Honda has brought back the spirit of its legendary four-cylinder machines with the launch of the Honda CB500SF and CBR500R Four at the CIMAMotor Show 2025 in Chongqing, China. These motorcycles are the brand’s return to small-capacity inline-four performance, combining classic Honda character with modern technology.

Back to the Four-Cylinder Roots

Both the CB500 Super Four – a muscular naked roadster – and the CBR500R Four – a sharp, track-inspired supersport – are powered by an all-new 502cc DOHC inline-four engine. This engine produces around 80 hp, giving mid-size riders a taste of high-rev performance once only available on bigger bikes.

Key Features:

• 502cc liquid-cooled 4-cylinder engine
• Approx. 80 hp output (claimed)
• Honda E-Clutch: Clutchless upshifts and downshifts
• Throttle-by-wire with five riding modes – Sport, Urban, Rain, and two customizable User settings
• 5-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity

Design That Mixes Heritage and Tech

The CB500SF’s styling is a nod to Honda’s early 1990s Super Fours with its upright stance and exposed engine, while the CBR500R Four has aerodynamic fairings and sporty ergonomics. Both sit on a steel diamond frame where the engine is a stressed member for rigidity and balance.

Rider-focused features:

• Upside-down forks (Showa/KYB, depending on market)
• Dual front discs with radial-mount Nissin calipers
• LED lighting and sculpted fuel tank for better grip and looks

For the Modern Sport Class

Honda’s return to an inline-four in the 500cc class is a new chapter in performance motorcycling. The models go head-to-head with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R, Kove 450RR, and CFMoto 500SR Voom, a pure Honda option for those who love precision engineering and smooth power.Available in Chinese showrooms Spring 2026, global debut expected at EICMA Milan 2025. Pricing TBA, above 500 twin range.

Engineering and Market Notes

Industry insiders call this a “back to basics” for Honda – the brand that invented small-displacement fours. E-Clutch, free-revving engine and modern tech to balance everyday use and sporty fun.

“Honda’s new 502cc engine brings back the thrill of the revs while keeping things practical for city and highway use alike,” said one automotive analyst observing the launch.

Compared with Rivals

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The Takeaway

With the CB500SF and CBR500R Four, Honda is rekindling an era when four-cylinder middleweights ruled the streets. These bikes bring a harmonious mix of old-school character, cutting-edge features, and engagement – all designed to remind riders why the four-cylinder format still matters.