Honda has revealed the all-new Honda CBR500R4 sportbike and CB500 Super 4 retro roadster at the CIMA Motors Show in China. Both feature a 502cc inline-4 engine delivering 80 HP, advanced e-clutch, and modern ride modes. Launch expected in early 2026.
Honda Brings Back Inline-4 Excitement in 500cc Class
At the CIMA Motors Show 2025 in China, Honda stole the spotlight by unveiling two stunning motorcycles – the Honda CBR500R4, a fully faired supersport, and the Honda CB500 Super 4, a retro-inspired roadster. Both models are set to launch globally in early spring 2026, though Honda has yet to confirm which markets will receive them.
The highlight of these machines is their all-new 502cc inline-4 cylinder engine, producing a claimed 80 horsepower – a figure that places them in a unique performance space within the midsize 500cc category. With high-revving excitement rarely seen in sub-600cc bikes today, these motorcycles mark a bold return to Honda’s legacy of inline-four magic.
Cutting-Edge E-Clutch & Rider Technology
Both motorcycles feature Honda’s second-generation e-clutch system, first introduced on the 650cc lineup. The latest version integrates with ride-by-wire to allow automatic downshifts, while still letting riders shift manually without using the clutch lever.
Another clever design modification made by Honda engineers was pushing the e-clutch electric motors to the left so that the weight distribution and lateral handling was better.
In order to increase the diversity, CBR500R4 and CB500 Super 4 models are fitted with five programmable ride modes, which enable a rider to adjust the power delivery and responsiveness to conditions.
Performance-Based Chassis and Braking.
- Steel frame is of diamond shape with engine being a stressed part.
- Inverted front forks and Pro-Link rear monoshock, aluminum swingarm.
- Front 4-piston dual Nissin radial mount calipers that provide sharp braking.
It is a system that promises agility, stability as well as confidence, be it pitting either of the two bikes around corners of the sportbike or taking a leisurely ride in the city aboard the retro-inspired CB.
Unique Styling Sport vs Retro.
- Honda CBR500R4: Aggressive, aerodynamic fairing which is based on the CBR family, but the lines of the body lines are upswept to highlight the racing nature.
- Honda CB500 Super 4: Retro as appearance with a traditional naked-bike shape, blue racing stripes on both sides of the silver paint, exposed four-header pipes, and exhaust with a chrome finish, which is a tribute to Honda legendary CB.
The different personalities keep everyone, be it modern sportbike riders and old school motorcycle lovers entertained.
Why This Launch Is Big News
These two bikes will see Honda revive the use of sub-600cc-four cylinders segment, which has been declining in the last ten years. As competitors have mostly switched towards twin-cylinder engines, Honda is counting on nostalgia, performance, and innovation to appeal to a new generation of riders.
The CBR500R4 and CB500 Super 4 would be a game-changer assuming they are priced at a competitive price, and would fill the gap of entry-level twins and high-performance super bikes.
