- Published patent filings reveal new V4 mill
- Could be base for multiple motorcycles
- No announcement for launch details
Honda appears to be developing a new V4 engine platform, according to a series of recently published patent filings.
While the patents do not explicitly confirm a new production engine, the components described are clearly designed around a V4 configuration, offering insight into Honda’s future engineering direction.
One of the patents details a new lubrication system aimed at reducing internal friction between oil pumps. Another focuses on a reworked cooling layout, specifically targeting the rear cylinders of a V4 engine, an area that typically experiences higher heat build-up due to restricted airflow.
In addition, Honda has filed a patent for a parallel-twin engine design, outlining a revised method of mounting the cylinder head to the crankcase. This solution could potentially be carried over to the forthcoming V4 platform as well. Taken together, the filings suggest Honda may have moved away from shaft drive in favour of a chain-drive transmission. While shaft drive offers lower maintenance, it generally incurs greater power losses compared to a chain-driven setup.
This shift could indicate that Honda is planning a broader range of V4-powered motorcycles, rather than limiting the engine to a single sports-tourer model as it did with the VFR1200. Honda has not confirmed any launch timelines or production plans. As such, the new V4 engine, and any motorcycles that may use it, appear to be several years away from reaching production.
