Honda has unveiled the all-new CBR500R Four, a middleweight sportsbike powered by a 502cc inline-four engine. The model combines supersport-inspired styling with Honda’s E-Clutch system as standard, allowing riders to pull away, change gears and come to a stop without operating the clutch lever.
The new DOHC, 16-valve engine has a 60 x 44.4mm bore and stroke, with its oversquare configuration designed to support high-revving performance. It produces a claimed 71bhp at 11,000rpm, while peak torque of 47.5Nm arrives at 9,750rpm.
Honda has used Nickel-Silicon Carbide (Ni-SiC) plating on the cylinder walls, eliminating the need for conventional cylinder sleeves while reducing weight and friction. Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coatings on the valve lifters further minimise friction within the engine.
Air enters through a dual ram-air intake system, with ducts positioned beneath the headlights feeding a downdraft airbox directly above the combustion chambers. The intake uses different funnel lengths, measuring 70mm for cylinders one and four and 90mm for cylinders two and three, to help produce a distinctive intake sound. The approach is similar to that used on the CB1000F. Meanwhile, the 4-2-1 exhaust layout draws inspiration from the 1975 CB400 Four, one of the early four-cylinder motorcycles in the 400cc class.
The engine is paired with Honda’s throttle-by-wire system and standard-fit E-Clutch technology. Although the system manages clutch operation automatically during starts, gear changes and stops, the conventional clutch lever remains in place for riders who prefer manual control. Three preset riding modes, Standard, Sport and Urban, are joined by two customisable User modes. These allow adjustments to engine power, engine braking and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), while wheelie control is also included.
The CBR500R Four uses a new steel, diamond-style frame, with the engine serving as a stressed member. Its geometry comprises a 25-degree rake, 99mm trail and a 1,412mm wheelbase. Suspension consists of non-adjustable 41mm KYB upside-down front forks and a Pro-Link rear shock with five-stage preload adjustment, paired with an aluminium swingarm.
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Braking is handled by twin 296mm front discs with radial-mount, two-piston Nissin calipers, while the rear uses a 240mm disc and single-piston caliper. Two-channel ABS is standard. The bike runs Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, measuring 120/70 R17 at the front and 160/60 R17 at the rear. Honda claims a kerb weight of 189kg, with a seat height of 780mm and a 14-litre fuel tank.
The styling follows a sharp supersport design, featuring angular fairing panels, twin LED projector headlights and integrated indicators. A five-inch TFT display provides instrumentation and Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, with functions controlled through a backlit four-way switch on the left handlebar. A USB-C charging socket is positioned beneath the screen, while Honda’s HISS immobiliser provides standard security. An alarm will be available as an accessory.
The CBR500R Four will be offered in two colour options: Ignition Red Tricolour and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic. Genuine Honda accessories will include a rear seat bag, heated grips, a taller windscreen, and tank and knee grip pads.
Pricing and availability in New Zealand have yet to be announced.
