Honda CB500SF & CBR500R Four Unveiled: Retro Meets Power with 500cc Inline-Four Engine

Honda has officially unveiled two exciting new motorcycles at the CIMAMotor 2025 show in China — the CB500SF (Super Four) and the CBR500R Four. Both models are powered by a new 500cc inline-four engine, reviving the spirit of Honda’s legendary performance bikes from the past.

Inspired by the Iconic CB400SF

The Honda CB500SF takes clear design inspiration from the classic CB400SF, which has a cult following among enthusiasts. It features a round LED headlamp, retro-style body panels, and a modern-classic streetfighter look. This combination of old-school charm with modern technology makes the CB500SF stand out in the middleweight segment.

Sportier CBR500R Four with Aggressive Styling

Alongside the CB500SF, Honda also introduced the CBR500R Four, which is the fully faired, sportier sibling. It features sharp bodywork, a sleek aerodynamic design, and a styling language similar to Honda’s larger CBR range. This makes it an attractive option for riders who prefer a more track-inspired or performance-focused appearance.

All-New 502cc Inline-Four Engine

Both motorcycles are powered by Honda’s brand-new 502cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, expected to produce around 80bhp. This engine setup is special because inline-four motors in the 500cc class are quite rare today, especially in a world shifting towards parallel twins.

The use of this engine shows Honda’s commitment to delivering an exciting, high-revving performance similar to its older bikes, but in a modern package.

Shared Chassis and Premium Components

Underneath the different body styles, both motorcycles share the same diamond frame chassis. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a linked-type rear monoshock, ensuring good ride quality and sporty handling.

Braking is managed by disc brakes with Nissin callipers, offering strong stopping power. Additionally, Honda has included its E-Clutch technology, which allows clutch-less gear shifts, making the ride smoother and more beginner-friendly.

Rivals in the Global Market

The new CB500SF and CBR500R Four will take on rivals like the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R and other premium middleweight machines in international markets. These bikes will likely appeal to riders looking for the thrill of an inline-four engine, something that’s becoming increasingly rare in this segment.

India Launch Unlikely for Now

Although these models are creating a buzz globally, an India launch seems unlikely at the moment. Honda may focus on markets like Japan, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where there’s a strong demand for such motorcycles.

However, if brought to India, they could offer a unique alternative to existing 400–600cc bikes, appealing to enthusiasts who love high-revving engines and Honda’s reliability.

Our Take on the Unveil

The introduction of the CB500SF and CBR500R Four is an exciting move by Honda. At a time when most manufacturers are shifting to parallel twin setups for cost and emissions reasons, Honda has gone the other way by offering an inline-four in the 500cc class.

This not only adds character and uniqueness to the bikes but also revives the golden era of Honda’s smaller four-cylinder motorcycles, which were loved for their smoothness and thrilling sound.

Conclusion

The Honda CB500SF and CBR500R Four are modern machines with a strong nostalgic touch, bringing back the inline-four magic in the middleweight segment. Their classic-meets-modern design, premium hardware, and high-revving 500cc engine make them stand out globally.

While an India launch may not happen soon, these bikes will definitely draw attention from enthusiasts worldwide, especially those who miss the charm of compact four-cylinder motorcycles.


FAQs

What are the new motorcycles unveiled by Honda in China?

Honda has unveiled the CB500SF (Super Four) and the CBR500R Four at CIMAMotor 2025.

What engine powers the CB500SF and CBR500R Four?

Both bikes use a 502cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled engine that makes around 80bhp.

Are these bikes coming to India?

An India launch is unlikely at this stage, as Honda may focus on other global markets first.

What is special about these bikes?

They bring back the inline-four engine in the 500cc segment, offering a unique sound, smoothness, and performance.

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