Honda’s highly anticipated CB500 Super Four has officially been unveiled at the 2025 China International Motorcycle Exhibition (CIMAMotor). Marking a pivotal moment in the mid-range motorcycle segment, this new model blends modern performance with classic aesthetics, appealing to both new riders and experienced enthusiasts. Featuring a groundbreaking inline-four engine and a host of advanced technologies, the CB500 Super Four is poised to disrupt the market. Here’s an in-depth look at five standout features and the context behind this exciting launch.
502cc Inline-Four Engine: A Powerful Upgrade
The engine is undoubtedly the star of the CB500 Super Four. Honda has equipped this model with a 502cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine, a major leap from the previous twin-cylinder configurations found in similar mid-range motorcycles. Delivering around 80 PS, the new engine offers a noticeable performance boost over its predecessor, the CB400 Super Four, which produced 56 PS.
This increase in power is especially noticeable at higher RPMs, making the CB500 Super Four ideal for high-speed highways and long-distance touring. According to New Atlas, the inline-four engine provides smoother, more responsive power delivery, a key benefit for riders seeking more control and acceleration. The engine’s advanced design promises to reduce vibrations, offering a more refined riding experience compared to the typical thrum of twin-cylinder bikes.
Honda’s decision to move to an inline-four engine is a bold one for a mid-range motorcycle, and it places the CB500 Super Four in a league of its own, especially in the highly competitive 500cc market.
Second-Generation E-Clutch System: Simplified Gear Shifting
Another significant feature of the CB500 Super Four is the second-generation E-Clutch system, which allows riders to shift gears without manually operating the clutch lever. While similar systems are available in high-end motorcycles, this is one of the first times Honda has integrated this technology into a mid-range bike.
The new E-Clutch system is more compact and efficiently repositioned to the left side of the engine, contributing to improved weight distribution. According to Australian Motorcycle News, this design not only enhances the bike’s handling but also provides an easier and smoother experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, for riders who prefer traditional control, the E-Clutch system can be overridden, allowing manual operation of the clutch. This balance of automation and manual flexibility is a highlight of the CB500 Super Four, catering to both beginner and experienced riders.
A Modern Chassis with Retro Styling
Honda has struck a perfect balance between contemporary engineering and nostalgic design with the CB500 Super Four. The bike features a diamond-shaped steel frame, with the engine serving as a stressed member. This configuration ensures that the bike remains light and agile while offering the rigidity needed for stability during high-speed riding.
Incorporating retro styling elements, the CB500 Super Four pays homage to Honda’s legendary CB1000F, with a distinctive 4-into-1 exhaust system and minimalistic yet functional design. The combination of modern technology and classic aesthetics makes it an appealing option for riders looking for a stylish yet practical motorcycle. As New Atlas points out, this is a strategic move by Honda, appealing to those who value the look and feel of vintage motorcycles but demand the performance and features of a contemporary machine.
Advanced Electronics and Ride Modes for Custom Performance
Modern motorcycles are increasingly defined by their electronic capabilities, and the CB500 Super Four is no exception. The bike comes equipped with a ride-by-wire throttle, offering enhanced throttle control and smooth power delivery.
Additionally, the CB500 Super Four boasts five selectable ride modes, which tailor the bike’s performance based on rider preferences and environmental conditions. Whether you’re cruising on a highway or navigating city streets, you can easily adjust the bike’s power and responsiveness. Honda has also incorporated Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) in this model, a traction management system that improves grip and stability, especially in less-than-ideal conditions like rain or gravel roads.
For riders who appreciate both technology and control, these features enhance the CB500 Super Four’s versatility and usability across a range of riding environments. As NDTV highlights, Honda’s commitment to rider safety and customization is reflected in these advanced systems, giving riders the ability to personalize their experience.
Premium Suspension and Braking System for Enhanced Control
The CB500 Super Four doesn’t just rely on engine power; it also excels in terms of suspension and braking. To ensure precise handling, the motorcycle is fitted with high-quality Showa upside-down front forks, a ProLink monoshock rear suspension, and a cast aluminum swingarm. These components enhance the bike’s agility and stability, offering exceptional comfort even on bumpy or uneven roads.
The braking system is equally impressive, featuring Nissin radially mounted four-piston calipers at the front and a two-piston sliding caliper at the rear. This combination ensures powerful and responsive braking, giving riders confidence in their stopping power. New Atlas notes that the CB500 Super Four’s suspension and braking components offer a well-rounded balance of comfort and performance, ensuring a smooth and secure ride in a variety of conditions.
Comparisons with Competitors
The 500cc motorcycle market is highly competitive, with several manufacturers offering similar models aimed at performance-oriented riders. The Kawasaki Z400, Yamaha MT-03, and Suzuki GSX-S750 all offer strong competitors to the Honda CB500 Super Four.
The Kawasaki Z400, for example, is known for its aggressive styling and competitive price point. However, its twin-cylinder engine does not match the CB500 Super Four’s inline-four power, making the Honda the more powerful option. Similarly, while the Yamaha MT-03 offers excellent agility, it also uses a twin-cylinder engine and lacks the ride modes and torque control found in the CB500 Super Four.
In comparison, the Suzuki GSX-S750 is a larger bike, often considered a step above the CB500 Super Four, but it comes at a higher price point. The CB500 Super Four offers a unique combination of features that places it squarely in the mid-range category, providing a balanced approach for riders who want both performance and practicality.
Future Prospects and Global Market Reception
Honda’s decision to introduce the CB500 Super Four comes at a time when there is a growing demand for more powerful, yet manageable, motorcycles in the mid-range segment. This model is expected to be available in several global markets, including China, Japan, and select European countries, with an anticipated launch in early 2026.
As the motorcycle market continues to evolve, particularly with increasing interest in electric vehicles and smart technology, Honda’s strategic focus on combining traditional design with cutting-edge performance will likely set the stage for future models in the CB series. Riders can expect further innovations in terms of both electrification and connectivity in upcoming models.
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Conclusion: A Bold Step for Honda and Mid-Size Motorcycles
The Honda CB500 Super Four is more than just a motorcycle; it represents Honda’s bold step into the future of mid-range motorcycles. With a powerful 502cc inline-four engine, advanced electronics, a unique E-Clutch system, and classic styling, it offers a compelling package for riders looking for performance, comfort, and innovation. Set to be released in 2026, the CB500 Super Four is poised to redefine the mid-range motorcycle segment, making it an exciting choice for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.
