When Honda rolled out the covers at CIMAMotor 2025, the spotlight landed firmly on two bikes that are already creating a buzz: the CB500SF and the CBR500R Four. These aren’t just new middleweight motorcycles—they mark Honda’s big return to inline-four engineering in a segment that’s been dominated by parallel-twins for years. The phrase Honda Showcases New CB500SF and CBR500R Four at CIMAMotor 2025 quickly spread across the motorcycling community, signaling the arrival of two machines designed to blend retro charm and modern aggression with technology riders crave.
With enthusiasts craving something fresh, Honda didn’t just tweak its lineup—it rewrote the playbook. The Honda Showcases New CB500SF and CBR500R Four at CIMAMotor 2025 reveal has sparked conversations about design, performance, and how these bikes will shape the future of the middleweight class.
Honda’s showcase at CIMAMotor 2025 wasn’t a one-off headline—it was a statement of intent. Both the CB500SF and CBR500R Four are powered by a newly engineered 502cc inline-four engine. Unlike the twins that dominate this category, the inline-four setup promises smoother revs, a more exhilarating top end, and that unmistakable Honda exhaust note.
The CB500SF is styled for riders who love a retro-naked vibe, while the CBR500R Four wears a full fairing and sharp angles to scream sportbike DNA. What ties them together is a shared chassis, suspension, and braking package—all fine-tuned for balance, comfort, and confident performance on both city streets and twisty backroads.
Honda Showcases New CB500SF and CBR500R
| Attribute | CB500 Super Four (CB500SF) | CBR500R Four |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 502 cc inline-four, DOHC, 4-valve | 502 cc inline-four, DOHC, 4-valve |
| Power | Approx. 80 bhp | Approx. 80 bhp |
| Frame | Diamond steel frame with engine as stressed member | Same chassis setup |
| Suspension | KYB USD forks, rear monoshock with aluminium swingarm | Same suspension system |
| Brakes | Dual front discs with Nissin radial calipers; rear 2-pot | Same braking setup |
| Rider Tech | E-Clutch, throttle-by-wire, 5 modes, 5-inch TFT, RoadSync | Same tech package |
| Styling | Retro-naked with exposed headers, chrome highlights | Full-faired, aggressive sportbike styling |
| Launch | China, early 2026; expansion possible | Same timeline |
The CB500SF and CBR500R Four are more than just new additions to Honda’s lineup—they’re a signal that the middleweight inline-four still has a place in today’s motorcycle world. By offering both a retro-styled naked and a modern sportbike, Honda has widened its appeal while bringing back an engine format enthusiasts have long missed.
If you’re someone who values Honda’s engineering pedigree, tech features like E-Clutch, and styling that speaks to both past and future, these bikes might just set the standard for the next wave of mid-capacity motorcycles.
Design Differences
The CB500SF takes clear inspiration from Honda’s golden era of naked streetfighters. Exposed chrome headers, a rounded LED tail section, and a silver-blue color palette give it a nostalgic yet modern touch. It feels like a bike made for purists—those who want to see the mechanical beauty on display.
By contrast, the CBR500R Four goes all-in on aggressive sportbike styling. With its angular fairings, sculpted tank, and upswept tail, it’s built for riders who want a machine that looks as fast as it feels. The dual color schemes—silver/green and red/white—only add to its racing persona.
Mechanical and Powertrain Highlights
At the heart of both bikes is Honda’s all-new 502cc inline-four engine. Producing around 80 horsepower, it’s tuned to balance performance with daily usability. Unlike the older CB400SF, this is a ground-up redesign. The diamond-type frame uses the engine as a stressed member, improving rigidity while keeping weight manageable.
This engine choice stands out in a market dominated by twin-cylinders. Riders can expect smoother delivery, a screaming redline, and a soundtrack that harks back to Honda’s iconic four-cylinder history.
Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes
Both the CB500SF and CBR500R Four share a sophisticated setup. Up front, KYB USD forks provide stiffness and better control, while the rear monoshock connects via an aluminium swingarm for stability. Stopping power is handled by Nissin’s proven dual-disc front brakes with radial-mount four-pot calipers, plus a rear two-piston unit for balance.
This combination isn’t just about raw performance—it’s about giving riders confidence whether they’re carving mountain roads or navigating city traffic.
Technology & Rider Assistance
Honda hasn’t skimped on tech. Both models feature the brand’s second-generation E-Clutch, which automates clutch operation through electric motors. This makes city riding smoother, while still letting riders enjoy manual feel when they want it.
Add in throttle-by-wire, five distinct ride modes (Sport, Urban, Rain, and two customizable), and a 5-inch color TFT display with smartphone integration through Honda RoadSync, and you’ve got a package that’s firmly modern without being overwhelming.
Market Availability & Other Details
The official word is that both models will hit the Chinese market in early 2026. While no global launch dates have been confirmed, demand in Asia and Europe could push Honda to expand availability. Pricing, emissions compliance, and international rollout details are expected closer to the production timeline, possibly around major motorcycle shows in late 2025.
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FAQs About Honda Showcases New CB500SF and CBR500R Four at CIMAMotor 2025
1. Is the Honda CB500SF suitable for beginners?
The CB500SF offers a balanced ride with manageable power, but it’s better suited to intermediate riders who want to step up from smaller bikes rather than absolute beginners.
2. How powerful is the CBR500R Four compared to rivals?
With about 80 bhp, the CBR500R Four sits comfortably between parallel-twin competitors and larger sportbikes, making it an attractive choice for riders seeking performance without intimidation.
3. What makes the inline-four engine special in this segment?
Inline-four engines deliver smoother power delivery, higher revs, and a distinctive exhaust note—qualities often missing in twin-cylinder mid-segment motorcycles.
4. Will these models launch outside China?
As of now, Honda has confirmed a 2026 China launch. Expansion to Asian and European markets is likely, but official details are expected at future motorcycle expos.
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