Honda Unveils CBR500R FOUR with 502cc Inline-Four Engine and E-Clutch

The new middleweight sportsbike produces 73hp at 11,000rpm and features Honda’s E-Clutch system as standard, with UK deliveries scheduled to begin in January 2027.

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Honda has unveiled the all-new CBR500R FOUR, a middleweight sportsbike powered by a 502cc inline-four engine and equipped with the manufacturer’s E-Clutch system as standard.

The 2027 model-year motorcycle draws on Honda’s experience developing four-cylinder motorcycles, including the CB400 SUPER FOUR, which was sold in Japan for more than three decades. The new model aims to bring the high-revving inline-four configuration to a wider audience by combining traditional engine character with modern electronics and everyday practicality.

However, the CBR500R FOUR will sit alongside Honda’s existing CBR500R, which uses a parallel-twin engine. Despite sharing a similar name, the two motorcycles have different engine configurations, making the ‘FOUR’ designation an important distinction for buyers.

502cc Inline-Four Engine Produces 73hp

The Honda CBR500R FOUR is powered by a 502cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve inline-four engine producing 53.0kW, equivalent to approximately 73hp, at 11,000rpm. Peak torque stands at 47.4Nm at 9,750rpm, while the engine has a redline of 12,500rpm.

Honda has equipped the engine with a ram-air-fed downdraft intake system to support airflow at higher engine speeds. Low-friction cylinder coatings and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) valve lifters are also used to reduce friction within the engine.

The exhaust system follows a 4-2-1 configuration, drawing inspiration from the 1975 Honda CB400 FOUR, one of the Japanese manufacturer’s early four-cylinder road motorcycles.

According to Honda, the engine has been developed to deliver a broad spread of power rather than relying exclusively on high engine speeds. Nevertheless, its peak power and torque figures indicate that riders will need to make use of the gearbox to get the most out of the inline-four engine.

E-Clutch Comes as Standard

A standout highlight on the CBR500R FOUR is Honda’s E-Clutch system, which enables seamless launches, complete stops, and effortless gear changes without ever pulling the clutch lever, a setup we previously experienced and thoroughly evaluated on the CBR650R.

The conventional clutch lever remains available for riders who prefer manual operation. The system also works with the motorcycle’s throttle-by-wire controls to manage rev-matched downshifts, helping to smooth gear changes. Riders can adjust the E-Clutch’s operation or switch it off entirely if they prefer a more conventional riding experience.

The motorcycle also features three preset riding modes: Standard, Sport and Urban, alongside two customisable User modes. These settings allow riders to adjust engine power delivery, engine braking and Honda Selectable Torque Control, the manufacturer’s traction control system.

Suspension, Brakes and Chassis

The CBR500R FOUR uses a steel tube diamond-style frame, paired with 41mm KYB upside-down front forks and a Pro-Link rear suspension system. An aluminium swingarm completes the rear suspension setup.

Braking duties are handled by twin 296mm front discs with radial-mount Nissin two-piston callipers, supported by a standard two-channel ABS system. The motorcycle rolls on Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, while its claimed kerb weight is 189kg.

In terms of dimensions, the CBR500R FOUR has a seat height of 780mm and a 14-litre fuel tank. These specifications suggest Honda is targeting riders who want a sporty middleweight motorcycle that remains manageable for everyday use.

TFT Display and Smartphone Connectivity

The new sportsbike comes with a five-inch colour TFT instrument display featuring Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity. Other standard equipment includes LED lighting and a USB-C charging socket.

Honda will offer the CBR500R FOUR in two colour options: Ignition Red Tricolour and Mat Ballistic Black Metallic. A 35kW version will also be available for riders holding an A2 motorcycle licence in European markets where the licensing category applies.

Honda CBR500R FOUR Price and Availability

In the UK, the Honda CBR500R FOUR will be priced at £6,999, equivalent to approximately RM38,300 based on the conversion provided. Deliveries to dealerships are scheduled to begin in January 2027. Honda has yet to announce pricing or availability for other markets, including Malaysia.

The CBR500R FOUR expands the brand’s middleweight lineup as a multi-cylinder alternative to the existing parallel-twin CBR500R. It arrives right on cue to tap into the booming four-cylinder sportsbike revival, going head-to-head with recent market arrivals from Kawasaki, CFMoto, ZXMoto and Kove.