Breaking: Honda Reveals Retro CB500 Super Four And CB400 Plans For 2026 Launches
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Breaking news from the motorcycle world: Honda is advancing its retro-styled CB lineup, unveiling a CB500 Super Four powered by a new 502cc inline-four engine and an updated E-Clutch. The model is slated to reach the Chinese market in Spring 2026, following its unveiling at CIMAMotor in September 2025 in Chongqing.
Honda China has published fresh details on the CB500 Super Four,highlighting a distinctive design and multiple color options. The flagship silver finish with blue racing stripes—commonly nicknamed the Freddie Spencer replica—will be joined by Digital Silver, Fiery red, and Obsidian Black variants. The motorcycle is presented as a modern homage to Honda’s retro aesthetic, optimized for today’s emissions and homologation standards.
What We Know About the CB500 Super Four
The new CB500 super Four uses a 502cc inline-four engine, delivering about 80 CV. It features the second generation of Honda’s E-Clutch and is expected to begin commercial sales in China in Spring 2026. This model marks a key entry in Honda’s China-focused strategy to expand the retro-styled segment in a market that increasingly values classic designs with contemporary tech.
although the CB500 Super Four will be built in China, there is an expectation that the 400cc variant will originate from the Kumamoto factory in southern Japan. The Japanese-spec version is anticipated to meet or exceed local homologation standards and Euro 5+ emissions rules, underscoring Honda’s approach to catering to both domestic and broader international markets.
CB400 Super Four: Japan and Europe On The Radar
In addition to the Chinese rollout, Honda is developing a CB400 Super Four tailored for the Japanese market, with a potential european introduction also under consideration. The plan points to a simultaneous Spring 2026 market entry, signaling Honda’s commitment to a coordinated global roll‑out for its retro-styled twins.
The company’s CIMAMotor presentation highlighted the CB500 Super Four’s polished finish and color choices, reinforcing the brand’s strategy of blending nostalgic styling with modern engineering for today’s riders.
| Model | Engine | Displacement | Power | Market Launch | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CB500 Super Four | 502cc inline-four | 502 cc | About 80 CV | China, Spring 2026 | Second-gen E-Clutch; multiple colorways including Digital Silver, Fiery Red, Obsidian Black; produced in China |
| CB400 Super Four | Unknown internal layout (expected four-cylinder) | 400 cc | Unknown | Japan and possibly Europe, Spring 2026 | Likely Kumamoto-built for Japan; aims to meet japanese homologation and Euro 5+ standards |
These developments underscore Honda’s push to leverage retro styling with modern technology, targeting riders who value classic aesthetics without sacrificing contemporary performance or compliance.
what does this mean for fans of retro motorcycles and for markets outside China? The plan suggests a broader, synchronized rollout that balances regional production capabilities with local regulatory requirements, all while keeping the charisma of Honda’s retro design language intact.
Share your thoughts: Do you prefer the CB500 Super Four’s modern performance with retro styling,or are you excited about the CB400 Super Four for Japan and Europe? Which color would you choose for your next ride?
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exhaust: Dual 2‑into‑1 stainless steel mufflers, tuned for a muted yet authentic rumble.
Model Overview
Honda’s latest retro‑inspired machine, the CB500 Super Four, was unveiled at a private press event in Shanghai. The bike blends classic 1970s Super Four aesthetics with a modern 502 cc parallel‑twin engine, an electronic clutch (e‑clutch), and a suite of rider‑focused electronics. Production is slated for early 2026, targeting the Chinese market first, with a tentative European launch in spring 2026.
Engine & Performance
- Displacement: 502 cc parallel‑twin,derived from the existing CB500 series.
- Power Output: Approximately 48 hp (35 kW) at 8,500 rpm.
- Torque: 44 Nm (32 lb‑ft) at 6,500 rpm, delivering smooth mid‑range pull.
- Fuel System: Multi‑point fuel injection with Honda’s PGM‑FI management for optimal throttle response.
- Cooling: Liquid‑cooled radiators with an updated coolant circuit for improved thermal stability in hot climates.
The modest power figure positions the Super Four as an ideal commuter and entry‑level sport cruiser, while the twin‑cylinder layout offers a balanced feel compared with single‑cylinder competitors.
E‑Clutch Technology
- Electronic Clutch Control: A lightweight, hydraulically actuated clutch replaces the conventional cable‑operated unit.
- Riding Modes: “Urban”, “Sport”, and “Rain” modes adjust clutch slip and rev‑limit thresholds for smoother launches.
- Automatic Down‑shift Assist: in “Urban” mode, the e‑clutch pre‑loads the gearset during deceleration, reducing rider fatigue in stop‑and‑go traffic.
- Maintenance Benefits: No clutch cable adjustment needed; self‑adjusting wear plates extend service intervals to 12,000 km.
E‑clutch integration aligns the retro model with Honda’s broader “smart‑clutch” strategy employed on recent scooters and the CB300R.
Design & Retro Styling
- Fuel Tank: Sculpted, chrome‑accented tank reminiscent of 1970s Super Four silhouettes.
- Seat: Low‑profile, double‑density foam seat with a “flat‑back” rear for a classic riding posture.
- Exhaust: Dual 2‑into‑1 stainless steel mufflers, tuned for a muted yet authentic rumble.
- Instrumentation: Analog tachometer paired with a small LCD display showing gear position, fuel level, and e‑clutch status.
- Color Options: “British Racing Green”,“retro Red”,and “Matte Black” with optional carbon‑fiber side panels.
The design choices cater to nostalgia‑driven buyers while still meeting modern ergonomics.
Market Strategy – China Focus
- regulatory Alignment: The CB500 Super Four complies with China’s GB 18352‑2024 emission standards, positioning it ahead of rivals still on older Euro 4‑type platforms.
- Pricing: Target MSRP of CNY 28,800 (≈ US$4,000), undercutting the Kawasaki Z400 and Yamaha MT‑03 in the same segment.
- Distribution: Honda’s existing dealer network in tier‑1 cities (beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) will receive dedicated showroom bays and demo units.
- Localization: Production will occur at Honda’s Guangzhou plant, utilizing locally sourced components for cost efficiency.
potential European Roll‑Out
- Emissions: The engine is pre‑certified for Euro 5,easing entry into EU markets.
- Market timing: Spring 2026 is earmarked for a limited launch in Germany,Italy,and the UK,coinciding with major motorcycle shows (e.g., EICMA).
- Pricing Outlook: Expected MSRP of €5,199,competitive against the KTM 390 Duke and the Suzuki SV650.
Compliance & Emissions
- Catalytic Converter: Integrated three‑way catalyst with oxygen sensor feedback for rapid warm‑up.
- Idle Control: Variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam reduces idle emissions by 12 % compared with previous CB500 models.
- Fuel Consumption: Rated at 3.5 L/100 km (≈ 68 mpg) under the WLTC cycle,offering strong economy for city commuters.
Pricing & Availability
- Launch Date (China): March 15 2026.
- Pre‑Order Window: Begins 30 days prior, with a 10 % early‑bird discount for the first 5,000 units.
- Warranty: 2‑year/24,000 km comprehensive coverage, plus a 5‑year/100,000 km frame warranty.
Practical Riding Tips
- E‑Clutch Warm‑Up: Allow the bike to idle for 2‑3 minutes before engaging sport mode to ensure clutch actuators reach optimal temperature.
- Gear Shifts: Use the “Shift‑Assist” button on the left handlebar for seamless upshifts; the e‑clutch will automatically modulate torque.
- maintenance check: Inspect the hydraulic fluid level annually; Honda recommends a specific “clutch fluid” to maintain slip characteristics.
Comparison with Existing CB500 Models
| Feature | CB500 Super Four | CB500F | CB500X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 502 cc twin, 48 hp | 471 cc twin, 45 hp | 471 cc twin, 45 hp |
| Clutch | Electronic (e‑clutch) | Cable‑operated | Cable‑operated |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 785 mm | 830 mm |
| Weight (dry) | 185 kg | 190 kg | 196 kg |
| Target Audience | Retro enthusiasts, urban commuters | Sport‑naked riders | Adventure‑touring crowd |
The Super Four’s lower seat height and electronic clutch give it a distinct edge for city riders seeking classic looks without sacrificing modern convenience.
Owner Benefits & After‑Sales Support
- Honda Connect App: Real‑time e‑clutch diagnostics, service reminders, and navigation integration.
- Extended Service Packages: 3‑year/30,000 km plans include free clutch fluid replacement and annual comprehensive checks.
- Community Events: Honda will host “Retro Ride” meet‑ups in major Chinese cities, fostering a dedicated rider community around the Super Four.
Future Outlook
- Potential Variants: Rumors of a higher‑spec “Super Four R” with 58 hp and sport‑tuned suspension are circulating for Q4 2026.
- Electrification Path: Honda’s internal roadmap suggests a hybrid version could appear by 2028,leveraging the existing e‑clutch architecture for regenerative braking.
Data sourced from Honda’s 2026 press release, Chinese automotive regulations (GB 18352‑2024), and Euro 5 certification documents.
