- Honda unveils CB400 Super Four and CBR400R Four at the 42nd Osaka Motorcycle Show
- All-new inline-four engine with approx. 399 cc and next-generation E-Clutch
- Nearly identical to the 502 cc versions from China, trademarks filed worldwide
Honda has unveiled two motorcycles at the 42nd Osaka Motorcycle Show that are likely to cause a considerable stir in the motorcycle world. The CB400 Super Four and the CBR400R Four officially carry the “E-Clutch Concept” designation, yet behind the concept label lie machines that appear virtually production-ready in both design and engineering. Both models are built around an entirely new inline-four engine and feature Honda’s E-Clutch system in a revised, more compact version.
A Legendary Name Returns
The CB400 Super Four is far from unknown. The original hit the market in 1992 and was produced until 2022, spanning a period of 30 years. In Japan, the model line was among the most popular motorcycles of all time, thanks in no small part to the country’s licensing and tax legislation that favors motorcycles under 400 cc displacement. Honda is developing the new generation under the motto “Next Stage CB,” aiming to bring the tradition of Japanese naked-bike design into the present. Visually, the CB400 Super Four draws clear inspiration from the recently introduced CB1000F.
The CBR400R Four, on the other hand, takes a sportier approach. With full fairing and aggressive lines, Honda positions the model as a direct answer to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R, which in recent years has practically single-handedly served the market for small-displacement four-cylinder sportbikes. Honda itself describes the development concept as “New Generation Sport,” with the goal of delivering maximum riding pleasure with full focus on the riding experience.
New Engine, Familiar Foundation
At the heart of both models lies an entirely new inline-four engine with approximately 399 cc displacement. This engine has nothing in common with its predecessor’s unit, which still used the well-known VTEC system. Instead, it is a downsized version of the 502 cc powerplant that Honda presented in September 2025 at the China International Motorcycle Expo in the CB500 Super Four and the CBR500R Four. According to Chinese registration documents, the 502 cc variant produces 52.8 kW (71 hp), with the CB500 Super Four weighing 188 kg (414 lbs) and the CBR500R Four tipping the scales at 189 kg (417 lbs). No official performance figures are available yet for the 400 cc versions; experts estimate output at around 45 kW (60 hp).
Reducing the displacement from 502 to roughly 399 cc makes little sense in Western markets but is of great importance for Japan and other Asian markets with corresponding registration advantages. Honda has so far communicated only sparse technical details about the engine. What is known is that both models receive a throttle-by-wire system enabling precise and direct throttle response. Documents for the 500 cc versions indicate the engine designation WH460MR-A, where “WH” stands for the Chinese joint venture Wuyang-Honda, “4” for four cylinders, and “60” for the bore in millimeters.
Next-Generation E-Clutch
A key feature of both models is Honda’s E-Clutch system in an evolved version. Compared to the current variant used in models such as the CB650R and CBR650R, the new E-Clutch has been relocated from the right side of the engine to the left, making the system significantly more compact. The basic principle remains the same: the clutch is electronically controlled, allowing starting, shifting, and stopping without operating the clutch lever. The lever remains in place, however, and can be used manually at any time. Stalling the engine is virtually impossible with this system.
Chassis and Equipment
Both models feature high-quality components. They come equipped with a KYB upside-down fork, radially mounted Nissin brakes, and a 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity. Both versions include an ABS system supplied by Astemo, a technical subsidiary of Honda. Honda has not yet disclosed details regarding frame geometry, wheelbase, or further chassis specifications.
Production and Possible Availability
While the 502 cc models are slated for production in China through the Wuyang-Honda joint venture, the 400 cc versions are earmarked for manufacture at Honda’s Kumamoto plant in Japan. This is noteworthy, as Honda is deliberately producing the smaller variants domestically despite the fact that manufacturing in China would presumably be cheaper.
For international markets without specific displacement limits, the larger 502 cc variants are likely intended. Honda has filed trademark applications for the model names in numerous countries, including Japan, Thailand, several South American nations, and Europe. The “CB400 Super Four” trademark was registered in Japan in January 2026 and in Thailand in February, while worldwide trademark protections already exist for the “CBR500R Four” name. Whether and when the models will reach the US or European markets has not been confirmed by Honda. However, given that Kawasaki has already successfully proven with the Ninja ZX-4R that a market exists for small four-cylinder sportbikes, a global sales launch appears likely.
Further Trade Show Appearances Planned
Following the premiere at the Osaka Motorcycle Show, which took place from March 20 to 22, 2026 at INTEX Osaka, both concept models will be displayed at additional Japanese trade shows. The 53rd Tokyo Motorcycle Show follows from March 27 to 29 at Tokyo Big Sight, with a subsequent presentation planned at the 5th Nagoya Motorcycle Show from April 10 to 12 at Aichi Sky Expo. The fact that Honda is showcasing the models at three consecutive trade shows is unlikely to be a coincidence and underscores the company’s intent to actually commence series production.
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