Honda didn’t make a big fuss. No flashy countdowns or teaser campaigns. Just a quiet reveal at the CIMAMotor show in Chongqing, China—and yet, the buzz is deafening. The Japanese giant unveiled two new 502cc inline-four motorcycles: the retro-styled CB500 Super Four (CB500SF) and the sportier CBR500R Four, both slated to hit the market in early spring 2026.

Honda just dropped two new 500cc motorcycles with serious power, sleek design, and tech that could make your daily ride smoother—here’s why that matters. CIMA / Honda



What’s turning heads isn’t just the surprise drop—it’s the specs. These bikes pack a brand-new 502cc engine that reportedly delivers 80 horsepower, a major leap from the 56 hp of Honda’s older 400cc four-cylinder models. That kind of output in a mid-size bike isn’t just impressive—it’s the sweet spot riders have been craving for years. It’s enough power to thrill without tipping into the intimidating territory of liter-class monsters.

And yes, there’s an electronic throttle with five ride modes—because customization isn’t just for luxury cars anymore. CIMA / Honda



And Honda didn’t stop at the engine. Both models come equipped with the second-generation E-Clutch system, a tech upgrade that automates clutch control. In plain terms: the bike shifts gears for you as soon as your foot taps the lever. For city commuters, this could be a game-changer—no more wrist fatigue in stop-and-go traffic. You can still override it manually, but the option to let the bike handle the grunt work is a welcome evolution.

Braking is handled by radial-mount Nissin calipers up front and a two-piston sliding caliper at the rear. CIMA / Honda



This new E-Clutch isn’t just a rehash of the original found on Honda’s 650cc models. It’s been redesigned for better weight distribution, with components now placed on the left side of the engine instead of the right. That subtle shift could mean better balance and handling, especially for newer riders or those navigating tight urban corners.

Design-wise, the CB500SF leans into nostalgia with a retro aesthetic inspired by the CB1000F concept, complete with a silver paint job and dual blue stripes. CIMA / Honda 



Underneath the sleek bodywork, both bikes share a diamond-shaped steel frame where the engine doubles as a structural support. That’s a clever way to reduce weight and boost rigidity. Add in Showa’s upside-down front forks, a new aluminum swingarm, and Honda’s ProLink rear suspension, and you’ve got a setup that promises comfort and control whether you’re carving through twisties or cruising downtown.

Braking is handled by radial-mount Nissin calipers up front and a two-piston sliding caliper at the rear. And yes, there’s an electronic throttle with five ride modes—because customization isn’t just for luxury cars anymore. Riders can tailor the bike’s behavior to match their mood, terrain, or skill level.

Design-wise, the CB500SF leans into nostalgia with a retro aesthetic inspired by the CB1000F concept, complete with a silver paint job and dual blue stripes. It’s a nod to Honda’s heritage, but with modern muscle underneath. The CBR500R Four, meanwhile, fits right into the brand’s sportbike family, echoing the lines of its twin-cylinder sibling but with sharper fairing angles and a more aggressive stance.

So why does this matter now? Because mid-size motorcycles are having a moment. They’re more affordable, easier to insure, and less intimidating for new riders—yet still powerful enough to satisfy veterans. Honda’s move signals a shift toward smarter, more versatile bikes that don’t compromise on performance or style.

Pricing and availability details are still under wraps, but insiders expect more news at EICMA in November. Early signs suggest Asia and Europe will get first dibs, with Japan likely in the mix. The U.S.? That’s still a maybe. But if these bikes land stateside, expect them to shake up the middleweight market.

For now, keep an eye on Honda’s next moves. If the CB500SF and CBR500R Four deliver on their promise, they could redefine what it means to ride smart, fast, and free—without breaking the bank.