- 502cc inline-four produces 69bhp and 46.3Nm
- Gets E-Clutch, five riding modes and wheelie control
Honda CBR500R FOUR has been revealed as an entirely new middleweight supersport replacing the familiar idea of a 500cc parallel twin with something considerably more exotic. It has a spicy new 502cc inline-four producing 69bhp at 11,000rpm and backed by an extensive electronics package including Honda E-Clutch. For Euro markets, India market looks a way distinct possibility until Honda India genuinely becomes a bit daring.
Maximum torque stands at 46.3Nm at a fairly lofty 10,500rpm. Honda says the FOUR can reach a top speed of 210kmph. That peaky character is much different from the outgoing CBR500R twin. The earlier bike was built around accessible twin-cylinder performance, while this new motorcycle is far more rev-hungry.
E-Clutch is standard on the UK-spec motorcycle. Throttle-by-wire allows five riding modes, Standard, Sport, Urban and two customisable User modes. Honda Selectable Torque Control and wheelie control are also included. Chassis is a steel twin-tube diamond frame with the engine contributing structurally paired with a cast-aluminium swingarm. Front suspension is a 41mm KYB upside-down fork, while the rear uses a Pro-Link monoshock with preload adjustment.
Its compact dimensions are part of its appeal. Kerb weight is 189kg, seat height is a very accessible 780mm and the wheelbase measures 1,408mm. Fuel capacity stands at 14 litres and ground clearance is only 135mm. Honda has moved the rider forward with low, race-inspired handlebars, while the tank and rear section have been shaped to give the rider better support during more aggressive riding.
