<div id="caas-art-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><article><div><div>Gear Patrol and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.</div></div><div>Read full article<i></i><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>Gear Patrol</div><div><h1 id="caas-lead-header-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75">Honda’s Dazzling New Motorcycle Is Almost Offensively Easy to Ride</h1></div><div><div><div><div><span class="caas-author-byline-collapse">Steve Mazzucchi</span></div><div><time datetime="2025-09-23T17:40:28.000Z">September 23, 2025 at 1:40 PM</time><span class="caas-attr-meta-separator">·</span><span class="caas-attr-mins-read">4 min read</span></div></div></div><div><div><div><a title="Reactions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span class="flickrComment icon"></span><span class="reactions-count  caas-dynamic-count dynamic-no-count"></span></a><div id="caas-consolidated-share-btn"><span class="arrowUpAndOut icon"></span><div id="caas-share-popup"><div><span class="copylink icon"></span><span class="caas-copylink-success">Link Copied</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div><p>Compact displacement plus the brand’s innovative (if polarizing) shifting tech add up to one seriously rider-friendly machine.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NAQWXWUgx0fn_z0d_z3vpg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/1d743423d76a9ee2dc32dcb4a26bb793?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="540" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NAQWXWUgx0fn_z0d_z3vpg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/1d743423d76a9ee2dc32dcb4a26bb793"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>Close-up of a silver Honda motorcycle focusing on the front and side fairing, showing the &#34;CBR&#34; and &#34;500R FOUR&#34; markings. The bike features a sleek, aerodynamic design with a tinted windshield, side mirrors, and a visible front tire with a yellow accent on the rim. The seat and part of the engine are also visible.</figcaption></div></figure><p>Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more</p><p>Honda’s heavily anticipated new CB500SF may have stolen Chongqing, China’s CIMAMotor show over the weekend, but it wasn’t the red brand’s only notable reveal.</p><p>See, they also raised the curtain on a new sport bike with similar bones but a much different skin.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img alt="Sporty silver and black Honda CBR 500R motorcycle with neon yellow accents on the wheels and fairings, featuring a sleek aerodynamic design and a comfortable seat." src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/LcRVD.4Qhs6RMm0_zbFDzA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/0c5a43de46251295c7b58541c5081cf7?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="640" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/LcRVD.4Qhs6RMm0_zbFDzA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/0c5a43de46251295c7b58541c5081cf7"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>The new sport bike is vision in silver and black, but there’s also a red-dominant paint scheme. - Credit: Honda</figcaption></div></figure><p>Dubbed the CBR500R Four, it’s arguably even more noteworthy than its retro-styled counterpart.</p><p>Because thanks to Honda’s ever-improving shifting tech, it could be the most beginner-friendly sport bike of its size ever made.</p><h2>Familiar framework</h2><p>While details are still emerging on both bikes, some common qualities are quite clear.</p><p>Like its naked bro, the CBR500R Four emerges from a diamond-shaped steel frame in which the engine — an all-new 502cc four-banger making a claimed 80 horsepower — is a stressed member.</p><p>(That number of cylinders accounts for the Four in the name, in case there were any doubt.)</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img alt="Close-up of the rear section of a red Honda motorcycle, showing the rear wheel with a disc brake, exhaust pipe, foot pegs, and part of the engine casing. The Honda logo is visible on the lower fairing." src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OFYGYyrYvGYcN3EK22YW0g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/0fc4bb7104bd1dfed0f41cd2a87843af?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="768" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/OFYGYyrYvGYcN3EK22YW0g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/0fc4bb7104bd1dfed0f41cd2a87843af"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>As something of an exhaust system fetish, I can’t help but admire the jut of this pipe, which is almost arrogant. - Credit: Honda</figcaption></div></figure><p>For suspension, the bike boasts trendy inverted forks up front and a monoshock out back.</p><p>Front wheel braking relies upon dual radial-mount Nissin four-piston calipers while a two-piston sliding caliper handles the rear.</p><p>Unlike the retro standard, however, the sport bike’s outer shell draws upon the renowned aesthetic of the iconic CBR family.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/E9bPFxYmz5kkw7UT0prKAw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/7cfa8079cc926a0189c1d47f12e73870?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="640" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/E9bPFxYmz5kkw7UT0prKAw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/7cfa8079cc926a0189c1d47f12e73870"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>As much as I like understated paint jobs, the big bold red here is pretty dang compelling. - Credit: Honda</figcaption></div></figure><p>That means a classically contoured and streamlined silhouette, as well as a robust, aggressively angled exhaust pipe.</p><p>The trad CBR vibes are so strong, in fact, that it’s impossible to image search the new bike without coming across the parallel twin-powered CBR500R, among other bikes.</p><p>That said, they differ in the shaping of the upper fairing, with the new bike’s notably aligning with the fuel tank cover.</p><h2>Paradigm <em>shift</em></h2><p>As notable as the aforementioned elements are, they’re not the reason this bike is such an easy rider.</p><p>Nope, that aspect owes to the fact that the CBR500R Four features the second-generation of Honda’s innovative E-Clutch system, in which small electronic motors automatically control the clutch.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.QuVF7Y.CvfFb0M97YYIjg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/5d6c762ea97ceb44c5d31d1068cd632e?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="768" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.QuVF7Y.CvfFb0M97YYIjg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/5d6c762ea97ceb44c5d31d1068cd632e"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>Like it or not, shift assistance tech such as Honda’s E-Clutch system are the clearly the wave of the future. - Credit: Honda</figcaption></div></figure><p>This second round of the tech — which has been moved from the right side to the left for better weight distribution — takes things a step further, teaming up with the throttle-by-wire system to automatically down shift.</p><p>While this level of rider assistance may rub old schoolers the wrong way, it’s very much in line with current trends, with brands as different as Benda and Ducati introducing their own spins on simplified or non-existent shifting.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><img alt="Silver Honda CBR 500R sport motorcycle parked on a street, featuring a sleek aerodynamic design with black and neon yellow accents on the wheels and fairings. The bike has a black seat, large exhaust pipe, and visible front disc brakes." src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/jXcAcnyjK5_591Z3HlyKOg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/62a7c13ff1a7fe109c639050ecfbd566?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="768" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/jXcAcnyjK5_591Z3HlyKOg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2OA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/62a7c13ff1a7fe109c639050ecfbd566"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>As good as it looks on a showroom floor, the CBR500R Four belongs out on the road. - Credit: Honda</figcaption></div></figure><p>Considering the fact that automatic electric bikes are continuing to proliferate and younger generations may be completely oblivious to manual transmissions, it’s the only logical business decision.</p><p>That being said, it’s worth noting that — for the moment — you can override the system with your own inputs and even shut it off entirely. I’d say enjoy that while it lasts, as a day may come that twist-and-go is the only option.</p><h2>Availability and pricing</h2><p>Honda should reveal availability and pricing for the CBR500R Four at EICMA in November or one of the Japanese moto shows next year.</p><p>Along with the CB500SF, it is sure to be released in Japan, possibly in China and other parts of Asia. As for a North American release, hey, anything is possible.</p><figure class="caas-figure"><div><div><div><span class="caas-img-wrapper"><div></div><img alt="Silver Honda CBR 500R sport motorcycle with black accents, aerodynamic fairings, and neon yellow rim stripes on black wheels." src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eLUD_1Ao9yTcplwtZLHSXQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/504f644710bc08d26dc8fec655ab39f3?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="960" height="960" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eLUD_1Ao9yTcplwtZLHSXQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/gear_patrol_593/504f644710bc08d26dc8fec655ab39f3"/><span class="openArrows icon"></span></span></div></div></div><div><figcaption>Silver Honda CBR 500R sport motorcycle with black accents, aerodynamic fairings, and neon yellow rim stripes on black wheels.</figcaption></div></figure><h3>2026 Honda CBR500R Four</h3><ul><li> Learn More </li></ul><section><span>About the Author: </span></section><p>Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone’s bike seat is at the proper height.</p><p>Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.</p><section>+ Add on Google</section><div id="view-cmts-cta-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><span class="flickrComment icon"></span><span> View comments </span><span id="reactions-count-copy-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></span></div></div></div><aside><div><div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC2-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC2-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC3-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC3-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC4-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC4-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC5-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC5-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC6-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC6-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC7-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC7-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC8-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC8-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div><div><div><div id="sda-LREC9-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"><div id="LREC9-51018357-2ba9-33e1-9dbd-cc3bfe10fb75"></div></div></div></div></div></div></aside></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></article><i></i><div id="caas-wafer-image-lightbox"><span class="closeArrows icon"></span><figure><img alt="" src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/g/images/spaceball.gif?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="1" height="1" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://s.yimg.com/g/images/spaceball.gif"/><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div></div>

<p>Honda has unveiled its new CBR500R Four motorcycle, featuring a compact 502cc engine and innovative E-Clutch technology for easier riding. The bike boasts a sleek design, advanced suspension, and improved shifting assistance, making it beginner-friendly. Pricing and availability will be announced at upcoming motorcycle shows. The CBR500R Four is expected to appeal to younger riders accustomed to automatic systems, while still allowing manual override options for traditionalists.</p>