Some new bikes are a gentle refresh. This one is a genuine event. The CBR500R Four is brand new from the ground up, and it does something we have been waiting years for: it puts a proper inline-four engine back into an accessible, A2-friendly middleweight. If the sound of that gets your pulse going, you are going to love what is coming to Motorcycle World.
A real four-cylinder, in a 500
Bikes in this class have been twins for years, so bringing back that classic four-cylinder howl is a big deal. The 502cc inline-four makes 71bhp and loves nothing more than chasing its 12,500rpm redline, with the smooth, eager character only a four can give you. There is a 35kW A2-compliant version too, so newer riders are very much invited.
Clutchless when you want it
Honda's clever E-Clutch comes fitted as standard. It means you can change gear without touching the clutch lever whenever you like, with full manual control still there for when you want it, and three shift-feel settings to suit you. It takes the faff out of town riding and gives newer riders real confidence.
Loaded with kit
For the money, you are spoilt. Five riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control with wheelie control, 41mm KYB upside-down forks, twin 296mm Nissin radial front brakes with ABS, sticky Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, and a five-inch TFT screen with Honda RoadSync and a USB-C socket. That is a serious specification at this price.
Order now, from £6,999
In Ignition Red Tricolour or Mat Ballistic Black Metallic and priced from £6,999, the CBR500R Four is available to order now, with bikes landing early next year in good time for the new plate. Order early and you will be first out on one when spring arrives.
