Honda has officially announced the launch of the new CB400 Super Four E-Clutch and CBR400 Four E-Clutch motorcycles in Japan, four months after the prototypes were presented at the Osaka Motorcycle Show. These models bring back the classic lineage of the Japanese manufacturer, integrating the traditional inline four-cylinder engine with technological innovations such as electronic throttle and the E-Clutch automated clutch system.
Launch Dates and Prices
The CB400 Super Four will be the first to be available at Japanese dealerships, with sales scheduled to begin on August 21st. Following that, the sportier CBR400 Four version will debut on September 18th. The suggested prices are 998,800 yen (equivalent to about R$ 31 thousand) for the naked version, and approximately 1.18 million yen (about R$ 37 thousand) for the fully faired version.
Return of Classic Architecture
A central point of this new generation is the resurgence of the inline four-cylinder architecture, a historic configuration of the Four line since the 1970s that set a standard among Honda's mid-sized bikes. The new engine has a displacement of 399 cm³, uses liquid cooling, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. This mechanical unit generates 58 hp at 11,500 rpm and produces 3.9 kgfm of torque at 9,750 rpm, operating with electronic acceleration (throttle-by-wire).
Historical References and Technology
In terms of design, Honda referenced the past: the exhaust maintains the traditional 4-2-1 layout, with visible curves inspired by the 1974 CB400 Four, while the look of the CB400 Super Four directly recalls the model introduced in 1992. Furthermore, the Honda E-Clutch is an important differentiator, allowing the rider to start, stop, and shift gears without manually engaging the clutch, although the lever remains accessible for those who prefer conventional control. This system is already present in models like the CB650R, sold in Brazil, aiming for greater comfort in urban traffic.
Connectivity Improvements
Both motorcycles have also received significant technological updates. They are now equipped with a five-inch color TFT display, replacing the old analog gauges. Another feature is Honda RoadSync, which allows the smartphone to connect to the bike for turn-by-turn navigation, music control, and viewing call notifications via handlebar controls.
International Availability
Currently, Honda has limited the confirmation of the new CB400 Super Four and CBR400 Four exclusively to the Japanese market. The manufacturer has not yet released plans to commercialize these models in other regions, including Brazil. However, the great interest shown by these models in markets such as Europe and the United States fuels hopes for future global expansion, despite the lack of official confirmation regarding such a plan.