After months of speculation and spy shots, the wait is finally over Honda officially unveiled the all-new CB500SF naked streetfighter and the CBR500R Four sportbike in China. Production is already underway at Honda’s Guangqi Honda plant, marking a major milestone for the mid-capacity segment in Asia.
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This unveiling isn’t just another product launch, it signals Honda’s commitment to refreshing its 500cc lineup with sharper styling, updated tech, and improved rideability. While global rollouts are expected later, the very first production units are destined for the Chinese domestic market, where demand for mid-capacity motorcycles has surged.
Honda’s Mid-Size Twins Roar: CB500SF & CBR500R Four Unveiled
Honda officially launch the CB500SF streetfighter and CBR500R Four sportbike in China, expanding its 500cc lineup. Built with a 471cc parallel-twin, USD forks, dual ABS brakes, and modern tech, these mid-weight machines promise performance, practicality, and global rollout soon.
The CB500SF delivers upright comfort with naked styling, while the CBR500R Four channels aggressive supersport DNA. Both share Honda’s proven engine, sharp handling, and all-LED lighting. Positioned as premium mid-size options, they target growing demand across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Honda’s 2025 debut highlights competitive pricing, sleek design, and rider-focused features. With production underway in China and global deliveries expected from 2026, the new 500cc duo challenges rivals like Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Yamaha R3, redefining the mid-capacity motorcycle market.
Quick Overview of Honda CB500SF & CBR500R
| Feature | Honda CB500SF | Honda CBR500R Four |
| Engine | 471cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled | 471cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Weight | ~190 kg | ~192 kg |
| Launch Price (China) | TBA | TBA |
| Power | ~47 hp @ 8,600 rpm | ~47 hp @ 8,600 rpm |
| Torque | 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Frame | Steel diamond frame | Steel diamond frame |
| Suspension | USD forks (front), mono-shock (rear) | USD forks (front), mono-shock (rear) |
| Brakes | Dual-disc ABS | Dual-disc ABS |
| Seat | Split seat, upright ergonomics | Sporty clip-on bars, rider-focused |
Core Highlights
Brand-new Honda mid-size models debuting in China.
- Updated styling – CB500SF as a streetfighter, CBR500R Four as a sportbike.
- 471cc parallel-twin engine refined for smooth city and highway use.
- Equipped with USD forks, dual-disc ABS brakes, and improved aerodynamics.
- Positioned to attract new riders while still appealing to experienced enthusiasts.
Pricing & Market Positioning
Honda yet to officially announce MSRP in China, though market insiders expect the CB500SF to slightly more affordable than the sportier CBR500R Four. Positioned as volume models, they are expect to dominate the mid-size premium commuter and entry-level sportbike segment.
| Model | Expected Price (China) | Segment |
|---|---|---|
| CB500SF | ~¥50,000 – ¥55,000 | Streetfighter |
| CBR500R Four | ~¥55,000 – ¥60,000 | Sportbike |
Global Launch & Availability
Following the Chinese debut, Honda is expect to gradually release both models in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America.
| Region | Launch Date | Expected Deliveries |
|---|---|---|
| China | October 2025 | Immediate |
| Southeast Asia | Early 2026 | Q1- Q2 2026 |
| Europe | Mid-2026 | Q2 – Q3 2026 |
| North America | Late 2026 | Q3 – Q4 2026 |
Design & Chassis
Both bikes share the same steel diamond frame, but diverge in styling. The CB500SF takes inspiration from Honda’s Neo Sports Café design language minimalist, upright, and muscular while the CBR500R Four inherits sharp fairings and aggressive ergonomics from Honda’s supersport DNA.
| Component | CB500SF | CBR500R Four |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Steel diamond | Steel diamond |
| Suspension | USD forks / rear mono-shock | USD forks / rear mono-shock |
| Brakes | Dual-disc ABS | Dual-disc ABS |
| Tires | 17-inch alloys | 17-inch alloys |
| Seat | Split, upright | Clip-ons, aggressive |
| Weight | ~190 kg | ~192 kg |
Engine & Performance
The trusted 471cc parallel-twin engine continues to power both bikes, offering a sweet balance of city-friendly torque and highway-capable horsepower. Smooth fueling, reliable cooling, and a 6-speed gearbox make them versatile choices for everyday riders and weekend warriors alike.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Power | ~47 hp @ 8,600 rpm |
| Torque | 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
Top Speed & Mileage
Honda optimized both models for efficiency and speed.
| Model | Top Speed | Mileage (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| CB500SF | ~170 km/h | 27–30 km/l |
| CBR500R Four | ~180 km/h | 25–28 km/l |
Electric Technology Features
Though not fully electric, both bikes integrate modern tech to enhance rider confidence.
| Feature | CB500SF & CBR500R Four |
|---|---|
| ABS | Dual-channel standard |
| Instrument | Full-digital LCD cluster |
| Lighting | All-LED setup |
| Ride Modes | Standard |
| Charging | USB-C socket (optional) |
Dimensions
| Spec | CB500SF | CBR500R Four |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2080 mm | 2100 mm |
| Width | 790 mm | 760 mm |
| Height | 1060 mm | 1145 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1415 mm |
| Seat Height | 785 mm | 785 mm |
Safety & Comfort
Both motorcycles feature dual-channel ABS, strong braking setup, and predictable handling, making them beginner-friendly yet confidence-inspiring for seasoned riders.
On the comfort side, the CB500SF provides an upright seating position ideal for city commutes, while the CBR500R Four offers a more aggressive riding triangle suitable for sport enthusiasts who crave track-inspired ergonomics.
Rivals in Market
The 500cc segment is heating up, and Honda’s duo will face stiff competition globally.
| Model | Brand | Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha R3 | Yamaha | Sportbike |
| Kawasaki Ninja 500 / Z500 | Kawasaki | Sportbike / Naked |
| KTM 390 Duke / RC 390 | KTM | Naked / Sport |
| Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 | Royal Enfield | Cruiser-street hybrid |
Honda Drops CB500SF & CBR500R Four in China
Honda’s unveiling of the CB500SF and CBR500R Four in China marks an exciting expansion in the mid-size motorcycle class. Both models blend Honda’s signature reliability with updated design, modern electronics, and accessible performance.
While they aren’t revolutionary in terms of specs, their balance of power, practicality, and price makes them strong contenders in an increasingly competitive segment. Riders seeking a daily commuter with flair will love the CB500SF, while those chasing sportbike aesthetics without intimidating power will lean toward the CBR500R Four.
In short, Honda delivers two bikes that promise to win hearts globally. With the mid-size market booming, the CB500SF and CBR500R Four are set to become the new benchmarks for 500cc riders worldwide.
