New roadster debuts in Japan with 58 hp, throttle-by-wire, riding modes, connected TFT display and E-Clutch system; launch is scheduled for August 21
Honda has announced the return of one of its most traditional names in the middleweight motorcycle segment. The new CB400 Super Four E-Clutch will arrive at Honda Dream dealerships in Japan on August 21, combining the classic styling of Japanese roadsters with an inline four-cylinder engine and modern electronic features.
The model retains the concept that helped make the CB400 Super Four a benchmark since its first generation was launched in 1992. Rather than simply recreating the motorcycle of the past, however, the manufacturer has redesigned the mechanical package, chassis and control systems.
Sales have initially been confirmed for the Japanese market. The suggested retail price is 998,800 yen, including local consumption tax. Honda plans to sell approximately 4,600 units per year in the country.
New engine produces 58 hp
The highlight of the CB400 Super Four E-Clutch is its new 399 cc liquid-cooled engine, featuring double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and an inline four-cylinder configuration.
The engine produces 58 hp at 11,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 38 Nm at 9,750 rpm, figures that underline its high-revving character. The transmission has six gears.
According to the technical specifications released by Honda, the engine has a compression ratio of 12.3:1 and features solutions designed to reduce internal friction. The intake system uses a downdraft configuration, with the airbox positioned beneath the fuel tank.
Two ducts channel air to the filter, while specially sized intake funnels direct the airflow toward the throttle bodies. The aim is to preserve consistent response at low and medium engine speeds without eliminating the distinctive intake sound of a four-cylinder engine.
The exhaust follows a 4-2-1 layout, with curved pipes that visually reference the Honda CB400Four introduced in 1974. The inside of the silencer was also designed to emphasise the continuous, high-pitched sound traditionally associated with inline four-cylinder engines.
E-Clutch eliminates the need for constant lever use
The new CB400 Super Four comes as standard with the Honda E-Clutch system, a technology that electronically controls clutch operation during starts, gear changes and stops.
In practice, the rider can change gears using the foot lever without constantly operating the clutch lever. Manual control remains available, allowing the rider to take over whenever desired.
In this application, E-Clutch works together with the electronic throttle, known as throttle-by-wire. During a downshift, the system automatically adjusts engine speed and controls partial clutch engagement to reduce jolts and make the transition smoother.
The electronic management system can also intervene during hard deceleration or when the rear tyre momentarily loses regular contact with the road surface. The speed difference between the wheels is monitored, allowing the system to modulate the clutch to help stabilise the motorcycle.
Riding modes and connected display
The electronic throttle has enabled the installation of different riding modes. Riders can choose between Standard, Sport and Urban settings, as well as a User mode that allows the power, engine braking and torque control levels to be customised.
The instrument panel uses a five-inch colour TFT screen and offers connectivity through the Honda RoadSync system. With a compatible smartphone and a separately sold headset, the rider can access functions such as navigation, music playback and voice commands.
A USB Type-C port has been installed on the right-hand side of the headlight housing to make it easier to charge devices while travelling.
Redesigned chassis and comfortable riding position
Although it retains the visual identity of the previous CB400 Super Four, the new generation uses a completely redesigned diamond-type steel frame. The structure was developed to reduce weight and concentrate mass closer to the centre of the motorcycle.
The riding position is upright, with the aim of accommodating both urban commuting and longer journeys. The seat is 780 mm high and has a narrower front section, making it easier for riders to place their feet on the ground.
The front suspension uses an inverted cartridge-type fork, while the rear adopts the Pro-Link system. The setup has been tuned to absorb road irregularities without compromising response during more dynamic riding.
The CB400 Super Four E-Clutch weighs 187 kg in running order and has a 15-litre fuel tank. Claimed fuel economy under the WMTC cycle is 23.1 km/l.
The 17-inch wheels are fitted with 120/70 tyres at the front and 160/60 tyres at the rear. Braking is handled by two hydraulic discs at the front and a single disc on the rear wheel.
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Four colour options
Honda will offer the motorcycle in four colours. Wolf Silver Metallic features graphics inspired by the CB750F that competed in North America during the 1980s.
Also available will be Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, with a matte black finish and contrasting stripes; Ross White, with a more understated appearance; and Candy Chromosphere Red, featuring a deep red shade.
The manufacturer has not yet announced whether the new CB400 Super Four E-Clutch will be sold outside Japan. Its launch, however, shows that Honda continues to invest in middleweight four-cylinder motorcycles, an increasingly uncommon category as manufacturers adopt simpler and more economical twin-cylinder engines.
Source and images: Honda. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
