Honda is preparing the 2027 motorcycle range by focusing on two souls of sportiness. On the one hand, the new CBR500R FOUR, a new four-cylinder that aims to bring a wider audience closer to the world of sports cars; on the other, the CBR600RR, the historic model of the CBR family, which receives a series of technical and aesthetic updates to consolidate its role among medium-displacement super sports cars. Two proposals with different performances and recipients, united by the search for an engaging driving experience and the sporting tradition of the Japanese company.
Honda CBR500R FOUR: 72 HP and electronic clutch as standard
The most important innovation is represented by the CBR500R FOUR, developed for the European market and conceptually inspired by the CB400 SUPER FOUR. The heart of the project is a brand new 500 cc inline four-cylinder DOHC engine, capable of delivering 72 HP, equal to 53 kW, and a maximum torque of 47.4 Nm. The engine reaches the limiter at 12,500 rpm, focusing on progressive delivery and a character that recalls that of multi-fractional sports cars with larger displacements.
The technical equipment includes solutions such as Ni-SiC treatment of the cylinder liners, DLC-coated tappets, double ram-air intakes and downdraft intake. Interventions that aim to optimize engine functioning and offer an adequate response both in daily use and in more dynamic driving.
One of the distinctive elements is the Honda E-Clutch system, supplied as standard. The technology allows you to start, stop and change gear without operating the clutch lever, while still leaving the motorcyclist the possibility of using it manually at any time. A solution that aims to make managing the motorbike in traffic and maneuvering easier, without giving up the involvement of traditional driving.
A 35 kW version will also be available for A2 license holders, which broadens the pool of potential buyers.
The chassis is based on a new diamond frame in steel tubes, combined with a 41 mm KYB upside-down fork, an aluminum swingarm and a front braking system with double discs and Nissin radial calipers. The electronics package includes Throttle By Wire throttle control, three predefined riding modes and two customizable USER configurations.
Information is displayed on a five-inch color TFT screen, complete with Honda RoadSync connectivity and a USB-C socket. The design is also completely new: the lines of the fairing and the marked centralization of the masses towards the front end underline the dynamic character of the model.
CBR600RR 2027: brakes and aerodynamics are updated
If the 500 FOUR represents a new gateway to the world of Honda sports cars, the CBR600RR continues to appeal to those seeking higher performance and a greater track vocation. Since its return to the European market with the 2024 model year, the model has totaled almost 10,000 units sold on the continent, according to data communicated by the company.
For 2027 the 599 cc inline four-cylinder engine confirms its 121 HP, equivalent to 89 kW, at 14,250 rpm. The assisted and slipper clutch and the quickshifter remain as standard, elements which contribute to making gear changes quicker and improving control in the most demanding driving phases.
The innovations focus mainly on the braking system and electronic management. At the front there are radial-mount Nissin calipers derived from the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, while the new ABS modulator allows you to choose between three modes: Standard, Track and Race. A possibility to adapt the system’s intervention to different conditions of use, from the road to the circuit.
The front also changes. The redesigned fairing integrates new aerodynamic profiles, which replace the previous fins and aim to maintain aerodynamic efficiency and the load on the front end, with a more streamlined and homogeneous aesthetic result. The five-inch TFT instrument panel also receives a new graphic interface, designed to make information reading more immediate.
The electronic equipment remains complete, which includes a six-axis Bosch inertial platform, electronic accelerator, Honda Selectable Torque Control traction control, anti-wheelie control, Rear Lift Control and ABS with Cornering function. A set of systems that allows the behavior of the motorbike to be adapted to the riding conditions and needs of the rider.
For those who want to go further in circuit use, Honda will also make available three HRC Race Kits dedicated to track days and competitions.
Two athletes, two goals
Honda’s strategy for 2027 is therefore developed on two levels. The CBR500R FOUR aims to combine the charm of the four-cylinder with more accessible management, thanks above all to the standard E-Clutch and the availability of the A2 license version. The CBR600RR, however, updates an already consolidated project by intervening on braking, aerodynamics and electronics, without changing the power values of the engine.
Two interpretations of the same philosophy: making sportiness an experience that can adapt to different needs, from the motorcyclist who wants to get closer to the world of four cylinders to those looking for a super sports car capable of expressing itself at its best even between the curbs.
