Honda Revives Its 400cc Inline-Four Twins…Well Almost

At the 42nd Osaka Motorcycle Show 2026, Honda unveiled the CB400 Super Four E-Clutch Concept and CBR400R Four E-Clutch Concept. It’s a clear signal that the iconic small-capacity inline-four is making a serious comeback, now backed by modern electronics.

The CB400 Twins

The CB400 Super Four returns under the “Next Stage CB” philosophy, staying true to its 1992 roots with a clean naked design and everyday usability. But beneath the retro silhouette lies an all-new platform, built around a newly developed inline four-cylinder engine.

The fully faired CBR400R Four pushes a more aggressive direction. It shares the same inline-four, but with a sportier intent – possibly to take on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R. The goal is simple: preserve that smooth, high-revving character enthusiasts love, while modernizing performance and refinement. It continues to target Japan’s 400cc class that’s still highly relevant due to licensing rules.

E-Clutch Tech

Both bikes also get Honda’s E-clutch that allows clutchless starts, stops, and gear shifts while retaining manual control. Paired with throttle-by-wire, the setup promises smoother response, reduced fatigue in traffic, and a more refined overall ride without losing rider involvement.

Will They Ever Launch?

These concepts are part of Honda’s broader push to reintroduce compact inline-fours globally, following recent 500cc four-cylinder developments. The 400cc versions are tailored for Japan but hint at a wider family of lightweight, high-revving machines. Both models will also appear at the Tokyo and Nagoya Motorcycle Shows, with strong indications of eventual production.