CB Stories
Naked Road Sports Model Sold for 30 Years
In April 1992, Honda launched the all-new CB400 SUPER FOUR in Japan’s highly competitive 400 cc road sport category.
This CB400 SUPER FOUR was based upon a completely new development concept, while using the knowledge gained from the CB-1, which was introduced in 1989 as a full-fledged naked road sports bike.
April 1992 CB400 SUPER FOUR
The theme for development of the CB400 SUPER FOUR was what Honda’s next-generation naked road sports model should be like.
The basic concept was:
- - The need to go beyond the three elements of moving, turning, and stopping
- - Beautiful styling, but also utility for ease of use
- - Materials faithful to the basics, yet refined with the latest technology
In order to incorporate these basic concepts into a motorcycle, Honda named the design concept PROJECT BIG-1 and began development of a design suitable for the next generation. It then defined a specific concept.
The guiding principles that emerged from the project were:
- - Powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, in-line 4-cylinder DOHC engine
- - Design should be sexy and wild
- - Emotional performance that captivates the hearts of its riders
PROJECT BIG-1 was the first of its kind in the world, and shared the same concept with the CB1000 SUPER FOUR, a 1000cc naked road sport that was already under development. The clear guidelines shared and understood by development teams across models greatly contributed to the creation of an attractive product.
The design concept was a sexy and wild form that looked imposing, thinly veiling its power within.
CB400 SUPER FOUR rendering
Its engine was based on the CB-1’s liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, in-line 4-cylinder DOHC engine, with significant changes making it more manageable in the low- to mid-ranges frequently used in urban riding, and more powerful at higher engine speeds.
Honda also focused on the engine design, as it was a naked model. The buffed cylinder head and crankcase cover were designed to give the engine a high quality feel, and cooling fins were added to create a beautiful appearance.
To achieve a powerful and pleasant exhaust sound, a 4-into-1 exhaust system was adopted, and high quality stainless steel exhaust pipes and mufflers were carefully crafted.
Engine exterior rendering
CB400 SUPER FOUR
The CB400 SUPER FOUR was highly acclaimed mainly among the younger generation as a motorcycle that could be owned for a longer period of time regardless of changing trends.
1992 catalog
Inheriting the CB tradition, the CB400 SUPER FOUR was refined to deliver the emotional performance required of the next generation of CBs.
Evolution of the CB400 SUPER FOUR
The CB400 SUPER FOUR, the leading naked road sports model in Japan, has continuously evolved to meet the demands of the times. It also featured cutting edge technologies such as HYPER VTEC. The CB400 SUPER FOUR has been loved by many road sports fans for 30 years from 1992 to the end of its production in October 2022.
March 1995 CB400 SUPER FOUR Version R
The Version R with a refined engine and frame was developed for fans who demanded a sportier ride. It featured a unique bikini fairing style.
March 1996 CB400 SUPER FOUR Version S
The sporty Version S featured black exhaust pipes and aluminum mufflers.
February 1999 CB400 SUPER FOUR (HYPER VTEC)
From catalog
HYPER VTEC engine diagram
The fully revamped model featured advanced technology in the form of a newly developed HYPER VTEC* engine. This system detected engine speed, and switched the number of valves per cylinder from 2 to 4 when the engine speed exceeded 6,750 rpm, achieving powerful output characteristics from the low- and mid-rpm range with 2 valves, to the high-rpm range with 4 valves, while also contributing to improved fuel economy.
*VTEC: Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control
January 2002 CB400 SUPER FOUR (HYPER VTEC II)
This model was powered by the HYPER VTEC II engine, a further evolution of the HYPER VTEC control technology. Timing for switching from 2 valves to 4 was changed from 6,750 rpm to 6,300 rpm.
December 2003 CB400 SUPER FOUR (HYPER VTEC III)
HYPER VTEC evolved into HYPER VTEC III through further refinement. Smooth and easy-to-manage output characteristics up to high rpm range was achieved by changing the variable valve timing exclusively for the 6th gear.
March 2005 CB400 SUPER BOL D’OR
Equipped with half fairing suitable for long-distance riding in accordance with the lifting of the ban on two-seaters on expressways in Japan.
December 2007 CB400 SUPER FOUR<ABS>
Newly developed engine with electronically controlled fuel injection system (PGM-FI) and the advanced valve control system HYPER VTEC Revo, with a new function that detects the throttle angle for more precise control of valve switching timing.
When the throttle is opened wide, such as during acceleration, the system instantly switched to 4 valves per cylinder, providing responsive acceleration and extended power characteristics.
HYPER VTEC Revo
March 2014 CB400 SUPER FOUR<ABS> CB400 SUPER BOL D'OR<ABS>
Fully revamped with new appearance and matured overall. The development concept was “The CB genes, evolution of inherited appearance,” with traditional styling that satisfied the sense of ownership and was even easier and more fun to ride, from city riding to touring.
CB400 SUPER FOUR Riding School Model]
Since its debut, the CB400 SUPER FOUR’s easy-to-handle size and handling made it ideal for use as a riding school model.
1992 catalog: CB400 SUPER FOUR Riding School Model
2000 catalog: CB400 SUPER FOUR Riding School Model
2017 catalog: CB400 SUPER FOUR Riding School Model
※1992 CB400 SUPER FOUR
※1995 CB400 SUPER FOUR Version R