It is known that the Honda CB400 SF will end production in October. Due to the problem of emissions that exceed Japan's new environmental law, to be announced on New Year's Day 2023, the latest news from Japanese media reports that Honda is planning the next step for the legendary model.
The Honda CB400 SF first appeared in the early 90's as a successor to the CB400 of the 70s, which, to be honest, was built to be a direct competitor to the Kawasaki Zephyr 400 that used the engine strengths, 4 pistons in line 399 cc and is a product in the form of a JDM motorcycle made and used exclusively in Japan. There are times when the motorcycle is sold abroad. But the basic specification will be modified to have a difference and less power from the standard model sold in Japan. And this model is one of Honda's best-selling products, second only to the Super Cub family.
The CB400 SF has traveled through many developments. Until the last engine upgrade version was in 2008 with the introduction of the Hyper VTEC Revo engine with a PGM-Fi electronic injection system and the installation of an idle air control valve for fuel economy. Revised air passages and a VTEC system that adjusts the valve function at engine rpm in excess of 6,300 rpm have made this engine a national treasure of Japan. And has been used continuously for a long time until the present, lasting for almost 14 years.
Last but not least, in April 2022, the manufacturer said it would officially cease production of the CB400 SF. For the reason that the engine does not meet the new environmental law standards of the country, the moto0rcycle will remain on sale until December 31 and will be taken from Honda stores and showrooms across the country one day later. Causing a trend that the CB400 SF is closing its own 32-year legend. And it doesn't seem that Honda is happy about this.
The point is what keeps Honda from worrying or from missing one of its best-selling series. Until there are rumors that Honda is lurking in the development of a new four-cylinder engine. This time, it will be a Global Model product that is no longer limited to Japan. The development took place in a factory in China, which Honda will use as a future production base.
There are two different specifications for the two versions. Based on the information we have obtained, Honda is aiming to offer the CB500, a four-cylinder engine in the international market. And will use the 399 cc engine on the CB400 for the Japanese version. The separation of this kind of specs is a fundamental thing that can be understood. Because Japan has regulations on driving licenses that are divided by engine size. As we can see, Honda's 500 Series when was brought back to Japan. Will be adjusted to a 399 cc 2-cylinder engine in every model, so it is enough to understand this approach without interruption.
And what will the direction of the motorcycle be? Of course, the CB400/500 SF will continue the original way of the motorcycle. It will be a naked motorcycle, focusing on utility use on smooth roads. The body of the motorcycle is simple, and uncomplicated, with a modern contemporary motorcycle aura. The motorcycle will have a different approach from the CB500F which is Naked Sport and CB650R which is Neo-Sport Cafe, so it definitely doesn't overlap.
At this point, we only have rumor information. There is no confirmation document or anything. Therefore, before disclosing the information that we have obtained, we must ask the reader to use discretion along with reading, "Let's say we now have one more story to add sooner, and if more information and possibilities come in, we will present it again at the next opportunity."
Thanks for the information and pictures from www.autoby.jp Great Biker
