Four-cylinder Honda CBR400R in the works?

- Honda files new patent application

- CBR400R Four’ name trademarked

Honda is working on a Kawasaki Ninja ZX4R rival, if an online report is anything to go by. The Japanese brand has filed a patent application for the name ‘CBR400R Four’ which could be an indication that a four-cylinder version of the motorcycle is in the works.

Honda already has the CBR400R in Japan. It uses the same 471cc engine as the CBR500R but with a shorter stroke and smaller displacement of 399cc which makes it suitable for Japan’s licensing structure. However, both these bikes have twin cylinders and the ‘Four’ in the patented bike's name is to differentiate it from its existing siblings.

If a four-cylinder CBR400R becomes reality, expect it to get a more aggressive design than its existing twin siblings. We might also see faux winglets since they are a trend amongst smaller bikes these days. Moreover, other fancy bits like adjustable suspension and a quick shifter should be incorporated to keep it on par with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R.

Now, filing a patent application doesn't necessarily mean the company will launch a bike with that name. It could be to just reserve the name. However, considering the fact that Honda has bikes in almost all segments as Kawasaki and the Ninja ZX-4R’s global popularity, a four-cylinder CBR400R seems logical.

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