A quick glimpse at the History of Honda’s in-line 4 ‘CB’ models

The in-line 4-cylinder setup is among the most popular engine configurations that the world has ever come across. These engines have been powering a million souls for many decades. Yes, they’ve come a long way and have gone through a plethora of changes and development over the years. Honda started using in-line 4-cylinder engines in its ‘CB’ range of motorcycles in 1968. And it still uses them for its latest models.

Here’s a quick glimpse at the history of Honda’s in-line 4 CB models.

1968 Honda CB750

The 1968 Honda CB750 bears many ‘firsts’. It was the world’s first ‘Superbike’, the first mass-produced 4-cylinder production motorcycle, and the first mass-production bike with electric start and disc brake. Honda showcased it at the Tokyo show in 1968 for the very first time where it was made public. The 1968 CB750 went on sale in 1969.

1971 Honda CB500F

The 1971 CB500F was Honda’s first 500cc in-line 4-cylinder motorcycle. It was a smaller and lighter bike but it showcased a similar style to the 1969 CB750.

1975 Honda CB400F

This was one of the first bikes in the world to get a six-speed gearbox.

1976 Honda CB750A

You’d be surprised to know that the CB750A was Honda’s first ‘automatic’ motorcycle – Hondamatic.

1979 Honda CB900F

This motorcycle had the first DOHC four-valve engine in a CB.

1981 Honda CB1100R

Raced successfully by Ron Haslam and Wayne Gardner.

1992 CB1000R

‘The Big One’ – 18-inch wheels and 96hp (72kW) – first water-cooled CB in-line four.

1992 CB750

1990’s version of the classic CB750 of the 1970s.

1996 Hornet

The first Hornet. A Japan-only bike powered by a repurposed CBR250 engine.

1998 CB1300

Introduction of the biggest CB engine, originally used in the Honda X-4.

1998 CB600F Hornet

A key part of Honda’s middleweight line-up for over 15 years.

2001 CB900F

Powered by a repurposed fuel injected 1996 918 FireBlade engine.

2005 CB1300S

Introduction of fuel injection and ABS

2007 CB750 Special Edition

Japanese only Special Edition.

2017 CB1100EX

One of two versions of the CB1100 available, together with the CB1100RS.

2018 CB1000R

The flagship of the new ‘Neo Sports Cafe’ range, unveiled at EICMA 2017 with the CB300R and CB125R.

2019 CB650R

The fourth member of the Neo Sports Cafe family continues Honda’s tradition of in-line four middleweights.