| Engine | Honda CB500 | Honda CB400SF |
|---|---|---|
| Engine code | NC42E | |
| Displacement | 499 cc | 399 cc |
| Max power | 57 hp (@9 500 RPM) | 53 hp (@10 500 RPM) |
| Max torque | 34 lb ft (@8 000 RPM) | 28 lb ft (@9 500 RPM) |
| Redline | 10 500 RPM | 13 000 RPM |
| Idling speed | 1 500 RPM | 1 400 RPM |
| Management | Carburetor | Fuel Injection |
| Layout | DOHC Inline-2 | DOHC Inline-4 |
| Compression | 10.50:1 | 11.30:1 |
| Oil capacity | 2.93 quart | 3.60 quart |
| Oil type | 10W40, Motul 5100, Shell Rotella 10W40 | |
| Spark plug type | NGK CR8EH9 | NKG CR8EH9, DENSO U24FER9 |
| Cooling | Liquid | Liquid |
| Valves | 8 | 16 |
| Bore | 73.0 mm | 55.0 mm |
| Stroke | 59.0 mm | 42.0 mm |
| Weight to power | 7.46 lbs/hp | 8.11 lbs/hp |
| Power to weight | 334 hp/2500lbs | 308 hp/2500lbs |
| Battery type | 12V - 8.6Ah |
| Gearbox | Honda CB500 | Honda CB400SF |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Sequential | Sequential |
| Clutch | Wet | Wet |
| Drive | Chain | Chain |
| Chain type | ||
| Gears count | 6 | 6 |
| Primary ratio | 1.947 | 2.171 |
| Final drive | 2.666 | 2.933 |
| 1. gear | 3.461 (43 mph) | 3.307 (45 mph) |
| 2. gear | 2.235 (68 mph) | 2.294 (65 mph) |
| 3. gear | 1.75 (86 mph) | 1.75 (85 mph) |
| 4. gear | 1.478 (102 mph) | 1.421 (105 mph) |
| 5. gear | 1.28 (119 mph) | 1.24 (120 mph) |
| 6. gear | 1.13 (134 mph) | 1.13 (132 mph) |
| Chasis | Honda CB500 | Honda CB400SF |
|---|---|---|
| Frame type | Double cradle of tubular and box-section steel construction | Tubular steel, double cradle |
| Front susp. | 37mm Telescopic forks (4.53 in travel) | |
| Rear susp. | Twin shock adjustable, (4.61 in travel) |