CB4 Interceptor,
the motocycle with
a windmill.
Dec 12, 2017
The concept was a hit at EICMA, Will they ever build it for us?
Honda’s doubling down on neo-retro/neo-cafe/neo-something with the 2018 CB1000R and its sidekicks, the CB150R and CB300R. That means Honda will be selling bikes featuring their new design language all over the world. Why not add a more aggressive racer to the lineup to further build out this vision? Honda even has a name for it: the “Sport Endurance” side of neo-retro.
If you like the CB4 Interceptor, here’s the good news. The underlying design of the concept builds on a variation of the CB1000R platform. Look at the engine and the structural bits behind it. That powerplant looks like the ex-Fireblade engine found in the big CB, doesn’t it? The frame and swingarm look awfully similar, as well. Even the text down the tail reads “1000R”.
Building an Interceptor would take more than a half-assembled CB1000R and all-black MH900-ish bodywork, but there’s no question Honda’s capable of making the CB4. They already built one, right? Just build some more!
Not so fast. The CB4 Interceptor has its share of challenges to overcome before it goes anywhere, and even then, it will have to change considerably. Where’s the plate hanger? Euro4-compliant exhaust? Sidestand? Street tires? Turn signals and headlight (unless that halo arrangement is way brighter than it looks)? Little stuff for a big player like Honda, but significant.
Honda's doubling down on neo-retro/neo-cafe/neo-something.
the "Sport Endurance" side of neo-retro.
If you like the CB4 Interceptor, here's the good news. The underlying design of the concept builds on a variation of the CB1000R platform. Look at the engine and the structural bits behind it.
What will a café racer bike of the future look like?
Here's Honda's thoughts on the matter, showcased by its new CB4 Interceptor bike concept at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.