The inline-4 AERO form avoided competition with the V4 system, but the engines were in a head-to-head battle!
In March 1986, Honda released the VFR400R, the third generation of V4 engine.
Then, three months later, in June, they announced the CBR400R, this time equipped with a traditional in-line four-cylinder engine in the same 400cc class.
However, the CBR400R was clad in an aerodynamic cowling that could be called a fully covered body labeled AERO, suggesting that it was taking a different approach from the V4 series.
To put it simply, Honda fans felt that it was a statement that, while refraining from taking on the leading role of the V4 series, which was becoming the new face of Honda, they were keeping the traditional in-line four-cylinder engine that had made multi-cylinder engines mainstream.
Compared to the V4 engine, which uses the latest technology and excels in performance, the revamped inline-4 engine calling itself the CBR, with its aerodynamic form, seems to have taken a step down in positioning to the sports touring category.
A similar rank change occurred in the 750cc class, with the debut of the CBR750 Super Aero, which is reminiscent of the Hurricane and the new series.
However, when you check the actual specifications, it becomes clear that this new inline-4 engine, which has been revamped with a new generation of cam gear train and other changes, has no intention of giving up its position as a supersport engine.
→Read the full story (JP Website)
Information Source. [ RIDE HI ]
