Spruced Up Honda CBR400R and CB400X Unveiled For 2022

In September 2021, Honda gave its CB500 trio (CB500X, CBR500R, and the CB500F) some interesting updates. And it’s only fair that Honda has now introduced similar updates for its Japan-only CBR400R and CB400X.

Before you ask why Honda has 400cc bikes when it already has a successful 500cc trio globally, let us tell you that according to Japan’s rider license norms, the CB500s can’t be ridden by youngsters. This is the prime reason why Honda has a dedicated CB400 lineup for Japan, catering to the entry-level riders. Now that you know, let’s progress to the updates.

For 2022, the Honda CBR400R and CB400X share most updates. The common updates include a new braking setup comprising twin petal discs with radial calipers (previous model had a single disc with an axial caliper) along with a Showa SFF-BP USD fork up front. Owing to these, both bikes should have a more pliant front end and improved braking performance.

Additionally, Honda claims the front alloy is lighter and the swingarm more rigid, which may improve the weight distribution of the bikes. 

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Finally, as most annual updates go, you get new colour options for both bikes. The 2022 Honda CBR400R is available in Grand Prix Red, Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, and Matte Jeans Blue Metallic, while the CB400X comes in Pearl Glare White and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic. 

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Apart from these, the new CB400X gets a couple of model-specific updates. These include a brighter LED headlight (although the design is unchanged) and a new pilot lamp function for the LED indicators, both aimed at improving visibility.  

Updates aside, the bikes remain mostly unchanged. Both bikes continue to be powered by a 399cc, parallel-twin motor belting out 46PS and 38Nm. Meanwhile, basic features like LED lighting, a negative LCD instrument cluster, and ABS continue to be standard on both.

The 2022 CBR400R and CB400X retail at an equivalent of Rs 5.60 lakh and Rs 5.71 lakh in their target market, respectively. This is quite high by Indian standards but still lower than the Honda CB500X’s obnoxious India price of Rs 6.87 lakh (ex-showroom).