HONDA CB400N (1980-1981) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1981, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the CB400N, a motorcycle designed as an agile and versatile middle-class naked machine that suited a wide variety of riders. A 250cc smaller version was also available then, which was the most popular selling bike in the UK market, with over 17,000 units sold only in 1980.

The CB400N featured almost the same look as the 250N version but differed in other departments, such as the larger capacity engine, dual front brake discs, a halogen headlight, and the instrument panel that featured different markings for the rev counter and speedometer, which reflected the higher top speed and lower rpm redline.

In addition, the CB400N came with standard features, such as cast aluminum wheels, a single seat with two-up capabilities, a wide handlebar, an analog instrument cluster, a black-finished steel frame, and a chromed dual exhaust system.

For suspension, the bike featured a telescopic fork on the front and dual EVO shock absorbers with five-way spring preload adjustability on the rear, while the braking performance was handled by two 239 mm discs with hydraulic calipers on the front wheel and a 152 mm drum unit on the rear wheel.

As for power, the 1981 Honda CB400N took its muscles from a 395cc four-stroke parallel twin air-cooled engine fed by two Keihin carburetors that helped deliver an output power of 43 hp at 9,500 rpm and 33 Nm (24 lb-ft) of torque available at 8,000 rpm.