Jonathan Rea introduced the European Junior Cup CBR500R race bike in Milan.

The road to the 2013 European Junior Cup, powered by Honda season takes another step forward as the new CBR500R EJC-spec race machine was unveiled this week in front of a huge crowd during the Honda launch of its new 2013 models in Milan.

The one make entry-level series for riders between the age of 14 and 19 years old at World Superbike events has already proved during the years to be one of the best testing grounds and showcase for the potential champions of tomorrow.

Its new partnership with the top-level Japanese manufacturer opens a new range of possibilities for any young rider who wants to make it to the top. No surprise then that the new CBR 500R EJC-spec was presented by Jonathan Rea, multiple World Superbike race-winner and 2012 Suzuka 8 hour champion.

Thanks to the combined support of Honda, Pirelli and SBK the 2013 EJC Champion will receive the fantastic prize of a fully supported place in the 2014 European Superstock 600 Championship, racing the brand new Honda CBR600RR.

“We are very happy for the partnership with the European Junior Cup and The series organisers Racedays Promotions” said Carlo Fiorani, Honda Motor Europe Racing operations manager.

“And to provide them the new CBR500R, that in my opinion is the perfect bike for an entry-level championship. The goal of Honda is to develop and grow young talent and to find the next Jonathan Rea or Dani Pedrosa.

Honda's CBR500R is new to the marketplace for 2013.

Honda Australia has announced that the new LAMS-approved CBR500R will be making its way to Australia in April 2013.

The CBR500R is powered by a lightweight, compact 500cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine which focuses on high-rpm output characteristics while considering the low-to-mid rpm range that will be most frequently used by the entry user.

Excellent fuel efficiency and incredible flexibility are key to this new engine that can be described as very much a CBR engine.

Key to the new CBR500R was a link to Honda’s iconic CBR history, this was focused to incorporate modern styling to highlight the machines powerful engine and all new appeal.

The CBR500R is a fully cowled sports model that will offer riders excellent capability for an enjoyable ride around town, on winding roads or for sports riding.

Honda achieves fusion of power and practicality by engaging a slim sporty exterior that results in a refined, high-quality design that imparts a sense of the model’s easy handling and relaxed riding position.

The CBR500R will sport three colour variants – tri, black and red. ABS will be an option on the CBR500R model.

Speculation is mounting that the 250 Production category will be revised to include higher capacity bikes in the future.