Honda CB650R Review: A Perfect Blend of Neo Sports Café Design and Performance

The Honda CB650R is one of the most stylish and versatile middleweight motorcycles in Honda’s global lineup. Positioned under the Neo Sports Café series, it combines a retro-inspired design with modern technology and refined engineering.

For riders who want a motorcycle that looks sporty yet feels comfortable for daily use, the CB650R is an ideal choice. It balances performance, premium design, and rider comfort, making it one of the most desirable naked bikes in the 650cc segment.

Honda CB650R Review

Design: Neo Sports Café Styling

The Honda CB650R’s design is a masterpiece in modern retro-inspired aesthetics. Drawing from Honda’s Neo Sports Café concept, it is a mix of café racer cues with futuristic touches.

  • Round LED headlamp with a minimalist housing, giving it a classic yet modern face.
  • Muscular sculpted fuel tank that enhances its sporty stance.
  • Upward-swept tail section with sleek LED tail lamp and compact rear.
  • Premium paint quality and fit-finish that reflect Honda’s attention to detail.
  • Exposed frame and engine parts highlight its aggressive naked-bike appeal.

This design ensures the CB650R stands out in traffic and turns heads wherever it goes.

Honda CB650R: Quick Summary

Feature
Details
Engine
649cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four cylinder
Power
94 hp
Torque
63 Nm
Transmission
6-speed with slipper clutch
Weight
~206 kg (kerb)
Seat Height
810 mm
Suspension
USD Showa SFF-BP front forks, rear monoshock
Brakes
Dual front discs, single rear disc, ABS
Features
Full LED lighting, digital instrument cluster, HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control)
Price (Ex-showroom India)
₹8.5 lakh (approx.)
Official Website

Engine and Performance: Inline-Four Excellence

At the core of the CB650R is Honda’s 649cc, inline-four cylinder, liquid-cooled engine a configuration rare in its segment.

  • Power: 94 hp
  • Torque: 63 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual with assist & slipper clutch

Performance Highlights:

  • The inline-four engine offers buttery smooth acceleration across the rev range.
  • Linear power delivery makes it friendly for city rides and thrilling on highways.
  • The slipper clutch prevents rear-wheel lockup during aggressive downshifts.
  • Refined exhaust note with a sporty growl that excites riders at high RPMs.

This engine exemplifies Honda engineering excellence, combining performance, refinement, and everyday usability.

Ride and Handling: Comfort Meets Sportiness

The CB650R strikes the right balance between comfort and sporty handling.

  • Ergonomics: Slightly sporty yet comfortable seating position ensures long rides without fatigue.
  • Suspension:
    • Front: Showa SFF-BP upside-down forks for stability and cornering confidence.
    • Rear: Monoshock setup tuned for a balance of comfort and performance.
  • Handling: Light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and stable at high speeds.
  • Weight distribution ensures confidence on twisty roads as well as highways.

Whether you are navigating urban streets or tackling mountain bends, the CB650R feels planted and predictable.

Features and Technology: Modern and Premium

The Honda CB650R integrates modern features while retaining its minimalist café racer charm.

  • Full LED lighting (headlamp, indicators, and tail lamp).
  • Digital instrument cluster displaying speed, gear position, fuel, and more.
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for improved traction on slippery surfaces.
  • Dual-channel ABS for safe braking under all conditions.
  • Slipper clutch for smoother gear transitions.

Every component reflects Honda’s premium build quality, ensuring long-lasting reliability.

Price and Value

The Honda CB650R is priced at around ₹8.5 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

Why the Price is Justified:

  • Unique inline-four engine in its class.
  • Premium Neo Sports Café styling.
  • Excellent balance of comfort and performance.
  • Backed by Honda’s brand value and reliability.

While it sits in the premium middleweight motorcycle segment, the CB650R offers excellent value for riders seeking a mix of style, refinement, and power.

Who Should Buy the Honda CB650R?

This bike is best suited for:

  • Riders who want a stylish yet practical sports naked.
  • Enthusiasts who appreciate the refinement of inline-four engines.
  • Young professionals who want a motorcycle for city commutes and weekend rides.

It may not suit:

  • Riders looking for budget-friendly motorcycles.
  • Those who want extreme performance of superbikes.

The CB650R is ideal for someone who values a premium riding experience with balanced usability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What engine does the Honda CB650R use?

It has a 649cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four cylinder engine.

Q2. How much power and torque does it produce?

It produces 94 hp and 63 Nm of torque.

Q3. What is the price of the Honda CB650R in India?

The ex-showroom price is approximately ₹8.5 lakh.

Q4. Does the CB650R have advanced safety features?

Yes, it includes dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

Q5. Is the Honda CB650R suitable for beginners?

It is better suited for intermediate riders due to its power output, though its linear delivery makes it manageable.

Q6. What are its main competitors?

The CB650R rivals the Kawasaki Z650, Triumph Trident 660, and Yamaha MT-07.

Official Website

For more details, visit: www.honda2wheelersindia.com

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