Honda CB650R and CBR650R launched at Rs 8.67 lakh and Rs 8.88 lakh respectively

Honda has launched the updated CBR650R in India and for the first time ever, the CB650R. These launches increase Honda’s big bike portfolio in India joining the newly launched CB500X, the H’ness CB350, the CB350RS, the CBR1000RR-R and the Africa Twin. Although the CB650R is all-new, the updated CBR650R costs a whopping Rs 1.18 lakh more than its predecessor.

Design

The CBR650R remains visually identical to its predecessor, meaning it gets the same aggressive styling borrowed from the full-fledged CBR1000RR Fireblade. It gets a twin LED headlamp setup in the front and a LED tail lamp at the rear. The CBR gets two colour schemes namely, Grand Prix Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. The CB650R on the other hand is a neo-retro café racer styled naked motorcycle that takes heavy design inspiration from the CB1000R. The CB650R is also available in two colour options, which are called Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic and Candy Chromosphere Red.

Engine, Chassis and Equipment

The CB650R and the CBR650R are identical in terms of their underpinnings. The only differences between the two are that one is a faired motorcycle with clip on handlebars while the other is a naked bike with flat handlebars. Both bikes are powered by a 649cc, DOHC, 16-valve, Inline-four engine that puts out 85.8bhp at 12,000rpm and 57.5Nm at 8500rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox and gets a slip and assist clutch as standard. In terms of rider aids, the bikes get the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) which is their take on traction control and dual-channel ABS.

Suspension duties are handled by Showa’s Separate Function-Big Piston (SSF-BP) USD forks that are adjustable for spring preload. In terms of braking, both bikes get radially mounted Nissin calipers on twin 310mm discs at the front and a single 240mm disc at the rear. Both bikes get a 15.4-litre fuel tank and while the CB650R tips the scales at 206kg (kerb) the additional fairing means, the CBR650R weighs an extra 5kg at 211kg (kerb).

Commenting on the launch of the Honda CB650R and the CBR650R, Yadvider Singh Guleria, director, sales and marketing, HMSI, said, “Ever since its launch, CBR650R has been the heart throb of young motorcycle enthusiasts. Further strengthening our product portfolio of premium motorcycles, we are pleased to introduce for the first time in India, CB650R to take the excitement in the middleweight naked sports category a notch higher. The 650 siblings are set to provide a thrilling experience to the riders.”

The Honda CBR650R will be rivalled by likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 650, while the CB650R will be rivaled by likes of the Kawasaki Z650, the upcoming Triumph Trident 660 and Ducati’s Scrambler Nightshift.