For the first time in India, Honda has launched the CB650R and along with that, it has also launched the updated version of the CBR650R. However, this isn’t the first time that Honda has launched a Neo Sports Café themed motorcycle. Not so long ago, we had the CB1000R+ and the CB300R as well. Anyway, these new models come to India via the CKD route. The CB650R is priced at Rs 8.67 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram), while the CBR650R comes at Rs 8.88 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram). Bookings for these motorcycles have already begun and of course, these will be through the BigWing Topline dealerships in India.
As far as performance is concerned, both the CBR650R and CB650R is powered by a 649cc, DOHC, in-line four-cylinder engine that delivers 86 bhp@12000 rpm and 5.86 kgm of torque@8500 rpm, paired to a 6-speed gearbox along with assist and slipper clutch. Both are based on the tubular steel diamond frame and suspended by a Showa USD fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock. Up front, the new 41 mm upside-down Showa forks update should help in the sporty riding. Only last year, the CBR650R received a Euro 5 compliant update which has increased the overall weight to 208 kg, all thanks to the revised ECU, intake timing, exhaust system and crankshaft, whereas, the CB650R tips the scale at 206 kg. Both of them offer safety features like the Emergency Stop Signal technology, Honda Ignition Security System, and Honda Selectable Torque Control.
Since these are updated models, the exteriors do receive quite an update. Both the CBR650R and the CB650R gets new reflector lights, LED tail lamp, LED headlamp, a digital LCD instrument cluster, and much more. You can have the CB650R in either Candy Chromosphere Red or Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, while the CBR650R is available in Grand Prix Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic.
