2019 Honda CB650R

6th November 2018

93hp | Neo Sports Café | CBR650R 

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A new engine (93hp @ 12,000rpm). New frame (steel). A new front fork (41mm USD Showa SFF). New styling. New front calipers (radially mounted Nissin). A new headlight. A new and sportier riding position. New wheels. And new suspension.

This timely replacement for the outgoing CB650F will sit more comfortably alongside the current CB125R, CB300R and CB1000R range. Honda speaks about a "Neo Sports Café" concept and has clearly thrown a lot of time, money and effort at this machine.

Overall weight is down by around 6kg. While power for this in-line four, liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-stroke is up very slightly from 90hp to the aforementioned 93. Torque appears to be unchanged at 47lb-ft (64Nm) @ 8,500rpm, but the torque curve is claimed to have been tweaked in response to rider/owner feedback complaining about a little sagginess in and around the mid range. A slipper clutch is part of the deal.

Redesigned components have beefed up the internals. Honda has added its HSTC traction control system. And the tail-pipe has been opened to improve both sound and performance.
 

Optional add-ons included a quickshifter, a belly pan, aluminium side covers, and heated grips. The fuel capacity is 3.4 gallons (15.4 litres). The wet weight is 444lbs (202kg).

It's (arguably) a nice looking upgrade on the F model. But it's not likely to exactly stun anyone. And if it's keeping pace, it isn't taking us anywhere new or dangerously exciting.

Meanwhile, if you're looking for something a little more obviously sporty, Honda presents the 2019 CBR650R. Essentially it's the same horse, albeit of a different colour. It takes over from the 2018 CBR650F and clearly lays pretence to Fireblade styling, but with less bang for less buck.

No prices yet for either bike.


 

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