A middleweight naked for a wide range of riders
Honda’s CB650R is now available in Matte Grey Metallic, for $9,399.
- Inline-four engine unique to the class
- Stable chassis matched with smooth power delivery
- Honda fit and finish
Overview
Inline four-cylinder engines have been a staple of Honda’s lineup since the 750 Four debuted in 1969. Fast-forward 50 years to 2019, when Honda’s CBR650F and CB650F middleweights were heavily revised and given the R suffix to better match the bike’s sporty performance. The outgoing streetfighter-styled CB650F was replaced with a freshly designed naked middleweight that now represents what Honda calls its Neo-Sports Café segment. This new styling, reminiscent of the late ‘90s/early ‘00s Hornet/Honda 599, is seen in today’s CB650R, modernized with blacked-out paint and burnished bronze detailing.
Today, the CB continues to bring the classic high-revving spirit of its flamboyant predecessors with its liquid-cooled 649cc mill. The CB650R claims a unique spot in today’s current middleweight class as being one of the only 650cc bikes equipped with an inline-four engine, unless your definition of “middleweight” includes the GSX-S750 or Z900.
The midsize CB makes for an appropriate step up from beginner bikes or a reintroduction to riding. Its engine, comfortable ergos, solid braking performance, and top-quality receive top grades that make it really attractive.
The CB650R was shaped around Honda’s Neo-Sports Café design philosophy.
Updates for 2023
If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. The 2023 CB650R is unchanged for 2023 hold for a $100 price increase and move to Matte Grey Metallic paint (versus Matte Black Metallic). Keen observers will notice a few more small differences, like the red shock spring which replaces last year’s yellow spring.
The last major update for the CB650R was in 2021.
Pricing and Variants
The CB650R is available in just one trim, for $9,399.
Limited technology on the CB650R, though it does come equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which can be turned off.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The CB’s handlebar was canted forward as part of the MY21 changes and the reach there is comfortable, whereas the pulled-back peg position makes the full rider triangle somewhat sporty. Honda managed to keep the bike fairly narrow, which is impressive considering there is an inline-four engine there.
The 32-inch seat height is reasonably approachable, especially considering that Honda’s beginner-friendly CB300R is only fractions lower.
Electronics
While the CB does not have ride modes, it does have rider aids such as Honda Selectable Torque Control (or traction control) and two-channel ABS. HSTC can be turned off.
The white-on-black LCD display is somewhat modern, although it’s quickly starting to fall behind full-color TFT units. Font sizes were increased in the CB’s most recent update and the display angle was slightly altered to help with visibility in full sun.
Honda keeps all of the CB’s lighting up to modern standards; LEDs are found in the headlight, taillight, and turn signals.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Honda’s transferable warranty includes one-year, unlimited-mileage coverage. The HondaCare Protection Plan is available for extending that coverage.
Quality
Like the CB1000R, the middleweight CB has fine fit and finish. Minimalist details match the bike’s clean look, making for a simple yet effective design.
Browse our Honda CB650R inventory