Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India seems to be on quite a roll with its ‘big bike’ offensive. Just recently, the CB650R and CBR650R were launched for a price of Rs 8.67 lakh and Rs 8.88 lakh, respectively (all prices ex-showroom, Gurugram). Both these motorcycles have come to our shores via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, hence, the slightly higher asking price. So, we decided to make a list of important pointers about both motorcycles, to make things a lot easier for you, and frankly, us too.
- First and foremost; both motorcycles are powered by a BS6-compliant 648cc, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. But, the changes come in the form of power output figures.
- While the CBR650R, which was an existing product in the Indian market, produces 85.8 bhp and 57.5 Nm; the first-ever CB650R in India produces 84.6 bhp and 57.5 Nm of torque.
- If you’re confused, the CB650R is the one with Honda’s ‘Neo Sports Café’ styling, while the CBR650R is the fully-faired motorcycle. Additionally, both come with their own unique styling cues to set them apart.
- Both middleweights are built on a tubular steel diamond-type frame, with Showa USD front forks and mono-shock at the rear (CB650R). The CBR650R gets an updated Showa Separate Function-Big Piston USD front forks and a rear mono-shock.
- Other updates on the 2021 CBR650R include revised headlight reflectors and a USB charger under the seat. The CB650R also gets the same updates, along with a tweak to the riding position, which is slighter sportier.
- Furthermore, both come with a six-speed transmission, with the added benefit of an assist and slipper clutch.
- Moreover, braking duties are handled by radially-mounted front callipers biting down on the 310mm twin-disc brakes at the front, and a single disc at the back.
- Sadly, both these motorcycles are detuned to make sure they fall in the right emissions bracket. What hurts a little more is the fact that both of them are a little heavier than their international counterparts.
- The second bit of sad news is the fact that they cost quite a significant amount of money when compared to their rivals. Sure, the CBR650R is the most affordable fully-faired in-line four-cylinder motorcycle in the market, but the CB650R has a whole other battle to fight.
- The 2021 CBR650R is available in two colours – Grand Prix Red & Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic; while the CB650R comes in Candy Chromosphere Red & Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic.