10 things you should know about the Honda CB650R & CBR650R

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Furthermore, both come with a six-speed transmission, with the added benefit of an assist and slipper clutch.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.