Honda CB650R

The CB650R has got a very definitive retro look, which comes as an update over its sibling from which it is derived. This naked, middle-weight bike resembles the CB1000R litre-class motorbike. But the 650R is more powerful and lighter than its predecessor. Its the front fender is pared-down which looks kind of neat. The headlight is a single circular LED equipped with a sharp black bezel, with a LED DRL ring encircling it. The most premium feature on this bike is the LCD instrument cluster which comes loaded with a lot of metrics. These metrics include the gear position and shift up indicator, water thermometer, digital clock, engine RPM meter, speedometer, fuel indicator etc. The short length of the handlebar comes in handy while taking sharp turns. The ignition switch has been provided at the front of the fuel tank along with small cheek fairings on either side (which also function as air intakes), which adds to the uniqueness of this bike. At the rear end, the mudguard is extended beyond the taillight and supports a pair of blinkers.

The handling of the Honda CB650R is very comfortable and balanced, thanks to the use of HSTC technology. This technology helps in maintaining traction by adjusting the torque to the rear wheel, once it senses the speed difference between the two wheels. The seating position is very comfortable and upright for the driver, thanks to a compact handlebar and muscular fuel tank. The pillion rider also sits comfortably as the seat is slightly stepped and there is enough room available. The suspension on this bike uses adjustable 41 mm Showa Separate Fork Function (SFF) at the front, which offers balance to the entire frame of the bike along with weight loss.  The Y-shaped 5-spoke wheels are made out of aluminium and help to reduce the overall weight of the bike without compromising on strength.

At its heart, the CB650R gets an inline four-cylinder, DOHC 16 valve engine that produces a power output of 94 hp and a mid-range torque of 64 Nm. It has a red line of 12,000 rpm and is incorporated with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) that aids in maintaining rear wheel traction. The estimated top-speed for the 650R is 135 mph. You can experience the symphony of the in-line four-cylinder engine once your revs start. The cheek fairings that function as dual air intake ducts help in improving the intake efficiency and torque delivery. The slipper clutch is very light to operate and helps in smooth shifting of the 6-speed gearbox.

For a powerful bike like the CB650R, you need equally capable braking power. The front wheel is equipped with dual radial-mount four-piston callipers with 310 mm discs and at the rear, you get single-piston calliper with 240 mm disc. The dual-channel ABS offers you enough grip on wet as well as dry terrain. Besides this, in case you brake unexpectedly, the 650R’s Emergency Stop Signal technology is there to look after you. It detects sudden breaking and immediately activates the hazard lights on both ends of the bike, which in turn intimates the vehicles around you.

The CB650R is a very versatile bike. It gives you a world of comfort and joy while riding. This is a genuine middle-weight bike that has got a swanky look and is equipped with a range of safety features that increase the dependency on this bike. To sum it up, the Honda CB650R is bound to take you on an adventure every single day.