The Honda CB650R is a striking embodiment of performance, style, and modern engineering, designed to captivate motorcycle enthusiasts in the Indian market. Launched as part of Honda’s acclaimed Neo-Sports Café lineup, this middleweight naked streetfighter blends retro-inspired aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, making it a standout in the premium motorcycle segment. Introduced in India through Honda’s BigWing dealerships, the CB650R appeals to riders seeking a balance of thrilling performance, agile handling, and everyday practicality. Its sleek design, characterized by a muscular fuel tank, round LED headlamp, and minimalist tail section, reflects a philosophy that marries classic charm with contemporary flair. Aimed at young riders and seasoned motorcyclists alike, the CB650R delivers an exhilarating ride, whether navigating bustling city streets or carving through open highways. In this detailed exploration, we delve into the bike’s technical specifications, variants, pricing, advanced features, and its position among competitors, offering a comprehensive look at why the Honda CB650R is a compelling choice in India’s competitive two-wheeler market.
Technical Specifications
Below is a detailed table summarizing the technical specifications of the Honda CB650R, compiled from reliable sources like BikeWale and BikeDekho, ensuring accuracy for the Indian market.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, inline 4-cylinder |
| Displacement | 649 cc |
| Max Power | 95.17 PS @ 12,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 63 Nm @ 9,500 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 67 mm x 46 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 |
| Fuel System | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 20.4 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.4 liters |
| Length | 2,128 mm |
| Width | 784 mm |
| Height | 1,076 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,449 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 148 mm |
| Seat Height | 810 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 206 kg |
| Frame | Twin-tube steel diamond frame |
| Front Suspension | Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD fork |
| Rear Suspension | Pre-load adjustable monoshock |
| Front Brake | Dual 310 mm discs with four-piston radial calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 240 mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS |
| Tyres (Front/Rear) | 120/70-17 (Front), 180/55-17 (Rear), Tubeless |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloy wheels |
| Instrument Cluster | 5-inch color TFT display |
| Lighting | Full LED (headlamp, taillight, indicators) |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
Variants
The Honda CB650R is available in a single variant in India, ensuring a focused offering packed with premium features. The table below outlines the variant details.
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| CB650R Standard | Single variant with all features, available in two color options: Candy Chromosphere Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Honda CB650R varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and taxes. The table below provides the approximate ex-showroom and on-road prices as of April 2025, based on data from BikeWale and other sources.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 9,20,000 | 10,36,846 |
| Mumbai | 9,20,000 | 10,73,646 |
| Bangalore | 9,20,000 | 11,48,442 |
| Kolkata | 9,20,000 | 10,45,979 |
| Chennai | 9,20,000 | 10,86,000 |
| Hyderabad | 9,20,000 | 10,73,646 |
Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change. For exact pricing, contact a local Honda BigWing dealership.
About the Honda CB650R
Design and Styling
The Honda CB650R embodies the Neo-Sports Café design ethos, a signature of Honda’s middleweight naked lineup. Its aesthetic is a harmonious blend of retro and modern elements, making it instantly recognizable on Indian roads. The round LED headlamp pays homage to classic motorcycles, while the sculpted fuel tank and sharp tank extensions add a contemporary, muscular stance. The bike’s compact tail section and minimalist bodywork enhance its aggressive yet refined look. Available in two striking color schemes—Candy Chromosphere Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic—the CB650R exudes premium craftsmanship. The use of high-quality materials, such as brushed aluminum accents and a robust steel frame, underscores Honda’s attention to detail. The 17-inch alloy wheels and exposed engine components further amplify its streetfighter appeal, making it a head-turner in urban and highway settings alike.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda CB650R lies a 649 cc inline four-cylinder engine, a hallmark of Honda’s engineering prowess. This liquid-cooled, DOHC powerplant delivers a potent 95.17 PS at 12,000 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 9,500 rpm, offering a thrilling yet manageable performance profile. The engine is tuned for smooth power delivery, making it ideal for both spirited rides and daily commuting. Its high-revving nature ensures exhilarating acceleration, particularly in the upper rev range, where the inline-four’s signature exhaust note comes alive. Paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring a slip-and-assist clutch, gear shifts are precise and effortless, reducing rider fatigue and enhancing control during aggressive downshifts. While the claimed mileage of 20.4 kmpl may not lead the segment, it’s respectable for a performance-oriented bike, offering a practical range with its 15.4-liter fuel tank. The PGM-FI fuel injection system optimizes efficiency and throttle response, ensuring compliance with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms.
Ride and Handling
The Honda CB650R is engineered for dynamic handling, thanks to its twin-tube steel diamond frame, which strikes a balance between rigidity and agility. The Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD fork at the front provides plush ride quality and precise feedback, absorbing road imperfections with ease. The rear pre-load adjustable monoshock complements this setup, offering stability during high-speed cornering and comfort over long rides. At 206 kg, the bike’s kerb weight is slightly higher than some rivals, but its well-distributed mass and low 810 mm seat height make it accessible to a wide range of riders. The dual-channel ABS system, paired with 310 mm dual front discs and a 240 mm rear disc, ensures confident braking performance in all conditions. The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) adds a layer of safety by preventing rear-wheel slip, particularly on wet or uneven surfaces. Whether weaving through city traffic or tackling winding roads, the CB650R’s agile handling and responsive chassis inspire confidence.
Advanced Features
The Honda CB650R is packed with advanced features that enhance both functionality and rider engagement. The 5-inch color TFT instrument cluster is a standout, offering crisp visuals and intuitive navigation. It displays essential information like speed, RPM, fuel level, gear position, and trip data, with customizable layouts for rider convenience. Bluetooth connectivity allows smartphone integration, enabling access to calls, notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation via a compatible headset. The full LED lighting system, including the headlamp, taillight, and indicators, ensures excellent visibility and a premium aesthetic. The absence of the E-Clutch system in the Indian variant is a minor omission, but the standard slip-and-assist clutch compensates with smooth operation. The HSTC system, while basic, provides a safety net for enthusiastic riders, making the CB650R versatile across varied riding conditions.
Exteriors and Build Quality
The exterior design of the Honda CB650R is a masterclass in blending form and function. The muscular fuel tank not only enhances aesthetics but also improves rider ergonomics, offering a natural grip for aggressive riding. The round LED headlamp is both a stylistic nod to retro bikes and a practical feature for low-light conditions. The compact tail section and under-cowl add a sporty flair, while the exposed engine highlights the bike’s mechanical beauty. Honda’s commitment to build quality is evident in the precise fit and finish, with durable materials that withstand the rigors of Indian roads. The 17-inch alloy wheels are robust yet lightweight, contributing to the bike’s agile handling. Every element, from the brushed aluminum accents to the sleek body panels, reflects Honda’s reputation for reliability and craftsmanship.
Interiors (Ergonomics and Comfort)
While motorcycles lack traditional “interiors,” the Honda CB650R excels in ergonomics and rider comfort. The 810 mm seat height is accessible for most Indian riders, offering a relaxed yet sporty riding posture. The wide handlebar provides excellent leverage, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The seat design balances comfort for long rides with support for aggressive cornering, though pillion comfort is adequate rather than exceptional due to the compact rear seat. Footpegs are positioned to promote a natural riding stance, reducing fatigue during extended journeys. The TFT display and switchgear are intuitively placed, ensuring easy access to controls without distracting the rider. Vibration levels are minimal for an inline-four engine, though some riders may notice mild buzz at mid-range RPMs (4,000–6,000). Overall, the CB650R prioritizes rider engagement while maintaining practicality for daily use.
Variants and Customization
The Honda CB650R is offered in a single Standard variant in India, streamlining the buying process. This variant includes all premium features, eliminating the need for multiple trim levels. Riders can choose between two color options: Candy Chromosphere Red for a vibrant, eye-catching look, and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic for a stealthy, understated appeal. While the bike doesn’t offer extensive factory customization, Honda’s BigWing dealerships provide accessories like engine guards, tank pads, and quick-shifters for personalization. The single-variant strategy ensures that every CB650R delivers the full Neo-Sports Café experience, with no compromises on performance or features.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Priced at ₹9.20 lakh (ex-showroom), the Honda CB650R occupies the premium middleweight segment, competing with some of the best naked bikes in India. Its on-road price ranges from ₹10.36 lakh to ₹11.48 lakh across metro cities, reflecting variations in taxes and insurance. While the price may seem steep compared to smaller-capacity bikes, the CB650R justifies its cost with a refined inline-four engine, advanced electronics, and premium build quality. Honda’s reliability and low maintenance costs further enhance its value proposition, making it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts. The bike’s exclusivity, sold through BigWing dealerships, adds to its appeal, though limited service reach in smaller cities may be a consideration for some buyers.
Competitors Analysis
The Honda CB650R faces stiff competition in India’s middleweight naked bike segment. Below, we compare it with its closest rivals: the Triumph Trident 660, Kawasaki Z650, and Kawasaki Z900.
Triumph Trident 660
The Triumph Trident 660 is a formidable rival, priced at approximately ₹8.25 lakh (ex-showroom), making it more affordable than the CB650R. Powered by a 660 cc inline-three engine, it produces 80 bhp and 64 Nm, offering a distinctive exhaust note and lively performance. The Trident is lighter at 189 kg, enhancing agility, and boasts a 7-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity. Its mileage of around 22 kmpl is slightly better, appealing to cost-conscious riders. However, the Trident’s engine lacks the refinement and top-end rush of the CB650R’s inline-four, and its suspension setup (Showa USD fork and monoshock) is less sophisticated. The CB650R edges out with superior build quality and HSTC, but the Trident’s lower price and accessibility make it a strong alternative for younger riders.
Kawasaki Z650
Priced at around ₹6.79 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Z650 is the budget-friendly option in this segment. Its 649 cc parallel-twin engine delivers 67 bhp and 64 Nm, prioritizing low-end torque over top-end power. At 191 kg, it’s lighter than the CB650R, offering nimble handling for city riding. The Z650 features a 4.3-inch TFT display and LED lighting, but lacks advanced electronics like traction control. Its mileage of approximately 23 kmpl is a plus, and the lower price appeals to first-time big-bike buyers. However, the Z650’s engine feels less exciting than the CB650R’s inline-four, and its build quality is less premium. The CB650R’s superior performance and features justify its higher price for riders seeking a refined experience.
Kawasaki Z900
The Kawasaki Z900, priced at ₹10.46 lakh (ex-showroom), is a step up in displacement and power, making it a direct competitor for riders considering the CB650R. Its 948 cc inline-four engine churns out 123 bhp and 98.6 Nm, offering explosive performance. The Z900 includes riding modes, traction control, and a TFT display, matching the CB650R’s tech credentials. However, at 212 kg, it’s heavier, and its aggressive power delivery may overwhelm less experienced riders. The Z900’s mileage of around 17 kmpl is less efficient, and its higher price narrows the gap with the CB650R. The CB650R strikes back with better ergonomics for daily use and a more approachable powerband, making it a versatile all-rounder.
Market Positioning and Rider Appeal
The Honda CB650R is positioned as a premium middleweight naked bike, targeting riders who value style, performance, and reliability. Its Neo-Sports Café design appeals to millennials and Gen Z riders seeking a bike that stands out visually and emotionally. The inline-four engine caters to enthusiasts who crave a high-revving, soulful riding experience, while the advanced features like TFT display and HSTC attract tech-savvy buyers. Compared to its competitors, the CB650R offers a unique blend of retro-modern aesthetics and modern engineering, making it ideal for urban commuters, weekend warriors, and long-distance tourers. Its 810 mm seat height and manageable weight ensure accessibility, while the premium branding of Honda’s BigWing network adds exclusivity. However, the higher price and limited service network may deter budget-conscious buyers or those in smaller cities.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Refined Inline-Four Engine: Smooth, powerful, and thrilling at high RPMs.
- Neo-Sports Café Design: Striking blend of retro and modern aesthetics.
- Advanced Features: TFT display, HSTC, and full LED lighting enhance functionality.
- Agile Handling: Showa suspension and lightweight chassis ensure precise control.
- Honda Reliability: Proven build quality and low maintenance costs.
Cons
- Premium Pricing: Higher cost compared to rivals like the Triumph Trident 660 and Kawasaki Z650.
- Mileage: 20.4 kmpl is average for the segment.
- Limited Service Reach: BigWing dealerships are primarily in metro cities.
- No E-Clutch: Misses out on the innovative E-Clutch system available globally.
Verdict
The Honda CB650R is a compelling choice for riders seeking a premium middleweight naked bike that excels in style, performance, and technology. Its 649 cc inline-four engine delivers an exhilarating ride, while the Neo-Sports Café design ensures it stands out in a crowded market. Features like the TFT display, HSTC, and full LED lighting add modern flair, and Honda’s reliability guarantees long-term satisfaction. While its price of ₹9.20 lakh (ex-showroom) and average mileage may give some pause, the CB650R’s refined dynamics and premium build quality make it a worthwhile investment. Against competitors like the Triumph Trident 660, Kawasaki Z650, and Kawasaki Z900, it holds its own with a unique blend of retro charm and modern performance. For Indian riders craving a versatile, soulful motorcycle, the Honda CB650R is a standout contender that delivers on every front.
