Honda CBR 650F

CBR 650F is one solid answer from Honda, to the growing demand of superbikes in India. After all, it is available as a CKD unit, it is still priced at Rs 6.57 lakhs which is a disappointing fact. This massive price tag remains to be one of the drawbacks of this CBR, but it still manages to sell a good volume of units in the country. So, let’s see whether this Honda is worthy enough for the penny.



The Engine
Honda uses 648.72cc, in-line four, liquid cooled, DOHC engine tuned for low-to-midrange torque and suitable for wide range of riding style. The mill churns out a maximum power of 63.6 kW @11000 rpm and a peak torque of 62.9 Nm @8000 rpm. Engine is mated with a 6-speed manual transmission box with universal gear shifting. Honda uses their advanced PGM-FI Program Automatic Enrichment Circuit fuel system. Moreover, the 4-2-1 sporty exhaust system helps the engine to deliver higher torque at mid-range rpm and gives a cutting edge sporty look. According to Honda, the CBR 650F’s powerplant is one of their best, Honda has ever developed.



The Design and Features
The CBR 650F is a mature looking mid-range sportsbike. It has nothing to compare with younger sibling CBR 250R or the flagship CBR 1000R Fireblade. Honda has used a ‘V’ shaped headlamp inside a raked fairing, which gives the bike more mature and conservative front fascia. The well shaped fuel tank of the bike helps to provide a comfortable grip while cornering. The overall size and shape of the 650 makes it a good looking adult bike. The rider saddle is low enough to accommodate a short rider, while pillion seat sits higher. The rear grab fitment is integrated towards the cowl, makes the tail piece neat and cleaner.
CBR 650F features f3-large digital instrument console, which gives all information at a glance like high-end premium sportsbikes. Moreover, it features Honda Ignition Security System (HISS), which is an anti-theft device that automatically disables the starting of the engine. Not only that, the adjustable front brake lever, clip-on handlebars, fairing mounted mirrors and smoothly shaped switchgears are also featured in this model.



Chassis, Suspension and Braking
The new CBR 650F’s chassis is super strong and rigid enough for responsive handling and smooth performance. It uses f6-large Twin-spar steel frame for the construction, which is supported by an alloy swingarm. It offers a sporty riding position without much lean with some long distance touring capabilities. It features 41mm telescopic fork at the front and monoshock with 7-step spring preload adjustment at the back. The monoshock suspension offers better stability and comfort while taking high speed turns. Moving on to the stopping force, 320mm double petal disc brake at the front and 240mm disc brake at the rear deals with the braking. ABS system is employed as a standard feature at both the ends.



The Verdict
The Honda CBR 650F is one of the advanced mid-range sportsbike available in the country. It is a good looking, feature studded and rides good enough. But the only question remains to be; is it worthy enough for Rs 6.57 lakh price tag? The models like HD Street 750 and Street Rod 750 is priced way below the 650F, which is comparatively well engineered than the Honda. With likes of Ducati Scrambler, Monster 797, Triumph Street Twin, Kawasaki Z650 and Ninja 650R which is priced in and around Rs 7 to 8 lakhs is a better of piece machine in all terms.