Honda CB650R
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a motorcycle that perfectly balances power and practicality? The Honda CB650R might be exactly what you’re looking for. This naked sport bike delivers genuine performance credentials wrapped in a sleek, modern package that stands out from the crowd. It’s the bike for riders who want serious four-cylinder thrills without the aggressive riding position of a full sportbike.

From the moment you see it, the CB650R commands attention. Its sharp Neo Sports Café styling gives it a confident presence that rivals like the Yamaha MT-07 or Kawasaki Z650 simply can’t match. The distinctive LED lighting and muscular fuel tank create a bike that looks fast even when standing still. But the real magic happens when you fire up that inline-four engine. The sound alone tells you this is something special.

Riding the CB650R is an engaging experience that rewards skilled riders. The 649cc engine produces smooth, linear power that builds beautifully to the 12,000rpm redline. It handles with precision and poise, making every journey feel purposeful and exciting. While it commands a premium over some competitors, you’re investing in Honda’s legendary reliability and build quality. The CB650R proves that a naked motorcycle doesn’t have to compromise on performance or style.

What's the Honda CB650R Like to Drive?

The Honda CB650R is powered by a liquid-cooled 649cc inline-four engine that produces 94 horsepower at 12,000rpm and 64Nm of torque. This DOHC powerplant delivers smooth, progressive power that feels refined throughout the rev range. The engine really comes alive above 6,000rpm, delivering an intoxicating soundtrack that few parallel twins can match. Acceleration feels strong and purposeful, making overtaking and motorway riding effortless.

Where the CB650R truly excels is in its handling dynamics. The steel diamond frame provides excellent rigidity while remaining light enough for nimble direction changes. The suspension setup strikes a superb balance between sportiness and comfort, soaking up road imperfections while still providing feedback through corners. The riding position is upright and comfortable, making it suitable for both daily commuting and weekend canyon carving. You get the sense of a well-engineered machine that rewards precise inputs while remaining forgiving for less experienced riders.

Inside the Honda CB650R: Comfort & Features

The CB650R strikes an impressive balance between sporty performance and everyday usability. The upright riding position puts less strain on your wrists and back compared to full sportbikes, making longer rides more comfortable. The seat is well-padded and supportive, though taller riders might find it slightly cramped on extended journeys. The bike’s relatively low seat height of 810mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders.

Practical considerations include the compact 15.4-litre fuel tank, which provides decent range thanks to the bike’s efficient engine. The instrument cluster is clear and informative, featuring both analogue and digital displays. Storage options are limited, as expected with a naked bike, but the clean lines make it easy to fit aftermarket luggage solutions. The CB650R excels as a commuter bike thanks to its manageable weight and smooth power delivery, while still offering enough performance for spirited weekend rides.

The Honda CB650R successfully delivers on its promise of accessible four-cylinder performance. It offers genuine excitement through its rev-happy engine and precise handling, while remaining civilised enough for everyday use. The build quality is exemplary, with fit and finish that justifies the premium pricing. The bike sounds fantastic and looks the part with its modern Neo Sports Café styling. The main trade-offs are the higher price compared to parallel-twin alternatives and slightly reduced low-end torque. It’s not the most powerful bike in its class, but that’s not its purpose. The CB650R is for riders who appreciate smooth power delivery, Honda reliability, and four-cylinder character. If you value refinement over raw power and want a bike that excels in multiple scenarios, the CB650R is an excellent choice that delivers on its premium positioning.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Honda CB650R?

The CB650R offers reasonable running costs for a premium four-cylinder motorcycle. Honda’s reputation for reliability means lower maintenance costs over the long term, with service intervals that won’t break the bank. Fuel consumption typically ranges between 45-55mpg depending on riding style, making it economical for daily use. Insurance costs are moderate for the performance on offer, though they’ll vary based on your experience and location.

The initial purchase price positions the CB650R as a premium option in the naked bike segment. However, Honda’s strong resale values and reputation for durability help offset the higher upfront cost. Regular maintenance is straightforward, and Honda’s extensive dealer network ensures parts availability. For riders considering motorcycle finance, the CB650R’s strong residual values make it an attractive option for PCP or HP agreements.

Is the Honda CB650R Practical for Everyday Use?

For a performance-focused naked bike, the CB650R offers surprisingly good practicality. The fuel tank provides adequate range for touring, while the comfortable riding position makes it suitable for daily commuting. The bike’s manageable weight and smooth clutch action make it easy to navigate through traffic. Storage space is limited to what you can fit under the seat or attach via luggage points.

The CB650R works well for a wide range of riders, from commuters seeking something more exciting than a parallel twin to weekend warriors wanting four-cylinder thrills without sportbike compromises. Compared to other used Honda motorcycles, the CB650R offers a unique blend of performance and usability. Its compact dimensions make parking easy, while the upright riding position reduces fatigue on longer journeys.

The Honda CB650R stands out in the competitive naked bike market by offering genuine four-cylinder performance in an accessible package. It combines Honda’s renowned engineering excellence with modern styling and practical everyday usability. The smooth, rev-happy engine provides an engaging riding experience that rewards skilled operation while remaining manageable for newer riders.

You choose the CB650R because you want something special without compromise. Its refined power delivery, excellent build quality, and distinctive character make every ride memorable. Whether you’re commuting through city traffic or carving country roads, the CB650R adapts beautifully to different riding scenarios. For riders seeking a premium naked bike that offers four-cylinder thrills with Honda reliability, the CB650R should be at the top of your shortlist, especially when considering flexible motorcycle financing options.