Honda CB650R: Road Test Review

We find out whether this gorgeous 650cc neo-retro bike is worth its pretty penny of Rs 8.68 lakh

Honda’s middleweight lineup received a shot in the arm with the launch of the CB650R back in 2021. It looks drop-dead gorgeous, sounds incredible, but does it deliver when it comes to the riding experience? We swing our legs over this beaut to find out.

Know everything about the Honda CB650R in these links:

Launch Story:

In 2021 March-end, just before the new financial year started in April, Honda livened up the middleweight segment with the launch of not just one but two motorcycles: the Honda CB650R and the Honda CBR650R. The two bikes look smashing but command a pretty hefty premium despite coming in via the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route. 

Photo Comparison Gallery:

Price-wise, the closest rival of the Honda CB650R in the Indian market is the more powerful, feature-packed Kawasaki Z900. Take a look at how these two stack up against each other in images here.

Review: Likes and Dislikes:

We took the Honda CB650R through its paces and here’s what we liked and what we didn’t. You can also read the review in a pictorial format via our review in images.

Verdict:

While the Honda CB650R scores well in terms of looks, it feels like a let-down when it comes to riding dynamics. Moreover, it’s way too expensive for what it offers, and at best feels like a large-displacement commuter bike. There are several more affordable options in the market which offer a lot more for a lot less.