BREAKING: 2021 Honda CBR650R And CB650R Launched In India From Rs 8.67 Lakh

Honda has introduced the Neo Sports Café-inspired CB650R in India for the very first time 

• Both models will be imported to India via the CKD route. 
• These bikes share the same BS6-compliant 649cc inline four-cylinder engine. 
• Makes slightly less power and torque than before.
• Bookings for the bikes have commenced exclusively through Honda Big Wing dealerships. 

Honda’s commuter-centric approach for the Indian market over the past couple of years has not found favour among many enthusiasts. The company has lately taken it upon itself to change this perception by focusing more on big performance-centric motorcycles for the market. The latest entrant is the fully faired BS6-complaint CBR650R and the neo sports café-inspired CB650R priced at Rs 8.88 lakh and Rs 8.67 lakh (ex-showroom) respectively. 

In case you’re wondering, Honda’s charging you a premium of Rs 1.18 lakh for the BS6 CBR650R. That really doesn’t make sense considering the added weight, detuned engine, and the fact that it doesn’t offer anything extra for the price. 

To start things off, there’s the engine. While it packs the same 649cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder motor, it’s been detuned to make 87PS at 12000rpm and 57.5Nm at 8500rpm. That’s 1PS and 3Nm less than the BS4 bike. Not to mention, the India-spec CBR650R and CB650R weigh 3kg (211kg) and 3.5kg (206kg) more than the international models. Manufactures such as Kawasaki and Triumph, on the other hand, are doing their best to offer products at an accessible price point. So how Honda decides to justify this price is up for debate. 

In terms of styling, the only difference between the two bikes is the design and dimensions. This is the first instance where Honda has introduced the CB650R for the Indian market. Its ultra-minimalist streetfighter styling is inspired by Honda’s Neo Sports Café design language. The 2021 model gets forward-set handlebars, an improved LCD dash, USB type-C socket under the seat, and redesigned side panels. 

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The CBR605R, on the other hand, is a fully faired sportbike with split LED headlights, sportier ergonomics, and better aerodynamics. Both bikes feature LED lights, a full-digital instrument console, switchable Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), a 6-speed transmission with a slip and assist clutch, adjustable Showa Separate Function-Big Piston (SSF-BP) USD forks, and 5-spoke Y-shaped spokes. 

Other notable features include Honda’s ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) technology which automatically activates the hazard lights in case of sudden braking and an Ignition Security System (HISS) -- Honda’s lingo for an anti-theft system. Braking duties are handled by twin 310mm front discs with radially mounted Nissin calipers and a 240mm rear disc.

The 2021 CBR650R and CB650R get two colour options each: red and black. Bookings for the CBR650R and CB650R have commenced exclusively via Honda Big Wing dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Indore, Kochi and Hyderabad. At this price point, it’ll be interesting to see how Honda fends off heated competition from the Triumph Trident 660, Aprilia Tuono 660, Aprilia RS 660, Triumph Street Triple R, Kawasaki Z900, Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Z650.