Honda CBR650F

CBR650F is a sport-tourer meant for long rides first and foremost as well as commuting. For this, it has a sporty design with full-fairing providing decent wind protection at all operating speeds. The bodywork is quite streamlined and feels aerodynamic with a smooth and compact front headlight assembly which carries on to the side fairings. The fuel tank has the right dimensions making it feel right between the legs. The middle and tail section is quite compact and minimal adding a full dose of sportiness in the design. The instrument panel has split digital screens showing speed, RPM meter, total kms, trip, fuel gauge and clock.

Being a full-faired sportbike, CBR650F offers a slightly lean-forward riding stance, however, the ergonomics are very comfortable indeed as the two-piece handlebar is quite high and easy to reach. Rider foot-pegs are also rear-set for an overall sportier riding position. Handlebar switches are also within easy reach but the indicator and the horn buttons are awkwardly placed and take time getting used to. Front suspension comprises of 41mm telescopic forks and they are non-adjustable. At the rear is a 7-step preload adjustable monoshock and both units work wonderfully well to cope with the irregularities of city riding conditions.

The engine is the biggest highlight of the CBR650F. The inline 4 architecture is so smooth and effortless that in the beginning it’s quite unbelievable. It displaces at 648.72cc and produces 85.2 BHP of power at 11,000 RPM and 62.9 NM of torque at 8,000 RPM. It is a high revving motor with a DOHC design and 4-valve per head. Programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) also ensures smooth and throttle response at all speeds and easy starts in all weather conditions.

As an industry standard, CBR650F comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox for exceptional performance and stress-free riding. The shift pattern is a typical 1-down and 5-up. Combined with the clutch, the shift and engagement is smooth with proper feedback between gears.

While the motorcycle as a whole may not be ultra high tech, braking is one area where Honda hasn’t done any compromise. At the front, there’s a pair of 320mm petal disc brakes while the rear makes do with a single 240mm rotor. ABS comes standard for both brakes. Besides impressive specs, the brakes work wonderfully well in any condition keeping the rider confidence always high in emergency situations. Also, tubeless tyres ensure further safety in case of punctures as they do not deflate instantly.

Middleweight sportbikes are not meant to deliver high levels of fuel economy. However, with a frugal engine, PGM-FI and a generous 17.3 litres of fuel capacity, the overall range is satisfactory and requires fewer stops at the fuel stations.