Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has brought back its popular middleweight twins, the CBR650R and CB650R, with prices starting at Rs 9.20 lakh.
After a brief hiatus, Honda’s 650cc duo is back in the Indian market with some meaningful updates. The naked CB650R is priced at Rs 9.20 lakh while the fully-faired CBR650R commands Rs 9.99 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi). What’s particularly exciting is that both bikes now come with Honda’s E-Clutch technology – a first for the Indian market. Deliveries are set to begin in February 2025, and bookings are already open at BigWing dealerships nationwide.
Design
The CB650R continues to rock Honda’s neo-retro philosophy with its muscular stance and minimalist approach. You get that signature round LED headlamp, an exposed steel frame that shows off the engineering, and clean body lines that scream understated aggression. Honda’s offering it in two sharp colours – Candy Chromosphere Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic.
The CBR650R, on the other hand, has gone full sportbike mode. Taking inspiration from the bigger CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, it features aggressive full fairings with twin LED headlights that give it a proper track-ready appearance. The tail section has been made sharper and more angular compared to the previous generation. Like its naked sibling, it’s available in Grand Prix Red and Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic.
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Engine and Performance
Both motorcycles share the same heart – a 649cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that’s been Honda’s calling card in this segment. This smooth operator churns out 94 bhp at 12,000 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 9,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch.
What’s new and noteworthy is the E-Clutch technology. This system allows you to shift gears without using the clutch lever, though you can still use it if you want that traditional feel. It’s essentially Honda’s take on making riding more accessible while retaining the option for purists who prefer manual control.
Features and Technology
The standout feature has to be the new 5-inch full-colour TFT display that supports Bluetoothconnectivity through Honda’s RoadSync app. This means you can handle calls, navigation, and music right from the handlebars – pretty handy for those long weekend rides.
The CBR650R gets Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as standard, which manages rear wheel traction by preventing excessive wheel spin. It’s particularly useful for newer riders or when road conditions aren’t ideal. Both bikes come with dual-channel ABS as standard.
Hardware and Suspension
Honda hasn’t messed with the proven formula here. Both bikes ride on Showa SFF-BP USD forks up front and a 10-step preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. The CBR650R’s suspension has been tweaked slightly for better stability and comfort.
Braking duties are handled by dual 310mm radially-mounted discs at the front with four-piston calipers, and a single 240mm disc at the rear. The setup provides strong, confidence-inspiring stopping power that matches the bikes’ performance capabilities.
Price and Competition
At Rs 9.20 lakh for the CB650R and Rs 9.99 lakh for the CBR650R, Honda’s pricing seems competitive. The CBR650R directly takes on the Triumph Daytona 660, while the CB650R doesn’t have a direct rival in the Indian market – most manufacturers focus on either fully-faired or adventure-styled bikes in this segment.
The return of these motorcycles fills an important gap in Honda’s Indian lineup, offering riders a proper middleweight option with that signature inline-four smoothness that Honda is famous for.