Versatile 2023 Honda CB650R Offers Comfortable Ergonomics & Midsized Performance

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Honda combines design elements from its pure sport bikes with the naked look of Café racers. (Photo courtesy of Honda.)

Honda’s middleweight 2023 CB650R is capable for everything from daily commutes to short touring expeditions on the weekends. Compared to the closely related CBR650R sport bike, the CB650R offers a more upright seating position and taller handlebars, making it easier to ride in a neutral, relaxed position. Riders can still adopt an aggressive riding stance when necessary thanks to the foot-peg position and 21.9-inch (55.6-centimeter) tapered handlebar. The 2023 CB650R is designed with balanced handling, as characterized by the Showa Separate Function Front Fork Big Piston unit (SFF-BP) front suspension and the light yet strong twin-spar frame.

Drivetrain

Powered by a 16-valve, 649-cc engine, Honda says the CB650R produces smooth, linear torque delivery as revs rise. The four-cylinder engine is also said to spin well at high rpm; peak power arrives at 12,000 rpm and peak torque is delivered at 8,500 rpm. Power throughout the rev range, along with the six-speed transmission and matched gear ratios, enhance the middleweight’s versatility. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) automatically manages the motorcycle’s rear-wheel traction, controlling the engine’s torque output by detecting differences in the slip ratio between the front and rear wheels; riders can disable HSTC if they prefer.

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The CB650R’s 649-cc engine produces smooth power throughout the entire rev range, along with ample torque. (Photo courtesy of Honda.)

Mixed Styling

With its short tail and short-overhang headlight, the CB650R has a tightly wrapped silhouette. Honda blends modern Café’ style elements, with no bodywork around the inline four powerplant, with style cues from Honda’s pure sport bikes. For example, the CB650R boasts the same round LED headlight and Sharp LCD instrument panel found on the CB1000R. Indicators such as the Shift Up, Gear Position, and Peak Hold are just some examples of the LCD’s sporty dynamics.

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Source: Honda