CBR650R 2019

bobstrax

2017
CB650F ABS
Oct 1, 2017
Lincolnshire
I find out that cbr650r has a new engine.
Cbr650r has RH01E engine.
Old cbr650f has RC74E
the 17 and 18's are RC97, I think.
Honda have used RC designations for years now....did they reach RC99 with some model ? ....could be the CBr is the first of an entirely new designation RH01 ??
 

miweber929

2014
CBR650F
650 Alumnus
Staff
Feb 13, 2015
Woodbury, MN
Riding Since
1975
44teeth, my favorite motorcycle channel on YouTube just posted a lengthy review of both 650R's
Love those guys, just discovered them and have been watching ton of videos over the past few weeks, good stuff!!!

So their guy liked the CBR over the CB, and said the negatives were the tires are iffy at times, the brakes lack bite and if you really push it, the suspension can feel overworked. The other thing he said was something like you’ll never get off it, screaming and jumping around about how awesome the bike is, but it simply does what you tell it to do and it makes you want to keep riding it, it’s just a great, do anything bike.

Basically the exact same things you could say about the F models since it’s introduction which is what we all projected.

It’ll be a cool bike and certainly looks the part. I was surprised at the end they stated it had no competition that it was a class itself because I thought they’d bring up the Ducati Supersport at some point which they also reviewed and is a good watch. They really aren’t comparable but they get lumped together a lot by people that haven’t ridden both so I’m glad they stayed away from that.

Good video, worth the watch, their tester was hilarious.
 

matt650

2018
CBR650F ABS
Sep 5, 2018
Bedfordshire
I really do think the CBR (and to a certain extent the CB) are in a class of their own mainly due to the 4 cylinder engine. I wanted a four cylinder bike with a fairing that i would be able to get insured on as a new rider. The CBR650F was the ONLY bike i could go for - Ducati included (twin).

The point around the Ducati Supersport is also the fact that it is more than 50% more expensive in the UK. That's a lot considering the main drawback of the CBR is apparently it is too expensive!!
 

Jerry

2016
CBR650F ABS
May 18, 2017
The Netherlands
You can either chuck the 650's in with bikes like the mt07 or ninja 650 but those are parallel twins delivering significantly less hp or you can look at bikes like the mt09 or z900 and conclude Honda's 650s are too expensive. That puts the 650s in an odd position, especially the CBR because there's no sports bike alternative in the mt09/z900 class.
 

The Earle

2019
CB650R ABS
Feb 18, 2019
I really do think the CBR (and to a certain extent the CB) are in a class of their own mainly due to the 4 cylinder engine. I wanted a four cylinder bike with a fairing that i would be able to get insured on as a new rider. The CBR650F was the ONLY bike i could go for - Ducati included (twin).

The point around the Ducati Supersport is also the fact that it is more than 50% more expensive in the UK. That's a lot considering the main drawback of the CBR is apparently it is too expensive!!


Agreed, I’ve owned and ridden a few bikes in the class, the twins are great engines with grunt but I feel they lack the refinement and smoothness. Of the IL4.
I didn’t want or care for riding modes or 1000cc and had been looking for a while for a naked bike that fitted the bill, almost went for the Z900RS but it was going to be my bike and £9500 where as the CB650R was my bike and £5000, it light, loads of power and comfy to ride and smooth.

I think there really are in a class of their own.
 

Nithesh

MotoGP
Apr 5, 2014
India
If you're in the Donington Park vicinity you can now get your taste of the 650R at Ron Haslam's school around the circuit. Dude has replaced his 600RRs with 2019 650Rs.
 

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victorkkq

2018
CBR650F
Oct 30, 2018
Test ride CBR650R and CBR1000RR Fireblade
I always wanted to compare my F against the R. The Fireblade is always in my short list if there is an upgrade. Very fortunate able to do a short ride with the 2 bikes today. Here is my impression as a F owner.

CBR650R
The CBR650R is a better bike compared to the CBR650F. The handling and lightness is like 20% better than the F. Not sure what magic has Honda Engineers done to the R cause on paper its seem marginal. Low speed turn is very manageable. Noted zero vibration during my test.
The updated power delivery, ergonomics and clutch seem similar like the F strangely.
Do I like it? Yea. Will I trade in my F for and R? No

CBR1000RR 2017 Fireblade
The good - very light, good handling and powerful compared to my F for sure. Engine heat is very manageable.
The bad - too serious for road riding but still do-able. Power not very usable at low end. Almost wheelie when hard on throttle, maybe wrong setting for race/track?. Feels abit bland, maybe SP1 better?
Ergonomics is very committed but still ok.
Do I like it? Yes but the CBR650R is way more fun and feel more like home. Maybe the R has usable low end power or I m too used to my F.
Will I buy it? Maybe but as a 2nd bike for track use. I would prefer the 2018 BMW S1000RR over this although its a heavier bike.

Cheers
 

TLN

2019
CBR650R ABS
Aug 29, 2019
Hi all. Looking to purchase my 1st bike and CB650R is on my list also. Would you recommend it or I should be looking at smaller models?
I've recently figured out there's a restrictor kit, and that sounds like a good idea.
I'm located in US, live in the city. Bike will be used to get around the city and for weekened rides. I'm 6"4(194cm) and 220lbs (100 kilos), so going with smaller models might be a compromise.
Few people tried to steer me away from CB650R, and I kinda understand that but want to ask here anyway.
 

Jerry

2016
CBR650F ABS
May 18, 2017
The Netherlands
Difficult. If you were in Europe and had proper formal training and licensing exams I'd say you'd have no trouble with the 650R as your first bike.
I assume, however, you have 0 experience riding a bike and even an MSF course doesn't get you the mileage and experience you'll need to get fully comfortable. The 650R might be a bit too much for you. Not in terms of handling per se, but you're about to spend $10,000 on a new bike while you've never ridden one before. I don't think it's bad advice to start off with something cheaper. Getting a second hand bike is the biggest saving, but getting a smaller displacement bike (like a 500 or even 300 cc) saves money as well. The thing is, if you're riding a brand new 650R, you'll be in constant fear of crashing 10,000 dollars worth of bike. If you're riding a 3k bike, it's probably less of a mental issue.
 

victorkkq

2018
CBR650F
Oct 30, 2018
Hi all. Looking to purchase my 1st bike and CB650R is on my list also. Would you recommend it or I should be looking at smaller models?
I've recently figured out there's a restrictor kit, and that sounds like a good idea.
I'm located in US, live in the city. Bike will be used to get around the city and for weekened rides. I'm 6"4(194cm) and 220lbs (100 kilos), so going with smaller models might be a compromise.
Few people tried to steer me away from CB650R, and I kinda understand that but want to ask here anyway.
T TLN Yes I would recommend this as your first bike. It is very easy to ride and no crazy torque. Just be alert, discipline and keep improving your skills and you are good..

This is my first bike too. I was also advised to get a used 250 cc as a starter bike but I did not as I just love the 4 inline sound so much haha.. After 1.5 years ownership, the power is still more than adequate for me. I will be keeping this bike for many years.

Go for a test ride a 250cc and a CBR650R. At the end of the day its about how you feel. Cheers :)

Note: Should I get 250cc or 600cc (in this case the 650R) as first bike is a hot topic in forums and Youtube. Take note that buying a brand new bike and end up not liking it after a few rides is a common mistake. It is a good advice too to get a used bike.
 
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Devilsfan

2018
CB650F
Jun 5, 2019
Tampa, Florida
Hi all. Looking to purchase my 1st bike and CB650R is on my list also. Would you recommend it or I should be looking at smaller models?
I've recently figured out there's a restrictor kit, and that sounds like a good idea.
I'm located in US, live in the city. Bike will be used to get around the city and for weekened rides. I'm 6"4(194cm) and 220lbs (100 kilos), so going with smaller models might be a compromise.
Few people tried to steer me away from CB650R, and I kinda understand that but want to ask here anyway.


What other bikes are you looking at? What's your riding experience?
Depending on those questions I'd agree with Jerry...start off with something used if you're new at riding. There are plenty of deals on great used motorcycles out there. (I think it's a buyer's market for used bikes!)
I've had plenty of fun on the smaller cc's and memorable experiences on the larger ones, so it's up to your ability and what you're comfortable with.
I'd suggest:

1) Get a motorcycle that "fits" YOU. Don't let friends talk you into something that's just not right for you.
2) For a first bike think of something used. If you're new to motorcycling and decide it's just not for you a new bike will lose value fast.
3) Just because it's not one of the "big dogs" doesn't mean you can't have fun on it!
4) If you're in the city you want something small(er) to zip around on. Although any bike is manageable the constant clutching and brake will wear on you quickly. Honda makes a CTX and NC700 with a DCT - they're awesome in city traffic...no clutch lever!!!

I went from a VTX 1800cc to a CTX 700 and never looked back! I've owned many bikes since then and never anything more than a 700cc. I will never own a big-engine bike again, simply discovered that I have more fun on the smaller displacement bikes and most will do just fine on the highways.

That's my $.02. Keep us posted on what you decide.
 

miweber929

2014
CBR650F
650 Alumnus
Staff
Feb 13, 2015
Woodbury, MN
Riding Since
1975
Hi all. Looking to purchase my 1st bike and CB650R is on my list also. Would you recommend it or I should be looking at smaller models?
I've recently figured out there's a restrictor kit, and that sounds like a good idea.
I'm located in US, live in the city. Bike will be used to get around the city and for weekened rides. I'm 6"4(194cm) and 220lbs (100 kilos), so going with smaller models might be a compromise.
Few people tried to steer me away from CB650R, and I kinda understand that but want to ask here anyway.
Hello and welcome!!! The 650 is a great bike or new and old riders, it really strikes a nice balance between easy to ride and still fun. Couple things:

- The restricted version is not available in the US so you will be on a full power 650 if you go that route.

- I’m 6’3”, around 240-250lbs depending on activity level and hunger factor, my wife is 5’5”, around 140-150lbs and this bike hauled us around several multi day trips without issue. Having said that, my WR250R hauls us both around town with ease and still does 75mph plus. So your size means nothing as far as power to move goes, but it is easier to learn on a lower power bike.

- There are several other bikes you could consider, and the fact that you are tall helps. The SV650 is a great bike, FZ6, Ninja 650 to name a few 650s but there are also the Honda 500s, R3, KTM 390, Ninja 400, WR250R, CRF250L Rally; the options are limitless. The Honda 500 strikes a great balance between power, light weight, and yet big enough to not want more quickly. The plus with beginner bikes is they are cheap to buy, don’t lose much value and sell easily and quickly so trying one is an easy thing to do.

- The 650 would make a great first bike provided you can easily maneuver it. It’s not super light, but carries its weight nice and low, it can be a lot to deal with if you are a hesitant rider.

Hope this helps!!
 

Nithesh

MotoGP
Apr 5, 2014
India
If its intimidating you can always buy a used CB/CBR/CBX 500F/R/X depending on your styling and activity preference. Once you nail the basics trade it in and splurge some moolah on a 650 or bigger motorcycle
 

TLN

2019
CBR650R ABS
Aug 29, 2019
Difficult. If you were in Europe and had proper formal training and licensing exams I'd say you'd have no trouble with the 650R as your first bike.
I assume, however, you have 0 experience riding a bike and even an MSF course doesn't get you the mileage and experience you'll need to get fully comfortable. The 650R might be a bit too much for you. Not in terms of handling per se, but you're about to spend $10,000 on a new bike while you've never ridden one before. I don't think it's bad advice to start off with something cheaper. Getting a second hand bike is the biggest saving, but getting a smaller displacement bike (like a 500 or even 300 cc) saves money as well. The thing is, if you're riding a brand new 650R, you'll be in constant fear of crashing 10,000 dollars worth of bike. If you're riding a 3k bike, it's probably less of a mental issue.
Yeah, I did 2-day course (not MSF, but similar). It doesn't give me much confidence with motorcycles. I'm riding my road bike pretty often though in the traffic. Not compatible experience, but I'm aware of all the other drives and etc.

T TLN
Note: Should I get 250cc or 600cc (in this case the 650R) as first bike is a hot topic in forums and Youtube. Take note that buying a brand new bike and end up not liking it after a few rides is a common mistake. It is a good advice too to get a used bike.
What I've heard it's all about 4-cyl engine in CB650R. People recommend MT-07 alot, as beginner-friendly bike, but not CB650R, because of it's engine. It goes up to 12k compared to what... 8-9k at MT-07.

What other bikes are you looking at? What's your riding experience?
Depending on those questions I'd agree with Jerry...start off with something used if you're new at riding. There are plenty of deals on great used motorcycles out there. (I think it's a buyer's market for used bikes!)
I've had plenty of fun on the smaller cc's and memorable experiences on the larger ones, so it's up to your ability and what you're comfortable with.
I'd suggest:

1) Get a motorcycle that "fits" YOU. Don't let friends talk you into something that's just not right for you.
2) For a first bike think of something used. If you're new to motorcycling and decide it's just not for you a new bike will lose value fast.
3) Just because it's not one of the "big dogs" doesn't mean you can't have fun on it!
4) If you're in the city you want something small(er) to zip around on. Although any bike is manageable the constant clutching and brake will wear on you quickly. Honda makes a CTX and NC700 with a DCT - they're awesome in city traffic...no clutch lever!!!

I went from a VTX 1800cc to a CTX 700 and never looked back! I've owned many bikes since then and never anything more than a 700cc. I will never own a big-engine bike again, simply discovered that I have more fun on the smaller displacement bikes and most will do just fine on the highways.

That's my $.02. Keep us posted on what you decide.
Yeah, I'm not totally sold on CBR650R, in fact this might be my second bike as I might pass my 1st bike to my wife. I'd like to go with bigger bike, I'm 6"4, she is 5"10, so bigger bike is preferred. I can see myself using this 1st bike to commute to work in the future.

Other bikes I'm condiering:

Vitpilen-401 - MSRP is crazy, but it's prices pretty aggressively now. Lots of discounts now.
KTM Duke 390 - same as Husquarna, just different design.
MT-07/XSR-07 - Alot of people recommend that. Priced very reasonably.
CB300R - I love neo-racer design, and can pass this to my wife pretty safely I think. Quite expensive from what I see.
Kawasaki Z400/Z650.
Suzuki SV650(X).
BMW F800R - I can get restrictor for that (or it's an option in menu) and ride it in limited mode for a while. But I'm afraid it will be harder to sell later.

There're lots of "adventure" bikes as well (BMW 310GS, etc), but I'd like to buy smaller and more nimble city bike for some reason.

Hello and welcome!!! The 650 is a great bike or new and old riders, it really strikes a nice balance between easy to ride and still fun. Couple things:

- The restricted version is not available in the US so you will be on a full power 650 if you go that route.

- I’m 6’3”, around 240-250lbs depending on activity level and hunger factor, my wife is 5’5”, around 140-150lbs and this bike hauled us around several multi day trips without issue. Having said that, my WR250R hauls us both around town with ease and still does 75mph plus. So your size means nothing as far as power to move goes, but it is easier to learn on a lower power bike.

- There are several other bikes you could consider, and the fact that you are tall helps. The SV650 is a great bike, FZ6, Ninja 650 to name a few 650s but there are also the Honda 500s, R3, KTM 390, Ninja 400, WR250R, CRF250L Rally; the options are limitless. The Honda 500 strikes a great balance between power, light weight, and yet big enough to not want more quickly. The plus with beginner bikes is they are cheap to buy, don’t lose much value and sell easily and quickly so trying one is an easy thing to do.

- The 650 would make a great first bike provided you can easily maneuver it. It’s not super light, but carries its weight nice and low, it can be a lot to deal with if you are a hesitant rider.

Hope this helps!!

Well, my biggest concern was specifically about CB650R: lots of people saying that 4-cyl is too much for beginner, while other bikes (1/2/3-cyl) are more suitable, while displacement is the same.
 

Devilsfan

2018
CB650F
Jun 5, 2019
Tampa, Florida
Yeah, I did 2-day course (not MSF, but similar). It doesn't give me much confidence with motorcycles. I'm riding my road bike pretty often though in the traffic. Not compatible experience, but I'm aware of all the other drives and etc.


What I've heard it's all about 4-cyl engine in CB650R. People recommend MT-07 alot, as beginner-friendly bike, but not CB650R, because of it's engine. It goes up to 12k compared to what... 8-9k at MT-07.


Yeah, I'm not totally sold on CBR650R, in fact this might be my second bike as I might pass my 1st bike to my wife. I'd like to go with bigger bike, I'm 6"4, she is 5"10, so bigger bike is preferred. I can see myself using this 1st bike to commute to work in the future.

Other bikes I'm condiering:

Vitpilen-401 - MSRP is crazy, but it's prices pretty aggressively now. Lots of discounts now.
KTM Duke 390 - same as Husquarna, just different design.
MT-07/XSR-07 - Alot of people recommend that. Priced very reasonably.
CB300R - I love neo-racer design, and can pass this to my wife pretty safely I think. Quite expensive from what I see.
Kawasaki Z400/Z650.
Suzuki SV650(X).
BMW F800R - I can get restrictor for that (or it's an option in menu) and ride it in limited mode for a while. But I'm afraid it will be harder to sell later.

There're lots of "adventure" bikes as well (BMW 310GS, etc), but I'd like to buy smaller and more nimble city bike for some reason.



Well, my biggest concern was specifically about CB650R: lots of people saying that 4-cyl is too much for beginner, while other bikes (1/2/3-cyl) are more suitable, while displacement is the same.


Well, considering your height an ADV bike will definitely "fit" you! I traded a 2018 Versys 650 for my CB650F. I called the Versys my "Adventure Ninja" as it handled superbly and felt like you were on a lifted Ninja! I'm 5'9" and if I slid forward I could flat-foot it. Trying to maneuver it with my legs could be a tad bit difficult but, overall, it was a really fun motorcycle with some pretty good power.
Before the CB I test rode a Ninja 400, Honda NC750, Tracer (pretty similar to the MT-07) and a Honda CB500X. The Ninja 400 was quicker than the CB500X (granted, two different styles), the NC750 was a noticeable upgrade from the NC700 but in the torque department, and the Tracer...was not impressed at all. The Tracer was semi-comfortable but it just didn't "wow" me and the engine sounded like...tin banging on tin.
But every rider is different.
I'd suggest then to sit on as many different bikes as you can and, if you're able, try to test ride them. And now that I know your height I will concur that a 650 + would be fine for you. Although the Ninja 400's, for example, are lightweight, extremely nimble and fun to ride you may feel pretty cramped on one or something similar in engine size.
I will say, since you're on this site, my CB is an incredible engine in my opinion! This thing is so freakin' smooth to me. I can be in any gear and there's no jerking or chugging, it's very quick from a stop (at least from what I'm used to) and I sit with a semi-forward position so my upper body weight is not all on my arms/wrists. It handles like a dream and it takes very little lean to get it through the curves. Very "flickable". Again, from the bikes I'm used to.
Regardless, for a first bike anything should be good for you. Learn on it, have fun on it and like most of us "motorcyclists", eventually you will ALWAYS want something different!
Good luck in your searching!
 

miweber929

2014
CBR650F
650 Alumnus
Staff
Feb 13, 2015
Woodbury, MN
Riding Since
1975
I wouldn’t overthink a 4cyl vs. a twin, they both will go far too fast far too easily if you’re not careful.

Thing is, the 650 is docile until you rev it past say 7k, it’s about what you think is comfortable and what you like.

I’d personally suggest a 400 or so, especially if you plan to pass it down.
 

Nithesh

MotoGP
Apr 5, 2014
India
Since you're 6'4" I'm guessing you're about 230+lbs without gear. I'd suggest to stay away from the MT/FZ 07 and 09s if you're over 200lbs. Even after so many years of Yamaha trying to fix it, the suspension is literally a pogo stick. Hit up the MT forums to see the suspension thread over there. As for the Ninja 650, the downside is the brakes but I guess its okay for the price.

And please stay away from the 300 BMWs. They have a long history of electronic issues. Its built here and the owners on the forum are pissed about getting stranded with their new bikes.

The CB500X is a tried and tested alternative and fits your bill perfectly. Torquey, not so intimidating low revving engine with perfect height for tall riders. Get the aftermarket tall screen and you're set. You can even buy a low mile one used and save up money when you want to upgrade to something bigger
 
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