KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The CB650R and the CBR650R are set to return after a gap of three years.
- Both motorcycles could also be offered with the E-Clutch technology.
- New 5-inch TFT screen available on the E-Clutch model.
The Honda CBR650R and the CB650R are set to return to the Indian market after a gap of nearly three years, and while they may not look all that different, Honda has just done enough to make sure its middleweight motorcycles look and fresh and relevant. The Japanese bikemaker will likely showcase and launch them at the 2025 Auto Expo.
Before going further into the details of the CBR650R and the CB650R, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
Also read: Ampere Magnus Neo Electric Scooter Launched: All Details Here
Honda CBR650R And CB650R; What To Expect?
In terms of design, both motorcycles remain rather familiar, with just about enough tweaks to freshen up their appearance. The CBR650R continues to flaunt the full-fairing, but the twin headlamps have been redesigned slightly to make them look sharper. The compact tail-section has also been redesigned. Meanwhile the naked CB650R features a slanted round-ish headlight, a sharper tail-section with a new tail lamp and new radiator shrouds. However, the familiar four-cylinder pipes are likely to have a certain recall impact.
Both motorcycles share the same 648cc, liquid-cooled, four-cylinder powertrain, producing 93.8bhp at 12,000rpm and 63Nm of torque at 9500rpm. The engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox. However, not too long ago, Honda also debuted its E-Clutch technology; a fully-automatic clutch that takes away the need to use a clutch lever, and allows you to use the shift pedal in a manner similar to how one would use a quickshifter.
Also read: Aprilia Tuono 457 Launch Confirmed In February!
The CBR650R and the CB650R are also quite identical in terms of hardware, with the suspension and braking bits in common between both bikes. The E-Clutch variants sold globally receive higher-spec brakes and more sophisticated suspension as well.
In terms of features, the CBR650R and the CB650R receive a new 5-inch TFT screen, with smartphone connectivity via the Honda RoadSync software, and some features on offer include turn-by-turn navigation, changeable themes, and calls/SMS alerts to name a few.
The E-Clutch technology also allows riders to adjust the 'feel' of the clutch lever upto three different settings; hard, medium and soft. It is also possible to completely turn off the E-Clutch system in case one wants to get fully hands-on.
We can expect prices of both motorcycles to be slightly higher than the last time they were on sale in India. Stay tuned for more information on the new CBR650R and the CB650R!
Also read: Hero Xoom 160 Launch Date in India is 17th January: All You Need to Know
Verdict
With the new middleweights, Honda could well be looking to introduce its new E-Clutch technology in India. However, it remains to be seen whether Honda will introduce the standard-spec 650s, or the E-Clutch equipped variants with more sophisticated hardware.
