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The 2019 Honda CBR650R makes its appearance at EICMA 2018.
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Honda has dropped the “F” designation and made the bike more aggressive.
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We hope Honda could maintain the new bike’s price like the CBR650F’s.
The 2019 Honda CBR650R was unveiled next to the CB650R Neo Sport Café at EICMA 2018.
Notice that Honda has dropped the “F” designation for the 2019 650cc models, so it will be less confusing. But it isn’t just a name change.
We tested its predecessor earlier this year. We called the 2018 CB650F “Between Two Worlds” as it combined sportiness with everyday practicality.
The new bike continues this legacy, but Honda has updated it in more ways than one.
Starting from the engine, the 2019 650cc, DOHC, inline-Four sees upgrades identical to the CB650R. The updates include works to the engine, fueling (ECU), and higher rev limit. The revisions yield nearly 5% increase in power (from 90 bhp to 95 bhp) and improved torque delivery. Additionally, there is a 6kg reduction in weight. That equals an 8% improvement in power-to-weight ratio.
The riding position of the 2019 bike is more aggressive. The clip-on handlebars are moved 30mm to the front and lowered. The footpegs are 3mm rearward and 6mm higher. Seat height remains at a comfortable 810mm.
The 2019 CBR650R has a new styling which looks pretty much like its CBR1000RR bigger brother, too.
We have a feeling that the 2019 CBR650R will fill the void left by the Honda CBR600RR. Honda will definitely have a winner if they could maintain the 2019 CBR650R’s pricing in the range of the 2018 CBR650F.
We only wish it has a quickshifter.
