2019 Honda CB650R/CB650R ABS

Motorcyclists who have been around the sport for some time perhaps remember the Honda CB400F, a 10K-rpm four produced from 1975–’77. Side-swept exhaust headers were a signature styling element of what is now considered a cult classic. That same 4-into-1 treatment continues today with the Honda CB650R naked bike and its fully faired brother, the CBR650R. Along with the entry-level CB300R and liter-class CB1000R, the CB650R is part of Honda’s Neo-Sports Café family. Antilock braking is available, as is Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) to manage rear-tire slip. LED lighting complements superb Taiwanese build quality.

Prior to this year, the CB650R was known as the CB650F. What’s behind the revised name? Some stuff you can see, such as a Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) and lighter Y-spoke wheels. Even if you can’t eyeball the new airbox and bigger filter, asymmetric-skirt pistons, revised cam timing, or larger tailpipe opening, you can hear and maybe even feel the changes. Honda claims a 5 percent power increase and 1,000 more revs, bringing redline to 12,800 rpm. Thanks to the upswept muffler, that irresistible siren song will be music to your ears.

Likes: Stepping-stone for riders moving up from smaller single- and twin-cylinder models

Dislikes: Engine vibration prominent above 6,000 rpm; cheap-looking foot controls

Verdict: Minimalist styling, responds smoothly to rider inputs, engaging to ride

“On the road, the Honda feels balanced and ready to play,” Senior Editor Adam Waheed wrote after riding the 2019 Honda CB650R for the first time. “Updated suspension components offer a pleasing compromise between sporting feel through twisty sections of tarmac and everyday comfort over beat-up road surfaces.”

2019 Honda CB650R First Ride

How Much Power Does The 2019 Honda CB650R Make?

The 2019 CB650R Continues Honda’s Neo-Retro Lineup

Honda's 2018 CB650F, CBR650F, and Grom are Coming

Equipped with ABS and HSTC, a Honda CB650R retails for $9,199, which is considerably less than a Ducati Monster 821 or a Triumph Street Triple but a lot more than a twin-cylinder Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07. Something to think about if cost is a factor in your decision…

2019 Triumph Street Triple S/R/RS

2018 Ducati Monster 821

2018 Yamaha MT-07

2018 Kawasaki Z650/ABS

For 2019, the Honda CB650R is offered in a single color, Chromosphere Red. Customizing your new motorcycle, however, is only a few mouse clicks away. Honda accessories include: heated handgrips, a carbon-fiber tank pad, a passenger seat cowl, and a fitted cover to protect your purchase from the elements.