2016 EICMA Motorcycle Show: Updated Honda CBR650F Unveiled

Honda rode in the updated version of the CBR650F motorcycle at the 2016 EICMA motorcycle show in Italy. Now, one will be hard-pressed to list out any visual difference between the new model and its predecessor as cosmetically both the bikes are identical. Honda engineers have focussed their attention on the mechanical front with the new CBR650F. The 649cc, inline-four motor has been tweaked to produce more 4PS which takes the total power output now to 90PS. According to Honda, the extra power is felt above 5,000rpm.

Honda boffins have changed the intake and exhaust flow management while the exhaust system features a dual-pass internal structure as opposed to triple-pass in the muffler to reduce back pressure. Also the gear ratios has been shortened with respect to the older model which has reduced the acceleration time and Honda claims the new CBR650F is almost three bike lengths ahead in a 400m drag in comparison to its predecessor. Peak torque has also improved marginally to 64Nm and the motor has been made more tractable. Honda claims a fuel efficiency figure of 20kmpl and full tank range of close to 350km. 

Cycle parts have also been updated and the new Honda CBR650F features new 41mm Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) fork which has improved ride quality and also handling. At the back end is a preload-adjustable monoshock, mounted direct to the die-cast aluminium swingarm. Braking hardware has also been updated with revised two-piston Nissin front calipers and two-channel ABS is standard. The Honda CBR650F is on sale in the Indian market via the CKD route and we expect the updated CBR650F to land in the Indian market by mid-2017.