HONDA CB650F (2017 - on) Review
At a glance
| Owners reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 90 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (31.89 in / 810 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (459 lbs / 208 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThe CB650F is back in the naked middleweight game thanks to a proper injection of spirit, handling and attitude. And as the only inline four, it is now in a unique selling point against its twin cylinder rivals. Compared to the old model it has far more of the sporty Hornet ethos, which is a good thing!
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe transformation from old to new is remarkable and there is certainly nothing lacklustre about the CB650F anymore. The CB feels small, light and ready for action in a similar fashion to the old Hornet. The more aggressive riding position puts you right up and over the front, but not in an uncomfortable way and once moving this stance combines with the SDBV forks to deliver the kind of sporty ride that was so lacking in the old model.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityIf you want to ride the CB gently you can, it’s more than happy to cruise around at low revs, but go searching the top end of the rev range and the inline four explodes into life. Tap it down a few gears, get the digital rev counter up into the high notes and not only does it sound much sportier, it responds better too. It’s more like the old Hornet in attitude, but thankfully lacking that annoying vibration!
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueThe CB650F’s motor is based around the tried and trusted RR engine in a lower state of tune, so all should be well on that front. The build quality is pleasingly good for a bike built to a budget and the styling is fresh and modern. Add a pillion seat cover, which is an optional extra, and it looks even better.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentWhile it is never going to bother the likes of the premium middleweights such as the MT-09, Z900, Street Triple or even GSX-S750, the CB650F is going to give the budget middleweights such as the MT-07, SV650 and Z650 a damn good run for their money as it is priced in the same ballpark and its chassis is right up there with the very best.
Equipment
You don’t get much in terms of equipment and only the shock is adjustable. However the CB’s biggest crime is the fact it lacks a digital gear indicator, which its inline four is crying out for as you do need to keep it on the boil if you want to go fast. ABS is standard and the dash has a fuel gauge.
Specs |
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| Engine size | 649cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC inline four |
| Frame type | Tubular steel cradle |
| Fuel capacity | 17.3 litres |
| Seat height | 810mm |
| Bike weight | 208kg |
| Front suspension | 41mm conventional forks, -non-adjustable |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock, adjustable spring preload |
| Front brake | 2x320mm discs two-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear brake | 240mm disc, one-piston caliper. ABS |
| Front tyre size | 120/70X17 |
| Rear tyre size | 180/55x17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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| Average fuel consumption | 59.3 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £93 |
| Annual service cost | - |
| New price | £6,599 |
| Used price | £4,300 - £6,000 |
| Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | - |
Top speed & performance |
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| Max power | 90 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 47.2 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 130 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | - |
| Tank range | 190 miles |
Owners' reviews for the HONDA CB650F (2017 - on)
1 owner has reviewed their HONDA CB650F (2017 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your HONDA CB650F (2017 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
Version: ABS
Year: 2018
Does it all
Did a 1.5k trip around Spain and Portugal. Very comfortable. ABS works well. Discovered this when I really need it.
Can potter around town and doing the sensible thing, however give it a fist full and it responds with a bit agression and character
It's a Honda
60+ mpg Not expecting anything too costly service wise.
Could do with a gear indicator.
