After commencing the bookings process in February, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has announced the launch of the new CBR650R. The middleweight sports tourer has been introduced at INR 7.70 lakh (ex-showroom India).

The Honda CBR650R replaces the Honda CBR650F. It is imported via the CKD route. Two colour options are available – Grand Prix Red & Gunpowder Black Metallic. Unveiled at the EICMA 2018 in Milan, Italy, the CBR650R is a significant step-up over its predecessor. The CBR650R comes equipped with premium hardware such as full LED lighting, fully-digital LCD instrument cluster, 41 mm upside-down Showa forks and an adjustable rear mono-shock at the back.

The motorcycle draws styling cues from the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. The revised styling is complemented by more aggressive ergonomics. The clip-on handlebars are placed further ahead than the CBR650F. The footpegs on the new model are 6 mm higher and 3 mm rearward.

Apart from the visual upgrades, the 2019 Honda CBR650R offers a 5% more powerful 649 cc in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC engine. This engine generates a maximum power of 95 hp at 12,000 rpm and 64 Nm of peak torque at 8,500 rpm. A six-speed gearbox featuring assist/slipper clutch is standard.

Braking tasks are performed by 310 mm dual hydraulic disc with 4 piston callipers and sintered metal pads at the front. At the rear is a 240 mm single hydraulic disc with single-piston calliper and resin mould pads. The safety net of dual-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) to manage rear wheel traction comes as standard.