When Honda first rolled out the CB650R in 2019, it was an instant hit. Riders everywhere loved how it mixed a smooth inline-four engine with sharp handling and Honda's minimalist "Neo Sports Cafe" styling. It wasn’t trying too hard to be a full-on sport bike, nor was it just a commuter. It hit that perfect middle ground, and people bought into it fast.
In fact, over in Europe, the CB650R quickly became one of Honda’s top sellers, and even today, it’s still one of the most balanced and best-looking middleweights you can buy.
For 2026, Honda isn’t reinventing the formula, but it is giving both the CB650R and its faired sibling, the CBR650R, a fresh splash of color. Mechanically, they’re the same. You still get that 649cc inline-four putting out around 94 horsepower and 46 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox and optional E-Clutch system. That setup lets you shift without touching the clutch lever if you want, and with the clutch whenever you want. It's a clever touch that adds convenience without sacrificing added control and fun factor.
