Honda CBR650R (2021) Review: A Middleweight Sportbike That Hits the Sweet Spot
In the crowded middleweight sportbike segment, few machines manage to strike a perfect balance between daily usability and adrenaline-pumping performance like the 2021 Honda CBR650R. Designed for riders who crave sportbike aesthetics and capability without the intimidating nature of a full-on supersport, the CBR650R brings both accessibility and excitement. Evolving from its predecessor, the CBR650F, this model has cemented itself as a top-tier choice for those seeking style, speed, and everyday practicality—all under a trusted Honda badge.
Honda CBR650R (2021) Sport Motorcycle Upgrades
Design and Aesthetics
The first thing that grabs attention about the CBR650R is its aggressive, race-inspired design. With clear visual cues borrowed from the flagship CBR1000RR Fireblade, this bike exudes a track-ready vibe while still being perfectly street-legal. From its angular twin LED headlights to the sculpted fuel tank and sharp tail section, every angle screams performance. Honda offers the CBR650R in color options like Grand Prix Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, giving riders a chance to choose between bold aggression or stealth elegance.
What truly elevates its appeal is the premium finish and thoughtful touches—like the short, sporty exhaust that emphasizes the bike’s lean profile and the deep, throaty sound that hints at its inline-four heart.
Technology and Features
Honda doesn’t hold back when it comes to equipping the CBR650R with rider-focused tech. Traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control), dual-channel ABS, and full LED lighting come standard. A fully digital LCD display provides crisp readouts, though some riders may wish for a TFT screen or smartphone connectivity—which are notably absent.
Still, essentials like gear position indicator, fuel consumption readout, and adjustable brightness offer practical value. The lack of riding modes keeps the experience pure and straightforward—something many purists actually appreciate.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Unlike most supersports, the CBR650R is built for real-world comfort. The seat height of 810 mm strikes a good balance, giving both confidence to shorter riders and space for taller ones. The clip-on handlebars are set slightly above the triple clamp, resulting in a sporty yet sustainable riding posture. It’s aggressive enough for spirited rides but relaxed enough for weekday commutes or weekend tours.
Suspension duties are handled by a Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD fork at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. The result? Confident damping over bumpy roads and excellent composure during high-speed cornering.
Braking and Safety
Braking performance on the CBR650R is commendable. Dual 310 mm front discs with radially mounted Nissin calipers offer ample stopping power, while the 240 mm rear disc ensures stability under heavy braking. Dual-channel ABS intervenes subtly, providing safety without robbing rider feedback.
These features make it a trustworthy partner in all conditions—whether it’s a rainy-day ride to work or a spirited mountain descent.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Despite its sporty credentials, the 2021 CBR650R manages to deliver respectable fuel economy. Riders can expect an average mileage of around 45 mpg, depending on riding style. The 15.4-liter fuel tank offers a decent range for both daily rides and weekend getaways.
Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to Honda’s proven reliability and widespread service network. Routine servicing is reasonably priced, and the bike’s robust build means fewer unexpected issues down the road.
Engine and Performance
At the core of the CBR650R lies a 649cc inline four-cylinder engine, delivering around 94 horsepower at 12,000 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm. This engine configuration is a rare treat in the middleweight class, offering a thrilling top-end pull that few competitors can match. Power delivery is linear yet lively, making it just as enjoyable to ride in the city as it is to stretch on the open road.
Its 6-speed gearbox, complemented by an assist/slipper clutch, ensures smooth shifting and better control during aggressive downshifting. The top speed hovers around 140 mph, with 0-60 mph acceleration clocked in under 4 seconds, making it a serious contender for sportbike lovers.
Whether you're carving through twisty backroads or navigating urban traffic, the CBR650R offers a ride that feels composed, agile, and just pure fun.
Comparison and Competitors
In the middleweight segment, the CBR650R squares off against bikes like the Yamaha YZF-R7, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and the Triumph Trident 660. While the R7 and Ninja offer strong value and sporty riding, they use twin-cylinder engines that can’t quite match the CBR650R’s high-revving inline-four drama. The Triumph Trident is more of a naked roadster and leans towards a different rider demographic.
What truly makes the CBR650R stand out is its unique engine configuration, daily usability, and sportbike looks—all at a price point that feels justified.
Ideal Riders and Target Audience
The CBR650R is a perfect fit for intermediate riders seeking to step up from a 300cc or 500cc bike without diving into liter-class territory. It’s also ideal for seasoned motorcyclists wanting a sporty machine that won’t punish them with an overly committed riding position. Its versatility makes it a fantastic all-rounder—capable on commutes, fun on twisties, and stylish enough to turn heads at every café stop.
Honda CB1300 (2003 to 2013) Custom and Performance Parts
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The 2021 Honda CBR650R proves that you don’t need to go extreme to get an exhilarating ride. It offers a beautiful blend of performance, practicality, and panache. While it could use a few more tech upgrades like smartphone integration, it nails the fundamentals—and sometimes that’s exactly what matters most.
If you’re considering this bike, don’t forget to check out our exclusive collection of performance parts, touring accessories, and riding gear tailored for the CBR650R. Whether it’s a windscreen upgrade, tank pad, or frame sliders, we’ve got everything to make your ride safer and more stylish.