2020 Honda CBR650R ABS Guide

A THOROUGHLY MODERN THRILL.

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS:

Few things pull at a motorcyclist’s heartstrings quite like a sport bike: the sharp lines and full fairings hinting at the performance that’s packed within, and at the fun corner-carving that’s to come. Of course with most street riders, there’s also a balancing point where comfort and practicality come into play. And for that, Honda offers the CBR650R ABS, a fully faired sport variant of the CB650R. Designed to be enjoyed on the street, yet taking cues from an RR machine, the CBR650R offers light, responsive handling through its finely tuned chassis and enjoyable power through its high-revving inline four-cylinder engine. Sharp lines, LED lighting and an aggressive riding position complete the package, striking an ideal balance between performance and practicality—an enjoyable intersection of values for the modern sport bike rider.

Sportbikes are a special breed: explosive power, full faired styling, nimble handling. And with the Honda CBR650R, we’ve taken sportbike expectations to a whole new level. It starts with the high-revving inline four, offering near-endless power that’s at home on the track and city alike. Then there’s the chassis: light, strong, delivering excellent feedback and comfort. This year’s CBR650R features anti-lock brakes too—a real bonus for street riders. And as for the styling – this bike stands out everywhere you take it, with design cues pulled straight from our supersports. This is a sportbike designed for the modern era, with comfort, performance and style that once experienced, is never forgotten.

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

More powerful and technologically advanced model adds to Honda’s supersport legacy

Honda Motor Co. founder Soichiro Honda dreamed of competing in races around the world—and winning—with a vehicle of his own making. Driven by the same competitive spirit, and having since amassed the most premier-class Grand Prix victories of any manufacturer, Honda announced today the 2021 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. An evolution of Honda’s legendary 1,000cc sportbike, the all-new model draws heavily on MotoGP technology and will carry Honda’s sport motorcycle lineup into the future while also bolstering its racing efforts in series including the FIM Superbike World Championship.

Designed from the ground up with involvement from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) and an extreme focus on outright track performance, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP pairs a more compact, yet more powerful inline four-cylinder engine with an all-new frame with optimized rigidity for improved grip and feel. An advanced suite of electronic rider aids works to enable fast lap times, while aerodynamic technologies from the RC213V MotoGP race bike are used to both increase downforce and improve braking stability. For the first time, the “Fireblade” name is being used in the U.S. market.

“From our earliest days, Honda has been committed to developing class-leading motorcycles capable of winning races,” said Chris Cox, American Honda’s Manager of Experiential Marketing/Public Relations. “Developed around technologies and information gleaned from Honda’s Grand Prix racing efforts, the 2021 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP highlights the brand’s competitive spirit, and we’re excited for riders to experience the latest in our storied line of sport motorcycles.”

CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE SP

Focusing on outright track performance, engineers have developed the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP with engine and chassis technology from MotoGP, the all-new model drawing heavily on the RCV combustion efficiency and low-friction solutions. The engine is more compact than the inline four-cylinder powerplant it replaces and benefits from the use of high-end technologies like titanium connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons and finger-follower rocker arms.

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP uses an all-new aluminum diamond frame with increased vertical and torsional rigidity, but decreased horizontal rigidity, for maximum levels of grip and feel. A longer swingarm—stamped from aluminum of 18 individual thicknesses—is developed with lessons learned through Honda’s Grand Prix efforts, further highlighting the connection between the all-new model and Honda’s championship-winning race bikes.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been optimized and an adjustable Start Mode joins Power, Engine Brake and Wheelie Control; a quick shifter is standard. The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is outfitted with a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), three-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) and second-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) suspension and user interface. New Brembo Stylema brake calipers bite 330mm rotors through two-level ABS. The bodywork and riding position have an uncompromising focus on aerodynamic performance, and the fairing features MotoGP-derived winglets to generate downforce. A full-color TFT screen and Honda Smart Key are the finishing touches.

• Pricing: TBD
• Availability: June 2020
• Color: HRC Tricolor

In addition to announcing the 2021 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, Honda confirmed the return of a number of sport and naked models for the 2020 model year:

CBR600RR

High-level sport-bike performance needn’t always come in large packages, as proven by the popular CBR600RR, which is equally at home on twisty back roads and dedicated race circuits. The model that has earned eight World Supersport titles (nine if you count its CBR600F predecessor) touts a strong engine and front suspension featuring Honda’s 41mm Big Piston Fork for exceptional handling and supple action.

• Price
  • CBR600RR ABS: $12,799
  • CBR600RR: $11,799
• Availability: March 2020
• Color: Matte Black Metallic

CBR650R ABS

Designed to be enjoyed on the street, yet taking cues from an RR machine, the CBR650R offers light, responsive handling through its finely tuned chassis and enjoyable power through its high-revving inline four-cylinder engine. Sharp lines, LED lighting and an aggressive riding position complete the package, striking an ideal balance between performance and practicality—an enjoyable intersection of values for the modern sport bike rider. Available in ABS version only.

• Price: $9,699
• Availability: April 2020
• Color: Grand Prix Red/Stripe

CB650R ABS

A true middleweight standard, the CB650R pairs a light, versatile chassis to a 649cc inline four-cylinder engine with great torque and a smooth throttle delivery. Honda’s Neo Sports Café design theme showcases smooth lines and compact packaging, guaranteeing that this is a bike that’s just as exciting to look at as it is to ride. Available in ABS version only.

• Price: $9,199
• Availability: January 2020
• Color: Chromosphere Red

CBR500R

Honda’s CBR500R is all about balance. Long heralded by both riders who are moving up from smaller machines, and those looking to downsize without giving up the performance and style that drew them to motorcycling, this model finds the balancing point between performance and sensible running costs. With its sporty styling and user-friendly performance, the fully faired CBR500R can do it all, too, from daily commuting to weekend rides.

• Price
  • CBR500R ABS: $6,999
  • CBR500R: $6,699
• Availability: February 2020
• Colors: Grand Prix Red, Matte Gray Metallic

CBR300R

With strong power and nimble handling, Honda’s littlest full-faring sport bike makes every ride a fun one, while its affordable price and low operating cost make it easy on the wallet. Great for beginners and experienced riders alike, the CBR300R has dual headlights and stylish exhaust system, as well as available ABS.

• Price
  • CBR300R ABS: $4,999
  • CBR300R: $4,699
• Availability: March 2020
• Colors: Grand Prix Red, Matte Black Metallic

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

STYLING
While its four-cylinder power unit is still firmly on display, the CBR650R’s wrapping offers pure sporting appeal; dual LED headlights emit a penetrating, uncompromising stare, while the upper and lower fairings blend muscularity with sharp, slim lines and angles.

The seat unit is compact and truncates the rear of the machine, adding to the hard-edged sense of purpose. The aggressive riding position starts with clip-on handlebars that mount beneath the top triple clamp; they’re pushed forward and low to create a performance-focused seating position, as are the rearward-set footpegs. Seat height is 31.9 inches.

CHASSIS
The steel diamond frame uses pressed (rather than forged) swingarm pivot plates; it’s light weight and uses twin elliptical spars with a rigidity balance specifically tuned (stiffer around the headstock and more flexible in the spar sections) to deliver balanced handling characteristics with high levels of rider feedback.

Curb weight is 458 pounds (measured with all fluids), thanks not only to the lightweight frame, but also savings to both the fuel tank and the super-sport-style footpegs.

A 41mm inverted Showa Separate Function front Fork (SFF) offers good riding characteristics in any type of riding while out back a single-tube shock operates directly on the curvaceous gravity die-cast aluminum swingarm. The shock is adjustable for seven-stage spring preload.

Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work on 310mm floating rotors and are paired with a single-piston rear caliper and 240mm rotor. ABS is standard. The cast aluminum wheels have five Y-shaped spokes, which keeps weight to a minimum and improving handling by reducing inertia and unsprung mass.

ENGINE
Honda’s development engineers wanted to create the purest, most enjoyable midsized four-cylinder performance possible for the CB650R rider, so the 649cc, DOHC 16-valve engine has been tuned to deliver good power above 10,000 rpm. Peak power arrives at 12,000 rpm, with peak torque delivered at 8,500. The net result is a motor that spins well at high rpm, with a smooth, linear torque delivery that builds strongly as revs rise, and sounds great in the process.

Direct cam actuation makes for a compact cylinder head; compression ratio is 11.6:1. The valve train is reinforced and iridium spark plugs employed.

Asymmetric piston skirts minimize bore contact, reducing friction. Ferrous spines on the outer surface of the cylinder sleeves reduce oil consumption (and friction) with improved heat transfer, and a silent SV cam chain reduces frictional losses by using a Vanadium coating on its pins. Internal water channeling from the cylinder head to the cylinders does away with most of the exterior hoses.

Twin air ducts on either side of the fuel tank feed a large volume of air, raising atmospheric pressure in the airbox. They also produce a throaty intake roar. The exhaust features a larger bore tail pipe—from 1.4 to 1.5 inches—inside the muffler to flow more gas and, with its exit pipe angled upward, to emit an emotional howl.

The engine uses a compact internal architecture, stacked six-speed gearbox and starter layout with the cylinders canted forward 30°. An assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts while managing rear-wheel lock up under rapid downshifts, while Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages rear-wheel traction; it can be turned off should the rider choose.

Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

• Meets current EPA standards.
• Models sold in California meet current CARB standards and may differ slightly due to emissions equipment.

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: starting from $ 9,699 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for pricing in CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride Meets current EPA standards
Models sold in California meet current CARB standards and may differ slightly due to emissions equipment Specifications subject to change

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

Engine & Drivetrain

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled inline four cylinder

Displacement

649 cc

Bore & Stroke

67 mm x 46 mm

Compression Ratio

11.6:1

Valve Train

Chain-driven DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Fuel Delivery

PGM-FI electronic fuel injection with 23 mm throttle bodies

Transmission

Six-speed

Final Drive

#525 O-ring-sealed chain (15T/42T)

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension

41 mm Showa SFF (Separate Function front Fork) inverted fork; 108 mm (4.3 in.) travel

Rear Suspension

Showa monoshock damper with 7-stage adjustable preload, 128 mm (5 in) travel

Additional Information

Tires

Front: 120/70ZR-1
Rear: 180/55ZR-17

Brakes

Front: Dual 310 mm discs with radial-mounted four-piston calipers
Rear: 240 mm disc with single-piston caliper Two-channel ABS

Seat Height

810 mm (31.9 in.)

Wheelbase

1,450 mm (57.1 in.)

Curb Weight

207 kg (456 lb.) including required fluids and full tank of gas—ready to ride

Fuel Capacity

15.4 L

Colour

Grand Prix Red

Warranty

12 months, unlimited mileage, freely transferable warranty; extended coverage available with Honda Plus

2020 Honda CBR650R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).