Published October 14, 2025 by Michael Le Pard , Editor‑in‑Chief
The proven 649cc, DOHC 16-valve engine is tuned to create the purest, most enjoyable mid-sized four-cylinder performance possible, with the classically fast ‘pick-up’ through the rev range and hard-hitting, high-revving top end for which Honda’s in-line fours are renowned.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Honda CB650R: AFTERMARKET EXHAUST WORTHY.
Introducing the 2026 Honda CB650R…
This is where you find pure four-cylinder magic. Stripped back for hugely enjoyable performance – from city block to twisting backroad – the CB650R loads strong acceleration, lightweight agility and sharp new CB1000R-inspired Neo Sports Café style. Add premium tech, plus the choice of riding the first bike with Honda’s incredible new E-Clutch system, and sometimes less really can be more.
Honda has always thrived on exploring new boundaries – in design as well as engineering. In 2018, the CB1000R, CB300R and CB125R brought a fresh identity to its naked motorcycle line-up, mixing café racer inspirations with a forward-looking ultra-minimalist look under the ‘Neo Sports Café’ design theme.
In 2019 the CB650R joined the family and its combination of cool styling, exhilarating four-cylinder engine performance and light, versatile handling ensured immediate sales success. Building on the momentum, for 2021 it received a major front suspension upgrade, plus a range of detail improvements to enhance comfort, usability and practicality.
2024 was an important year for the CB650R with it gaining updates to its style and functionality as well as becoming the first Honda motorcycles to be made available with Honda E-Clutch technology, which is designed to make motorcycling, from beginner right through to expert, even more enjoyable – and even more exciting.
For 2026, a revised colour palette with contemporary options keeps the CB650R fresh.
Valerio Aiello, of Honda’s Rome R&D Department on the Neo Sports Café design aesthetic:
“The entire current Neo Sport Café range from Honda is the result of the CB4 Concept model presented at EICMA in 2015. Our desire was to explore the world of the café racer and reinterpret it in a modern key. We wanted to create neo-classics – that is, modern motorcycles showcasing classic design styles combined with modern techniques.
I used inspiration from outside the world of motorcycles, in watches. I’ve always liked their technicality and one of the key concepts used during the Neo Sports Café design was ‘Mechanical Art’. This is the desire to show the beauty of the various mechanical elements to which Honda has always given great importance.”
2024 introduced a fresh look to the CB650R’s retro minimalism. The redesign comprised a new headlight, radiator shrouds, rider/pillion seat, tail unit and taillight to inject a more dynamic energy, while the fuel tank remained a strong presence above the beautiful inline four-cylinder engine.
The new look was supplemented by a new five-inch full colour TFT screen, designed for readability on bright days and featuring Honda RoadSync connectivity and operated by a new, easy-to-use 4-way lefthand backlit toggle switch to control on-screen, turn-by-turn navigation and other smartphone features.
Performance remains unchanged for 2026: 70kw peak power with 63Nm are fun figures for a naked bike, and the classic in-line 4 cylinder ‘pick-up’ and high-revving top end power are longstanding Honda calling cards. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.
Available as an option on the CB650R, the new Honda E-Clutch takes away the need for the rider to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox.
The chassis also remains unchanged and a perfect package from city block to twisting back road. A steel diamond frame provides core rigidity while 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD front forks and Showa rear shock deliver high-quality suspension control. Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs and cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.
The 2026 CB650R will be available in the following colour options:
- **NEW** Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic with Graphite Black Metallic details
- **NEW** Mat Jeans Blue Metallic with Graphite Black Metallic details
- **NEW** Candy Energy Orange with Graphite Black Metallic details
- **NEW** Grand Prix Red with Graphite Black Metallic details
The 2024 update of Honda’s naked four-cylinder jewel evolved its Neo Sports Café style with a sharp styling update from nose to tail. The CB650R also gained a five-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync connectivity, operated by a four-way toggle switch. Engine performance remained unchanged at 70kW power and 63Nm torque, with an A2 option also available. The CB650R, alongside the CBR650R super sports bike, debuted Honda’s pioneering Honda E-Clutch technology, which gives the rider choice of automatic clutch operation by simply using the shift pedal. Chassis specification includes Showa SFF-BP USD forks, dual four-piston radial mount front calipers and 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 tyre combination. 2026 revisions see two brand-new paint options and two new colour combinations strike a contemporary chord.
2026 Honda CB650R Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- Neo Sports Café styling cuts an impressive shape in urban environments
- 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
- Simple to use left hand switchgear backlit for night-time use
- LED lighting all round for increased visibility
Tightly wrapped, the CB650R’s Neo Sports Café style received an evolution for 2024, which featured the introduction of a new signature compact ‘Trapezoid’ proportions; a new, sharper tail and short-overhang and new slanted LED headlight, with all other lighting being LED.
From the front, via the radiator shrouds backwards, the overall look is sinuous, dynamic and with keen sense of purpose. The long fuel tank is a key motif of the family design; its smooth lines accentuate the solidity of real metal surfaces and crown the engineering of the four-cylinder powerplant. It also houses the ignition. A 35° handlebar angle makes tight, slow-speed turns and U-turns straightforward.
The shape of the pillion and rider seats were also revised for 2024 to match the new tail; seat height is 810mm. There’s a USB Type-C socket located under the seat.
The CB650R packs premium technology in the form of a five-inch full colour TFT screen that uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. The display itself is customisable between ‘Bar’, ‘Circle’ and ‘Simple’ display patterns and also offers smartphone connectivity via Honda RoadSync.
Honda RoadSync – operated via an easy-to-use, backlit four-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls, listen to music or receive voice feedback of weather conditions. All an owner has to do is download the free Honda RoadSync app from either the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the CB650R, and go.
2026 Honda CB650R Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Chassis
- 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
- Four-piston, radial-mount front brake calipers and floating discs
- 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres
The steel diamond frame uses pressed swingarm pivot plates and twin elliptical spars with a rigidity balance specifically tuned (stiffer around the headstock and more flexible in the spar sections) to deliver excellent all-round handling characteristics with high levels of rider feedback. Rake is set at 25.5° with trail of 100mm and wheelbase of 1,450mm. Kerb weight is 205kg (207kg E-Clutch).
Showa’s 41mm Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks offer high-quality reaction. A pressure separation damper in one fork tube and spring mechanism in the other deliver high damping performance and lighter weight. Together with the use of a larger sized piston, the result is increased feel, bump absorption and control. Adjustable for 10-stage spring preload, the single-tube monoshock operates directly on the curvaceous gravity die-cast aluminium swingarm.
Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs, and are paired with a single-piston rear caliper and 240mm disc. The ABS is a two-channel system.
Cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.
Engine
- 70kW peak power with 63Nm peak torque
- 35kW A2 licence option available
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
The proven 649cc, DOHC 16-valve engine is tuned to create the purest, most enjoyable mid-sized four-cylinder performance possible, with the classically fast ‘pick-up’ through the rev range and hard-hitting, high-revving top end for which Honda’s in-line fours are renowned. Peak power of 70kW arrives @ 12,000rpm with peak torque @ 63Nm delivered at 9,500 rpm. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.
Direct cam actuation makes for a compact cylinder head; bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 46mm with compression ratio raised of 11.6:1. Iridium spark plugs are employed and twin air ducts – either side of the fuel tank – feed the airbox and produce a throaty intake roar.
Asymmetric piston skirts minimise bore contact and reduce 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 channelling from cylinder head to cylinders does away with most of the exterior hoses.
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 hard braking and rapid downshifts. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages rear wheel traction; it can be turned off should the rider choose.
Fuel consumption of 20.4km/l (WMTC mode) gives a range of over 300km from the 15.4L fuel tank. EURO5 compliant, environmental efficiency has been updated with revisions to the ECU and catalyser, as well as the addition of an OBD2-2 sensor.
Honda E-Clutch
- Pioneering technology allows the rider to start, stop and change gear without using the clutch lever – just the shift pedal
- Available as an option from new; system adds 2kg to kerb weight
- Honda E-Clutch also allows normal operation of the clutch lever
- Brings more enjoyment and flexibility across a wide range of scenarios, for a ‘next level’ riding experience
Honda E-Clutch takes elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually-operated clutches and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique blend of these well-proven approaches, opening up a whole new aspect of the motorcycling experience for riders of every type and experience level. The clutch and transmission hardware themselves are no different from a conventional motorcycle, with the ultra-compact system weighing only 2 kilograms.
In operation, Honda E-clutch is simplicity itself, taking away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, bringing extra enjoyment to sporty riding. The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the system manages both scenarios smoothly, while taking away the possibility of the engine stalling when in operation, providing extra convenience and peace of mind to town riding involving frequent starts and stops.
In addition to enjoyment and convenience, Honda E-Clutch brings ultimate flexibility. Should the rider wish, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the Honda E-clutch system will re-activate after less than a second above a certain engine rpm; after 5 seconds at lower engine speeds. Should the rider wish to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the switchgear on the left handlebar. The change to manual operation is indicated by a letter ‘M’ on the instrument panel.
The Honda E-Clutch also allows the rider to select an ‘operation feel’ to set the strength of the force required on the shift pedal to make a gear change. Three settings are available: HARD, MEDIUM, and SOFT, each of which can be chosen independently for upshifting and downshifting. The technology will also advise the rider to shift down – via a symbol on the instrument panel – if it detects the motorcycle is in a high gear at a certain speed.
The Honda E-Clutch manages clutch engagement and disengagement based on its reading of parameters including vehicle speed, throttle opening angle, engine rpm, pressure on the shift pedal, clutch motor reduction gear angle, engine countershaft speed and gear position. The clutch is operated through an actuator unit with two motors situated inside the right hand engine cover. As the clutch is engaged or disengaged, the engine’s ignition timing and fuel injection are also controlled, resulting in smooth, shock-free shifting in any situation.
Junya Ono, Large Project Leader, Honda E-Clutch: “Our Honda E-Clutch is designed to offer motorcyclists a new kind of experience that can make their riding even more fun and exciting. It also adds peace of mind and comfort to town riding or the daily commute. We hope that many riders will try our new system to enjoy the unique mix of sportiness and flexibility it offers.”
Accessories
A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the CB650R, both available as individual items and grouped in packs, and are ready to bolt straight on:
Style Pack
Designed to complement the looks and style of the CB650R by adding high-quality aluminium inserts, Front Fender Panels, Radiator Shroud Covers, Side Cover Panels and Tank Side Stickers for added grip and protection. A red adonised Oil Level Gauge featuring the Honda logo adds a touch of colour and contrast.
Sport Pack
Pumps up dynamism with a Quickshifter (for non E-Clutch model), instrument Flyscreen for added wind protection, a Pillion Seat Cover featuring a dedicated aluminium plate, an Under Cowl that enhances the sporty appearance and finally, a Tank Pad that adds practical protection.
Comfort Pack
Cold weather rideability is improved with the addition of 5 stage Heated Grips with a memory function, plus the flexible, easy-to-attach carrying capacity of a Tank Bag with a see-through pocket for smartphones and an expandable 17L Rear Seat Bag that can be increased to 22L.
The line-up is completed with Wheel Stripes available in different colours. All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.
2026 Honda CB650R – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ TBA USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ TBA CDN (includes Freight, PDI and Fees)
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £7,999 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
TBA
2026 Honda CB650R – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
TBA
2026 Honda CB650R – Totalmotorcycle.com Europe Specifications/Technical Details
| ENGINE | |
| Type | Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC inline-4 cylinder |
| Engine Displacement (cm³) | 649cc |
| Bore ´ Stroke (mm) | 67.0 x 46.0 |
| Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 |
| Max. Power Output | 70kW/12,000rpm (35kW kit available) |
| Max. Torque | 63Nm/9,500rpm (49Nm with 35Kw kit) |
| Oil Capacity | 2.7L |
| Noise Level (dB) | Lwot – 78.8, Lurban – 74.2 |
| FUEL SYSTEM | |
| Carburation | PGM-FI electronic fuel injection |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.4L |
| CO2 Emissions WMTC | 113 g/km |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.9L/100km (20.4km/l) |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |
| Battery Capacity | YTZ10/FTZ10S 9.1Ah |
| DRIVETRAIN | |
| Clutch Type | MT – Wet multiplate, A.S.clutch |
| E-Clutch – Wet multiplate, E-Clutch | |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| FRAME | |
| Type | Steel diamond |
| CHASSIS | |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 2,120mm x 780mm x 1,075mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,450mm |
| Caster Angle | 25.5° |
| Trail | 100mm |
| Seat Height | 810mm |
| Ground Clearance | 150mm |
| Kerb Weight | 205kg (207kg E-Clutch) |
| Turning radius | 2.8m |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Type Front | 41mm Showa Separate Function front Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks |
| Type Rear | Monoshock damper with 10 stage adjustable preload, 43.5mm stroke |
| WHEELS | |
| Rim Size Front | 17M/C X MT3.50 Hollow section 5 spoke cast aluminium |
| Rim Size Rear | 17M/C X MT5.50 Hollow section 5 spoke cast aluminium |
| Tyres Front | 120/70ZR17 M/C (58W) |
| Tyres Rear | 180/55ZR17 M/C (73W) |
| BRAKES | |
| ABS System Type | 2 channel |
| Brakes Front | 310 mm x 4.5 mm double disc with four piston caliper |
| Brakes Rear | 240 mm x 5 mm disc with single piston caliper |
| INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS | |
| Instruments | Customisable 5-inch full colour TFT screen |
| Headlight | LED |
| Taillight | LED |
| Connectivity | Honda RoadSync |
| 12V Socket | Optional |
| Quickshifter | Optional only for MT |
| Security System | HISS |
| Additional Features | HSTC |
**All specifications are subject to change without notice**
# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
