In the previous generation, the Honda CBR 650R stood out as the best-selling mid-sized sports bike in Europe in 2021. With a reputation to uphold, we traveled to Marseille to explore the updates to the 2024 model and test the new E-Clutch technology, previously introduced in the last edition of Motociclismo, to see how it integrates with a sportier ride.
The new Honda CBR 650R adopts a slightly more aggressive look, with fairings that give it a muscular appearance and sharper lines. The four-cylinder engine remains exposed, maintaining the model’s characteristic aesthetic, and the redesigned front LED headlights further enhance the aggressive stance of the CBR 650R.
The rear light unit also underwent changes, resulting in a more aggressive section that matches the rest of this sports bike’s lines.
THE ENGINE
The 649 cc inline four-cylinder engine remains unchanged, offering 95 hp at 12,000 rpm and 63 Nm of maximum torque at 9,500 rpm. Known for its smooth power at low revs and energetic performance at high revs, this engine continues to be one of the CBR 650R’s strengths. The bike provides a good torque-to-power ratio for quick highway overtakes, maintaining low engine vibrations and high fuel efficiency. The average consumption is about 4.9 l/100 km, allowing for a range of over 300 km with a 15.4-liter tank.
The engine response is precise and exciting, providing dynamic riding in urban routes and, of course, standing out on twistier roads where you can hear the beautiful sound of the four-cylinder and make the most of its capabilities.
EQUIPMENT AND CHASSIS
The chassis of the 2024 CBR 650R includes a 41 mm Showa SFF-BP USD fork at the front and a 10-level adjustable monoshock at the rear, ensuring a balance between comfort and performance. The suspension setup has been improved for greater stability and control, especially the front suspension, which offers a very precise response.
Braking features two front discs with four-piston radial calipers and a single-piston rear disc, providing efficient and safe braking.
THE DYNAMICS
Both the suspension and braking proved very capable over the kilometers we covered in Marseille. In urban riding with rougher terrain, the CBR showed itself to be a “balanced” sports bike, with the suspension filtering out road imperfections well, making it possible to envision this model as a daily companion. On mountain roads, we could fully exploit this setup, finding a very capable suspension and a braking system that gave us confidence to brake hard before corners.
THE EX-LIBRIS
The major novelty of the 2024 CBR 650R is the introduction of the electronic clutch system, the E-Clutch. The CBR and its sibling (the CB 650R) are the first bikes to offer this technology as an optional feature. This system uses elements from existing technologies, such as the quickshifter and dual-clutch transmission, creating a unique system. The E-Clutch eliminates the need to use the clutch lever for shifting, providing a smoother and more exciting riding experience.
The E-Clutch is activated as soon as the engine starts, managing shifts smoothly and eliminating the possibility of stalling. The system allows the rider to change gears without using the clutch lever, making riding more comfortable, especially in urban environments. If the rider prefers, they can use the clutch lever at any time, and the E-Clutch reactivates automatically after a brief period.
In sporty riding, this system also demonstrated several advantages. The ability to change gears without interruption in power delivery results in smoother and faster acceleration. Shifting as quickly as possible makes sporty riding easier, especially for those less experienced at higher speeds.
The system offers three “operational feel” settings: hard, medium, and soft. These settings can be selected independently for downshifts or upshifts, ensuring a customized riding experience to each rider’s preference.
ONLY POSITIVES
The E-Clutch not only makes riding in the urban jungle easier but also enhances performance in sporty riding situations. Additionally, the reduced wear on the clutch system and transmission promises greater durability of components, translating to lower maintenance needs.
Technology has a stronger presence in the new Honda CBR 650R. There’s a new 5-inch color TFT screen that, besides being easy to read and having intuitive navigation, allows customization of displayed information and connectivity with our smartphone via the Honda RoadSync app.
The integration of connectivity significantly enhances the riding experience, allowing the rider to stay informed and connected without distractions.
The 2024 Honda CBR650R emerges as a subtle but significant evolution of an already popular model. The more aggressive design, the introduction of the E-Clutch system, and technological improvements make it an attractive choice in the mid-sized sports bike market. Honda has managed to maintain the essence that made the CBR650R a success while introducing innovations that enhance the riding experience.
HONDA CBR 650R
ENGINE In-line four, DOHC, 16 valves, liquid-cooled
DISPLACEMENT 649 cc
POWER 95 cv (70 kw) @12,000 rpm
TORQUE 63 Nm @9,500 rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed
FRAME Diamond-type, steel
TANK 15.4 liters
FRONT SUSPENSION inverted telescopic fork, 41 mm
REAR SUSPENSION mono-shock, adjustable in pre-load
FRONT BRAKE two 310 mm discs, 4-piston radial clipers
REAR BRAKE 240 mm disc, 1-piston cliper
FRONT TYRE 120/70ZR17
REAR TYRE 180/55ZR17
WHEELBASE 1.450 mm
SEAT HEIGHT 810 mm
WEIGHT209 kg
