2016 EICMA: Say Hello To The Updated Honda CBR 650F!

The sport tourer gets new Showa dual bending valve front forks to improve ride quality and handling

Honda has given the CBR650F a few updates to improve facets like its performance and aerodynamics. On the surface, the changes aren’t pronounced, but the design has been touched up to make it look more like the new CBR1000RR Fireblade, including giving it the new red/black/white paint scheme. The fairing has been revised for improved aerodynamics and the mechanicals have been updated as well.

For starters, it gets a new intake and exhaust set-up that bumps up the power output by around 4PS, though the effect of the same will be noticeable only at higher revs (upwards of 5000rpm, as claimed). Off-the-line, though, the 650F will benefit from shorter gear ratios which improve acceleration to the extent that, according to Honda, a 400-metre drag will see the updated model ahead of the outgoing version by three bike lengths. The torque output has also been marginally raised – from 62.9Nm to 64Nm – and the exhaust (still an underbelly) offers a louder note.

Another highlight is the new Showa dual bending valve front fork setup, with the sport tourer also benefitting from an updated set of Nissin two-piston calipers up front with dual-channel ABS still coming as standard. Also included in the package is full LED lighting at the front and rear.

Currently, Honda offers the CBR 650F in India as a locally assembled model. Priced at Rs 7.30 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it takes on the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Z800 naked. Expect the updated model to make its way to India in mid-2017.