Two new Honda 650s unveiled

HONDA has unveiled to all-new 650s using the same steel diamond frame and 649cc inline-four engine, one of which will replace CB600F Hornet in 2014.

The CBR650F and CB650F are faired and naked versions of the same machine. The naked CB650F replaces the 599cc Hornet.

That could leave Hornet fans disappointment with the performance figures of the new models. At 85.8bhp, the 650s are 14bhp down on the popular 600. And the new models don’t make up for it in torque, with 46.4lbft to the Hornet’s 46.8.

However, it's good news for A2 licence holders restricted to 47bhp. A2 rules say they can ride machines that have been restricted to 47bhp but only if they made no more than twice that to begin with, so while the Hornet was out, the new models are potentially in.

The new 650s are the latest ‘platform' sharing bikes from Honda after its CB500 and NC700 ranges, each of which shares a frame and engine across a number of models.

Honda says: ‘The new CBR650F is brand new from the wheels up. Based on the same platform as the naked streetfighter-styled CB650F, it’s been designed from inception by a young team of Honda engineers as a sports-oriented bike, usable and enjoyable in the real world by riders of all backgrounds, in environments from busy urban streets to twisting back roads.’

The firm says the CBF650F ‘turns the page on the CB600F Hornet and, sharing no common parts, starts a fresh chapter. Brand new from the wheels up – conceived and developed by a young team of Honda engineers – the concept behind its performance is completely different. It’s been designed from the outset to put the rider fully in tune with the machine and offer arresting style, identity and attitude.’

Both have the same aluminium swing-arm and 41mm right-way-up forks (the Hornet’s are upside-down), five-spoke cast aluminium wheels and wavey disc brakes. ABS is standard on the CBR600F and an option on the CB600F. The CB600F also has a different riding position, with higher handlebars.

The CBR600F has a quoted 211kg kerb weight and the CB600F 206kg, or 208kg with ABS.

Honda says the engine is tuned for good low-to-mid-range torque, especially below 4,000rpm. The firm claims 59.3mpg and a 215 mile range for both models.

They come in black, metallic silver and two choices of white. The CB600F also comes in yellow. Prices have not been confirmed.

The bikes will make their UK debut at the Motorcycle Live show at Birmingham’s NEC on November 23.