i think we all forgot what character means. This bike is full of character. It has 1970/80's character with a high revving, silky smooth four cylinder engine, with exceptional build quality. Almost 100 hp is nothing to sneeze at. Those gorgeous headers are pumping some serious air. Just ride what makes you smile.
I don't think you can discount looks when talking about character. This has none. I'd open my garage door, look at that bike, and close the door. I'm sure it's a very good motorcyle though.
Had mine since 2019, done 37,000 miles on it as of July 2024, I've kept to the service schedule but done most of it myself and it has literally never had an issue.
God I hope not. Awful concept. One of the reasons for why I like motorcycles is because it's still all about feeling the raw machine. Most of the tech that they add on bikes detracts from the experience, it doesn't add.
@@mithrandirthegrey7644 this bike isn't for you, but it's the continuation an devolution for how bikes are going. DCT, e-clutch, BMW just announced an automatic system a fortnight ago, and I think Yamaha a few days ago. Bike companies are evolving.
I had my 650R for more than 4 years. No issues at all. It looked like new when I traded it in. It's a fabulous bike. Low geared, so peppy and great around town, and very fast when you get the revs up.
Did you lease the bike or did you own it outright, and if you owned it did you get a good deal? Thinking about trading in my cb650r for the 1000r before it disappears
Honestly, short of adding a balance shaft to the engine, I wouldn't want to see anything other than styling/ancillary improvements to this bike. From my experience, she could use the following: - balance shaft - radial master for the front brakes - adjustable suspension Mostly a list of nice-to-haves, but sometimes it's really nice to have them. Everything else is just fine. The up-only quick shifter works a treat, the throttle feels excellent (as cable throttles invariably do), the TC & ABS work fine. If they really want to tech her up, they could throw in lean-sensitive ABS, but none of the posh engine stuff is worth giving up the cable throttle. A secondary servo type ('90s style) cruise control would help with long-distance touring, but I don't think anyone sells those at scale any longer.
I have a 2023 model (the grey one we got in the US with the gold showa forks). It’s been rock solid so far as a Honda generally is. I really wanted one of these bikes as the naked inline 4s are becoming increasingly rare in favor of cheaper parallel twins. Nothing beats the sound and top end rush of a 4 though. Plus the styling is beautiful IMO.
Great review Mr Darcy , I own a cbr650r and the bike in terms of reliability is absolutely bulletproof and it can probably outlive us if maintained properly 😂
The Honda CB650R has loads of character. You can plod along in towns keeping the revs low and then you take it out on the B Roads and open it up above 5,000 rpm and hear it growl and accelerate fast.
I’ve had the cb650r for 2.5 years & has been trouble free. Swapped the OEM Dunlop to Michelin Road 6, with much better handling in wet. Bike is great in low speed traffic & good at revs greater than 4k+. Front forks need upgrading as they dive too much, brakes are sufficient.
Really enjoying this channel for a while now, the sound and videoproduction improved and is really nice! I own a 23 Year Model, and wanted to clarify that there are no slip ons for this bike. You can havk the oem exhaust and tach a slip on, but originally you can only buy full systems. I also rode multiple rides of cca 5h(minimal break, maybe 20 min total for gas and a snack), it gets uncomfortable on these lo ger journeys, but anything under 2 I do not feel it at all. Also, my wife loves riding backpack, although we never did more than 3h ride. I absolutely love this bike, and find the 24 YM redesing an unnecessary, forced atrocity and am happy I got mine while they looked good.
I have one and absolutely love it, the friends that have ridden it all can't believe how smooth it is! Although, had an oil leak at 700 miles which turned out to be a cracked head! All replaced under warranty and havent had an issue 4000 miles later :) did cost hond a few thousand to sort though so I was told!
Im the same height as you so when im interested in a bike i always look for a review from your channel because then i know exactly what to expect . Ive always been a fan of that Honda so thank you for another great review !!!
I like the way they've referenced the old 400/4 from the '70's with the side-swept down pipes. On the quiet, Honda have always made excellent midrange inline fours. The 600 Hornet was a fine bike. This reminds of the old Hornet. Stick on a tail tidy and a decent exhaust can and it's actually got the makings of quite a good looking bike.
Spot on review, as an owner I’d say the bike has two characters, the plod about sensible one and let it rip I’ve just lost my licence one! Regarding the reliability I’ve only had one issue where the hazards wouldn’t turn off after I had washed it as water had got into an electrical component. Very frustrating as it took weeks to get sorted. Honda service were booked for months ahead and wouldn’t do anything. I was advised by a Royal Enfield dealer to call the AA (bike was still under warranty) who took the bike to the Honda dealer and it was fixed within 2 days.
Great review. Got mine sitting in the garage waiting for me to get my licence in 2 weeks.. Cannot wait! Especially after having it for 2 months already! Lots of polishing and small upgrades completed.
Had mine for about a year and a half now, she's done nearly 15000 miles, no issues so far. I do ride year round, in all weather. Longest trip was from the midlands to Zürich and back... three hours in I started daydreaming about a comfort seat 😂
@@serhiiprokofiev1048 Eh, depends. If she's real dirty, I'll hose off the crap, but I tend to keep detergent washes as infrequent as possible. The acids in those can cause corrosion if you overdo it. I used to spray the chain with sticky lubes a lot, but all that achieved was to turn it into a dirt magnet. Nowadays I carry a bottle of 80/90 gear lube (for manual transmissions. STINKS!!!) in one of my crash bar bags. Comes with a convenient spout, and it's always with me if I need it. Every few hundred miles I'll lift the back end (if I can, or just do a line and spin the wheel) and lube up the chain, then go over it with a rag to get rid of the excess oil. Seems to work a lot better. Much less dirt to clean off, even if I've been riding in bad weather on dirty roads. And hosing it off works better when the chain isn't covered in glue. I thought about getting a chain oiler (I'm lazy, plus no rear stand = needing a paddock stand to make the job easier), but actually it's been fine. I get less surface rust (from rain/etc) now that I use oil than I did before with the sticky mess. I assume it's to do with how much easier liquid oil spreads. Surface coatings take care of the rest (i.e. retaining a tiny bit of it as a barrier against water). But if you do this, it really should be every 600 miles or so. It's mainly to keep sprocket wear in check. I'd also advise getting an oem chain/sprocket set (these _are_ wear items), as well as one of those DID professional chain tools. You can tell the pro from the consumer grade one by its rough exterior. The proper ones are forged rather than CNCed from regular stock. They look like sh!t, but they're as skookum as skookum gets. I can give you the model number when I get back next week, if you want it. If your chain wears out (if you look after it, it'll just strech), it's tempting to replace just it. After all, the sprockets "look fine", right? Yeh, don't do that. They're designed to wear together, so replace them as a set. Else the old part will wear the new part out very quickly and you end up spending even more. You _can_ get aftermarket chains and sprockets if you feel the need to, but I don't. The oem one is a known quantity and it's like 150 quid for the set. From Honda! You'll get a couple of years out of it if you ride hard, you'll get a few more if you don't. I personally see chain/sprocket wear as the cost of enjoying the bike, so I ride the way I enjoy and deal with the maintenance as and when I need to. Same with brakes - always handy to keep a full set on hand, and some Loctite 2701 for the bolts (unless you want to replace those every time. I leave that up to you, they're 6 quid a piece, and there are four of them.). Very very very important note here though: CLEAN THE PISTONS BEFORE RETRACTING THEM. It's a tight squeeze, so if you get any brake dust or other crap in there, it'll cause your pistons to stick. NOT worth the hassle of taking the calipers apart to replace the seals (the dust embeds itself in those), just clean the pistons. Old toothbrush, bit of brake fluid and a bit of soapy water (to clean off the brake fluid after) does the trick. If you do anything that makes heavy use of the rear brake (I do moto gymkhana whenever I can, you basically ride the rear brake. It's HELL for the fluid), the heat can boil off a bit of brake fluid. You'll know it's done that because the rear goes a little squishy and starts to feel a bit wooden. Let her sit for a bit (lets the bubble float to the top. I like to do it the following morning) and bleed it out. It's just a little, and it'll come right out. Just remember to put force on the brake lever (maybe pump it a few times and hold) BEFORE opening the valve ;) I've not noticed this sort of thing with the front calipers, even when practicing emergency stops for extended periods. I assume they get better relative cooling. Engine-wise, it's most important to keep on top of oil maintenance. The interval is time or distance, whichever comes first. If you ride hard or in stop/start traffic a lot, consider halving the interval. This includes slipping the clutch for extended periods of time. Don't forget this oil is doing triple duty - lubes the engine and gearbox, but also cools the clutch (and takes away clutch dust). It's a 10 minute job if you know what you're doing, 1 hour (including fetching the tools and putting them away) if you're in no rush and take the time to follow the service manual (which I HIGHLY recommend you get, btw) step by step. After you've done it a few times, it gets quicker. Don't pre-fill the filter, just dip your finger in the oil and wet the seal. Too much is better than too little, in this case. Nominally, doing up the filter hand-tight should be fine, but they specify a tightening torque, so I torque it on. You'll want to keep a supply of sump plug seals. I'd buy a pack of 10 or something. Then you don't have to think about it. Good luck!
@@serhiiprokofiev1048 Just happy to share my (still rather limited) experience. By the way, that chain tool is the DID KM 500 R. It's for 520, 525 and 530 chains (650R uses 525). Mine was 1/3 the price of the Honda tool without being cheese-grade crap, so that's a good saving right there. I'm not sure which dimension the 525 number specifies, I assume it's link pitch, probably in some imperial unit (1250ths of the length of some king's flacid knob or something 🤣), but don't quote me. Have you had yours long?
Got the 2019 version. Love the bronze. Have swmotech railing system which is great for storing 12+ litres. Love the bike. Need to experiment with different tyres. The slipper clutch is a desire if mine now. Battery just died after not riding for a few months so did pretty good imo. Love the bike. Dropped it once or twice and has some scars 🙏 Really do like it, every time I look for new wheels I just can't seem to find something that ticks like this. I love the engine an awful lot.
The 2023 CB650R looks better than the upcoming 2024 version. The new side air intakes don't look so nice; the new headlight doesn't look so nice. I just don't get the idea of the optional clutchless gear mechanism. The only improvement for me on the 2024 is the instrument cluster. I hope Honda keep this high revving 4 cylinder engine and Neo Sports Cafe looks because the new Hornet fronts look, in comparison, ugly and common.
Thanks for the presentation of this nice Honda, Darcy 👍 A friend of mine is riding a i-4 650 Honda since years. These engines are simply bullet proof, the bikes are easy to ride. The heated gloves come, indeed, handy in your weather 👍
I love the look of these, even considered one when i was buying my first bike but never got round to trying one, i fell in love with a speed twin and bought that 😂
These are great bikes if you like mid-size inline fours. I prefer big twins and singles, but modern fours are so much more tractable than they used to be. Great style. The dash is superb. Those gloves look good. Nick
Personally, I prefer slow bikes that restrict me, over these excellent motorcycles that are restricted only by my (dis-) ability. I love to feel a bike struggling to make a turn, making me go slower on the bends, just because I am aware of all the sporty dudes with top of the line bikes that actually crashed on the same road. It's riding a slow bike slow, a perverted form of fun that only the old bikers get. So, no nice Honda 650R for me. About the e-clutch, like all the e- garbage, I would stay away, less is more and if it can malfunction, it will. Suddenly and violently. Again, old dude here, enough times I've been stranded by technology.
Got the 2019 version - the cooling system started leaking in winter 2022 and i had to change a gasket at the front. That was not great bc it overheated once… so i hope that at least from now on its „bullet proof“ 😅
As far as I've seen new headlight and TFT dash added in 2024. Also the fairing where has CB650R stickers on it and tail have now slightly different design. Are you sure the bike in the video is 2024 model? It seems like 2023
iv owned one for a year, the only complaint's iv had is the seat can be a little bit uncomfortable and they seem to have painted it with Cheese rather than paint its so soft
I just don't get why manufacturers are using abbreviated fenders. Esthetics aside, who wants dirt/mud up your backside or clogging up your radiator, engine,etc.
That inline 4 is hard to beat for character, even the stock sound is bonkers, with an aftermarket pipe it sounds hellish, reason alone to buy this or the CBR650R is that sound. As for the rest, Honda quality speaks for itself and, I think they nailed the looks. I'd say there's 3 retro categories to choose from, classic that looks really old school, retro, my favorite, that is classic "upgraded" with modern features like LCD lights, and Honda's "neo-retro cafe" look that I have to admit they got right and also have to commend them for taking the risk to bring something new to the table and succeeding. I really need to stop watching these videos, these are extremely tempting as my next bike but I'm a family man with obligations, I ride slow and safe and an inline 4 is just a constant temptation to ride the rev limiter, a recipe for disaster
A pal had one of these. It's a very nice bike but I feel that it's a shame that Honda refuse to produce a scaled up, full whack engined 1000cc version, instead of mere styling change with each successive model, the 2024 Hornet 1000 taking, in my opinion an even greater backward step with a twin spar steel frame instead of a lighter alloy replacement for the current spine type. As to the semi auto version of this 650, MV tried the same with their 800cc naked triple and hardly anyone wanted it. It seems like the Japanese have no intention of making full fat naked bikes to compete with the European offerings, so, in effect, this 650 is much better value than the 1000cc versions. They're as about as excitingly sensual as my ex ma-in-law in a see through nightie.
So it's a semi-auto gearbox, been around in cars/trucks for years but not in bikes. How is it bad news for motorcycling? If you don't like it don't buy one. You know what Honda are like, innovative if nothing else so fair play to them for offering riders something new. Not my kind of thing but could be VERY useful and useable for someone who has issues with hand/finger mobility.👍😀 Getting used to one of these and then stepping back onto a full manual could be interesting!😂
Just a bit of the old clickbait tbh with you 😁 it definitely won’t be for us but I’d like to give it a go. It’d definitely take some getting used to haha!
Is it better to get dedicated heated gloves, or get heated inner gloves that you can use under your favorite gloves? I can get inner gloves from work and was thinking I could use them while riding and save some cash.
I think these are great as they are also water proof, have plenty of warm linings as it is. And it’s all one package but I can understand the saving money aspect. You can of course get 10% off with my code. I’ve thought about getting liners before but I think with my gloves they would become too snug/tight with a liner added into the equation.
If they fit ..maybe it will work. I have some undergloves that just fit snug in my weather gloves, and those are not even heated. Can't imagine heated ones would fit
An interesting bike, but I'm hoping for the retro styled Honda using the new 750cc from the Transalp (I think the name GB750 has been mentioned) 🤔? That 4 cylinder engine in this bike sounds very good though 😁
Whats the fuel tank on this bike? Because we have a CB300R in india and its got a 9.7ltr fuel tank .very puny for a 300cc bike. So whats the fuel tank on this bike ?
@@martinrea8548 I’m not 100% sure and it doesn’t get the best gas mileage especially if you're heavy on the throttle so I would say wouldn't be the best for touring…
I thought about this before i bought my guzzi, but its not a big bike though. I found it a bit cramped at 6.2 after a bit of a test ride. Buttery smooth, great gearbox..but i didnt connect with it. This is a good weekend blast, but thats about it
just a genuine question. I'm not hating but what is the purpose of e-clutch?? Why can't honda just make an automatic bike? Again I am at lost at this so please educate me, but as of now my mindset is putting an eclutch on a manual motorcycle, just lowkey makes it an automatic bike.
I like the frontal styling of this bike but the seat/tail are awful. Why is it so arched up!? The front mudguard is really poor too. Honda seems to have actively chosen to make this bike less practical than it could have been, just bizarre. I'd really like a classic shape CB like the CB1100 was but with the 750 or 1100cc parallel twin engine but Honda seems to be afraid of making that!
It is from Bikewear Direct 👍🏼 Here is the link: bikeweardirect.co.uk/products/motorcycle-leather-jacket-touring-motorbike-cafe-biker-with-genuine-ce-armour
i think we all forgot what character means. This bike is full of character. It has 1970/80's character with a high revving, silky smooth four cylinder engine, with exceptional build quality. Almost 100 hp is nothing to sneeze at. Those gorgeous headers are pumping some serious air. Just ride what makes you smile.
Yes defo, it’s a great bit of kit. No doubting that.
character is personal after all
I think for the quality you will undoubtedly be getting, it's cheap too. The engine will probably run forever and the tinwear won't turn orange.
Absolutely
I don't think you can discount looks when talking about character. This has none. I'd open my garage door, look at that bike, and close the door. I'm sure it's a very good motorcyle though.
Had mine since 2019, done 37,000 miles on it as of July 2024, I've kept to the service schedule but done most of it myself and it has literally never had an issue.
It is a Honda after all.
Will get the e-clutch at very end of June. E-clutch will spread to almost every bike. A technological marvel.
God I hope not. Awful concept. One of the reasons for why I like motorcycles is because it's still all about feeling the raw machine. Most of the tech that they add on bikes detracts from the experience, it doesn't add.
@@mithrandirthegrey7644 this bike isn't for you, but it's the continuation an devolution for how bikes are going. DCT, e-clutch, BMW just announced an automatic system a fortnight ago, and I think Yamaha a few days ago. Bike companies are evolving.
Turns out the e-clutch version is stupidly popular, so wil get a used stopgap bike for a few months first. Dammit, lol.
I had my 650R for more than 4 years. No issues at all. It looked like new when I traded it in. It's a fabulous bike. Low geared, so peppy and great around town, and very fast when you get the revs up.
But what did you trade it for, same but new model?
@@Wajang1 I got a Hornet 750.
Hope you enjoy it, safe ride.@@cliveomahoney4096
Did you lease the bike or did you own it outright, and if you owned it did you get a good deal? Thinking about trading in my cb650r for the 1000r before it disappears
I've never leased. I got a free quickshifter with the 650. I think retailers make more if a bike is leased/pcp
Honestly, short of adding a balance shaft to the engine, I wouldn't want to see anything other than styling/ancillary improvements to this bike.
From my experience, she could use the following:
- balance shaft
- radial master for the front brakes
- adjustable suspension
Mostly a list of nice-to-haves, but sometimes it's really nice to have them.
Everything else is just fine. The up-only quick shifter works a treat, the throttle feels excellent (as cable throttles invariably do), the TC & ABS work fine. If they really want to tech her up, they could throw in lean-sensitive ABS, but none of the posh engine stuff is worth giving up the cable throttle. A secondary servo type ('90s style) cruise control would help with long-distance touring, but I don't think anyone sells those at scale any longer.
I have a 2023 model (the grey one we got in the US with the gold showa forks). It’s been rock solid so far as a Honda generally is. I really wanted one of these bikes as the naked inline 4s are becoming increasingly rare in favor of cheaper parallel twins. Nothing beats the sound and top end rush of a 4 though. Plus the styling is beautiful IMO.
The more bikes that use twins, the less desirable twins become imo. Like 4 cylinder cars
I know some people hate it but 8 love Honda's neo-cafe styling
Great review Mr Darcy , I own a cbr650r and the bike in terms of reliability is absolutely bulletproof and it can probably outlive us if maintained properly 😂
I wouldn’t be surprised 😂
The Honda CB650R has loads of character.
You can plod along in towns keeping the revs low and then you take it out on the B Roads and open it up above 5,000 rpm and hear it growl and accelerate fast.
I’ve had the cb650r for 2.5 years & has been trouble free.
Swapped the OEM Dunlop to Michelin Road 6, with much better handling in wet.
Bike is great in low speed traffic & good at revs greater than 4k+.
Front forks need upgrading as they dive too much, brakes are sufficient.
Really enjoying this channel for a while now, the sound and videoproduction improved and is really nice! I own a 23 Year Model, and wanted to clarify that there are no slip ons for this bike. You can havk the oem exhaust and tach a slip on, but originally you can only buy full systems. I also rode multiple rides of cca 5h(minimal break, maybe 20 min total for gas and a snack), it gets uncomfortable on these lo ger journeys, but anything under 2 I do not feel it at all. Also, my wife loves riding backpack, although we never did more than 3h ride. I absolutely love this bike, and find the 24 YM redesing an unnecessary, forced atrocity and am happy I got mine while they looked good.
Great to hear 👍🏼
I have one and absolutely love it, the friends that have ridden it all can't believe how smooth it is! Although, had an oil leak at 700 miles which turned out to be a cracked head! All replaced under warranty and havent had an issue 4000 miles later :) did cost hond a few thousand to sort though so I was told!
Im the same height as you so when im interested in a bike i always look for a review from your channel because then i know exactly what to expect . Ive always been a fan of that Honda so thank you for another great review !!!
I like the way they've referenced the old 400/4 from the '70's with the side-swept down pipes. On the quiet, Honda have always made excellent midrange inline fours. The 600 Hornet was a fine bike. This reminds of the old Hornet.
Stick on a tail tidy and a decent exhaust can and it's actually got the makings of quite a good looking bike.
Spot on review, as an owner I’d say the bike has two characters, the plod about sensible one and let it rip I’ve just lost my licence one! Regarding the reliability I’ve only had one issue where the hazards wouldn’t turn off after I had washed it as water had got into an electrical component. Very frustrating as it took weeks to get sorted. Honda service were booked for months ahead and wouldn’t do anything. I was advised by a Royal Enfield dealer to call the AA (bike was still under warranty) who took the bike to the Honda dealer and it was fixed within 2 days.
sounds real nice. i love the style of the 1000r, a dream bike for me.
Great review.
Got mine sitting in the garage waiting for me to get my licence in 2 weeks.. Cannot wait! Especially after having it for 2 months already! Lots of polishing and small upgrades completed.
Thanks and good luck with the test 👍🏼
Had mine for about a year and a half now, she's done nearly 15000 miles, no issues so far. I do ride year round, in all weather. Longest trip was from the midlands to Zürich and back... three hours in I started daydreaming about a comfort seat 😂
How do you take care of your motorcycle? Do you wash it after every trip in bad weather? And do you constantly lubricate the chains?😮
@@serhiiprokofiev1048 Eh, depends. If she's real dirty, I'll hose off the crap, but I tend to keep detergent washes as infrequent as possible. The acids in those can cause corrosion if you overdo it.
I used to spray the chain with sticky lubes a lot, but all that achieved was to turn it into a dirt magnet. Nowadays I carry a bottle of 80/90 gear lube (for manual transmissions. STINKS!!!) in one of my crash bar bags. Comes with a convenient spout, and it's always with me if I need it. Every few hundred miles I'll lift the back end (if I can, or just do a line and spin the wheel) and lube up the chain, then go over it with a rag to get rid of the excess oil. Seems to work a lot better. Much less dirt to clean off, even if I've been riding in bad weather on dirty roads. And hosing it off works better when the chain isn't covered in glue.
I thought about getting a chain oiler (I'm lazy, plus no rear stand = needing a paddock stand to make the job easier), but actually it's been fine. I get less surface rust (from rain/etc) now that I use oil than I did before with the sticky mess. I assume it's to do with how much easier liquid oil spreads. Surface coatings take care of the rest (i.e. retaining a tiny bit of it as a barrier against water). But if you do this, it really should be every 600 miles or so. It's mainly to keep sprocket wear in check.
I'd also advise getting an oem chain/sprocket set (these _are_ wear items), as well as one of those DID professional chain tools. You can tell the pro from the consumer grade one by its rough exterior. The proper ones are forged rather than CNCed from regular stock. They look like sh!t, but they're as skookum as skookum gets. I can give you the model number when I get back next week, if you want it.
If your chain wears out (if you look after it, it'll just strech), it's tempting to replace just it. After all, the sprockets "look fine", right? Yeh, don't do that. They're designed to wear together, so replace them as a set. Else the old part will wear the new part out very quickly and you end up spending even more.
You _can_ get aftermarket chains and sprockets if you feel the need to, but I don't. The oem one is a known quantity and it's like 150 quid for the set. From Honda! You'll get a couple of years out of it if you ride hard, you'll get a few more if you don't. I personally see chain/sprocket wear as the cost of enjoying the bike, so I ride the way I enjoy and deal with the maintenance as and when I need to. Same with brakes - always handy to keep a full set on hand, and some Loctite 2701 for the bolts (unless you want to replace those every time. I leave that up to you, they're 6 quid a piece, and there are four of them.). Very very very important note here though: CLEAN THE PISTONS BEFORE RETRACTING THEM. It's a tight squeeze, so if you get any brake dust or other crap in there, it'll cause your pistons to stick. NOT worth the hassle of taking the calipers apart to replace the seals (the dust embeds itself in those), just clean the pistons. Old toothbrush, bit of brake fluid and a bit of soapy water (to clean off the brake fluid after) does the trick.
If you do anything that makes heavy use of the rear brake (I do moto gymkhana whenever I can, you basically ride the rear brake. It's HELL for the fluid), the heat can boil off a bit of brake fluid. You'll know it's done that because the rear goes a little squishy and starts to feel a bit wooden. Let her sit for a bit (lets the bubble float to the top. I like to do it the following morning) and bleed it out. It's just a little, and it'll come right out. Just remember to put force on the brake lever (maybe pump it a few times and hold) BEFORE opening the valve ;)
I've not noticed this sort of thing with the front calipers, even when practicing emergency stops for extended periods. I assume they get better relative cooling.
Engine-wise, it's most important to keep on top of oil maintenance. The interval is time or distance, whichever comes first. If you ride hard or in stop/start traffic a lot, consider halving the interval. This includes slipping the clutch for extended periods of time. Don't forget this oil is doing triple duty - lubes the engine and gearbox, but also cools the clutch (and takes away clutch dust). It's a 10 minute job if you know what you're doing, 1 hour (including fetching the tools and putting them away) if you're in no rush and take the time to follow the service manual (which I HIGHLY recommend you get, btw) step by step. After you've done it a few times, it gets quicker. Don't pre-fill the filter, just dip your finger in the oil and wet the seal. Too much is better than too little, in this case. Nominally, doing up the filter hand-tight should be fine, but they specify a tightening torque, so I torque it on. You'll want to keep a supply of sump plug seals. I'd buy a pack of 10 or something. Then you don't have to think about it.
Good luck!
@@233kosta Bro, you are incredible. Thank you.
@@serhiiprokofiev1048 Just happy to share my (still rather limited) experience.
By the way, that chain tool is the DID KM 500 R. It's for 520, 525 and 530 chains (650R uses 525). Mine was 1/3 the price of the Honda tool without being cheese-grade crap, so that's a good saving right there.
I'm not sure which dimension the 525 number specifies, I assume it's link pitch, probably in some imperial unit (1250ths of the length of some king's flacid knob or something 🤣), but don't quote me.
Have you had yours long?
Thanks my friend I appreciate it 😊.
I liked the video, delivered in a informative manner with a few jokes here and there. Its like watching a friend explaining it to you.
Got the 2019 version. Love the bronze. Have swmotech railing system which is great for storing 12+ litres.
Love the bike. Need to experiment with different tyres. The slipper clutch is a desire if mine now. Battery just died after not riding for a few months so did pretty good imo. Love the bike. Dropped it once or twice and has some scars 🙏 Really do like it, every time I look for new wheels I just can't seem to find something that ticks like this. I love the engine an awful lot.
The 2023 CB650R looks better than the upcoming 2024 version. The new side air intakes don't look so nice; the new headlight doesn't look so nice.
I just don't get the idea of the optional clutchless gear mechanism.
The only improvement for me on the 2024 is the instrument cluster.
I hope Honda keep this high revving 4 cylinder engine and Neo Sports Cafe looks because the new Hornet fronts look, in comparison, ugly and common.
Totally agree. 👍
💯🙌💯
Thanks for the presentation of this nice Honda, Darcy 👍
A friend of mine is riding a i-4 650 Honda since years. These engines are simply bullet proof, the bikes are easy to ride.
The heated gloves come, indeed, handy in your weather 👍
Thanks and yes I would not be without heated gloves in the Winter 🥶
👍 good review. Agree with you about it needing a mud guard extended.
The downpipes echo the old 400/4 from the 70’s, nice touch Honda👍👍
Yes absolutely 👌🏻
hi, i have the 2022 model, and after 2 years and over 10.000 km, i had zero problems.
Brilliant!
Add a good slip-on exhaust, some grip end mirrors and you'll get plenty of practical 80's character.
Think im gonna keep my CB650R 2023 black edition and just put on a quickshifter, great video!
This clutch is exactly what I want
👍🏼
Now that’s how a bike should sound. ✅👍😎❤️
I love the look of these, even considered one when i was buying my first bike but never got round to trying one, i fell in love with a speed twin and bought that 😂
Love the CB650R looking forward to the eclutch review. 👍
These are great bikes if you like mid-size inline fours. I prefer big twins and singles, but modern fours are so much more tractable than they used to be. Great style. The dash is superb.
Those gloves look good. Nick
Yes really great gloves 👍🏼
2020 model ~39000km on the clock never had any problems
Personally, I prefer slow bikes that restrict me, over these excellent motorcycles that are restricted only by my (dis-) ability. I love to feel a bike struggling to make a turn, making me go slower on the bends, just because I am aware of all the sporty dudes with top of the line bikes that actually crashed on the same road. It's riding a slow bike slow, a perverted form of fun that only the old bikers get. So, no nice Honda 650R for me. About the e-clutch, like all the e- garbage, I would stay away, less is more and if it can malfunction, it will. Suddenly and violently. Again, old dude here, enough times I've been stranded by technology.
Soon as the Eclutch version hits Australia...if the price is right im getting one..i cant wait
Great review! Started the podcast today, so far so good!
Thanks 😊
I ride a CB300R and I think the CB650R with E-Clutch would be an awesome second bike choice. Please do review it when you can!!
Why would you pay extra to carry around that bulky ugly thing once u've already mastered gear changing, get a oem quick shifter
this model looks so much better than 2024
Got the 2019 version - the cooling system started leaking in winter 2022 and i had to change a gasket at the front. That was not great bc it overheated once… so i hope that at least from now on its „bullet proof“ 😅
great review im tall so has helped me on decision to buy one soon
Excellent no fluff review. Subscribed! Cheers mate.
Thanks for the sub!
As far as I've seen new headlight and TFT dash added in 2024. Also the fairing where has CB650R stickers on it and tail have now slightly different design. Are you sure the bike in the video is 2024 model? It seems like 2023
It is a 2023 model yes, I did say that after the intro but discussed whats new for 2024
Great review Mr Darcy, not my sort of bike but it is better looking than most bikes of that type 👍🏼
Thank you!
Just got my black edition, really not fussed about the update.
iv owned one for a year, the only complaint's iv had is the seat can be a little bit uncomfortable and they seem to have painted it with Cheese rather than paint its so soft
Really nice bike. Same bike I passed on few on few years ago.
That’s awesome!
Thanks for this. Be waiting for the review with e-clutch
I just don't get why manufacturers are using abbreviated fenders. Esthetics aside, who wants dirt/mud up your backside or clogging up your radiator, engine,etc.
Agree 100%.👍
im thinking about getting one to tour with on day rides with my mates put a windshield and bags on it and head off
Ive started doing lessons to work towards a full licence and considering this as a potential first bike
Have to remember that quote " almost die every time you ride " makes it sound deadly 😂
There is one thing this bike is missing after all: IT MISSES ANY MECHANICAL ISSUES, ANY SORT OF ISSUES, ITS A BIKE WITHOUT ANY ISSUES.
oh i like the exhaust sound.
The new one (2024) looks so awefull... i got the 2019 and love it!
I agree with you, the new air intakes don't look right compared to the 2023 ones, nor does the new headlight.
That inline 4 is hard to beat for character, even the stock sound is bonkers, with an aftermarket pipe it sounds hellish, reason alone to buy this or the CBR650R is that sound.
As for the rest, Honda quality speaks for itself and, I think they nailed the looks.
I'd say there's 3 retro categories to choose from, classic that looks really old school, retro, my favorite, that is classic "upgraded" with modern features like LCD lights, and Honda's "neo-retro cafe" look that I have to admit they got right and also have to commend them for taking the risk to bring something new to the table and succeeding.
I really need to stop watching these videos, these are extremely tempting as my next bike but I'm a family man with obligations, I ride slow and safe and an inline 4 is just a constant temptation to ride the rev limiter, a recipe for disaster
you cant put slip -on on these bikes. you need full system. the sock muffler is welded
Good to know!
Still waiting for you guys to test the z900rs 👀
Kawasaki are hopefully onboard for next year 🤞🏻
Doing great on the reviews 👍
Thank you!
Is it a bad idea to get this as a first bike and get used to E-clutch?
Not necessarily as you can still use the clutch as usual
What is it with the manufacturers to always make stupid frontguards to short ??
It’s become a trend!
Bought those gloves, but xxl is just a bit smaller then most xxl. Top of fingers touch the end.
Yes I found that, I had to send my first pair back and get a size up
A pal had one of these. It's a very nice bike but I feel that it's a shame that Honda refuse to produce a scaled up, full whack engined 1000cc version, instead of mere styling change with each successive model, the 2024 Hornet 1000 taking, in my opinion an even greater backward step with a twin spar steel frame instead of a lighter alloy replacement for the current spine type. As to the semi auto version of this 650, MV tried the same with their 800cc naked triple and hardly anyone wanted it. It seems like the Japanese have no intention of making full fat naked bikes to compete with the European offerings, so, in effect, this 650 is much better value than the 1000cc versions. They're as about as excitingly sensual as my ex ma-in-law in a see through nightie.
As they say; ”You Meet The Nicest People On A Honda”
So it's a semi-auto gearbox, been around in cars/trucks for years but not in bikes. How is it bad news for motorcycling? If you don't like it don't buy one. You know what Honda are like, innovative if nothing else so fair play to them for offering riders something new. Not my kind of thing but could be VERY useful and useable for someone who has issues with hand/finger mobility.👍😀 Getting used to one of these and then stepping back onto a full manual could be interesting!😂
Just a bit of the old clickbait tbh with you 😁 it definitely won’t be for us but I’d like to give it a go. It’d definitely take some getting used to haha!
Funny how people like this shit on this but not things like quickshifters. This stuff has been around in atvs for decades.
@adamnagel7436 it's just Honda hate cultured from the youtube review industry.
Just got a '23 CB650R in matte grey instead of the '24. I think Honda ruined it with the "new" headlight and intakes
Great, enjoy your ride 👍🏼
I am not into rice bike but love this one ❤
Dear Darcy you looked stunningly Handsome on Honda 650🎉I liked your video
Thanks 😊
Is it better to get dedicated heated gloves, or get heated inner gloves that you can use under your favorite gloves? I can get inner gloves from work and was thinking I could use them while riding and save some cash.
I think these are great as they are also water proof, have plenty of warm linings as it is. And it’s all one package but I can understand the saving money aspect. You can of course get 10% off with my code. I’ve thought about getting liners before but I think with my gloves they would become too snug/tight with a liner added into the equation.
If they fit ..maybe it will work. I have some undergloves that just fit snug in my weather gloves, and those are not even heated. Can't imagine heated ones would fit
An interesting bike, but I'm hoping for the retro styled Honda using the new 750cc from the Transalp (I think the name GB750 has been mentioned) 🤔?
That 4 cylinder engine in this bike sounds very good though 😁
I hope so too!
It was a toss up up between this and the trident for me, i went for the trident but sometimes i wish id have brought this.
I’ve got the trident coming next month 😊
E-Clutch? What next? ... inflatable pillion passenger?
I’ve already got an inflatable girlfriend 😉
July 2024, care to comment?
Merry Christmas 🎉🎉🎉
Merry Christmas buddy!
Pretty sure you can’t put any slip on On that one. Has to be the whole line changed. Love your video though. Love that bike too
Heated gloves ok got a pair takes 6 to 8 weeks for delivery be OK for next winter
That’s a shame, mine didn’t take that long. Would be quicker for EU or US customers
😊😊its a lovely every day bike
would be lovely if they made a rebel version with this platform
Whats the fuel tank on this bike? Because we have a CB300R in india and its got a 9.7ltr fuel tank .very puny for a 300cc bike. So whats the fuel tank on this bike ?
15.4l 👍🏻
Honda CB300R is a great bike and underrated and not in much demand in the UK.
Does the new model come with the tech that's on the 2023 hornet? such as the driving modes (rain, normal, sport, user) and wheelie control?
Honda has a bad habit of discontinuing some truly great motorcycles. The ST1100 is an example
I have this bike
Can I have it ?
Lets talk to the eclutch now!
Great review I own a CBR 650r 2019 model…
Can you get bags for it? Would it be any good for touring?
@@martinrea8548 I’m not 100% sure and it doesn’t get the best gas mileage especially if you're heavy on the throttle so I would say wouldn't be the best for touring…
@@SimpleAsBDCs ok, thanks for that. 👍
@@martinrea8548 u welcome…
Where is the 2024 model???????
Wasn’t available at the time
do you know if the eclutch is a retrofit for the 23 CB1000R?
No I didn’t, very interesting
@@MrDarcy-OlMan i was asking not stating brother :)
@CrusaderGeneral my bad 😂🤦🏻♂️
No retrofit for any model. It's integrated with the engine.
Gonna be honest... I'm not a fan of the e-clutch and I really don't like DCT. Motorcycles are about feeling the machine.
This has a lot of character. Unreliable rusting royal enfields don’t have character
Hey man, any thoughts on the vibration of this bike?
Didn’t notice any issues with vibrations 😊
For some reason - this will always seem like a real Hornet to me. (The new Hornet is still great)
Sounds nice enough
I thought about this before i bought my guzzi, but its not a big bike though. I found it a bit cramped at 6.2 after a bit of a test ride. Buttery smooth, great gearbox..but i didnt connect with it. This is a good weekend blast, but thats about it
what is your height?
Pretty sure I said on the video. I am 6ft 1" 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan thanks man
How tall are you pls? Just to put bile dimensions into context
8:57
didnt get the "Is This the Beginning of the END" reference in title .. thought you were gonna mention the decline of Western Civ :)
We mean the start of technology becoming too much
just a genuine question. I'm not hating but what is the purpose of e-clutch??
Why can't honda just make an automatic bike?
Again I am at lost at this so please educate me, but as of now my mindset is putting an eclutch on a manual motorcycle, just lowkey makes it an automatic bike.
All to make the transition to electric!
Been searching everywhere for this! Subscribed, can't wait for more inspiration! °° "Success is a lifelong journey of self°°discovery."
I like the frontal styling of this bike but the seat/tail are awful. Why is it so arched up!? The front mudguard is really poor too. Honda seems to have actively chosen to make this bike less practical than it could have been, just bizarre. I'd really like a classic shape CB like the CB1100 was but with the 750 or 1100cc parallel twin engine but Honda seems to be afraid of making that!
Appreciate the English subs for international audience😉😉
How tall are you, just curious?
6ft 1"I do say in the video 😉
Hey thanks for the reply, how do you think someone who's 6'2" would fit on this bike and the CBR650R with a 30" inseam?@@MrDarcy-OlMan
@Gamebreaker08 should be absolutely fine, I’d recommend sitting on one and seeing how it feels
The electric gloves eh? - There are one or two jazz pianists who deserve that as a sentence : )
Definitely haha
where ur jacket from? :D
It is from Bikewear Direct 👍🏼
Here is the link: bikeweardirect.co.uk/products/motorcycle-leather-jacket-touring-motorbike-cafe-biker-with-genuine-ce-armour
@@MrDarcy-OlManthx