EICMA 2023: New Honda CBR650R & CB650R Unveiled

At the 2023 EICMA motorcycle show in Italy, Honda showcased the updated version of the CBR650R and the CB650R. Both these motorcycles are already on sale in India and the updated models are likely to make their way to our shores next year.

The highlight upgrade is the inclusion of the E-Clutch system that eliminates the use of a clutch to shift gears. The principle is similar to that of a quickshifter, but where this new system is different is that the rider doesn’t need to use the clutch to go into neutral or while riding away from a standstill. The E-Clutch system will be offered as an option initially, a tactic used by Honda in the past when it had introduced the DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).

There are cosmetic updates on both the bikes with the CB650R featuring a raked LED headlight and redesigned radiator cover and tail section. The CBR650R on the other hand receives a restyled fairing, headlight, seat and rear section.

On the features end both the Honda motorcycles now come equipped with a TFT instrument console with connected features via the Honda RoadSync app. Powering the motorcycles is the same 649 cc, four-pot engine delivering 92 bhp at 12,000 rpm. Even the underpinnings have been carried forward from the older bike.