Honda has showcased the new CBR650F at the 2017 Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand. We expect it to be launched in India in the second half of this year as a locally assembled model.
The new Honda CBR650F might not look any different on the surface, but under the skin is a more powerful version of the 649cc inline four engine. The power output has been increased by 4bhp to a powerful 90bhp now, while peak torque figure stands at 64Nm. It gets shorter air intake funnels, and dual-pass internal structure in the muffler to reduce back pressure. Even the gear ratios have been revised to improve acceleration. The CBR650F rides on updated 41mm Showa front forks. Even the Nissin brake callipers have been revised to improve stopping power. Apart from new paint schemes, the CBR650F also benefits from LED headlamps.
It is worth noting that Honda dealerships have been offering cashback on the 2016-manufactured models of the CBR650F. This could have been an attempt at clearing existing stock of the motorcycle ahead of the 2017 model’s launch. While the CBR650F impressed us with its versatility, the high price tag was the Achilles heel of the motorcycle. However, now with discounts of up to Rs 1 lakh, the CBR650F sounds like a really sweet deal. The 2017 CBR650F will be launched here, a locally assembled model like its predecessor, though we can expect it to be more expensive at Rs 8 lakh.
