HONDA | CB650R | THE VERDICT | 2021

[@GertrudeGrindhorn]

Sir, I found that reducing tyre pressures by just 4-5 psi makes a huge difference as to how the non-adjustable front suspension feels. I had eyeball-jarring problems when I first got my bike. After almost wanting to sell it, I realised just a small reduction in front/rear pressures can make a big difference. Dave Moss Tuning informed me that 'manufacturers recommended pressures' are just a starting point. If one feels it's necessary, one should experiment with tyre pressures...it makes a big difference.

[@olaokolaok]

What's the cb 650 r tyre pressure requires, taking into account the reduction you tried? Just bought this bike.

[@markgillett1472]

@@olaokolaokHello SIr, well, nowadays I tend to run 32 - 36 psi on front and back..perhaps slightly higher on the back tyre than on the front. I find anything in that range is just fine. When I picked up the bike a couple of years ago, the tyres were at maximum 42 psi pressure, which I thought was 'necessary', but it is really a preference between a 'softer' ride, or a harder one..depending on how you ride, it's your choice really. For me, maximum pressure of 42 psi was far too hard, and gave a jarring ride, so I looked at a few YT videos, and found out that as long as the tyre profile on the road is correct, anything from 32 - 38 psi at a rough guess is fine. Of course, make sure you don't run the tyres too hard or too soft either, and read the pressure limits embossed into the tyre wall. I love my CB650, it's a fine bike. Try out a few tyre pressures and see what you like best :)

[@The.JZA.]

I agree with you about the quick shifter. It definitely brings the bike to life. I wish that Honda would give this bike a ride by wire throttle so that they can add an auto-blipping downshift as well but given that they just updated this bike and it has that stupid E-clutch and a cable throttle, I assume we won't be getting RBW and QS up and down any time soon.

[@hermitmonk52]

Had mine since early last month and I agree with pretty much everything you said. This review is the one I would direct anyone to to get a real feel for the bike. I think its a fabulous bike, I never expected it to be so good. Thanks.

[@peterroda4181]

I have been noticing many reviews of the cb650r lately and have noticed the same opinions as yours. I have had mine for a year and use it as my daily bike. After 16000 kms, it has been perfect. I am an older rider and enjoy its smoothness and predictability. I enjoy your reviews and I am glad that you liked it as much as I do.

[@samwhatley2834]

Hey Peter - I am taking my A license and considering bikes and this one keeps coming up. My main use case is in and around town (Bath) - I am looking at this and the little light 1-pot husqvarna. Is this a usable bike to pop in and out of town with (traffic, filtering, handling into spaces etc). I'm a solid 5'8" at 80kg so not expecting to have too much trouble manhandling but wondered how you find it

[@WilliamAndrewPhilipBodie]

I most say your communication skills are off the charts. when you drive and tell. i feel like i'm driving the bike. Bravo :_:

[@Mrfish2015]

Thanks bud

[@WilliamAndrewPhilipBodie]

@@Mrfish2015 No need for that. i'm thankful for your time and efforts :_:

[@MrAndrew1953]

It’s winter here in Melbourne, Australia which is the main reason I put a bikini fairing on my CB500F. It makes all the difference. It has all the performance I need. The 650 would cost me a lot more to run and get me into a lot more trouble. We are in a snap-Lockdown 4 for at least 7 days, possibly more- can’t go anymore than 5kays from home. Those people on pushies all deserve medals, so brave. Yamaha Tracer 9GT with a fairing, hand covers,heated seat, grips.

[@altypeRR]

The tail since release in 2019 has always been a bit too big. It’s those silly rules about the number plate being behind the rear wheel. The J-tech tail tidy I think is the best replacement. I have one on my CBR650R and it’s a huge improvement.

[@oliverk6449]

@26:45 it sounds like your describing the Triumph tiger Sport 660 😉

[@GertrudeGrindhorn]

I also watch EnglishBiker Dan, the Missenden Flyer, an other UK reviewers. I am somewhat amazed none of these reviewers talk about tyres, and tyre pressures. I am absolutely no expert, and know nothing about tyre choices..I trust the original bike manufacturer to keep me safe. However...I don't think there is enough spoken about tyre pressures...as if it 'does not matter'. On my new Honda CB650R....on the poorly maintained roads I ride on in Asia...adjusting (reducing) the pressures a little bit made a huge difference to my riding experience.

[@Mrfish2015]

It’s probably because tyre recommendations are different for different people and conditions , the only time I mention tyres are in my off road stuff , also depends on temperature so it’s best to go with what’s written on the tyre as a base set up then adjust to your needs if someone says something on here and it’s completely wrong for someone watching that wouldn’t be a wise thing I’ll only mention how they feel with what I get and I always run at manufacturers pressures for the reviews .. hope that makes some sense

[@Jose1maneZ]

MAAANNN!!! hit on the nail here - 30:52 THE FLOW thing is exactly why I started riding again after a break of 10 years... Such a blast when your in this flow state Great video 👍

[@Dan_B_Rides]

I think the red looks pretty good on any Honda but have you seen the Glemseck CB650 at Doble's? Looks pretty cool to be honest

[@deepjoyrides]

I like the beeline. I'll put that on my wishlist for my Speed Triple. Another great vid & great to see you getting out more. ✊🐟

[@243063]

I love the smell of the honda inlines engine when they get hot

[@andrewraw9286]

I've had one of these since 2019, lovely bike although is still get a numb bum after an hours or so when i'm riding in jeans

[@cliveomahoney4096]

Thanks for the review. I got my CB after watching your vid in 2019. Love the bike hate the dash. Did you find any difference between the 19 and the latest? It's supposed to be more assured at the front end.

[@davideccles1617]

Glad I have found you Mr Fish I was getting totally bored with TMF, excellent review really enjoyed it.

[@ram64man]

I look at this and it really reminds me of the 90s cb500 sure it’s got a parallel 4 and extra disks but give it that old school green paint and it would be a modern clone , god I miss that bike,

[@brucecruz30]

Appreciate your review. You really covered everything I could've thought off. Looking to upgrade from my 2014 CB500F

[@fighterrr1211]

24 miles per hour average speed is sign of responsible rider ❤❤

[@iklodyp]

Hey man! Just found your channel through this Honda CB650R ride & review, great content! I was wondering if you ever tried the Honda CB300R? I'm asking because I’m watching videos to find out about what should be the first bike I own. And even though I wouldn't mind starting on a 300cc bike in this economy I feel like selling it would be nearly impossible in order to upgrade. I wonder what’s your opinion about getting a Honda CB650R as a first bike. Pricier for sure, but I don't want to buy another one in a few years and it appears to me that the CB650R might be a good choice being a beginner as well as long term ownership, and that in line 4 sound... I'm in love with it. It has amazing reviews, haven’t heard anything bad about it so far (maybe that it's not that snappy with the throttle but I'm not an agressive driver anyway) everyone who rides it loves it. Do you think it works well as a beginner bike for a responsible rider? I would use it for city and longer trips as well. Thank you in advance! Have a good one!

[@bfarm44]

Others who have tail tidied this up found the space under the seat got flooded and their back covered in muck. As much as I dislike it I’d rather pass on the other two options. At least in the states we don’t have a yellow pizza box for a reg plate, might help

[@peterbeston6511]

Hey Mr Fish, for ergos or comfort do you think the CB650R or XSR700 is better at 6' 2"?

[@Dan_B_Rides]

Nice video Mr Fish. I do love that bike and Iam struggling to choose between that and the CBR650R. I love them both! Buy both? Ha ha great to see you out and about in the dry’ish weather. Hopefully it will be more sun from now on 👍🏻

[@kleinbottled79]

Don't envy you having to make that choice TBH. They are both great looking in their respective styles.

[@Dan_B_Rides]

@@kleinbottled79 yeah they are great looking and practical to ride. I just cannot make my mind up. My mind is swinging towards the CB but will I miss the fairings? Don’t know ha ha

[@Dan_B_Rides]

@En Dos Ruedas UK Hi Ray, thanks for your comments. How have you found the handling? Is it ok in the twists? How’s the dash? I’ve heard that it’s too dim and you cannot see the numbers. I’ve seen the 2021 has a little bit brighter screen. I still love the CB so Iam thinking to get a 2019 model as they are a good price, is the 2021 really worth the extra cash? Iam new to riding to it might not even make a difference to me ha ha 👍🏻

[@captainaverage721]

@@Dan_B_Rides Handling is absolutely street's ahead of the other competitors(with the exception of the Trident) front end is planted and damping and rebound is progressive and smooth. Rear shock only adjustable for rebound but thats fine by me at 12 st. Great bike ive came off an MT 07 and Triumph Bonnie and the Honda is superior in all respects

[@Dan_B_Rides]

@@captainaverage721 thank you for your reply. Are you riding the 2021 model or 2019/2020? I do love the bike and just want to make sure I get the one that is right for me 👍🏻

[@antoniopasquale8098]

Great story,love your humour and great review.Pick my new 2021 cb650r tomorrow.Only thing I’m 6ft tall and 95kg ,what do you think my friend?👍

[@YBGuy]

I love that steel blue color.

[@jbean530]

If you like the fairing, maybe you can review the gold wing?

[@unnf9971]

My hearth ackes for this steel steed. I am pretty much fell in love with it since the frist time I laid eyes upon it. Superb video, Thank you!

[@daveinwla6360]

Average fuel efficiency would be important for both an "Everyday" bike and an "Adventure/Sport Tourer". So what fuel efficiencies did you see?

[@233kosta]

The garage review segment was showing just over 60mpg over the last 70-odd miles (it runs off the trip A counter). Not bad if it's true, but I'm not sure how much I trust these built-in meters. Best way is to manually verify and scale accordingly.

[@moodycow2482]

I have just traded after having it for a month Rebel 500 for CB650R I was driving CB on training, don’t ask me why I choose Rebel as first, but now am on CB and am happy of the choice I made. Still some doubts on back of the head but hey ho. Love the vid keep going

[@jeffb9586]

Pillion straps ! Thank you !! "did you read the manual"?!

[@Mrfish2015]

I didn't

[@hhuodod2209]

Lol I've taken a grom on the motorway, did Cornwall to Manchester. It's ok just stay in slow lane.

[@Mrfish2015]

And brave 😂

[@hhuodod2209]

@@Mrfish2015 I'd say foolhardy x

[@davidread2198]

Love your vids you make me laugh with your jokes 😂👍

[@ribalderr6052]

poor brits all the rain an those narrow hedge lined roads. looking hard at this bike, but like 2k more than the yamy 700!. ?.

[@saishyamnilgiri1]

Please don't apologise for your garage!! I love British!

[@raymondo162]

you dislike the ally / black on the footrests, but the whole thing is a mess: gold forks; dark bronze wheels; light bronze engine cases; brushed ally airboxes............ all topped off with a bright yellow spring. cheese n rice

[@pggp273]

It's all subjective some people will moan about anything

[@gainsucker]

Someday i’ll get this bike! Great review m8

[@b3r15ky]

Hello, Do you recommend this as a beginner bike over the MT03?

[@k8for]

Moto Fantastica ne ho una , da due anni , Fantastica moto !!

[@233kosta]

Anyone riding a naked really should be using earplugs. Anything over 80dB will cause cumulative damage and no helmet is that quiet at higher speeds. The only compromise I make is my daily commute, where my highest speed is 40mph (for half a mile). Even that is uncomfortable when it's windy. Anything higher than that speed and it gets loud enough to pose a risk, even with a Neotec 2.

[@akshatsaxena4051]

Does it have a type c port under the seat? Honda Does advertise that and idk if I'll be getting that feature on mine here in India as standard

[@Slayback2102]

The 2021 model has a type c port as standard.

[@Nick-Emery]

I’m really torn between this and the trident 660

[@bfarm44]

For a second there I thought you were unhappy with your helmet

[@davideccles1617]

Excellent bike just ordered one.

[@austonboston4361]

I'd be a little concerned with blasting down those roads with all the trees on either side. Wildlife can appear at any time

[@TheSweetasanut]

Love your vlogs

[@tatatade]

I like your motorcycle,super cool I feel,I also sent LIKE👍 I know, We are HONDA lover

[@sebastianmigasiewicz2582]

I’m looking for only bike for me and I’m torn between cb650r and cb500 . Love cb650r for smile on my face and cb500x for practicality and comfort. Please help my choose😀😀

[@Scott-ri2ek]

500x can be a bit boring. Sold mine for something with a little more pep

[@0Turbox]

Sounds like our German summer this year.....

[@brentbradley6711]

I still don't know what it looks like. I only saw bits and pieces.

[@Mrfish2015]

Sorry about that , looks the same as my original review

[@davidatherton8264]

Like the medium joke lol 😂

[@paulhorton5594]

Was it more comfortable than the CB1000R

[@mv_biker1450]

These bike is similar to a Cb1000r very comfortable to ride. Ride safe

[@digger8180]

Class👍🏻

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Sound like an actual Aussie. 🤣 Not really, nice try tho. Great review of a great bike. However Australia decided to only import the A2 version only. The only way around it is the have the ECU flashed and air inlets replaced with the non-restricted ones. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@TheSweetasanut]

What is the name of that sat nav your using

[@ne21]

type into google beeline satnav. I've got one, it's a pretty good direction pointer.

[@TheSweetasanut]

Thank you

[@Wajang1]

Fish complaining about the water.... Nice bad weather review. What is that navigation?

[@richarddevaottien7724]

Next ride, . . .an Ambulance 😄

[@udaykirangdr]

👍 From India I just booked my CB650R at the dealership and I forgot to ask them if there's a USB port under the seat. Some reviewers mentioned it's there but is it there?

[@Robalansson]

USB-C port is under the seat on the 21 models onwards

[@danielsaid2042]

does it have very stiff suspension?

[@paulhillbrick9376]

Yes at front if you under 80kg

[@mahdavimail]

Your roads are scary narrow, I don’t believe this is UK!! Lol

[@Mrfish2015]

Ha ha , some are crazy and 60mph too

[@ivarsmatisons]

Cool

[@ivarsmatisons]

Interesanti interesanti

[@yasseralsaidi1168]

It’s double standard s

[@budgrinder357]

I got 4k on my 2019 now and to be honest this bike is as annoying as is fun, it lacks torque, definitely buzzy, knee's are too high, finicky throttle response, poor display, and no windshield

[@robertbieganski8143]

I agree with you in some points...one day I love it another day I hate...))life

[@johntheaccountant5594]

BudGrinder: I think most people would realise it doesn't have a wind shield when one bought it.

[@budgrinder357]

ok after 2 years riding I did sell my bike and would definitly retract alll my statements except poor display I've now had three other bikes, Harley yamaha fjr , and z900rs and by far the Honda shifts smoother and brakes are the best

[@johntheaccountant5594]

@@budgrinder357 What is the Kawasaki Z900RS in comparison to the CB650R? Is the Z900RS better? If you had the choice today, which would you buy?

[@budgrinder357]

@@johntheaccountant5594 the z900rs has more torque at lower rpm but the top speed and 1/4 mi are pretty much the same the z is better on the hwy little more weight I believe but overalll the Honda is a more refined daily city ride I only bought the zed cause I thought it looked cooler not sure if I agree with that anymore not a fan of the fat tank and the Honda ergo was better to be honest the fjr was by far the best ride but I find it ugly. so if it was up to the two id keep the Honda the extra torque didn't make up for the ergos next bike will probably triumph tiger want to try dual sport

[@williampowell15]

Bike is....ok I guess.

[@antoniopasquale8098]

Aussie oi oi oi 🤣🤣🤣

[@mt-nv4jd]

"The gods?" Is that what you believe, or an attempt at humor?

[@Mrfish2015]

I don’t know what you mean , so I’ll go with the humour thing

[@lancethrustworthy]

You don't 'film' anywhere. You shoot, or you video.

[@Wayneebrum]

Nice vid if you like a man telling you about how it's raining.Get a grip your in England it's not rare!