Honda CBR650F 2 year ownership review

[@user-rb3jw7yj9o]

What is it with those new to biking that talk about a 650cc 4 cylinder machine with decent power and torque (torque being the surge you feel when twisting the throttle) as if they are 50cc scooters. It's not a "beginner bike" whatever that is. I think it's crept in from the American view that motorcycle ownership is some sort of ladder that you have to climb to the top of to demonstrate your prowess. That's total bollox. Bottom line is that all bikes are fun and all bikes need respect, just enjoy the bike you have, get out, ride, hone your skills and love riding. That aside, nice to see the westcountry countryside and thanks for taking the time to make the video.

[@elusive-B]

I've actually watched this a few times and I really love your presentation delivery style.. it's relaxing and goes at the right pace it's also extremely informative in a very natural way. Great job mate..! I've had my CBR650F since August 2023 and I'm really pleased with it.. I had a CBR600F back in 2007 and thoroughly enjoyed that while I had it, then didn't ride a bike at all for a while so it was nice to get back on a mid range sports/tourer.😊😎👍🏾

[@Dee-xs5yy]

Great review I'm seriously debating one of these for my first big bike

[@willtaylor7467]

I got a used 2018 model about 2 months ago. Love it. I had an FZ6R before. The CBR has more power and looks was better. I also find it more comfortable

[@orlandoflores7720]

I'm getting ready to buy a used 2018 CBR and selling my FZ6R as well. How does the CBR handle compared to the FZ6R? Here's a link to my video if you want to check it out. Thanks! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rH-waZRqntSBb9U

[@jeanquadvandamage9211]

Thanks for taking the time to make your videos. I'm 54 and have wanted a bike since I was in my 20s, so it's been on my bucket list for a while. I just bought a new ZX-10R for myself and am looking for a nice used CBR650F to tool around on until I develop some good riding chops. I was looking at the Ninja 650, but your videos convinced me to look at the Honda instead.

[@MiddleagedRider]

The Ninja 650 is a good bike too, it's horses for courses. The Honda is the only inline 4 in that price and group of bikes which is one of the main reasons I bought it. Thanks for watching and keep safe especially on the 10R

[@TheCuteLittleDoggy]

@@MiddleagedRider I just bought a Ninja 650 for my 1st bike, Im halfway through doing my test, Im itching to ride it sooooo bad!!

[@jonmnelson]

As a middle-aged guy myself, I appreciate your perspective. There’s something about the sound of that inline 4 that I just love. It sounds almost jet-like to me. A 650 cc suits me fine. I have no need or desire for a crotch rocket. And Honda are known for building reliable products. Thank you for the review!

[@itstherealjammin]

I've just purchased a 2015 650f after a 10 year hiatus from riding which will be delivered in 2 days and I cannot wait 👍

[@AlexRye-sv6no]

Do you still have it?

[@abhimalavalli]

Spot on review mate, I ride a 2014 CBR650F since 2014, over time I do get bored of a few things and wanting to upgrade but so many good reasons to still love this bike and this video is a good reminder of just that. I felt similar to how to said it, the fist time I rode it upgrading from a VTR250, I thought I was a pilot lol. Thanks for the detailed review.

[@oliw3664]

Nice to see a review of a bike I fancy for my first big bike on my own commuting route!

[@WhyteBoyy]

This is actually a great review!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks

[@williamse.barreras.2325]

I have watched many motorcycles videos in the last 3 days and look like same 54 people are clicking like to many of these videos, 55 including me 😂😂

[@williamroche2869]

Nice one I am actully going to buy one a 2018 on Sunday with only 5000km on it in red this video has said yes go and buy it well done decent video thanks

[@hessel3937]

nice review... 2 things, i changed the seat on my blade for a honda optional comfort seat wich changed the comfort level completely. i can now ride all day instead of a few hours before my arse starts protesting. i bought mine used off off ebay in perfect condition.(u dont wanna buy them new as they will cost around 450 euro) they pop every now and then on ebay so just keep an eye out if you want one. another thing, if your thinking allroad/adv bike do not forget to have a go on a vstrom 1000. i am currently test riding/checking out different allroads (i wanna buy one this fall/winter) and the africa twin was (still is) very high on my option list but recently i rode the new vstrom 1000 and i must admit they are way better value for money and similar ride on the road. the AT will be somewhat better suited for offroad but i will never go beyond a gravel road anyway. build quality is no issue with suzuki and similar to honda (i had several suzys before) and its a fact that optional bits/parts are way cheaper when u have a suzy. so u might wanna check that out and look beyond honda.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks. Want to try a BMW S1000XR. I sat on a VStrom (650 and 1000) at a bike show last year. Really didn't like them I'm afraid. I've got some videos to come in the future of what I thought riding both the Africa Twin and the Crosstourer....watch this space!

[@hessel3937]

Middleaged Rider look forward to it and i will.... I never buy a bmw again.i did once and never had so much shit with a bike before.....over prised for the poor quality u get i guess...

[@Andy1989]

Just watched you pretty much ride my commute to work . Actually pretty cool to see a bike I’m looking at buying do my commute.

[@drsutton2]

I went with the CB650F...love it

[@MiddleagedRider]

Yes, I test rode the CB650F just before buying the CBR. Wanted the full fairing and sportsbike look. Either way, both great bikes

[@basiljones4322]

Great video! I’m doing my licence and I’ll get a CBR650F for a first bike!

[@ptimson_]

Basil Jones Just done the same 👍🏻

[@MiddleagedRider]

Have fun!

[@seanadamson280]

Great review brother 👍

[@speedtriple213]

I also wanted a CB650X, and when I asked at the Honda stand at the NEC Live show, they said they wouldn't make it. The reason being they already have the NC750X and the VFR800X. I said that I didn't want a 54bhp commuter or an overly complicated and expensive to maintain V4, but the 90bhp 650 in an 'adventure' package would be just right. Still no, I think Honda are making a mistake there!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Sorry for the delay in replying...Couldn't agree more and my dealer agrees too, but I asked again at the NEC this year and Honda UK have no plans sadly.

[@mgml]

Got a 2018 CBR650F two months ago, your video just about sums it up pretty spot on. Which mirror extenders did you get? I've had a few bikes with poor rear mirror vision but the 650F is maybe the worst.

[@Nmohawk21]

I have a 2017 R3 right now and so looking to upgrade to this bike!

[@omegapsi847]

hey man, how long did you ride the r3?

[@Nmohawk21]

Close to 10 months

[@MiddleagedRider]

Sorry for the delay in replying...Have a decent test ride and get a good feel for it.

[@jwisten]

hey a bit late maybe, but how tall are you? wondering since im thinking of getting one

[@X-DIABLO-86]

What do you think about buying kawasaki z900 over cbr 650 f 2017 ? i am planning to buy a machine . please advice , Thank you.

[@CaffeineFreak13]

What do you want out of your bike? How much experience do you have? You need to be asking a wider range of questions cus obviously they are completely different bikes

[@Zyborch]

Great review - I had my CBR 650 F for just one season now and having a great time - and I'm also looking for some mirror extenders - whre did you get yours?

[@MiddleagedRider]

SW Motec

[@onwilson2]

Thanks for the video. How are your wrists after an hour or so of riding?

[@MiddleagedRider]

They're fine. Start to feel it a little after a couple of hours, but nothing major. Thanks for watching.

[@ashleyvespa2556]

Don’t majority of bikes have cruise control where you twist a knob by the throttle to tighten it ??

[@CaffeineFreak13]

@@ashleyvespa2556 where did you get that fairytale of misinformation?? bikes with cruise control from the manufacturer are usually bigger tourers as they are meant for long rides, and its a button similar to one you find in a car, not some trinket added on like an afterthought. Majority of bikes DONT come with cruise control

[@nathanlees5438]

Where did you get your mirror extenders from? I can’t see cars behind me or a lot of the road so really in need of them lol

[@lizsinclair2639]

Great review

[@Richz2]

Have you ridden the Honda CBR 600f of similar age? be interested to know how they compare.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Yes I had a very brief go on a friends one a couple of years ago. Very different. Firstly the 600F has more power and the delivery is far more traditional inline 4. A noticeable kick of power once you get up in the top of the rev range. Handling and brakes very similar. Also similar in riding position. Best way I can imagine it - a bit more sports than the 650F but less sports than the 600RR. Thanks for watching

[@Richz2]

Thanks for the info.

[@omegapsi847]

yo Rider, nice review! So would you recommend overall getting this bike as a beginner? My situation is, I got my driver license a couple of years ago (on a bmw gs with 70hp) and I have never ridden a bike except those 20hours on the bmw for my drivers license. I am quite tall (6 foot 2) and for me it is very important that I cant stretch out my legs when I stand still on the bike. Allthough I am more of a modest type (starting with low hp), I do not like the ergonomics of all smaller bikes, I only seem to find them on bikes 70hp plus (I do not count other bikes than supersport). And this is basically the only thing I worry on the 650f, the 90hp. But so far, most people I talked to told me that you can handle this bike even if it is your very first one. What do you think? Many thanks and safe ride man!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Sorry for the delay in replying...Have a look at this video where I talk about riding this as a beginner kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZbZfoVsgZWdaJY Just remember that any sportsbike will feel cramped compared with a GS!!!!

[@omegapsi847]

yo thx, I watched your whole recommended video! makes me more comfortable to actually get the 650 as my first bike in a couple of weeks. thanks!

[@MiddleagedRider]

omegapsi847 glad it was helpful. I would really recommend having a test ride and getting a feel for it. I didn't ride this until my bike was delivered but had a go on the CB650 naked which gave me a good feel for the engine and the power etc

[@robbieracer3294]

If it was a savings a 600-700 dollars, would you take this or the Ninja 650?

[@MiddleagedRider]

Couldn't really say as I've not ridden the Ninja 650 but the key difference for me would be the inline 4 of the Honda to the parallel twin of the Ninja

[@lr937]

ROBBIE RACER honda,all day long

[@CaffeineFreak13]

Right now im between this and the vfr800. I havent ridden either one yet but ive sat on them both and the 650 has a slightly more comfortable riding position as well as a plush seat. Im wondering if the extra cost, torque and weight from the vfr is worth it cus the hp and top speed is the same as the 650f

[@MiddleagedRider]

I've never ridden a VFR800, but from others I know, you will definitely notice the extra grunt of the VFR. Bikes are not all about top speeds and bhp figures. How a bike delivers it's power, how it rides etc are just as important. The VFR (I'm told) has an appreciable change in power as the VTEC kicks in. To give you an example my Crosstouer "only" has 125 bhp but has more torque than my Fireblade. The Blade has to be worked in the upper rev range to get the best from it. The CT is best short shifting, riding the torque. Very different styles of riding. Neither is better or worse, just different. My best advice is to try both and see what you prefer. Make sure the characteristics of the bike suit your style of riding.

[@Shahinc0]

Hi im owner Honda CB650 2015 now 20.000 miles. im using every day in city (London traffic) one tank petrol 16 - 17 lt nearly 165 +- 2 miles after change air filter K&N now 180 miles i saw. this weekend i will check London - Silverstone test i think in a one tank petrol i would like to see 200miles and little bit more :) last question what type oil you are using ? Semi or Full Synthetic ? Thanks

[@MiddleagedRider]

On a gentle ride including lots of motorway riding I can squeeze 180-190 out of a tank. Urban riding closer to 150 ish. Think you'll struggle to get over 200 unless its constant speed sat at about 55mph all the way!!! Oil - Whatever the Honda dealer puts in which according to my bill is Semi Synthetic

[@peterfromdenmark1]

Hey, man. would you say a new rider with only a little dirt bike experience could start on a Honda CBR650F?

[@MiddleagedRider]

Yes. It's ideal. Nice and easy to ride and with enough power to keep you interested when you get more experienced. You just have to have self control, get used to it and remember the throttle works both ways!! Keep safe

[@roodog4327]

im having a hard time deciding for a first bike between the honda rebel 500 (cmx 500 in Australia) or the naked honda 500 or 650 or the kawasaki z650 . any suggestions ?

[@adamschannel8685]

get nothing less than a 650 for lams. you will be over anything weakerin power within weeks. I'd say go with Honda. trusted, reliable and if need be, easy to get parts.

[@roodog4327]

adamschannel thanks for the reply. I actually very nearly bought a cb650f on the way home from work haha

[@adamschannel8685]

+Roo Dog well good! also if you're gonna be JUST comminting in town get the cb, but if you're gonna be on the highway and twisties definitely get the cbr. you need the wind protection on highways and twisties so you don't get so tired.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Really depends on what you want from your riding. Naked for twisty blasts and town commuting. A faired bike if you're going to be on motorways and fast A roads in my view. My first bike was a 650 and I'm glad I went for that instead of a 500. The 500 would've been great for 6 months but after that I wanted more power. The 650 allowed me to ride it like a 500 to begin with and then use the extra power as my confidence and riding skills grew. The big thing with that though is you MUST have the self restraint to not use the power before you're ready as a rider to do so or you WILL end up spitting it down the road! Thanks for watching.

[@tamiandedwinramos2092]

That is a hard choice that you have. The CBR650F is a Sport Tour motorcycle in my opinion. It has adequate power and you may ride it for hours without getting tired. The new Rebel 500 is perfect if you are going to be riding in a urban/ city environment. The power is perfect and so is the price. But the CBR650F is a bike that you will more than likely keep it for a while.

[@INSPIRETECHNO]

Can u tell me if i can shave seat on cbr650f i m little bit short and planning to buy it. Does seat have lot of foam in it or not?

[@MiddleagedRider]

It's reasonably well padded. I know you can buy custom seats which might be your best bet. Thanks for watching.

[@INSPIRETECHNO]

Middleaged Rider thanks for giving advice and i have subscribed

[@kingjpeg]

Had mine a couple.of months and love it.... except for the seat, God damn is it hard

[@MiddleagedRider]

You're the second person to have mentioned the hard seat, but I just don't notice that. If I'm honest I think it's pretty well padded and comfy, far more so than my Fireblade which is harder, but not in itself uncomfortable either. I can genuinely ride the 650 all day just stopping for fuel stops/lunch etc and the seat is not an issue.

[@kingjpeg]

That really good man, yea I can imagine the blade being a lot harder. I find with the 650 after about 2 hours my back side goes to sleep on me so I end up needing a break. Thinking about getting the bagster replacement seat

[@simonwernerisaksen]

How does the Double H pads wear on the brake discs?

[@MiddleagedRider]

Didn't notice any more wear on discs than with original pads

[@simonwernerisaksen]

@@MiddleagedRider I just replaced my front pads with EBC HH. I guess i Will find it out myself. Thanks for the response.

[@mohmayaboy]

Nice review, try to avoid the wind noise for better video experience.

[@DJMD32]

I never got the blurring the speedo... Cant the ass clowns who care about that figure your speed by calculating the time it takes you to pass any standardized spaced items, like say, a multitude of dashes?

[@MiddleagedRider]

Perhaps, if they really wanted to. Who's to say how much the film has been edited though. Slam dunk with the figures in front of you, better than making it too easy though!! Thanks for watching

[@jackruk]

Are you Boycie? Lol you sound so alike him dude

[@MiddleagedRider]

"Marlene".... lol

[@3406Accert]

Such a waste of time especially riding on the wrong side of any road. And the wind noise is So British annoying.