Yamaha MT-07 vs Honda CB650R: The Best Used Beginner Motorcycle?

[@romen3]

Honda CB650R is such a smooth bike and feels very robust and refined. Very easy to handle and very easy to corner. Also the looks are way more premium.

[@cripticdestiny]

more expensive too

[@temperspace]

I've had both, second hand. Got a great deal from a guy who rode it 2 hrs to get it to me. The cb650r feels does feel much more robust and well built.. i had to get used to pressing buttons harder and stomping on the shifter lol

[@Harro99]

I've ridden both when taking motorcycle lessons. You are right about the CB650R being very smooth, and the built quality is amazing. However, I feel the engine is just gutless compared to the MT07. Looks wise I would pick the 650R, no doubt about that.

[@queenslander954]

Boring

[@davidwilkie6302]

Wot is the top speed on it pls

[@TypicallyUniqueOfficial]

I just love how the CB650r looks. The inline 4 alone takes the win over the Yamaha, for me. Not having sit on both bikes, I'd also assume the Honda is crazy comfortable

[@veganism_is_superior]

the Inline 4 was the argument to not buy this bike. no punch at all

[@TB-wo8gc]

​@@veganism_is_superiorhe literally gave a point to Honda for the sound

[@bobaIina]

@@TB-wo8gcnot much sound until you get a full exhaust

[@rogerp4612]

You're not a beginner or anywhere close. The punchy and wheely-happy nature of the MT07 is ill-suited to a newer rider just getting a handle on consistent throttle control. They are WAY more likely to get themselves into sloppy throttle trouble on the MT07 than they are on the CB650R.

[@michaelhayward7572]

Yabbutt, a Honda Beige could put someone off motorcycling for life or a lifelong eternity of in line 4's....

[@Theo-hx3wt]

Light is right ! If you're beginner the less weight the better for me. That's why i have a Svartpilen 401 (150kg)

[@rogerp4612]

@@Theo-hx3wt that's hardly the only factor. Or even the most important. A newer rider will more easily handle the weight of the Honda than bucking bronco throttle of the MT. The Svartpilen isn't a point of comparison here. And a single cylinder 390cc bike is a different class alltogether.

[@Theo-hx3wt]

@@rogerp4612 Well i've ride a MT07 before and even if it's punchy, it's still easy to ride. And in Europe you'll have only 47hp (58nm) the first 2 years of your license

[@rogerp4612]

@@Theo-hx3wt the 47 hp restriction doesn't apply for the purpose of this comparison. And this is a comparison, so even if you believe the MT07 to be easy to ride for a beginner (highly debatable), I would suggest that the smooth throttle and linear response of the CB makes it easiER to ride. I have ridden both. Also, the superior suspension on the Honda makes the bike feel much more stable and planted in corners, particularly when unexpected bumps are encountered. Rather a significant plus for a beginner, I should think.

[@JH-zt5ni]

Just ordered a CB650R and can’t wait. Trading in a Ducati scrambler after a year of ownership I’m looking forward to a smooth 4 cylinder again. There are only so many hours of being shaken around by the duke, as much as I’ve lived it I can’t wait for the Honda!!

[@boris2997]

Had my MT07 for 2 years and have no plans to upgrade any time soon. I love my MT07,

[@cosmic_gate476]

It's a decent forever bike, especially if you're also a car enthusiast and have both

[@Microphunktv-jb3kj]

also newer models are def improved as well...

[@bbckx2340]

As a beginner and owner of a cbr650r I guess you know what my choice was. Even after doing my licence and lessons on a mt07. The good thing about being a new rider is that the power delivery on the Honda is always fun. So as a newby you don't need to go to 10k rpm to have fun 😁

[@sailor81]

After owning a Yamaha MT for the last 8 or so months I can't see myself getting another for a while. No complaints about the drive train at all, the problem is in the finish of the body. I've had one of the panels below my tank crack from general use, didn't get rough with it at all it's simply thin plastic. The paint is pretty thin in most places and the porous finish on the wheels is a PITA to get completely clean. Fun bikes, but as a daily ride they don't fit the bill for me.

[@cubax599]

Loved the Mt07, that raucous twin wins over the Honda 4, only gripe is the size, at 6ft the MT just felt too small. Oh and Screw Your 'riding modes' useless gimmick :)

[@mtmatt8958]

Wrap it!

[@boomblab23]

​@@mtmatt8958would only last max 2 years before it starts to deteriorate

[@RedlineRossi]

I've had the pleasure of owning both of these for the last couple of years and for me the honda is a clear winner in almost every aspect, and I actually think the engine is more rewarding when the power comes in later. For me, the twin cylinder engine on the mt07 (although very torquey & fun) feels very lumpy and agricultural in comparison, and the gearbox feels clunky and stiff, almost like it's gonna break on me, whereas the honda's is like butter in comparison. But I don't think the quickshifter on the honda comes as standard though, bob. The only thing I would port over to honda from the mt07 is the weight. It is way more flickable and easier to ride for a newbie than the honda. Reliability wise, I have had some things go wrong with the mt07. Nothing too serious, just niggly little things. Some corrosion here and there, some weird rattling sounds and loose parts. Just recently, the "check engine light" has come on. Still starts and rides fine though. The honda by comparison hasn't missed a beat.

[@DaBudaa1]

I'd go for the CB650R, just because of the smoother inline-4.

[@centripetal25]

Right? It makes no sense why you would go for less cylinders for similar price. More cylinders = smoother. This is well established in the automotive realm. Not sure why its always treated as if its not a significant benefit in motorcycles. Though I appreciate some ppl enjoy that extra rumble and harshness as a flavor.

[@Conqueefstador]

@@centripetal25 yeah that’s pretty much why people love the mt07. Vtwin torque with lots of character. Has a great deep sound with an exhaust also… if I ONLY had an option for those two bikes, then I’d choose the cbr, but since I currently have a gsxr 750… I wouldn’t want a similar engine on my naked bike. Id want a different, more ‘fun’ bike

[@xpusostomos]

​@@centripetal25more cylinders is smoother but less torque down low.

[@centripetal25]

@@xpusostomos for equal displacement yes. But nothing a 1000cc 4 cylinder can't do that a 700cc 3 cylinder can. Mostly just bore/stroke/tuning. You sacrifice a lot of upper end power and max rpm by having a high cc low cylinder count engine.

[@xpusostomos]

@@centripetal25 nothing a 1000cc 4 cylinder can do that a 7 litre 3 cylinder can't.

[@TheMrdrayerr]

Don't pick an inline4 and a paralel twin and then choose the twin because of the high torque down low. Which is also a weird because this is a beginner video and a smooth power curve should be better for beginners. But I guess the first thing you want to learn as a beginner is wheelies I guess.

[@ksgod1929]

I tottaly agree with your review. if you spend an extra 1k on an exhaust system the mt07 spits flames easily and the sound goes wild. Still I'll go for the cb650 as I just want a safer bike to chill after work and some weekends 🙂

[@jay__chugh]

It’s clear a lot of people posting comments have never rode either of the bikes. I’ve never rode the Honda, but I did buy a 2018 MT-07 as a first bike with no prior riding experience besides the 2 days from my msf course. The mt-07 is perfectly fine and not rough at all. If you know how to operate a motorcycle then you will be fine on the mt. There’s no bucking or wtv these people are talking about. As far as the throttle goes it’s not hard to handle at all. There’s not crazy power that’s gonna lift the wheel up unless you literally open the throttle a lot. If you treat it like a gas pedal in a car and progressively open the throttle you will have no trouble. I’ve messed up on it a couple times and it’s forgiving enough to handle. Weight is also not a problem, I’m 5’7 and 130lbs, this bike like any other is obviously gonna be weird to move, but as soon as you hop on it, it weighs nothing. My brother is 5’5 105lbs and even he is able to get it out of our garage and turn it around on the driveway which is extremely steep. Trust me , if you want an mt-07 get it. All these people are doing is scaring potential riders looking to get an mt-07.

[@johntheaccountant5594]

I have been looking at both and the deposit is going on the CB650R. Running will make it easy to ride and if I keep it below 6,000 rpm should still be tame until I feel confident of its power.

[@MerlinMoorlo]

Because it's not for beginners at all.

[@krschnsky]

i would be happy if such tests also included the costs for regular maintenance and the bikes' susceptibility to errors. What does the rating of a beginner's bike bring me purely in terms of handling? A set of brakes and wear material is also an point of interest.

[@hopgood007]

Great review and comparison Bob. I owned a brand new CB650R (it was the F then) from 2015 to 2017 when I changed to the Bonneville T120. The Honda was an absolute joy to ride. I commuted 52 miles every day on it all year round and it never let me down. Then at weekends going out for a blast with three mates on Street Triples, the CB650 had no problem matching them in any department. I definitely have another.

[@grahamn311]

I recently had this exact choice (brand new models) and went with....a Suzuki SV650. While I love the looks and tech of the Honda, and character of the MT, the value for money you get from the Suzuki is (imo) incomparable. Twenty years (insert jokes here) of set it and forget it fun, and while the styling is admittedly a bit dated- although the red and white model I got is pretty sharp looking-, the power delivery and sound of the v-twin is fantastic. Its relatively light, narrow and fast enough for the roads in the country I'm living in (South Korea). Zero regrets! Although... damn, the Honda does look really pretty...

[@bfarm44]

My experiences deep within both manufacturers over many years would place me squarely with the Honda. I’ve never been disappointed with any Honda product but Yamaha has had me scratching my head more than once and selling it faster. Although for me one of the most brilliant woods bike I’ve ever owned was a tt225 series.

[@boomblab23]

Riding a cb400x for 4 years now, using it as a daily/delivery bike. Over 200k kms on the clock with only a worn timing chain, chain slider, radiator motor and brake rotors. It's a reliable machine. Still banging gears on it, getting minimum 25KM/L and top speed with pillion at 165km/h. Didn't expect this type of reliability.

[@callumboothroyd3766]

These both are A2 restrictable... Also the SV650 is one of the best first big bike!

[@xEndgameRA]

The answer SV650!

[@jepoyonbikes9830]

Own an mt07 since 2017, had a chance to borrow a cb650. I ride mostly on tight city and mountain roads. The cb650 was slow, I kept waiting for the power to come, Wheelies are no where near as fun as my mt07. Yes, I might be biased, the sound and build quality of the honda is much much better. Suspension aswell, mt07's is utter shit. But if ur like me and you commute mostly on tight roads, small mountain passes and do wheelies on every chance you can then an mt07 will be the "funner" bike. I say fun cause in every measurable way the cb650 is better, mt07 is a fun bike for hooligans.

[@FastDB10]

The best way to pick up a motorcycle is to go to the dealer and check the motorcycles in person. From my experience I can say l, youtube or other media reviews provide some information but you can actually have the real feel when you have hands on. And, that's the best way to decide, which motorcycle to go with

[@jameslast3192]

Yeah as a beginner surely you don’t want to be randomly popping wheels and skidding, and having a “fun and playful “ engine. This is not really a review for beginners. However a great comparison regardless. For a beginner it looks like the Honda wins on all fronts, especially having the extra tech to rein things in if necessary to keep you on the road. As a new rider I really don’t want to be losing control at all at any time thanks! Plus it looks 100 better than the MT.

[@The.JZA.]

If you live in a city then yeah makes sense to have the MT07 but if you live anywhere near good driving roads or a race track, the CB650R makes more sense. The CB has a way better chassis/suspension, the engine is way more satisfying to rev out and through a windy section of road, it's just a better bike. The MT07 is torquey so it's good for stop-start riding and can still be fun in the twisties but the engine doesn't treat you when you rev it out and the chassis/suspension is made to be soft and comfortable, not sporty. Both are good bikes but also very different. I've owned both but my MT07 was LAMS (A2) spec and my CB650R is tuned to 95 hp so I can't comment directly about the unrestricted MT07 but overall I still think the CB650R is a better bike. Handles really well, suspension is way more composed, and the engine is amazing when you get on a windy road.

[@Kraken9911]

Everything about the cb650r is so good. I've owned one for 1.5 years now. It's just a shame the suspension is not adjustable at the front and the rear is preload only. If I could just dial in like most other bikes it would handle so much better. Change the front fork oil to 15w and it'll make a nice difference in smoothness over rapid bumps at higher speeds. My bike before this was a ninja 650 which is comparable to the MT07 and yes parallel twin gives torque from much lower in the rev range which is great for tight mountain roads but the sound was so uninspiring when I sold it I felt zero remorse once I had a proper inline 4 again.

[@Englishbikerdan]

CB650R, naturally. 😎

[@5tevieb954]

I like the touring version you’ve got 😂

[@Englishbikerdan]

@@5tevieb954 It's exclusive. 😂

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

Good video but please have both bikes facing in the same direction showing their best side, which is usually the right side. What you've done there by putting the two front wheels together is the bike on the left will nearly always look better even if in reality it looks worse. Please have them both facing the same way showing their best sides.

[@chewie8]

Biased choice by me definitely CB650R as I have one. And the fact the Yamaha bike is too small for taller riders. I'm 5'11 and it was like sat on a kids bike.

[@callumboothroyd3766]

5'11 isn't tall lmao

[@chewie8]

@@callumboothroyd3766 it is for an MT07 🙄

[@callumboothroyd3766]

@@chewie8 my buddy is 6ft and fits on an mt07 fine.. maybe you're just... "Big"?

[@chewie8]

@@callumboothroyd3766 slim build me buddy if thats what your referring to 😳

[@callumboothroyd3766]

@@chewie8 then idk what to tell you, you probably sat on a lowered mt07 because my mate is taller than you and fits fine.

[@johnDukemaster]

I've had both. Did 20 000km on the MT07 and 26 000km on the CB650R. Had them a year each. The Yamaha is cheap, it feels and shows. The Honda is a better bike. For a newly rider the powerdelivery is better on the Honda aswell. But the engines character on the MT07 is hard to beat! And lower weight is a big plus. Hmm...the MT07 engine in the Honda chassi? Thank you mr Bob!

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

Whenever I hear “character” for a motorcycle i immediately think ... does something abnormal that you have to plan for or will pay the consequences..... nah bro.. how about a predictable motorcycle that won’t screw me instead....

[@at9670]

@@stubbingtonmarigold3032 your definitions of character is way too extreme, it can be said that the power delivery and sound of the engine is more raw on the MT 07.

[@Sinister_fartbox]

20 000 km on a year?

[@johnDukemaster]

@@Sinister_fartbox Yes. Not so much in wintertime though. Actually nearly nothing in jan-march.

[@crpth1]

@@Sinister_fartbox - Honda CB 500 >95.000km in almost 4 years of ownership! No issues, Just normal maintenance. The true definition of a daily workhorse. On another spectrum, Piaggio X Evo 250, 15.000km, in almost 10 months... Also trouble free! Bikes are made to ride, not to seat and "look good". ;-)

[@outbackeddie]

I had a Honda CB 750 back in the 70s and a Honda Nighthawk (750 cc) in the 90s. They were both wonderful bikes. Since I am already biased toward Honda 4 cylinder bikes I would go with the Honda, (but I have to admit the Yamaha is very tempting).

[@Alpoholic]

I really dig Yamaha's CP2 engine, would no doubt pick the MT-07 for it's playfulness & maneuverability on mountain twisties even though I'm convinced the 650R has higher quality parts 🙂 Great video, thx 👍

[@233kosta]

I'm training on an MT-07 (2019) for my DAS. I've _explored_ its power band as hard as I dare (including slip road pulls with me holding on for dear life!) and I don't think I've had the throttle completely open yet. I really like the feel of that throttle (and the soundtrack!), but a lot of the rest of the bike kinda feels cheap. Haven't had a go on a 650R yet, but if I'm to go by my 125F, it's bound to feel better built. Put it this way - the *cheapest* full size Honda has (admittedly minimal) switch gear that feels better. It'll just be down to whether I like what happens when I open it up.

[@dzejkob8]

Can you tell me why does the mt07 sound more deep and punchy with like akrapovic or different exhaust mod compared to honda with same exhaust which sounds like mosquito to me?

[@Alpoholic]

Hey, @@dzejkob8 Yamaha's CP2 Twin engine has a 270-degree crankshaft that's supposed to give it the sound and performance characteristics of a 90-degree V-twin instead of a parallel twin engine... Of course depends on which engine you're comparing it to, but I'd say that's the secret of this engine's sound characteristics!

[@tsitsi111]

completely agree with you. i was between these 2 bikes myself and i weighted then pros and cons of each and i ended up buying the MT-07. best desicion of my life. way way more fun bike

[@romanlonsdale3027]

Best beginner bike “it’s ridiculous how much this bike wants to wheelie”, I wouldn’t say that’s a good beginner bike?

[@giuseppeschetter8185]

I’m a 30 y.o. Italian happy owner of a Benelli Leoncino 125, and i’m looking for something that makes the deal for my 1k km a month on my home-work routine. As a beginner i have to say i’m still strugglin with that throttle control, and we just gotta say with that kick on the lows the mt07 is no way a bike for beginners. Immagine to get down in corners , with the horrible roads i have here ( conditions-wise i mean, the asphalt is terrible) and get that kick right in the middle of the corner: it’s gonna be a low side if not worse hands down guys. What i mean is, apart from the premium quality honda gives, a 4 cylinders in line with that smoothness is FUNDAMENTAL for a beginner, i think we can all agree to that.

[@LucasSi919]

Hello motobob! Let me start off by saying, wonderful review! I'm currently looking at a Honda cb650r for myself. I love the looks , the fit and finish , the 4 cylinder and the Honda reliability! It's such an amazing bike. In comparison to the xsr700 and mt07 ,I'm just not a fan of the fit and finish on those bikes. They kinda feel cheap and as if they were built in someone's backyard. Don't get me wrong, the cp2 engine is the best hands down! It just seems like Yamaha didn't put as much love and effort when assembling them

[@Sinister_fartbox]

Cp2 engine is better than Honda

[@LucasSi919]

@@Sinister_fartbox agreed in terms of reliability. Not power nor sound. Go sit on a mt07 then go sit on a cb650r and play with the controls. You'll see why the"CB" has a significant better build quality. I'm not bad mouthing the MT but the CB's have history.. especially if I'm paying the same exact price on the used market it's a no brainer. 4cy>2cyl

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

@@LucasSi919 I had a Honda Fireblade and I went for a test drive on Ducati Monster S4r with the super bike engine V-Twin. And I look down and I thought I was doing 30 miles per hour but the speedo said 45. Did Ducati Monster was deceptively quicker than the Fireblade on the same roads in London. The Fireblade was four cylinder 1,000 cc 150 BHP. The Ducati was 115 BHP 1,000 cc twin cylinder. Both bikes weighed about 190 kilos. I was really shocked that I was doing 45 in a 30 in London on the Ducati. It completely felt like I was doing 30. It's a shame on this review that he doesn't have video doing 0 to 60 so we can see which bike is quicker. If he did a 0 to 60 he could just have half the screen as one bike and the other half of the screen is the other and we could see which one gets there quicker. The launch test would also give his video an extra feature.

[@dashuntas.m4045]

@@Google_Does_Evil_Now well the Fireblade is known for having ridiculous top end power even compared to other litre bikes

[@sjv6598]

@@Google_Does_Evil_Now the MT will beat the CB to 60 but after that the CB will blow past the MT

[@connormcguire6887]

I’m taking delivery of a cb650r next week and heading those two bikes side by side I know I made the right choice.

[@popdatclutch3010]

He forgot to mention maintenance. The way the rear tire is mounted on the mt07 requires a swing arm mod to stand the bike up and adjust the chain while the cb is standard

[@markhollidge8514]

Great video review as ever, Moto Bob. Funny, I did exactly the same comparison (alongside the Triumph Street Twin - the Trident wasn't available at the time) three years ago when I had just got my first licence. Agreed with all your comments. Moreover, I then bought the MT07. It just felt right for me to continue my learning curve, whilst having fun at the same time. Fair enough, I did part exchange it for a Triumph Street Triple 6 months later! Keep up the good work. Cheers!

[@karlosh9286]

when I was a middle aged newbie a few years back , insurance quotes were much easier and cheaper on the MT-07 as compared to the CB650R. Although I didn't get either , I got a Triumph ! ( which was comparable to the CB650R on insurance quotes)

[@chrishart8548]

What triumph did you get?

[@karlosh9286]

@@chrishart8548 at the time I got a Speed Twin. Similar insurance quotes to the CB650R . I guess , unsurprising, they both put out mid 90s BHP . IIRC around £700 per annum. The cheapest insurance quotes I got were for an RE Interceptor. They'd have even given me a refund over what I was paying on insurance for a learner CB125R !

[@chrishart8548]

@@karlosh9286 speed twin is a nice bike. Decent power and really good torque. Nice usable bike and it looks fantastic. I like the street scrambler but the performance and the weight are a bit of a joke really. On paper it's probably worse than the original version 1960-1970's bike. I really love parallel twins. Obviously they are the most boring but the engine is short front to back fairly narrow width and good torque vs a triple or a four.

[@jcplan139]

I've got the Honda and highly recommend it for beginners. It's fun to ride, easy to handle and has more than enough power.

[@davecaldasrocha]

Considered these two, but just picked up a street twin today. Couldn’t be happier with my choice. The sound is just incredible - let alone a stock exhaust. Super easy to ride but enough go. this channel probably went a long way to influence my choice ;)

[@derp195]

Gorgeous bike. Not as much power as I’d like (I like to have significantly more than I’d ever actually use) but I nearly got one a few years ago.

[@revvedandrooted]

I'm curious why you didn't put the XSR700 (the neo-cafe version of the MT07) up against the CB650R

[@martinu.6921]

I own an 2016 MT-07, and it's pretty good, but every time I see a CB650R, I think to myself: what a nice bike. If Honda would add 50 or 100 cc and remove one cylinder!!, I would trade my MT-07 for this. Unfortunately I don't like 4 cylinder Engines in this class.

[@ls2goat406]

MT-07 with an exhaust sounds wonderful. I haven’t rode a CB650R, I’ve had an MT-07 for about 5 months now. It has been a wonderful bike, the power is awesome coming from a 2-stroke CR250.

[@wl660]

Trident has been out over a year, so would be an option for larger budget 2nd hand buyers.

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

In the USA , the trident is considerably cheaper than the cb650r. The trident has a reputation for a weird throttle, and I’m sure it’s hurting sales. The cb650r is right there with the z900 .....

[@wl660]

@@stubbingtonmarigold3032 In the Uk, the Trident outsold all it’s competitors with it’s better specs, options and finish. I have had mine a year (6k miles), no weird throttle here. I dismissed the MT07 as it has issues with corroding swing arms that they have never resolved. I liked the CB650 but felt the high revving to get the best from it wouldn’t suit me.

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

The Z900 is only 160 usd more here and 160 when you are spending 11,500 ( tax, title, license, freight, dealer prep) is basically the same.

[@Decoda3D]

@@stubbingtonmarigold3032 weird throttle huh... u should really test it I was told the same but here I am owning one now 😌

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

VStrom 650 was my first bike perfect to learn on!!! Then went to a Triumph Trophy SE. smaller bikes are still great for local use but on the highway they get quite buzzy, and eventually they get to be a little annoying.

[@ginung32]

I am happy to see this video. Very simple, clear, and really helped me choose the bike that best suited me.

[@Brabobiker.]

This is a joke! How can you compare an older model mt07 with a new model cb650? At least you could used the mt07 gen3 or cb650f

[@DogGuy19]

Good video, thanks. I bought my first bike 3 weeks ago. I've always liked & heard good things about Honda. But I looked at & tried many bikes. Liked the Suzuki SV650, the Yamaha FZ1 & FZ6. Really liked the Triumph speed triple, almost bought a 2003 in a stunning blue. In the end I chose a 2004 Honda 599 (outside of US its called the Hornet). I love love love it! Fits me perfectly, super comfortable to ride, plenty fast enough for me. Always starts right up, runs great. Only complaint is no fuel gage. And it was one of the cheapest I found at $3k US. It was well maintained, I have had people asked me if it's new, not bad for an 18 year old bike.

[@Dara-ih6jq]

MT-07 for young people and CB650R for more adult refined taste, but both are great just have different personalities for different people.

[@garyrayner6330]

I just bought a 21 mt09 and I previously had a mt10 and Zh2. Tell you what, it was a hard choice choosing the 09 over the 07 but ultimately it’s just a better value for money bike coming with much more premium parts. The 07 is fun as hell, it’s the nicest bike to ride on the back wheel iv ever ridden and the engine is sooo snappy, even snappier than 09, it’s just so fun. Cb is a great bike but it’s not near as fun for the experienced hoon.

[@michielshub]

Did my riding lessons on a CB650R (many riding schools use these, wonder why) and it was a very forgiving bike. Especially on slow maneuvers like figure 8 or slalom. For a beginner rider I believe a 4 cylinder is just easier to get along with and the linear power and torque build up makes it quite predictable. Also I don’t think it will get boring quickly. As I am an older fart I could buy a Tracer 900 GT (I know, it’s not a 2 cylinder MT 07 or Tracer 700) and because I can control myself all goes well. But the punchy standard throttle and high torque at low revs can make it a handful.

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

My knock on Honda is their lack of initial value, here in USA, there is a considerable “big red tax”, lack of color options, and lack of features vs their price..... however used Honda’s are usually the best ( if you can find them ). Since Honda is so expensive they are usually bought by people who have money and interest in maintaining them better than a value motorcycle. The mt-07(mt-03) definitely feel cheap brand new... the Honda also is a more roomy bike and will fit more body types. Used I would probably always go for the Honda.

[@yinyangsaladgang8789]

I'm don't think at 75 horsepower 120mph+ they're quite "beginner" bikes, more like intermediate. MSF courses use small bikes for a reason man, these things will throw a hack-handed newbie off in no time.

[@Decoda3D]

Nah it's what I like to call a bleeding edge beginner bike 👍🏼

[@joaoborges2038]

Drove both bikes multiple times before buying the MT-07. Forget about all the crap said in this video, the pleasure and adrenaline you get driving the 07 is worth every other aspect in that the honda is "better". If you wanna have fun, feel a constant joy while driving, and turn every head on the street, go with the 07. The honda is for old lads with back pain.

[@gerardmontgomery280]

My first "big bike" was an F800S, so maybe I'm biased but I think you'll learn more on a twin. You'll also have more fun.

[@gtx332]

F800 great bike

[@gerardmontgomery280]

@@gtx332 it never failed to put a smile on my face.

[@chrishart8548]

F800 has the power of the 650/4 and more low end than the 700 twin

[@alrod7980]

I will go with the 650r much better looking bike and the sound of the engine sounds like a real bike

[@r0binx]

Funny enough I rode both back to back when picking my first big bike. Before riding I was 90% sure I was going to buy the Honda. I rode home on the MT 🙂

[@crypticreality8484]

I was going to buy a Grom a year ago and rode off on a Kawasaki Z125 Pro

[@cbjgdicad1]

This is the issue,I really like the CB but the grunt ,the punch of the MT is a game changer.I have owned one for years but I'm looking for a new bike . It's a tough one.

[@rynoreeno]

SV650 job done ;)

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

Considering I haven’t seen a cb650r, an mt-07, an sv650 or a trident, an xsr700 used for sale anywhere near me ... sure why not

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

💯 Absolutely 💯 ! The SV/DL650 engine is reliable as an Anvil. The SV configuration is totally adequate for any beginner/novice unless you're a 🤏 little person. I would recommend one 1k %. YUP!

[@leaguelegends4905]

Which one would you recommend for tall riders (190cm) ?

[@unnf9971]

For a beginner choice it's really not practical if the bike wants to wheelie at every second throttle open. That just screams crash.

[@m3lvn415]

The MT/FZ-07 is the only one in the series that doesn't have USD forks. Even the T7 and R7 are fitted with USD forks. Those USD forks would give it a nice needed face lift I think.

[@chrishart8548]

Even the mt-125 and the MT-03 have usd forks. Remember even the tracer 700 doesn't.

[@ModifiedNmax]

Is the xadv 750 an A2 bike? Just wondering, and if you can please do educate me on how motorcycle licences work in Europe. Cheers.

[@Ying_109]

I prefer Honda CB650R even 1K expensive but i do enjoy the Tech and sound of a 4 cylinder.

[@leeinwis]

I've never seen a used cb650r within 200 miles of here .

[@championxxlNL]

The mt07 feels dull, yes the engine has more midrange punch but I think it's overall just dull, everyone drives one and they're just nothing special, not to look at or to drive. While the honda isn't perfect either that in line 4 screams till redline, yes it lacks low down torque but that does make it easier to ride

[@Cedar77]

Having ridden both, MT-07 has terrible quality. CB650R gets you more bang for your buck.

[@LT-zk3vk]

That windscreen on a Honda looks great. Where can I buy it?

[@JimGoryeb]

So wait. You’re talking about a bike for a beginner rider and you’re questioning whether they should choose the bike with ABS and TC??? C’mon, man.

[@stubbingtonmarigold3032]

Every moto journalist who says they would take the mt-07 over it has the experience to handle the flaws in it, a newish rider maybe not.

[@donnyazoff980]

Great review mate!!! I intend updating my wife’s bike and it will be for one of these two so very interesting to get your view.

[@Ciganyfiu]

Great content as always. Love your channel! Like some of the comments here, I loved my SV650 too (that I sold, almost bought the MT07 some years ago but riding the SV and MT back to back the SV just felt smoother yet just as powerful and fun). Now looking at buying another naked, almost decided to go for the Trident 660 - unfortunately here in Australia all our 650cc are restricted as learner bikes. MOTOBOB is there any chance of reviewing the new CFMOTO CLX 700 heritage? I know many will have some preconceived ideas about this bike, but I had a look at it in person and seems to be very well built and incredible value and tech for the money-currently available for $9260 AUD driver away price.

[@Stratocasterhead51]

Unpopular opinion: the MT07 is a bike for yobos. Seriously i live in a built up area (Paris) and the only bikes you REALLY hear are MT07 with full exhaust systems, revv bombing at 1am. We as motorcyclists put up with this moronic behaviour but deep down we know that they are painting a bad image of us to the common folk.

[@trung5532]

Ive owned both, 3 mt07s and 1 cb650r, cb650r by a longshot is much better, the mt07s had issues with random high idling which pissed me off and shitty keyhole. And the inline 4 sounds muuuuch better.

[@patricksandeberg8184]

I’d have the CB with it’s great looks and reliability.

[@jckcc]

Took me 5 years with my cheap ass carbureted 250cc before I finally bought the CB650R and I can't imagine myself with anything larger; it's more than enough for all uses. Far from beginniner.

[@Maqqot]

I like the MT07 but the throttle on that thing is the worst I've ever experienced.

[@j4sk1err]

I fell the Mt07 is much easier to handle than the Honda, 23Kg less is a lot. It would have been nice to see the Mt07 2021 model instead

[@tomroberts7195]

Would always have been the MT07 for me. I actually would have gotten one for my first bike if it wasn't down to my budget. Ended up with a Kawasaki ER6. Not a terrible bike, but definitely not as exciting as the MT

[@GabouryMatt]

Both bikes im looking at (Along with the z650), appreciate this video a lot! thank you

[@demwillams8898]

What did u end up with?

[@GabouryMatt]

@@demwillams8898 uhhh none of the above unfortunately... Bought an actual house instead. Poor for the time being now

[@demwillams8898]

@@GabouryMatt z125 it is!

[@comptegoogle511]

You can always make the first gear shorter on the CB650R by gearing the sprocket lower. My vote goes to Honda for the engine if you know how to shift. 20 hp more than the MT-7 common!!!

[@MV-vv7sg]

Been looking at this the last two days. And who should post a video today!

[@Partnerthedog]

I don't disagree with the honda winning most categories but the mt07 has my heart. That playful puppy you'll never let go

[@instantmoto7901]

my first bike was a Honda cb1000r black edition 2021. very nice bike but not for every beginner. sold it with 18 000km and 8 months old got a new Africa twin now also not for every beginner XD

[@MrRui33333]

a 07 foi e ainda é um fenonemo de vendas a nivel mundial ,..sua simplicidade é um trunfo, pelo menos pra quem procura uma boa maquina mas tbm bem enconomica de manter ,...mas seu maior trunfo,.. é o cp2 , aliado a uma ciclistica simples mas bem projetada ,.. leve e agil ,..a torna numa das motos mais divertidas de sempre ,..pra quem nunca andou de mt 07 ,.. vai ficar supreso com a entrega dos seus 74cv ,..que na verdade raramente usamos a potencia max. desta maquina ,..andando entre as 3000 e 8000 rpm ,.. ja diverte muito ,..,mas enfim, quem quiser um pouco mais de velocidade , e perder em torque , resposta imidiata ,... e ter uma maquina um pouco mais refinada e completa , e igualmente fiavel,.. a honda cb 650 r é tbm uma boa maquina ,..é uma questao de gosto,.. uma 07 com bom escape ,.. muda completamente , e fica ainda mais divertida ! eu optei pela 07 ,..vers. 2020 ,..pra começar é sem duvida uma boa escolha ,mas ja aviso ,.... é viciante ,...logo logo, vao querer outra mt ,....a mt 09 ,...kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk

[@TheBoma1000]

the only annoying thing about the cb650r is the price of insurance, I was quoted £1800 for a year

[@trebronlibrand]

How on earth can a Parallel Twin be better than the In-line 4 engine??? If the issue with the Honda engine is to reach 9k rpm to enjoy the engine, then this bike is not for beginners. Honestly, this category is not for beginners, they should start at 400cc...

[@Maxime_L91]

I wish more review would talk about fuel range.

[@chrishart8548]

Depends a lot on how the bikes ridden. If you have a small tank and ride flat out you know it's not going very far. I think I've seen a 1000cc bike with a 12 litre tank that must be inconvenient.

[@mikasihite5346]

You really can't use Data to back up the MT07. You need to ride one to understand why it has so much love. Put an aftermarket exhaust and the whole thing just transforms. Definetly the better beginner bike imo and one you won't think much about when selling when you are ready for a 1000cc bike.

[@DaBinChe]

Honda is more premium of the Japanese brands, price shows it too. You missing the fun to ride category.

[@Fieskmask]

I bought a MT07 when I took my license, I mean, it's a great bike to start with, light weight, great tourque and looks good. Personally for me, it's the 1000 that looks good.

[@Kp08og]

I thought this video was supposed to appeal to what a brand new rider would prefer. A brand new rider does not want a wheelie happy bike with bad suspension and cheap breaks just to save $1000. Go with the Honda.

[@therookierider8841]

Is there a video like this but a2 with the Honda cb500 and mt-03

[@glennkrick]

Who makes the windshield on the CB650?

[@ntinos2014]

none of them can be considered beginner bike... 32 y.o. here, and if i started as a noob on one of those two bikes i would have crashed for sure in many occasions. Thank goodness i had the selfrestriction to consider a smaller cc bike ( MT03 ) as my first ride. 3 months into riding and with every day i get more and more aware what a dangerous game it would have been if i started on somthng bigger... start small as a beginner, get to know your bike, not just the opening of your throttle, get as many courses you can, then start going up the cc's.

[@Slycarlo]

Bob please do a comparison between your Triump trident 660 vs Honda cb650r

[@1990-t1j]

I'd always take a twin oiver a smallish inline four.

[@dbauernf]

This should be easy. Probably everyone under 25 year old or so will want the MT, everyone above 25 or 30 year old most likely the CB.

[@JohnDoe-kk4rp]

As an experienced rider and who currently owns a MT09 i can tell you that in the real world for people who enjoy riding and like to ride hard as well, the CB650R is the go to bike through and through. However, if you are a person who just wants to lock up the back wheel and wheelie all the time then the MT07 is the bike to buy. Now as someone who wants to do both, there isnt really a bike that does both as such in this class. The MT09 is another one thats uselss for riding and only good for stunting. Supernakeds are probably the go to, to get both worlds accomplished but then they arent for new riders and cost a lot of money. Overall, id still say the ninja 650 is the best bike in most circumstances

[@theutgardianchannel1952]

I find so insane that due to the roads you guys have you consider these bikes beginner bikes, here in my country people think I'm insane for planning to go for the 07 after I feel confident in my honda xblade 160

[@Kraken9911]

Yeah first world standards are WAY HIGHER than developing countries when it comes to motorcycle power. When I lived in America it made sense since I would ride in the highway for many hours cruising at 130kph. You wouldn't want to do that to a small engine. You need power so the load would be much lower at 130. The CB650R easily cruises at 130 but maxes out around 220-230 which makes it "beginner" level to Americans who demand 300kph speeds to have it feel like an "experienced level" bike.

[@Mr808mx]

Thank you for the video. I will go for CB650R