First Look: Honda CB650F Coming to the USA for 2018

Middleweight naked bike joins CBR650F and Grom in new-model announcement.

2018 Honda CB650FPhoto: Honda

American Honda announced recently that they will add the CB650F to its model lineup for the 2018 model year, while also confirming the return of the CBR650F sportbike and the popular Grom mini. The CB650F is the latest in a lineage of Honda middleweight four-cylinder naked bikes dating back to the CB400F of the 1970s, and with a great power-to-weight ratio, pared-back style, and comfortable riding position, it has all the elements of a great-performing midsize streetfighter.

“We’re pleased to offer the tough-looking, strong-performing CB650F to American customers for the 2018 model year,” said Lee Edmunds, American Honda’s Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications. “The CBR650F has shown that this four-cylinder power plant is a solid performer, and in this package it adeptly rounds out our comprehensive lineup of naked sport bikes, fitting in perfectly between the CB500F and the CB1000R.”

The CB650F is powered by a 649cc inline four-cylinder engine with a side-swept exhaust pipe and a single and under-swingarm muffler. With minimal bodywork, the view of the engine and twin-spar frame is unobstructed. the CB’s suspension is comprised of a Showa Dual Bending Valve fork and adjustable shock, and both the headlight and taillight feature LED bulbs. All three brake rotors are wave-style, the dual 320mm front discs being squeezed by Nissin calipers. Longer rides are made comfortable by the sporty-yet-natural riding position and a rubber-mounted handlebar. The CB650F will come in red with an availability date of August 2017. MSRP has not yet been determined.

2018 Honda CBR650FPhoto: Honda

The full-fairing sibling in the lineup is the CBR650F with a 649cc engine and a number of revisions for the 2018 model year, including enhanced power via updated intake stacks and muffler changes that also deliver an improved sound. The gear ratios have also been revised for improved acceleration feel. The fork is now a Showa Dual Bend Valve unit that has better damping action for more comfort over varying road conditions, and the headlight now has LED bulbs. Rounding out the changes are L-shaped air valves on the wheels to simplify air-pressure adjustment. While the sporty bodywork provides wind-cheating aerodynamics, strategically placed windows offer peekaboo views of the handsome cylinder bank and sculpted exhaust headers. The CBR650F will also be available in August ’17. Pricing TBD.

2018 Honda GromPhoto: Honda

Honda's Grom is the small-bore cult classic that has captured the hearts and throttle hands of riders of all sizes and ability levels with a major portion of its charm is due to its diminutive stature, which is friendly to new riders, offers nimble handling, and is an absolute blast for carving turns. The pint-size Honda's lightweight feel and peppy powerband contribute to its broad appeal, while the big-bike-inspired styling continues to turns heads. With a four-speed transmission, manual clutch, and disc brakes, the Grom is a serious mini with a high potential for fun. Colors for the 2018 model year include Matte Gray Metallic, Pearl Red, Pearl White, and Bright Yellow. The Grom ABS will come in Matte Gray Metallic, and Pearl Red. Arriving in Honda dealerships in August 2017.

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