Okay, so, the CBR650F. Where do I even begin? I picked this bike up back in 2015, brand new, shiny, and ready to go. I was so excited to finally get my hands on it. It was a big deal for me, you know? A real step up from my old ride. I remember the first time I sat on it, it felt like a perfect fit. Not too big, not too small, just right.
The first few rides were a blast! I started with short trips around town, just getting a feel for the bike. It handled like a dream, smooth and responsive. The power was there when I needed it, but it wasn’t overwhelming. I felt in control, which was important for me, especially since I was still relatively new to sportbikes.
Then came the longer rides. I started taking it out on weekends, exploring the countryside. The CBR650F was comfortable enough for those longer hauls, which surprised me. I mean, it’s a sportbike, right? But I could easily spend a few hours on it without feeling like I needed to see a chiropractor afterward. The riding position was just right – sporty but not too aggressive.
Maintenance and Reliability
Now, let’s talk about keeping this thing running. Honestly, it’s been pretty low maintenance. Regular oil changes, check the tires, the usual stuff. I haven’t had any major issues, which is a huge relief. I’ve heard stories about some bikes being a pain in the neck, but the CBR650F has been solid. I think Honda really nailed it with the reliability on this one.
Engine Performance
The engine, oh boy, it purrs like a kitten but roars like a lion when you open it up. It’s got plenty of power for everyday riding and then some. I’ve never felt like I needed more, even when passing on the highway. It’s smooth, too. No weird vibrations or anything like that, at least not until you hit around 6,000 RPM, but even then, it’s not a big deal.
- Engine: Inline-four, liquid-cooled. It’s a gem.
- Power: I’ve seen numbers from 84 to 94 horsepower. Plenty for me.
- Handling: Nimble and responsive. Makes you feel like a pro.
Daily Commute and Occasional Touring
I used it most days for my commute, which is not too long. It’s perfect for that, zipping through traffic. Parking is a breeze, too. On the weekends, I’d sometimes take it out for longer rides, and it handled those just as well. It is truly fun to ride. I’ve even taken it on a couple of longer trips, and it did great. Comfortable seat, good riding position, no complaints there.
The bike is not bad with a passenger, but you have to slow down a bit. And the grab rails are more like little grooves, so your passenger better hold on tight!
So, that’s my story with the CBR650F. It’s been a great bike, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of riding it. It’s reliable, fun, and just an all-around great machine. If you’re looking for a sportbike that’s not too crazy but still has plenty of go, I’d definitely recommend giving the CBR650F a look. It’s a solid choice, especially if it’s your first sportbike. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
