When Honda first rolled out the CB650R in 2019, it was an instant hit. Riders everywhere loved how it mixed a smooth inline-four engine with sharp handling and Honda's minimalist "Neo Sports Cafe" styling. It wasn’t trying too hard to be a full-on sport bike, nor was it just a commuter. It hit that perfect middle ground, and people bought into it fast.
In fact, over in Europe, the CB650R quickly became one of Honda’s top sellers, and even today, it’s still one of the most balanced and best-looking middleweights you can buy.
For 2026, Honda isn’t reinventing the formula, but it is giving both the CB650R and its faired sibling, the CBR650R, a fresh splash of color. Mechanically, they’re the same. You still get that 649cc inline-four putting out around 94 horsepower and 46 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox and optional E-Clutch system. That setup lets you shift without touching the clutch lever if you want, and with the clutch whenever you want. It's a clever touch that adds convenience without sacrificing added control and fun factor.
What’s changed most this time around are the looks. Honda added several new colors, but the one that really stands out is Candy Energy Orange. It’s a striking hue that instantly reminded me of the Sunrise Flake Orange on the original CB750 Four. That bike was a game-changer back in 1969, often called the first true superbike, and its color became iconic. The new shade isn’t identical, but the resemblance feels intentional. It’s like a quiet nod to Honda’s roots while keeping the CB650R’s modern edge intact.
If you’re more into fairings and clip-ons, the CBR650R brings the same DNA in a sharper package. It’s essentially the sportier twin of the CB650R, sharing the same 650cc mill but wrapped in bodywork that gives off serious superbike vibes. The ergonomics lean slightly forward without being punishing, which makes it great for riders who want performance without the full race crouch.
For 2026, it comes in two colorways: Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic with yellow accents and a Grand Prix Red Tricolor that’s pure Honda. It’s not the flashiest update, but the CBR650R remains a sweet spot for those who want real-world sporty performance wrapped in undeniable Honda refinement.
Gallery: 2026 Honda CB650R and CB650R Refresh
Now, if you’ve been following the market, you’ll know the CB650 series is starting to feel a little dated next to the new wave of tech-heavy middleweights. Bikes like the Triumph Trident and Daytona 660 and Yamaha MT-09 and YZF-R9 have more screens, lighter frames, and fancier electronics. The CB/CBR siblings stick to the basics, and that’s actually part of their appeal. These are bikes that don't need a ton of gadgets to feel special.
Plus, Honda knows that anything with a CB badge will sell, simply because people trust that name.
And really, that’s what keeps the CB650R and CBR650R relevant. These bikes capture the essence of what makes riding great: a smooth four-cylinder soundtrack, balanced handling, and everyday usability that never feels boring. The new colorways just tie it all together, blending nostalgia with modern reliability. The new paint might be the headline grabber, but the spirit behind it is what makes this bike timeless.
Source: Honda
