| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Series | RH01 / RH03 / RH07 (2019–Present) |
| Engine Oil | SAE 10W-30 JASO T 903 MA (2.9 L) |
| Front Tire | 120/70 ZR 17 (2.5 bar / 36 psi) |
| Rear Tire | 180/55 ZR 17 (2.9 bar / 42 psi) |
| Spark Plug | NGK IMR9E-9HES (Iridium) |
| Battery | YTZ10S (12V Maintenance Free) |
At MotoSpecsLab, we recognize the Honda CBR 650 R not merely as a successor to the CBR650F, but as a fundamental shift in Honda’s middleweight philosophy. A unique engineering highlight of the RH01 generation is its dual ram-air intake system. Unlike its predecessor, the CBR 650 R features twin ducts on either side of the fuel tank that feed the airbox directly, increasing air pressure at high speeds to optimize the volumetric efficiency of the 649cc inline-four engine.
Engineering Analysis: Performance & Handling
The transition from ‘F’ to ‘R’ in 2019 brought more than just aggressive Fireblade-inspired fairings. Honda engineers lightened the chassis by 6kg and moved the footpegs back and up, while the handlebars were shifted forward. This creates a more committed, yet still street-legal, ergonomic triangle. The inclusion of 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks significantly improves damping performance and front-end feedback compared to the older conventional units.
Maintenance Roadmap for the RH01/RH07
To maintain the high-revving nature of this machine, adherence to technical specifications is paramount. The engine utilizes 2.9 liters of 10W-30 JASO T 903 MA oil. Using high-quality synthetic oil is recommended to protect the slipper clutch and the gearbox under high-load conditions.
Ignition and Electrical
The CBR 650 R employs NGK IMR9E-9HES Iridium spark plugs. These are designed for longevity and a precise spark under high compression. For the electrical system, the YTZ10S battery provides the necessary cranking amps to start the high-compression four-cylinder engine reliably across various temperatures.
Chassis and Contact Patch
The handling dynamics are highly sensitive to tire pressure. Honda specifies 2.5 bar (36 psi) for the front 120/70 ZR 17 and 2.9 bar (42 psi) for the rear 180/55 ZR 17. Maintaining these pressures is critical to prevent ‘cupping’ of the front tire and to ensure the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) calculates slip ratios accurately.
MotoSpecsLab Verdict
The Honda CBR 650 R (RH01/RH07) remains a pinnacle of ‘usable’ sportbike engineering. It offers the visceral scream of an inline-four without the punishing ergonomics of a dedicated 600cc supersport. For the owner-mechanic, it is a rewarding machine to maintain, provided the specific fluid and torque values are strictly observed.