I currently own a 2014 Honda cb650f. I bought mine second hand. Mine is a non lam and it’s a beast! It goes hard. I chose this over the Yamaha MT-07 as it was more lower on maintenance and I like the 4 cylinder sound better than the parallel 2. Shame Honda don’t sell the non lam brand new anymore you can only get the LAM brand new now. I know Honda recently had a sale on the naked cb650f $8,500 ride away instead of $11,000. But not the CBR650f as they’re more popular than the naked. Plus they’re clearing them out for the new model. I asked the Honda dealer how they’re restricted and it’s simple it’s the air box pipes and ECU (you’ll get a set of blank keys which you’ll have to get the key cut to match your old keys) if you swap these over then you’ll have a unrestricted CB/CBR650F. I bought mine as a bone stock unrestricted model but if you were a L or P plater I’d buy the LAM model then once you have your full license do the unrestricted mod and you’ll have a whole new engine and won’t be stuck with selling it and buying another non lam bike. You’ll save heaps of money. If you bought a Yamaha MT-07 LAM model the LAM and HO model are different engines so you’d have to buy a whole new bike as it’s harder to unrestrict the LAM Yamaha MY-07 where as the Honda its a different story you can keep the same bike and just swap the air box pipes and ECU to an unrestricted part. Hope this helps fellow Honda riders out there and to briefly say I’ve had no problems with mine the only downside is it has a bit of an uncomfy seat and needs a bone stock gear indicator I’ve got one fitted but it’s an aftermarket one.
CBR650F is basically a modern Version of the 1990-1999 Yamaha FZR 600. That’s why it handles better than the CBR500R. The FZR600 was a Supersport back in its day. The CBR6650F has the Same Weight, Wheelbase, Front Rake angle, Seating position, and Horsepower (unrestricted) as the Yamaha FZR600. I used to own an FZR600 and amazed to see Honda resurrected the FZR600 of old. The 650F (unrestricted) and FZR600 feel the same when you ride them, they both has clip-ons above the triple clamp, and even have the same engine buzz.
+LMC It's reasonable to compare it to the 500F because the 650F is the next price point higher. What I'm saying is that the 650F will perform much better than the 500F. It's because the 650F performs like supersport bikes of 15-20 years ago like the FZR600 and CBR600 F2. Supersport vs Standard bike. The 500F performs like the Ninja 500R of 1994-2009.
Of all the reviews I've watched so far, and that is quite a few, yours was the most informative and objective. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to you (including the comical comments toward your fellow travellers) and would love to see more of your work. Wouldn't't mind meeting you in person one day either - I'm in Mentone.
I think what makes this bike unique is that it's the only 650 inline 4 currently I believe. This will most likely be the bike I upgrade to or the 600rr. The MT07 I think will just appeal to people who like nakeds. They are very different bikes and it's really a choice of whether you want a naked or sports bike through your lams period.
+Tony Si Yeah I prefer naked bikes so if I were to get the 650F I'd get the naked variant instead. You're right, there aren't many 4 cylinder 650s around for LAMS. Shame!
Nice review. Here in the UK the MT-07 is SO common also. When you buy bikes here on a restricted license, you buy the full power bike and the dealer usually stick an ECU restricter in it. I'm buying mine at the end of this month and I can't wait. Subbed.
I have this exact same bike. My first. I've only gone up to about 100-104 mph before it cuts off. It does plateau but it's still a nice bike for a beginner such as myself. It's a fun bike. I just use it for getting to my college classes and to poke around town. New Mexico
let me say this about the 500r its the suspension (the rearshock sags over time) that causes it to feel heavy in the handling i had a issue where i had to use a lot of force to turn the bike (this is after 2 years of riding i have a 2013) almost as if the rear tire was slightly flat. I had the dealer increase the stiffness of the rear shock by 3 notches and it handled beautifully in fact i almost dropped it in the parking lot because it leaned so readily. After a few weeks went by it started feeling sluggish again after some trial and error i found out that as i put my bike in the garage i was bottoming out the shock due to a high step into the garage since i stopped that it stabilized . If you buy a 500r even if you dont do what i did i would recommend an olihns shock upgrade it makes your bike feel like new.
I bought a CBR650F LAMS over the MT07 as i felt the suspension in the rear was inadequate for what the bike was and I like the 4cylinder smooth engine of the honda. I did find out how its restricted too.
I went on a group ride recently and there were 5 out of 28 bikes that were CBR500's. The new 2016 CBR500 in satin black looks very nice but it doesn't touch bikes like the Hyosung GT650R or Ducati 659. Personally I like the Yamaha FZ6R.
The new 2016 CBR500R looks great, I think. Kind of an odd comparison with the Hyosung and Ducati though, they're both on very different ends of the price spectrum. Personally I'd never buy the LAMS Ducati.. I've no interest in such an expensive/exotic LAMS bike. Friend of mine had the Hyosung and it gave him noting but trouble the whole two years he had it. He spent more time wrenching on it than riding it.
I just traded my cbr650f to 2017 fz09. just because of more option and power i like to have. to answer to your question though which bike i choose between cbr650f or fz07(mt07), both are great bikes it depends on usage . i found mt07 more nimble and easier to ride but cbr feels much more well build and smoother ride . for longer ride I prefer cbr, but to having fun in the city nothing replace fz07 . just in simple word cbr650f gives you a little bit of everything but fz07 is directed specifically toward maneuvering and fun.
Great review linden! In terms of the restriction, I've been told that they just chucked in a new ECU. Apparently you can get it changed for about $500.
Hey buddy, great review. I had a 250 for 2 years (my first bike) and in that time I got the full license in Melbourne. Nevertheless I moved to QLD and I haven't been in a bike for almost 2 years. Here my question, now that I m moving back to melb I wanna buy another motorcycle and I was considering this one. Is much of a difference the non restricted for a beginner rider? or should I buy this Lambs one? I was also considering the 2016 CBR 500R after watching a couple of reviews. What do you think?
What is the legroom like compared to the CB500F? I’m 6’4 and was wondering if this was too small for me, as I’m looking for a bigger and sportier bike. It’s impossible to find a sport bike for my height! Although the 15 ninja 650 fits pretty nice. Just need something to compare it to!
lol where I live you have to buy the unrestricted bike first (for full price of course), and then you have to pay a mechanic to restrict it for you xD I mean, tbh why would the bike be cheaper? Once you upgrade your license, you can just take off the restriction and BAM suddenly you have a full size non restricted bike with nearly 90hp, for no upgrade cost. I mean, if your restricted version of the bike can't be de-restricted, then I get why its expensive. But you gotta think that if you can remove the restriction, you save yourself a lot of trouble by not having to sell your old bike and buy a new one once you have unrestricted license. Anyways, lovely review. Took my license on a CB500F, so I am actually really happy that you kept comparing the bike to the 500 line :D I will probably upgrade to this next year if I can save the money for it!
Thanks for the vid! I also own cb500f and thinking about upgrading to something more suitable for touring. How is the riding position on cbr650f? Do you you think it's suitable for long journeys? I usually travel with pillion
The CBR650F would make for a better touring bike than the 500F. They're both upright and very comfortable but the 650F has some wind protection. But if you're serious about touring then there are other bikes on the market that are built to tour. the 650F and 500F are just fun standard bikes.
Great review mate. This might be something to consider although I haven't test ridden this yet I'd be going for the MT-07 mainly because it is a lot more light and compact and has slightly more power than this I believe. It will need a suspension upgrade though. :P
+Titan From Hell The MT-07 are definitely cool. If I upgrade I'm not sure I'd get the MT-07 'cause I already have a twin, so I wouldn't mind trying something different
I know it's an old comment, but I'm just replying so other people know: The CBR650F has more than +10hp over the MT-07 (86hp v 75hp). The MT-07 is lighter, so the difference is probably not that noticeable in a straight pull, but the Honda is more powerful + fairings which is likely beneficial on highway riding :) (the MT-07 does have a little more torque, +4nm which is good for wheelies :b)
I was told at a shop today and they told me they actually don't make the 'normal' version anymore because the bike it advertised for mainly learners. However you can get it legally de-restricted after your LAMS period has ended.
@LMC loving your honest reviews mate keep doing what u do!!! Mate can I just ask where you were riding the scenery and twisties were amazing and as I'm still new to riding I want a find a new places where I can take my R3
Good question, I haven't been able to get a clear answer on this. My Honda dealership says you definitely can't do it. Some people say you can, but then again those people haven't shown me any actual evidence for that claim. So, to answer your question - I don't know!
I contacted Honda Australia via email and they replied saying that you cannot remove the restriction through any of their service departments. But I know it isn't impossible would either be a ecu upgrade or something as simple as a restriction on the throttle itself. It's a shame Honda don't offer the upgrade after forking out all that money for the exact same bike only its restricted model.
derestricting motorbikes in Australia is a no go, especially for the newer restricted bikes which have modified throttle bodies etc. Tldr unless you're prepapred to break the law, get a 500, get ur open license, then get the unrestricted versions of these bikes
Oh sorry, here we measure by kilometers per litre, should have been more explicit, lol. I was asking because I know a guy with a restricted 821 monster who gets around 19-20kpl when going real light (instead of the usual 17~) Means the loss is around 15%, right? That's quite a difference! Honda's site (here at least) states that the unrestricted bike does 21kpl so I wonder how economical that 4cyl would be when restricted.. The 500 series does around 25kpl , that's an incredible power to economy ratio but it just lacks the fun factor.. BTW, Some said that it's just ECU restricted, is that really all? The ECU can set a new rev limit and control of the fuel delivery, obviously, but from nearly 90bhp to 47 just by doing that? Doesn't sound possible, to me at least. Do you know if the airbox/exhaust/throttle valves are stock in the restricted version? It has to breathe differently and it has no fly-by-wire system, so it has to be mechanically different on some aspects, besides the ECU
I do love the sound of an modern inline 4 600cc bike being available to learners, however I personally find the front end really ugly (especially the headlight/windshield area). The dash looks really shitty and cheap too :(. I think I'd go for the mt07 and street triple, then upgrade to a "real" sport bike once off restrictions :).
+TheZallene I agree that the styling of the faired version is a bit off. I don't like how it looks. The naked version I like though. In person the dash doesn't come off as cheap but it is very simple. Nothing flashy
As a bike, yeah it's great and if you bought it I don't think you'd regret it. But personally I'm not the sort of person to spend $10K+ on a first bike no matter what it is. So if you're a complete beginner, my vote is get something cheaper or second hand.
omegapsi847 i have had my cb650f lams for about a month now I'm pretty satisfied i had a te 511 before hand I'm not disappointed at all it pulls hard down low i only speed in the hills so i am happy as.
+LMC but once you have the bike and its registered as restricted and you have the restriction certificate? I mean lets be honest if your bike is smashed to the point that it won't start or a wheel has snapped off etc, chances are the restrictor could very well "fall out" but the restrictor is there so you can build confidence with the limited power on a fairly powerful bike and then after 2 years remove the restrictor and do the process all over again with the added power rather than all at once and come off.
+WolfPackHD That's exactly why people are asking the question as to how it's restricted. If it's just a full power bike with the UK A2 restriction kit but sold as a different model then I assume it's easy to remove but nobody has confirmed. I own a FZ6R and that only has a throttle restriction and no ECU mod, so very easy to do yourself but it sounds like the CBR650F is ECU only, not so easy to do yourself. It's the only thing stopping buying the bike...
Great video, very objective review. You're right, it's too expensive for a Lams bike and the full power version only suits a smallish niche of buyers. The cb650f (non-lams) goes head to head with the MT09 and MT07 HO, both are nicer imo. The CBR650F goes up against the Ninja 650 and not much else. I really like the CBR650F (non-lams), the 2 things that put me off it are the dash and the fact it's built in Thailand. Apart from that it's pretty spot on for me, although a little more power would be nice. I may be a little unique but I'm considering bikes like this as well as the new 2017 V-Strom 650 (yet to be released). They're both stylish comfortable bikes but adventure style bikes have far better resale than sport tourer's from what I can tell. When you consider they're about the same price the V-Strom looks a better buy with traction control, better dash, cheaper to add an aftermarket exhaust and other accessories, excellent reputation for reliability and more functionality. Of course it's not as sexy but still a nice looking bike. Think I just answered my own question. Thanks again LMC. Stay safe out there.
+Mathew Smith True, the MT-07 + exhaust comes close to the same price. But then if you got the Honda, you'd probably want an exhaust too so that'd bring the price gap back again
I wouldn't recommend an MT 07 to anyone. It still struggles from shoddy suspension and for the price they saved on the crappy units, its going to cost another $1500 to fix that to your weight. Take a look at the MT07 forums.
Ray Watson yes. Its unfortunate when magazines put new but faulty machines up on the pedestal with praise only for owners to notice the flaws and regret the impulse decision to buy it.
Bloody oath, they would have you believe its the best bike ever made, after talking to a few sales guys that sell both, they all said the triumphs a better bike and ride, but budget usually puts people on the mt07 instead, think ill go the triumph for my 1st bike
Idk where you live but in the uk everydealer is aware of it. It was mainly designed for the eu market where we have a 3 stage licence process. They have throttle restrictors which can be removed.
wow 7 years later and australia still only has lams versions of these bikes what a joke. there is no point getting the cbr650r or mt07 cbr650f when they are as powerfull as a ninja 400
Learner approved bikes. In Australia as learners we can only ride up to 650cc (restricted) powered bikes. That’s why less motorbike deaths here than america ;)
The only thing they have in common is the single center headlight (which btw do not look alike :D). Put the two aside and they are worlds apart. I personally actually can't stand the design of Gixxers, they are way too busy and try-hardy for my liking. The CBR650F on the other hand is beautifully shaped, nothing ridiculous, and every feature seems to have a decent purpose (maybe except the split instrument cluster, that's just weird). 650F has a much more focused and elegant profile than the comparable GSXR imo
![[SFM] Risky Recital](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzNkY1_Nk3o/mqdefault.jpg)
I currently own a 2014 Honda cb650f. I bought mine second hand. Mine is a non lam and it’s a beast! It goes hard. I chose this over the Yamaha MT-07 as it was more lower on maintenance and I like the 4 cylinder sound better than the parallel 2.
Shame Honda don’t sell the non lam brand new anymore you can only get the LAM brand new now. I know Honda recently had a sale on the naked cb650f $8,500 ride away instead of $11,000. But not the CBR650f as they’re more popular than the naked. Plus they’re clearing them out for the new model.
I asked the Honda dealer how they’re restricted and it’s simple it’s the air box pipes and ECU (you’ll get a set of blank keys which you’ll have to get the key cut to match your old keys) if you swap these over then you’ll have a unrestricted CB/CBR650F.
I bought mine as a bone stock unrestricted model but if you were a L or P plater I’d buy the LAM model then once you have your full license do the unrestricted mod and you’ll have a whole new engine and won’t be stuck with selling it and buying another non lam bike. You’ll save heaps of money.
If you bought a Yamaha MT-07 LAM model the LAM and HO model are different engines so you’d have to buy a whole new bike as it’s harder to unrestrict the LAM Yamaha MY-07 where as the Honda its a different story you can keep the same bike and just swap the air box pipes and ECU to an unrestricted part.
Hope this helps fellow Honda riders out there and to briefly say I’ve had no problems with mine the only downside is it has a bit of an uncomfy seat and needs a bone stock gear indicator I’ve got one fitted but it’s an aftermarket one.
CBR650F is basically a modern Version of the 1990-1999 Yamaha FZR 600. That’s why it handles better than the CBR500R. The FZR600 was a Supersport back in its day. The CBR6650F has the Same Weight, Wheelbase, Front Rake angle, Seating position, and Horsepower (unrestricted) as the Yamaha FZR600.
I used to own an FZR600 and amazed to see Honda resurrected the FZR600 of old. The 650F (unrestricted) and FZR600 feel the same when you ride them, they both has clip-ons above the triple clamp, and even have the same engine buzz.
+Johnawelle Steed I knew comparing it to the 500 wasn't reasonable, it's just the only comparison I can make since I own the 500F. I'd love a CB650F..
+LMC It's reasonable to compare it to the 500F because the 650F is the next price point higher. What I'm saying is that the 650F will perform much better than the 500F. It's because the 650F performs like supersport bikes of 15-20 years ago like the FZR600 and CBR600 F2. Supersport vs Standard bike. The 500F performs like the Ninja 500R of 1994-2009.
+LMC Just enjoy the ride. The CBR650F is the supersport of 20 years ago. Damn good back then and damn good today!
Of all the reviews I've watched so far, and that is quite a few, yours was the most informative and objective. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to you (including the comical comments toward your fellow travellers) and would love to see more of your work. Wouldn't't mind meeting you in person one day either - I'm in Mentone.
Today i bought a cb650f from that store :)
John is a legend....
I picked up for 9000$
Bargin :)
As an owner of the 2017 CB500f and looking to upgrade to the CB650f, this video was really helpful with the comparisons!! Thank you!
I think what makes this bike unique is that it's the only 650 inline 4 currently I believe. This will most likely be the bike I upgrade to or the 600rr. The MT07 I think will just appeal to people who like nakeds. They are very different bikes and it's really a choice of whether you want a naked or sports bike through your lams period.
+Tony Si Yeah I prefer naked bikes so if I were to get the 650F I'd get the naked variant instead. You're right, there aren't many 4 cylinder 650s around for LAMS. Shame!
Nice review. Here in the UK the MT-07 is SO common also. When you buy bikes here on a restricted license, you buy the full power bike and the dealer usually stick an ECU restricter in it. I'm buying mine at the end of this month and I can't wait.
Subbed.
+PedroMuszalik Good purchase! Enjoy!
I have this exact same bike. My first. I've only gone up to about 100-104 mph before it cuts off. It does plateau but it's still a nice bike for a beginner such as myself. It's a fun bike. I just use it for getting to my college classes and to poke around town. New Mexico
Great review ... one of the best I've seen. I'm just a month away from buying the new 2016 Honda CBR650F. This review just confirms my choice. :)
+Graham Briar Well you won't be disappointed! Enjoy your new bike!
+Linden's Motorcycle Channel (LMC) Cheers mate. Look forward to more of your videos. Very informative and entertaining.
Graham Briar did you end up getting the bike? Still happy with it?
@@shinka50 Graham is not with us anymore or what?
Thanks for doing a review. Also, I love that road doing its best impression of Bathurst. Sure wish I knew what those restrictions were about.
let me say this about the 500r its the suspension (the rearshock sags over time) that causes it to feel heavy in the handling i had a issue where i had to use a lot of force to turn the bike (this is after 2 years of riding i have a 2013) almost as if the rear tire was slightly flat. I had the dealer increase the stiffness of the rear shock by 3 notches and it handled beautifully in fact i almost dropped it in the parking lot because it leaned so readily. After a few weeks went by it started feeling sluggish again after some trial and error i found out that as i put my bike in the garage i was bottoming out the shock due to a high step into the garage since i stopped that it stabilized . If you buy a 500r even if you dont do what i did i would recommend an olihns shock upgrade it makes your bike feel like new.
I went to buy today here in PA but then decided let's wait till May if something good comes in. This kinda looks good.
I bought a CBR650F LAMS over the MT07 as i felt the suspension in the rear was inadequate for what the bike was and I like the 4cylinder smooth engine of the honda. I did find out how its restricted too.
Rip it off !!!
So what did they do to restrict it?
air intake apparently
I went on a group ride recently and there were 5 out of 28 bikes that were CBR500's. The new 2016 CBR500 in satin black looks very nice but it doesn't touch bikes like the Hyosung GT650R or Ducati 659. Personally I like the Yamaha FZ6R.
The new 2016 CBR500R looks great, I think.
Kind of an odd comparison with the Hyosung and Ducati though, they're both on very different ends of the price spectrum. Personally I'd never buy the LAMS Ducati.. I've no interest in such an expensive/exotic LAMS bike. Friend of mine had the Hyosung and it gave him noting but trouble the whole two years he had it. He spent more time wrenching on it than riding it.
Likes and subscribed.
Your reviews are great dude! Please keep making videos, its hard to find good reviews that are done from an Aussie perspective.
Does it sound the same as a non restricted version if you get a slip on exhaust
I just traded my cbr650f to 2017 fz09. just because of more option and power i like to have. to answer to your question though which bike i choose between cbr650f or fz07(mt07), both are great bikes it depends on usage . i found mt07 more nimble and easier to ride but cbr feels much more well build and smoother ride . for longer ride I prefer cbr, but to having fun in the city nothing replace fz07 . just in simple word cbr650f gives you a little bit of everything but fz07 is directed specifically toward maneuvering and fun.
Great review linden! In terms of the restriction, I've been told that they just chucked in a new ECU. Apparently you can get it changed for about $500.
+HYITHO Ah ok, makes sense.
I was chatting to the Honda guys, they were saying it's just an extra wire in the ECU, they can just cut it
oh thats even better then!
+Lindsay Wollin Anyone got an actual definitive answer on this?
+SeventhStringHeaven I spoke to the guys at A1 and they were adamant that you couldn't derestrict it. I haven't found any other info elsewhere
Hey mate I just need to know the height of the seat, I'm 6 foot 4 and just looking for a high bike
Did they ever release this color in the US?
Can you please do a review for Er6nl as well? thanks!
Thanks, It was great to have it compared to the 500. the clutch the gearbox handling etc. Its in a different league so!
+Eric Hegarty No worries :) Yeah, it's not a fair comparison but it's the comparison I always end up making 'cause I own a 500
Hey buddy, great review.
I had a 250 for 2 years (my first bike) and in that time I got the full license in Melbourne. Nevertheless I moved to QLD and I haven't been in a bike for almost 2 years.
Here my question, now that I m moving back to melb I wanna buy another motorcycle and I was considering this one. Is much of a difference the non restricted for a beginner rider? or should I buy this Lambs one?
I was also considering the 2016 CBR 500R after watching a couple of reviews.
What do you think?
great video, really enjoyed your review.
have you or can you please do a comparison video on the Yamaha Mt 07
What is the legroom like compared to the CB500F? I’m 6’4 and was wondering if this was too small for me, as I’m looking for a bigger and sportier bike. It’s impossible to find a sport bike for my height! Although the 15 ninja 650 fits pretty nice. Just need something to compare it to!
I love this bike!!!
+Arjan Kasapi I do too!
LMC awwww, we could be best friends :D
I wanna see this vs mt07 review. (I have an mt07 and I'm really considering selling it to get this.) They just look so fun
buy the mt07 if you haven't, ive own both the mt07 and the cbr650r. mt07 is a beast this shitbox is actually slower than a ninja 300
I bought one recently and the cbr650f is a shit box, my cbr500 would chop it
anyone else notice the 4c around 8:50
guss you missed the R34 GTR at 1:25
IamMotionMedia ha nice i did
jeremy fiske 8
Ayyyye Australia gang 👌🤙 definitely plan to get this bike and i very much hope that the cbr650f lams can be de-restricted
do you know if this bike comes in a none lams i like the look but not keen on a lams bike
What about your bike again? :p
Why is that headlight still acceptable in 2017? I don't understand...
lol where I live you have to buy the unrestricted bike first (for full price of course), and then you have to pay a mechanic to restrict it for you xD I mean, tbh why would the bike be cheaper? Once you upgrade your license, you can just take off the restriction and BAM suddenly you have a full size non restricted bike with nearly 90hp, for no upgrade cost. I mean, if your restricted version of the bike can't be de-restricted, then I get why its expensive. But you gotta think that if you can remove the restriction, you save yourself a lot of trouble by not having to sell your old bike and buy a new one once you have unrestricted license.
Anyways, lovely review. Took my license on a CB500F, so I am actually really happy that you kept comparing the bike to the 500 line :D I will probably upgrade to this next year if I can save the money for it!
Thanks for the vid! I also own cb500f and thinking about upgrading to something more suitable for touring. How is the riding position on cbr650f? Do you you think it's suitable for long journeys? I usually travel with pillion
The CBR650F would make for a better touring bike than the 500F. They're both upright and very comfortable but the 650F has some wind protection. But if you're serious about touring then there are other bikes on the market that are built to tour. the 650F and 500F are just fun standard bikes.
Thanks! Will look into vfr800f :)
There’s a 2018 brand new on sale for 4995 but I just got a cbr300r financed! Would they let me trade? I only put 200 miles on the bike. This sucks!
Can you please tell me if the riding position is upright or aggressive .
CBR 650F or Benelli BN 600i which one would you recommend ? please help am in the market looking for a new bike!!
Great review mate. This might be something to consider although I haven't test ridden this yet I'd be going for the MT-07 mainly because it is a lot more light and compact and has slightly more power than this I believe. It will need a suspension upgrade though. :P
+Titan From Hell The MT-07 are definitely cool. If I upgrade I'm not sure I'd get the MT-07 'cause I already have a twin, so I wouldn't mind trying something different
I know it's an old comment, but I'm just replying so other people know: The CBR650F has more than +10hp over the MT-07 (86hp v 75hp). The MT-07 is lighter, so the difference is probably not that noticeable in a straight pull, but the Honda is more powerful + fairings which is likely beneficial on highway riding :) (the MT-07 does have a little more torque, +4nm which is good for wheelies :b)
The new ones have 90 bhp :)
@@drewtaylor6623 Im looking at these hondas ATM I'm 6'2 would i be to tall for these bikes??
hey just wondering where in Melbourne that rode is with all the trees. cheets
+eoin twomey Mountain highway between The Basin and Sassafras. Just google map Sassafras and then look south west for The Basin.
Hey what's the riding position like as in race or would it be ok to tour if you wanted
G Sea it’s definitely upright man and it feels good to commute but you could also tuck in if you were trying to race with it.
what mods would you have to do to get the full power out of one of these bikes to have the same hp the us version has
I was told at a shop today and they told me they actually don't make the 'normal' version anymore because the bike it advertised for mainly learners. However you can get it legally de-restricted after your LAMS period has ended.
Im 28 and 6 foot tall.. ive never owner a bike before.. could this be a starter bike for a mature responsible person?
Get a 600cc man. I am 20 and 5’4, bought this bike 3 months ago and already thinking of replacing it.
HEY how tall are u? was it comfortable ?
@LMC loving your honest reviews mate keep doing what u do!!! Mate can I just ask where you were riding the scenery and twisties were amazing and as I'm still new to riding I want a find a new places where I can take my R3
I think it was Mountain Hwy from The Basin to Sassafras, lovely little stretch of twisties :-) Very busy on weekends which might spoil the fun a bit.
You’ve just sold me a bike 😁
being I'm new to bikes I have this question, once i have my full licence could u unrestrict this bike to unleash its full potential?
Good question, I haven't been able to get a clear answer on this. My Honda dealership says you definitely can't do it. Some people say you can, but then again those people haven't shown me any actual evidence for that claim. So, to answer your question - I don't know!
I contacted Honda Australia via email and they replied saying that you cannot remove the restriction through any of their service departments. But I know it isn't impossible would either be a ecu upgrade or something as simple as a restriction on the throttle itself. It's a shame Honda don't offer the upgrade after forking out all that money for the exact same bike only its restricted model.
Daniel Ryan, of course Honda wouldn't advertise it, but if you do a quick Google, there are businesses (reputable ones at that) who offer the service
derestricting motorbikes in Australia is a no go, especially for the newer restricted bikes which have modified throttle bodies etc. Tldr unless you're prepapred to break the law, get a 500, get ur open license, then get the unrestricted versions of these bikes
is it A2 restricted
I bought the 2016 model lams approved, I have no idea how they've restricted the bike so if anyone can shed any light on this I'd appreciate it!
ECU mate
Whats the power like? Is it enough?
Did you ever find out if you can derestrict these bikes?
So officially, one can flash the ECU and get 90HP, up from 42. Changing the air intakes helps wiht this too.
Does it,at least, consume less fuel?
mind telling the kpl?
KPL? Not sure what you're referring to. And I don't imagine the economy is much different to be honest. But I haven't tested it.
Oh sorry, here we measure by kilometers per litre, should have been more explicit, lol.
I was asking because I know a guy with a restricted 821 monster who gets around 19-20kpl when going real light (instead of the usual 17~)
Means the loss is around 15%, right? That's quite a difference!
Honda's site (here at least) states that the unrestricted bike does 21kpl so I wonder how economical that 4cyl would be when restricted..
The 500 series does around 25kpl , that's an incredible power to economy ratio but it just lacks the fun factor..
BTW,
Some said that it's just ECU restricted, is that really all?
The ECU can set a new rev limit and control of the fuel delivery, obviously, but from nearly 90bhp to 47 just by doing that? Doesn't sound possible, to me at least.
Do you know if the airbox/exhaust/throttle valves are stock in the restricted version?
It has to breathe differently and it has no fly-by-wire system, so it has to be mechanically different on some aspects, besides the ECU
what is it limited to ?
I would buy the Honda.
I do love the sound of an modern inline 4 600cc bike being available to learners, however I personally find the front end really ugly (especially the headlight/windshield area). The dash looks really shitty and cheap too :(. I think I'd go for the mt07 and street triple, then upgrade to a "real" sport bike once off restrictions :).
+TheZallene I agree that the styling of the faired version is a bit off. I don't like how it looks. The naked version I like though. In person the dash doesn't come off as cheap but it is very simple. Nothing flashy
TheZallene get a look of the cb650f and youll make a mess of your pants
do you think a complete beginner can handle the cbr 650 f and would you recommend it as an entry bike?
As a bike, yeah it's great and if you bought it I don't think you'd regret it. But personally I'm not the sort of person to spend $10K+ on a first bike no matter what it is. So if you're a complete beginner, my vote is get something cheaper or second hand.
thx!
omegapsi847 i have had my cb650f lams for about a month now I'm pretty satisfied i had a te 511 before hand I'm not disappointed at all it pulls hard down low i only speed in the hills so i am happy as.
How do the authorities know the difference between a restricted and non restricted bike if your technically buying the same bike?
+Brendan Vielhauer Registration and VIN number
+LMC but once you have the bike and its registered as restricted and you have the restriction certificate? I mean lets be honest if your bike is smashed to the point that it won't start or a wheel has snapped off etc, chances are the restrictor could very well "fall out" but the restrictor is there so you can build confidence with the limited power on a fairly powerful bike and then after 2 years remove the restrictor and do the process all over again with the added power rather than all at once and come off.
+WolfPackHD That's exactly why people are asking the question as to how it's restricted. If it's just a full power bike with the UK A2 restriction kit but sold as a different model then I assume it's easy to remove but nobody has confirmed. I own a FZ6R and that only has a throttle restriction and no ECU mod, so very easy to do yourself but it sounds like the CBR650F is ECU only, not so easy to do yourself. It's the only thing stopping buying the bike...
i have herd the counter steering on the cbr 500 is horrible
Counter steering is a technique and not part of a motorcycle!!!!!!!
It's restricted through the ECU
Love the video mate. Great channel I’m doing the same with my channel. Keep it going 👌👌🙏
Great video, very objective review.
You're right, it's too expensive for a Lams bike and the full power version only suits a smallish niche of buyers. The cb650f (non-lams) goes head to head with the MT09 and MT07 HO, both are nicer imo. The CBR650F goes up against the Ninja 650 and not much else.
I really like the CBR650F (non-lams), the 2 things that put me off it are the dash and the fact it's built in Thailand. Apart from that it's pretty spot on for me, although a little more power would be nice.
I may be a little unique but I'm considering bikes like this as well as the new 2017 V-Strom 650 (yet to be released). They're both stylish comfortable bikes but adventure style bikes have far better resale than sport tourer's from what I can tell. When you consider they're about the same price the V-Strom looks a better buy with traction control, better dash, cheaper to add an aftermarket exhaust and other accessories, excellent reputation for reliability and more functionality. Of course it's not as sexy but still a nice looking bike. Think I just answered my own question.
Thanks again LMC. Stay safe out there.
MT 07 vs inline 4. Decision made
Where's the Honda made? MT 07 is made in Japan. Add a Akro can and the price is almost equal
+Mathew Smith I believe this too is made in Japan unlike the CB/CBR500 series
+HYITHO Yeah the 500 series I think is made in Taiwan? I can't remember.
+Mathew Smith True, the MT-07 + exhaust comes close to the same price. But then if you got the Honda, you'd probably want an exhaust too so that'd bring the price gap back again
+Linden's Motorcycle Channel (LMC) Thailand
That guy's tire is so flat at 1:54
Great review though, definitely considering one for my first ride.
but only on the bottom of the tire 🤣
I wouldn't recommend an MT 07 to anyone. It still struggles from shoddy suspension and for the price they saved on the crappy units, its going to cost another $1500 to fix that to your weight. Take a look at the MT07 forums.
cagednm69 might aswell get a triumph street triple once you factor in the extra coin, way better bike than the mto7
Ray Watson yes. Its unfortunate when magazines put new but faulty machines up on the pedestal with praise only for owners to notice the flaws and regret the impulse decision to buy it.
Bloody oath, they would have you believe its the best bike ever made, after talking to a few sales guys that sell both, they all said the triumphs a better bike and ride, but budget usually puts people on the mt07 instead, think ill go the triumph for my 1st bike
you do know that the restriction can be removed.......................
+Michael Johnson At the time I wasn't sure, and I still haven't got confirmation of how to do it.
+LMC u take it into the dealer
+Michael Johnson Have you got any real info? I asked the dealer and he said he doesn't know anything of it.
Idk where you live but in the uk everydealer is aware of it. It was mainly designed for the eu market where we have a 3 stage licence process. They have throttle restrictors which can be removed.
It also says on hondas website.
Did anyone notice that r34 skyline at 1:27 ??
Didnt anybody see the yellow r34
*censors speedo* XD
your driving in wantirna arent you
+lilquakes01 Yep I think I pass through there. I do a lap from A1 in Ringwood up to Sassafras via The Basin and back
+LMC yeah i used to work at that kfc. well thanks to you i know what bike im going to get :)
wow 7 years later and australia still only has lams versions of these bikes what a joke. there is no point getting the cbr650r or mt07 cbr650f when they are as powerfull as a ninja 400
True but cant you eventually derestric it once your on your opens ?
What is lams. I'm American
www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/motorcycles/learner-approved/
Learner approved bikes. In Australia as learners we can only ride up to 650cc (restricted) powered bikes. That’s why less motorbike deaths here than america ;)
The dashboard looks like shit
I agree
$9000 2014
Turns out you CAN legally get these bikes de-restricted once you're off your LAMS.
Source: Honda dealer
er6
What the fuck is LAMS
lol looks like a GSXR!!! #Honda_copies_Suzuki
That's what i said at first! But when I saw the gsxr and cbr650f together side by side, the gsxr head light sticks out further than the honda.
+FPietros Clearly you haven't seen CBR600 "F" series bikes.
The only thing they have in common is the single center headlight (which btw do not look alike :D). Put the two aside and they are worlds apart. I personally actually can't stand the design of Gixxers, they are way too busy and try-hardy for my liking. The CBR650F on the other hand is beautifully shaped, nothing ridiculous, and every feature seems to have a decent purpose (maybe except the split instrument cluster, that's just weird). 650F has a much more focused and elegant profile than the comparable GSXR imo