04-03-2014, 04:52 AM
That CB650F should fit the bill for many riders. A more naked version would be nice. The numbers are almost identical to the FZ8, but the bike is quite low-tech across the board. It's more similar in its intent to the FZR600, but it's odd how the curb weight of the 650F is identical to the FZ8 (no longer offered as a new model but quite a few 2012/2013 still around but going fast). It's 467 lbs fully-fueled. Even the wheelbase and steering geometry are very similar, it's long and pretty lazy but with plenty of trail to give it good low-speed handling. The FZ8 has a much more sophisticated aluminum chassis, four-piston front brake calipers, and a lot more power, but I'd suspect the majority of riders who are looking at this as a second or third bike (even a first bike) will be very content to the point of being tickled blue. Peak HP is nearly the same as our CB1100, but it is 63 pounds lighter. It's tuned for torque (like the FZR600 was) which also helps rideability a great deal.
If I was still in my first few years of riding this bike would absolutely do it all. I doubt I would find anything to complain about. Now I've become jaded and expect a lot more from my machinery, but in a naked version, I'd look closely at this machine. Strap on some soft luggage and it'd be a fine sport-touring machine and would serve well on weekend rides or for commuting, and it'd look good in the garage or carport.
If I was still in my first few years of riding this bike would absolutely do it all. I doubt I would find anything to complain about. Now I've become jaded and expect a lot more from my machinery, but in a naked version, I'd look closely at this machine. Strap on some soft luggage and it'd be a fine sport-touring machine and would serve well on weekend rides or for commuting, and it'd look good in the garage or carport.