The all-new 2014 Honda CBR650F is headed to Canada, marking the Japanese manufacturer's splendid return to the middleweight sport/standard bike segment. While “middleweight” now means 675-900 cc for most European competitors, Honda had yet to embrace the trend.

By increasing the piston stroke from 42.5 to 46 mm, engineers have finally cracked the 650cc plateau. While power stays put (87 hp at 11,000 rpm), the DOHC 16-valve cylinder head employs direct cam actuation and cam timing that delivers more torque across a wider range, especially below 4,000 rpm.


2014 Honda CBR650F is sporty, yet friendly
As far as styling is concerned, the 2014 Honda CBR650F builds on the previous CBR600F by adding a larger, sportier fairing that still exposes the exhaust manifold, and by featuring an upswept tail and stubby tailpipe (not unlike the CBR1000RR SP superbike).

Designed to make the 2014 Honda CBR650F friendly and affordable, the chassis consists of a diamond steel frame that's much stiffer around the headstock and more flexible in the dual spar sections to improve ride quality. Meanwhile, the aluminum swingarm and wheels provide the looks and sharpness of a genuine sport bike.

In the braking department, the 2014 Honda CBR650F borrows its dual 320mm front discs with dual-piston callipers and ABS from the NC700. The 240mm rear disc is formed within the front disc, saving material for the manufacturer and costs for the customer.

Easy ergonomics highlight the 2014 Honda CBR650F
The seat is low (810 mm) and narrow enough for most riders to easily put both feet on the ground at idle. Together with a natural riding position that keeps the chest relatively upright, the new seat design will definitely enhance comfort over the outgoing model.

The 2014 Honda CBR650F also gets a new, fully digital instrument panel that you'll find more stylish and easier to read, as well as a slightly firmer suspension -- all of this to emphasize the sporty and youthful character of the machine.

Look for the new 2014 Honda CBR650F to arrive in dealer showrooms within the next couple of days starting at a very competitive $9,499.