Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650 : Which is Better?

Compare Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650 – price in India, mileage, specs, features, performance & value. Find out which sports bike is better in 2025.

Comparison Overview

SpecificationHonda CBR650RKawasaki Ninja 650
Price (Ex-showroom India)₹10.40–10.55 lakh ₹7.77–8.08 lakh
Displacement / Engine649 cc, liquid-cooled inline-4649 cc, liquid-cooled parallel twin
Power 95.17 PS @ 12,000
rpm              
68 PS @ 8,000 rpm  
Torque 63 Nm @ 9,500 rpm 64 Nm @ 6,700 rpm
Mileage (Claimed) 25 km/l 21 km/l
Kerb Weight 211 kg196 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity15.4 litres15 litres
   

Feature & Performance Highlights

Honda CBR650R

  • Engine layout & behaviour: The CBR650R uses an inline-4 engine which revs high (~12,000 rpm) and delivers strong power and a sporty sound.
  • Power & Response: With ~95 PS and 63 Nm, it offers more top-end punch. Good for riders who like spirited performance.
  • Features: Comes with dual 310mm front discs, showa USD or SFF-BP forks, assist & slipper clutch, dual channel ABS, traction control (HSTC), sharp fairing, LED lights.
  • Comfort & Style: The CBR650R has sporty styling with aggressive fairing, full LED lighting, and a more premium presence. Suitable for highway cruising and aggressive riding.
Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650: Which is Better?
Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650: Which is Better?

Kawasaki Ninja 650

  • Engine Layout & Behaviour: Parallel twin engine; lower rev range than the CBR but good torque from mid-rpm. Easier for daily riding.
  • Mileage & Usability: Slightly better practical economy (21 kmpl as claimed) in mixed riding conditions. Easier fuel management and likely lower maintenance (fewer cylinders) versus inline-4.
  • Weight & Handling: Lighter by ~15-20 kg, which helps in city traffic and twisty roads.
  • Features: Dual-channel ABS, digital instrument cluster, traction control, DRLs, adjustable windshield, good braking setup, etc.

Price & Value for Money

CBR650R is significantly more expensive than the Ninja 650, reflecting its higher power, more complex engine (4-cylinder), and premium features. If performance and top-end are priorities, it gives more in those areas.

Ninja 650 offers a more balanced package: decent performance, strong torque, better affordability, easier maintenance, and better handling in everyday use.

Which One Suits What Type of Rider?

Ride typeBetter Choice
Someone who loves high RPM Performans, sound and sporty ridingHonda CBR650R
Rider who need a sport bike but also values fuel economy,lighter weight daily usabilityKawasaki Ninja 650
Highway cruises and long runs with premium comfort.CBR650R edges ahead
City commuting ,Mixed traffic riding ,lower maintenance .Ninja 650 is More practical

Things to Consider / Legal & Ownership Info

  • Insurance cost, service cost will likely be higher for CBR650R due to more complex engine and premium parts.
  • Fuel quality matters more for high revving inline-4 engines.
  • Make sure to check on-road prices (RTO + insurance + taxes) as ex-showroom price is just the base.
  • Check the availability of servicing and spare parts for both bikes in your city.

Summary: Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650

The Honda CBR650R and Kawasaki Ninja 650 are two of the most popular mid-range sports bikes in India. While the CBR650R offers an inline-4 engine, higher power output, premium features, and a thrilling top-end performance, it also comes at a higher price. On the other hand, the Ninja 650 delivers strong torque, better practicality, lighter handling, and more affordable ownership costs, making it a value-for-money option in the sports bike segment.

If you want premium performance and sporty character, the Honda CBR650R is the better choice. But if you need a practical, budget-friendly sports bike for both city rides and highway touring, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 is hard to beat.

Final Verdict : Honda CBR650R vs Kawasaki Ninja 650

If you have the budget and want a bike that excels in power, high RPM thrills, premium components, and showpiece appeal, the Honda CBR650R is likely the better pick.

But if you want a good sports bike that delivers strong torque, better practicality, lighter weight, slightly better mileage, and lower running costs—Kawasaki Ninja 650 gives you excellent value for money.

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