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Classic · 1981

CB 650

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MotoLibrary Score
53 /100 Balanced
Power
63 HP
Top Speed
183 km/h
Engine
627 ccm

1981 Honda CB 650 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1981 Honda CB 650 classic motorcycle, Honda utilizes a 627 cc (38.3 cu in) air-cooled in-line four, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 63 HP (46 kW) at 9,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 100.5 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the CB 650 measures 216 kg (476 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.29 HP/kg (3.43 kg per horsepower). The 18-liter (4.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 183 km/h (114 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Honda archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 1978 to 1982, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
100.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.29 HP/kg (3.43 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 627.0 ccm (38.26 cubic inches)
Engine Type In-line four, four-stroke
Engine Details In-line four, four-stroke
Power 63.0 HP (46.0 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Compression 9.0:1
Bore x Stroke 59.8 x 55.8 mm (2.4 x 2.2 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel Control Overhead Cams (OHC)
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 183.0 km/h (113.7 mph)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.25-19
Rear Tyre 3.75-18
Front Brakes Dual disc
Rear Brakes Expanding brake
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 216.0 kg (476.2 pounds)
Fuel Capacity 18.00 litres (4.76 US gallons)
More from Honda
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Power
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Fuel Capacity
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Brakes
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Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

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Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
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