Honda CB650R 2021 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

The Honda CB650R 2021 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 are both naked bikes with similar engine types and fuel systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has a clear advantage with 119 HP compared to the Honda CB650R 2021's 95 HP. The Yamaha also has a higher torque of 93 Nm compared to the Honda's 63 Nm. This translates to the Yamaha offering greater acceleration and more power in the relevant rev range.

Both bikes have liquid cooling and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock. However, the Honda CB650R 2021 only offers preload adjustment on the rear suspension, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has the additional features of compression and rebound adjustment. This gives riders more control and customization options for their suspension setup.

When it comes to the chassis, the Honda CB650R 2021 has a steel frame with a twin-tube design, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 features an aluminum frame with the same twin-tube design. The use of aluminum in the Yamaha's frame helps to reduce weight and improve handling.

Honda CB650R 2021

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes on the front, but the Honda CB650R 2021 has larger 310 mm diameter disks compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021's 298 mm diameter disks. This gives the Honda slightly better braking performance.

Both bikes come with ABS as an advanced rider assistance system, but the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 offers additional features such as cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. These additional features enhance the Yamaha's overall safety and performance.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CB650R 2021 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1450 mm compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021's 1430 mm. The seat height is also slightly lower on the Honda at 810 mm compared to the Yamaha's 825 mm. However, the Yamaha is lighter with a kerb weight of 189 kg compared to the Honda's 202.5 kg.

The fuel tank capacity is slightly larger on the Honda CB650R 2021 at 15.4 liters compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021's 14 liters. However, the Yamaha has a slightly lower combined fuel consumption of 5 l/100km compared to the Honda's 4.9 l/100km. This gives the Yamaha a slightly longer range of 280 km compared to the Honda's 314 km.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CB650R 2021 is praised for its Neo Sports Cafe Optics, making it visually appealing. It is also considered suitable for beginners due to its smooth engine and good price-performance ratio. Additionally, it has a low fuel consumption.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is praised for its upright and comfortable seating position, well-tuned chassis, and quick and easy adjustability of mappings and traction control. It is also praised for its high-quality workmanship and attention to detail. The Yamaha's engine is also highly regarded for its great tuning, acceleration, and pressure in the relevant rev range.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CB650R 2021 is criticized for its limited space for tall riders, mediocre equipment, and relatively bulky design. It is also noted that it lacks punch in the rev range.

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is criticized for its crude horn placement and poor display.

Overall, both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities. The Honda CB650R 2021 may be more suitable for beginners or riders looking for a visually appealing bike with good fuel efficiency, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and higher quality components.