Honda CBR650R 2019 vs. Ducati SuperSport 2017

The Honda CBR650R 2019 and the Ducati SuperSport 2017 are both powerful and sporty motorcycles, but they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CBR650R 2019 features an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 649cc. It produces 95 horsepower and 64 Nm of torque, with a compression ratio of 11.4. The Ducati SuperSport 2017, on the other hand, has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc. It delivers 110 horsepower and 96.7 Nm of torque, with a higher compression ratio of 12.6. Both bikes have four valves per cylinder, but the Honda CBR650R has a DOHC valve system while the Ducati SuperSport has a Desmodromic valve system.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The Honda CBR650R has Showa suspension components with a 41mm diameter front fork, while the Ducati SuperSport has Marzocchi suspension components with a slightly larger 43mm diameter front fork. Both bikes have adjustable rear suspension, but the Ducati SuperSport offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound settings.

Honda CBR650R 2019

In terms of chassis, both bikes have a steel frame, but the Honda CBR650R has a twin-tube frame while the Ducati SuperSport has a tubular frame. The rake and trail measurements are also slightly different, with the Honda CBR650R having a rake of 64.5 degrees and a trail of 101mm, while the Ducati SuperSport has a rake of 66 degrees and a trail of 91mm.

Both bikes have double disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 320mm. The Honda CBR650R uses wave technology for its front brakes, while the Ducati SuperSport utilizes radial, monoblock brakes. Both bikes are equipped with ABS as part of their advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, with a 17-inch diameter for both tires. The Honda CBR650R has a wheelbase of 1450mm, a seat height of 810mm, and a kerb weight of 208kg with ABS. The Ducati SuperSport has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1478mm, the same seat height of 810mm, and a slightly higher kerb weight of 210kg with ABS. The Ducati SuperSport also has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 16 liters, compared to the Honda CBR650R's 15.4 liters.

Ducati SuperSport 2017

In terms of strengths, the Honda CBR650R 2019 is praised for its very elastic four-cylinder engine, sufficient comfort for longer tours, good wind protection, great looks, ease of operation, and A2 suitability. On the other hand, the Ducati SuperSport 2017 is praised for its Testastretta engine, which delivers lots of torque, comfortable ergonomics, nimble handling, a wide range of electronics as standard, the iconic Ducati look, and versatility in terms of usage.

However, both bikes also have some weaknesses. The Honda CBR650R 2019 is criticized for its drone below 4,500 rpm, suspension that could be a touch sportier, and a rear brake that may not be as effective. The Ducati SuperSport 2017 is noted for its noticeable vibrations in the handlebar, higher price point, and the absence of a quickshifter with a blipper.

In conclusion, while both the Honda CBR650R 2019 and the Ducati SuperSport 2017 offer powerful performance and sporty aesthetics, they have distinct differences in terms of their engine characteristics, suspension components, chassis design, braking technology, and overall strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.