Honda Bros 650: technical specifications and reviews

The model range of Honda motorcycles is quite diverse and wide. Over many years of production, many lines of motorcycles have become truly legendary in their classes. It is generally accepted that everything that Honda does immediately acquires thousands of fans and soars to the top. But this is not always the case. Take, for example, the Bros line. The path to fame for motorcycles from this family was difficult and thorny. But if at first they were received without much enthusiasm, today many models from this line have received well-deserved recognition. A prime example of this is the Honda Bros 650.

History of creation and promotion on the market

The Bros series was published in 1988. The development was led by designer Toshiaki Kishi. The Honda Bros model is the second in the entire Honda line, made using Pro-Arm technology. The series included two modifications - with an engine of 400 and 650 cc.

The Honda Bros 650 belongs to the naked class, and this particular motorcycle is one of the first representatives in the class. We can confidently say that he stood at the origins. Initially, the Bros line was planned only for the Japanese domestic market. For America, this model was produced under the name Honda Hawk GT. By the way, the 400 cc modification was not supplied abroad at all; it entered the markets of Europe, Asia and America only thanks to gray realtors and the secondary market.

At first, the Honda Bros 650 (or rather, the Hawk GT) sold rather sluggishly in the States. The appearance, unusual for those times, and some design features had an effect. This led to sales completely stopping in 1993 both in Japan and the rest of the world. The model was soon discontinued.

Test Drive

It’s worth noting right away that at low speeds the NTV 650 Honda is somewhat more difficult to control than its analogues. Quite a lot of weight combined with a narrow handlebar means that considerable force is required. The wobbling is especially noticeable when overcoming holes and potholes. However, after a short period of time, you quickly get used to such features.

The suspension unit showed pretty good performance, although the motorcycle shakes noticeably on large potholes. Telescopes cope well with small uneven surfaces on the asphalt. To properly adjust the rear shock absorber stiffness, use special knobs (no additional tools required).

The engine spins vigorously in all gears, actively gaining momentum. To optimize its operation, it is advisable to synchronize the carburetors. For driving around the city, third speed is quite enough; the sound of the power unit pleases with a special powerful “purr” without disruptions or wheezing.

Structural features

This motorcycle looked really unusual at one time. The first thing that strikes the eye is the complete absence of the usual fairings. But the iron inside is on display for everyone to see. It is partially covered on the sides by a diagonal aluminum frame, which somewhat smoothes out the impression of nudity and vulnerability. At the front, the Honda Bros 650 has a conventional telescopic fork, and the rear suspension consists of a central shock absorber.

The rear wheel is mounted on a cantilever, and the entire structure of the rear suspension is equipped with the “swingarm” system, which today, of course, will not surprise anyone, but in those days it was very unusual. Other motorcycle manufacturers began installing such suspension much later than Honda.

Initially, the Honda Bros 650 was produced in only 4 colors:

black;
graphite;
Dark red;
bright red.

Later, even this small selection was narrowed down to just one - bright red. Of course, the color is not such a problem, it can be easily changed to the desired one. After all of the above, it is worth saying that the Honda Bros 650, the photos of which even today look quite modern, in many ways was simply ahead of its time, which is why it was received coolly by the public.

Motor

Initially, the Honda Bros 650 motorcycle was equipped with a two-cylinder engine with a liquid cooling system. The carburetor was responsible for power supply. There were three valves on each cylinder.

During the entire production period, changes were made to the engine design only once. As a result, the oil lines began to pass through the engine, and not bypass, as was the case before.

The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox. The rear wheel is rotated by a chain drive.

Distinctive features of different versions

Do not be mistaken about the absolute identity of the Honda Hawk GT and Honda Bros 650. The technical characteristics of both versions are similar, but there are still a number of differences:

Brief history of the model

Model:

Honda Bros 650 (Japan).
Frame number:
RC31-100XXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650J.

Model:

Honda NTV650 Revere (Europe).
Frame number:
RC3320, RC3330, RC3340XXXXX.
Factory designation:
NTV650J.

Model:

Honda NTV600 Revere (England).
Frame number:
PC2220XXX.
Factory designation:
NTV600J.

Model:

Honda NT650 Hawk GT (USA, Canada).
Frame number:
JH2RC310JM, JH2RC311JMXXXXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650A, NT650AC.

1989 - no significant changes.

Model:

Honda Bros 650 (Japan).
Frame number:
RC31-105XXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650K, NT650K-II.

Model:

Honda NTV650 Revere (Europe).
Frame number:
RC3321, RC3331, RC3341XXXXX.
Factory designation:
NTV650K.

Model:

Honda NTV600 Revere (England).
Frame number:
PC2221XXX.
Factory designation:
NTV600K.

Model:

Honda NT650 Hawk GT (USA, Canada).
Frame number:
JH2RC310KM, JH2RC311KMXXXXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650A, NT650AC.

1990 - The Honda Bros 650 model receives an 18′ rear wheel. The Honda NTV650 Revere is officially sold in Australia (instead of Europe).

Model:

Honda Bros 650 (Japan).
Frame number:
RC31-110XXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650L, NT650L-II.

Model:

Honda NTV650 Revere (Australia).
Frame number:
JH2RC33U.
Factory designation:
NTV650L.

Model:

Honda NT650 Hawk GT (USA, Canada).
Frame number:
JH2RC310LM, JH2RC311LMXXXXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650A, NT650AC.

1991 - Resumption of sales of Honda NTV600/650 Revere in Europe. The last year of production of the American version of the Honda NT650 Hawk GT and the English Honda NTV600 Revere.

Model:

Honda Bros 650 (Japan).
Frame number:
RC31-110XXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650L, NT650L-II.

Model:

Honda NTV650 Revere (Europe).
Frame number:
RC3323, RC3333, RC3343XXXXX.
Factory designation:
NTV650M.

Model:

Honda NTV600 Revere (England).
Frame number:
PC2223XXX.
Factory designation:
NTV600M.

Model:

Honda NT650 Hawk GT (USA, Canada).
Frame number:
JH2RC311MMXXXXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650AC.

1992 is the last year of production of the Japanese version of the Honda Bros 650.

Model:

Honda Bros 650 (Japan).
Frame number:
RC31-110XXXX.
Factory designation:
NT650L-II.

1993 - Only the European version of the NTV650 Revere is produced.

Model:

Honda NTV650 Revere (Europe).
Frame number:
RC3324, RC3334, RC3344, RC3360XXXXX, JH2RC339 (Spain).
Factory designation:
NTV650P.

1994 - model not produced.

TTX

If you decide to purchase a Honda Bros 650 motorcycle, the characteristics of all its parts and components will help you make your choice.

Length, mm	2085
Width, mm	750
Height, mm	1075
Curb weight, kg	181
Clearance, mm	155
Engine	2-cylinder, V-shaped, 650 cm3
Power, l. With.	55
Starting system	Starter
Cooling system	Liquid
Drive unit	Chain
checkpoint	5 steps
Acceleration to 100 km/h, sec	4,1
Maximum speed, km/h	185
Fuel consumption, l	6-7
Gas tank volume, l	12

About competitors

Let's take a brief look at the parameters of the main competitors of the Honda NTV 650 motorcycle:

VFR 750 from . The device is equipped with a 748 cc engine with a power of 105 horsepower. The bike accelerates to 232 km/h and is equipped with a six-speed transmission. The fuel tank holds 21 liters of gasoline, the consumption of which is 7-8 l/100 km.
NSR-125. Despite its aggressive, sporty appearance, the motorcycle has very modest parameters. Engine capacity – 125 cubic meters. cm, top speed – 120 km/h, number of cycles – 2, gearbox – 6 modes, fuel consumption – 4.3 l/100 km.
Translap 600. This bike is a typical enduro bike. The engine power is 55 “horses”, the volume is 583 cubic meters, fuel consumption is 5-6 l/100 km, the speed threshold is 174 km/h.
"Husvarna Strada". The motorcycle is equipped with a 625 cubic centimeter engine with a power of 58 horsepower. The weight of the unit is 186 kg, the capacity of the gas tank is 12.3 liters.
BMW C600 Sport. Engine volume – 647 “cubes”, power – 60 “horses”, weight – 249 kg. Fuel tank capacity – 16 liters.

Honda in sports

Many fans of the Honda empire know that at the very beginning of its existence, this giant produced engines for bicycles. To show the general public what a great quality they were, Honda entered every possible race.

Today the manufacturer has turned into a real automoto empire, and this tradition is still alive. It would seem that for a long time there is no need to prove anything to anyone, because the big name Honda speaks for itself. But all new bike models coming off the assembly line must be tested on the tracks.

The Honda Bros 650 is no exception. It did not take part in official competitions because high speed is not its intended purpose. But on the track, not only speed and fast acceleration play an important role. Racing enthusiasts often choose this model for both street riding and semi-professional tracks. The road to the big sport “Bros” is closed; a serious sport bike can easily bypass it. But in its class it has high dynamics and controllability. Judging by numerous reviews, this model is a reliable mid-ranger that can become a faithful companion and cause a minimum of trouble to its owner.

Sports career Honda Bros NT 650

Now Honda is a fairly well-known brand whose products are used in many areas.
The history of this company began with the production of motors for bicycles. Over time , production grew into the production of motorcycles and then into the production of various products.

To gain a foothold in the market and prove that Honda motorcycles are truly reliable and fast units , the company began to take part in all kinds of competitions almost from the very beginning.

Of course, not all Honda models are intended for participation in competitions, but owners of bikes from this manufacturer do not mind competing , since Honda motorcycles allow this.

Thus, the “legendary” Honda Bros 650 naked, whose production lasted only 4 years, is a good option for racing.

This bike did not take part in official competitions, and it is not intended for racing tracks, but it is used in street racing, and with success .

The power plant of the Honda Bros 650 is not particularly impressive in terms of performance, but the design of the motorcycle itself is very successful .

Having a low weight, this bike has excellent maneuverability , which gives it an advantage on turns.

The engine characteristics are not indicative, but the Bros 650 engine has one of the most important advantages. The power plant of this bike has excellent traction at low speeds, which gives this motorcycle an advantage at the start .

Purpose

This motorcycle is often the choice of those who already have driving experience and have outgrown 125 and 250 cc. Honda Bros 650 as a first motorcycle is a dubious pleasure. Still, he has a sharp temperament, he reacts very quickly to commands, and quickly gains acceleration. On the one hand, these are undoubted advantages, on the other hand, you should learn to drive on a calmer “horse”. This, of course, is a general recommendation, and not at all a strict taboo. Some people are quite good at harnessing this bike even without a lot of experience behind them.

The appearance of a typical naked bike makes this model very attractive to residents of big cities. And his character is appropriate. Honda Bros 650 has high maneuverability and easily avoids traffic jams. Thanks to powerful suspensions, it copes well with uneven roads and is not intimidated by paving stones or even gravel. You can also use it to get out of the city - a country road, a field, a wooded area will be quite suitable for it. As for endurance on a long journey, you shouldn’t have unreasonable hopes. It “gets tired” and overheats, and it’s unlikely to be able to travel a thousand kilometers in a day. But it’s quite possible to fly to a neighboring city or the nearest body of water. For this, by and large, the Honda Bros 650 was created. Reviews from owners, by the way, note a comfortable fit, in which the muscles do not become numb and do not get tired. Moreover, the second number will be no less comfortable, because the passenger seat is spacious and comfortable.

Advantages and disadvantages

At the rear there is a sports monoshock absorber with preload and rebound adjustments. The short suspension travel makes a positive contribution to handling, but makes the motorcycle quite rigid.

The excellent maneuverability and narrowness of the bike (the parts that protrude beyond the sides are your hands) allow you to get through traffic jams on a par with small-capacity bikes.
Elastic gearbox, thanks to which there is no need to change gears.
Well-designed cooling - if you want to check the operation of the fan, you will have to stand still for about 20 minutes, periodically applying gas; under normal conditions it will not turn on.
A real amphibian - even in heavy rain, when the box trucks stall with a flooded engine, this motorcycle will go.
A city bike is ideally tuned for cutting through traffic jams; it loses its advantages when going on the highway; riding at an average speed of traffic, not to mention ahead, is quite problematic.
Low clip-ons are a rare thing for a road worker and imply a rather low landing.
Slippery saddle - even with smooth braking, the rider slides forward; we’ll simply keep silent about the possible consequences of a sudden action.
Good handling and weight distribution.
There is no need to “turn” the engine, it runs well even at 2.5-3 kph, but it is not recommended to let it go lower - you can suddenly stall.

Opportunities for tuning and customization

It’s as if the manufacturer himself stimulates and inspires model owners to make some modifications. First of all, this concerns a modest, even meager palette. The first most popular modification is painting it in the desired color.

Fans of street fighters are partial to “Throw.” It might just be a style statement! Already unencumbered by unnecessary metal and plastic, this bike can be further lightened by removing the fairings located under the tank and seat. A custom flat steering wheel and a headlight without a fairing harmonize very well with the appearance of the Honda Bros 650. Tuning often includes upgrading the lighting.

On tuned “Bros” you can find overcooked exhaust pipes. Sometimes they are lifted up at an angle and equipped with powerful mufflers. This gives the appearance of the motorcycle the aggressive features of a real male.

As is often the case with streetfighters (and naked bikes too), the Honda Bros 650 may lack a passenger seat. Not everyone thinks that it has practical benefits, and this only affects the appearance of the bike for the better.

Prices

If you are thinking about buying a motorcycle of this model, be prepared for the fact that you are unlikely to be able to find a new unit. After all, they stopped producing it many years ago. There is another way - buying directly, that is, from a Japanese auction. And if financially it is the most profitable, then you will have to worry a lot about delivery and customs clearance. Therefore, the best option remains secondary. On the secondary market, the average price for a Honda Bros 650 motorcycle will be $3,000. At the same time, a unit that was brought from abroad will cost more than one that has already been driven on Russian roads. Insist on the possibility of a preliminary test drive to personally evaluate all the features of this bike.