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Cruisers

1981Honda CB 650 C

4.3
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The 1981 Honda CB 650 C is a middleweight custom cruiser that appeals to riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with authentic styling. Its air-cooled 627cc four-cylinder engine delivers smooth, reliable power suitable for both commuting and casual riding. Known for its comfortable ergonomics and classic custom aesthetic, it remains a practical choice for intermediate riders.

Capacity
627.0 ccm
Engine
In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
220.0 kg
Seat height
Not on record
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Power
63.0 HP (46.3 kW) @ 9000 RPM

What’s new for the 1981 Honda CB 650 C

vs the 1980
Spec19801981
Front brakes Single disc Dual disc
Other years 1980 1981

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 55Agility 52Comfort 62Off-road 15Touring 55Road manners 65
Off-road & trail15%
Cornering45%
City riding60%
Daily riding65%
Touring58%
Two-up55%
Track25%
Best for
Built as an early-80s Japanese custom cruiser, it favors laid-back boulevard riding and easy in-line-four cruising over outright sport performance.
Built for
It has an easygoing, torque-friendly personality with smooth four-cylinder power delivery rather than aggressive punch.
Not ideal for
It's not the right choice for riders seeking serious off-road capability, track-day sharpness, or modern high-speed touring performance.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
627.0 ccm
Power
63.0 HP (46.3 kW) @ 9000 RPM
Engine type
In-line four, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.2864 HP/kg
Bore x stroke
59.8 x 55.8 mm
Compression
9.0:1
Cooling system
Air
Valves per cylinder
2
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
173.0 km/h (107.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wet weight
220.0 kg
Fuel capacity
14.00 litres
Seat height
Not on record - add it
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Front tyre
3.50-19
Rear tyre
130/90-16

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 19801981
Capacity 627 cc 627 cc
Fuel capacity 14 L 14 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

4.3
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Rider rating

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Honda CB 650 C?

The 1981 Honda CB 650 C has a Capacity of 627.0 ccm (38.26 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Honda CB 650 C have?

The 1981 Honda CB 650 C has a Power of 63.0 HP (46.3 kW) @ 9000 RPM.

How many gears does the Honda CB 650 C have?

The 1981 Honda CB 650 C has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the Honda CB 650 C weigh?

The 1981 Honda CB 650 C has a Wet weight of 220.0 kg (485.0 pounds).

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