2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Vs Honda CBR650 R - Which Middleweight Sports Bike Suits You?

The middleweight sports bike segment in India is becoming exciting, especially for riders who are upgrading from smaller motorcycles and want more power without going extreme, so, two popular names in this space are the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Honda CBR650. While both bikes sit in the same engine capacity range, they offer very different riding experiences.

Price

The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 is priced at Rs 7.91 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Honda CBR650 R comes in much higher at Rs 11,16,127 (ex-showroom). That is a difference of over Rs 3 lakh, which is significant.

Also Read: 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Launched in India At Rs 7.91 Lakh - Checkout Features And Specs

Design and Road Presence

The Ninja 650 continues with Kawasaki’s sharp and

aggressive Ninja design. For 2026, it looks almost the same as before, and is offered in 3 colours, while colour options are limited, the green shade of this bike is instantly recognizable and loved by many.

Whereas the Honda CBR650 R, on the other hand, has a more track-inspired and premium look. It feels bigger, wider and more muscular. Honda’s design is sporty but also clean and mature, appealing to riders who want a superbike-like presence.

Engine and Performance

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 uses a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 67 bhp and 64 Nm of torque, which means this engine is smooth, predictable and friendly, making it ideal for riders who are still building confidence.

The Honda CBR650 R uses a 649cc inline-4 engine, which makes around 94-95 HP and 63 Nm of torque. An inline-4 engine revs higher, sounds sportier and delivers power aggressively at higher speeds. This makes the Honda more exciting but also slightly demanding for beginners.

Features and Technology

The 2026 Ninja 650 gets a 4.3-inch TFT screen with smartphone connectivity, full LED lighting, traction control with two modes, ABS, and an assist-and-slipper clutch. These features improve safety and daily usability, especially in city riding.

The Honda CBR650 R offers Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), full LED lights, strong braking with radial calipers and an optional E-Clutch, which reduces clutch effort and makes riding easier in traffic. Its LCD display is simpler, with optional RoadSync connectivity.

Comfort, Weight and Use

The Ninja 650 has a lower seat height of 790 mm and a lighter kerb weight of 196 kg, which makes it easier to handle for shorter or less experienced riders. The Honda CBR650 R is heavier at around 211 kg and has a seat height of 810 mm, which may feel tall for some.

If you are new to big bikes and want a balanced, comfortable, and more affordable sports motorcycle, the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 makes a lot of sense. However, if budget is not a concern and you want higher performance, a thrilling engine sound, and a more aggressive riding feel, the Honda CBR650 offers a premium and powerful experience.