BMW R6 vs Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect) (1983)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the BMW R6stacks up against the Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect). Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBMW R6Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect)
Model year19371983
Price
Engine600 cc627 cc
Horsepower18 hp50 hp
Fuel capacity4.0 L3.7 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission3-speed5-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake). SingleDual disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake
Tires3.50-19.00 / 3.50-19.00 3.50-19 / 130/90-16

BMW R6 vs Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect) — which should you buy?

Picking between the BMW R6 and the Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect) usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the BMW R6 brings 18 hp, while the Honda CB 650 RC (reduced effect) counters with 50 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: