Adapting aluminum to the XR frame meant rethinking chassis
architecture from the steering head to the drive chain adjusters.
Wrapped around the 650 single, a twin-spar frame layout (similar to the
CR's frame) would have made the XR too wide between the rider's knees, and
leave too little room to accommodate the 2.6-gallon plastic fuel tank.
Instead, XR engineers created a single-backbone design to keep the bike
slim between the rider's knees for a roomy ergonomic profile and ample
maintenance access.
In designing the XR650R chassis, Honda engineers exploited aluminum's
inherent tunability, varying the size and shape of key frame components to
build a rigid structure that puts precise amounts of bump-absorbing flex
exactly where it's needed.
Convex outer faces on the main backbone build in extra rigidity.
Running the swingarm pivot through the crankcase, rather than behind it,
reduces flex. The tapered, CR-style closed-end aluminum swingarm mirrors
the rest of the tuned-flex chassis character, continuously varying wall
thickness throughout its length.
SUSPENSION
Fork improvements include a 25-percent-greater cartridge diameter
than the XR600R unit, and the XR650's 46mm Kayaba (KYB) fork is adjustable
for compression and rebound damping, providing 11.2 inches of travel. Less
slider below the axle means less metal to get hung up on rocks and ruts.
Increasing slider diameter above and below the new l7mm front axle,
delivers extra rigidity, to make things like steering out of a rut much
easier.
Changes are major at the rear end. Working through a new, more rigid
Delta-type Pro-Link system, the KYB shock carries a piggyback-style remote
reservoir on its left side, to make adjustments easier. Shock shaft
diameter is increased 2mm beyond XR600R specs, and greater shock stroke
increases rear wheel travel to 12.1 inches. Lightweight aluminum rims at
both ends are laced to smaller, lighter hubs, via straight-pull spokes.
The net result is a stronger wheel, less unsprung weight and less time
spent tightening spokes.
That removable subframe is also aluminum, and the main frame
incorporates an engine oil tank with an easy-to-use dipstick.
Tapered-roller steering head bearings maintain precise steering action
and are low maintenance.
Twin-piston front and single-piston rear calipers squeeze large, 240mm
stainless steel rotors for excellent stopping power. A CR250R motocross
front master cylinder handles the braake fluid.
BITS AND PIECES
- Comfortable seat allows easy rider movement.
- Large fenders should keep mud off your riding gear.
- Enduro-style headlight and taillight.
- There. s an integrated headlight/number-plate.
- Neat item: a one-piece high-impact plastic skidplate protects the
engine cases, water pump and hoses.
- The XR650 has a resettable, easy-to-read, three-digit odometer.
- High-quality controls include those great Honda grips and dogleg
levers with brush guards.
- The manual compression-release lever is mounted on top of clutch
lever, where it won't jam your thumb.
- Aluminum shift lever has a folding tip and the brake pedal is also
aluminum.
- Another nice touch is the easy access foam air filter.
- Naturally, the 650 has a USDA-qualified spark arrestor/muffler to keep
the tree police happy.
- Believe it or not, the bike comes with a transferable six-month
limited warranty.
- Ownership also ncludes a one-year complimentary Membership in the
Honda Rider's Club of America. Benefits include discounts, travel
benefits, roadside assistance.
AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES
- Optional competition parts, including intake manifold, carburetor
jets, muffler insert, are avaiable from dealers.