We all need a reliable source of support in times like these. As far as big-bore dual-sport bikes go, the Honda 2021 XR650L Adventure Bike is the best. A stalwart of our dual sports portfolio, it’s a rugged, tried-and-true survivor.
Electric starter and legendary dependability go hand in hand with the 644cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine. No matter how wrong the road or surface is, the long-travel suspension and durable steel frame from Baja provide pleasant rides on dirt and city streets.
The Honda XR650L is here to stay, unlike other motorcycles that come and go. What’s more, I’d want to tell you something. That’s perfect for us.
The tried-and-true XR650L delivers yearly high-value, dependable dual-sport enjoyment, which is why it remains a popular choice in Honda’s portfolio. Dual-sport motorcycles can traverse dirt roads, single-track trails, motorways, and byways in equal measure. These features, together with the Baja legacy, have led to a devoted following of riders for the model.
Honda 2021 XR650L Adventure Bike – Features
Performance
Four-stroke engine
One of the advantages of the XR650L’s 4-stroke single-cylinder engine is that it is both efficient and powerful. The powertrain is also well-proven, which means it requires relatively minimal upkeep.
Disc Brakes
Disc brakes, both upfront and back, give the best stopping power. Drilled holes in the rotors reduce weight and improve traction in wet conditions.
Convenience
Electric starter
You need to click a button to start your adventure. On an icy morning or after a week’s rest, the XR650L’s electronic starter takes the stress out of getting started.
Versatility
Street-legal features
Including turn signals, license plate lights, mirrors, and a speedometer, this vehicle is ready for the road. A passenger can even use the grip straps and foot pegs.
Passenger Ready
The XR650L makes it simple to ride with a passenger with features like a passenger grab strap, foldable passenger pegs, a long MX-style seat, and lots of power from Honda.
Design
Sealed battery
Even if you have an off-road tip over, you won’t have to worry about upkeep. The off-road rider’s sealed battery provides ample cranking power for the electronic starter.
Dry-Sump Lubrication
To maximize ground clearance and damage resistance, the XR’s dry-sump design removes the oil pan. There is no need for an external oil cooler when the engine oil is contained within the vehicle’s frame.
Handling
18-Inch Rear Wheel
In terms of overall ride quality and sidewall protection against flats, the 18-inch rear wheel offers additional options for both on- and off-road tires.
21-Inch Front Wheel
Your choice of tires for varied riding circumstances is broadened by the 21-inch front wheel’s wide range of diameters.
Long-Travel Front Suspension
Additionally, the 43mm fork’s 11.6-inch travel and 16-position compression damping adjustment allows you to tailor the fork’s response to the bumps you’ll encounter while riding off-road.
Pro-Link® Rear Suspension
The rear suspension technology from Honda, the Pro-Link®, provides a smooth and pleasant ride with excellent steering control. Initial rates are soft for delicate motion over small bumps and ripples, while stiffer rates prevent bottoming and retain control over rougher surfaces.
Steel frame
The steel frame of the XR650L is built to withstand the rigors of off-road use. Additionally, the engine’s oil tank is housed in the frame’s backbone, reducing weight and space.
Engine / Drivetrain
On and off-road, the bulletproof SOHC four-stroke engine of the 644cc SOHC generates power and torque perfect for both. High power output and exceptional combustion efficiency may be achieved by using a radial four-valve combustion chamber (RFVC). A precise throttle response, superb readability, and maximum power are all provided by the 42.5mm constant-velocity (CV) carburetor. Push-button starting is a snap thanks to the vehicle’s dependable electronic starter technology.
The counterbalance’s gear-driven counterbalance reduces annoying and exhausting vibrations. Exhaust system with USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler that is free-flowing and silent.An automatic tensioner for the cam chain and a CD ignition with an electronic advance that doesn’t require any maintenance keep you out of the mechanic’s shop. By reducing crankshaft wind age and engine temperature, a dry-sump engine optimizes power. A versatile, long-lasting five-speed automatic transmission is available for both on- and off-road driving. Multi-plate, heavy-duty clutch.Drive chain #520 with O-ring seals for heavy-duty use and little maintenance.
Chassis / Suspension
Honda Racing inspires the colors and graphics. Using a steel semi-double-cradle structure reduces weight while increasing strength and precision in handling. The excellent off-road performance of the 43mm Showa cartridge fork is enhanced by the fork’s 16-position compression damping adjustment. Rear suspension by Pro-Link®.Easy to remove the rear wheel with rapid detachable aluminum box-section swingarm. Disc brakes on both the front and rear provide excellent stopping power.
Wheels that are both light and incredibly robust.Passenger footrests connected to the bike’s frame allow for two-up riding. Front and rear aggressive, dual-purpose tires provide excellent on- and off-road performance. Improved tire options thanks to an 18-inch back wheel. Straight-pull spokes are used in lightweight rims and hubs. Cool air is directed to the engine by dual airflow shrouds, and a headlight/number plate combination and the high/low beams of an Endure-style headlamp are available. A seat designed for motocross is comfortable and flexible, allowing the rider to move about as freely as possible. Massive, long-lasting fenders protect the rider from flying debris—engine protection made of lightweight tubing. The self-cleaning, wide-section, foldable, cleated foot pegs provide excellent comfort. Turn signals set on flexible rods are more durable.
Tripmeter/odometer; neutral light; high-beam light; turn signal; side-stand; and neutral light are all included in the compact speedometer. Comfy grips and brush guards are two features of high-quality control knobs.
Engine / Drivetrain
On and off-road, the bulletproof SOHC four-stroke engine of the 644cc SOHC SOHC generates power and torque perfect for both. High power output and exceptional combustion efficiency may be achieved by using a radial four-valve combustion chamber (RFVC). A precise throttle response, superb readability, and maximum power are all provided by the 42.5mm constant-velocity (CV) carburetor Push-button starting is a snap thanks to the vehicle’s dependable electronic starter technology.
The counterbalance’s gear-driven counterbalance reduces annoying and exhausting vibrations. Exhaust system with USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler that is free-flowing and silent. An automatic tensioner for the cam chain and a CD ignition with the electronic advance that doesn’t require any maintenance keep you out of the mechanic’s shop. By reducing crankshaft wind age and engine temperature, a dry-sump engine optimizes power. A versatile, long-lasting five-speed automatic transmission is available for both on- and off-road driving. Multi-plate, heavy-duty clutch. Drive chain #520 with O-ring seals for heavy-duty use and little maintenance.
Chassis / Suspension
Honda Racing inspires colors and graphics. Using a steel semi-double-cradle structure reduces weight while increasing strength and precision in handling. The excellent off-road performance of the 43mm Showa cartridge fork is enhanced by the fork’s 16-position compression damping adjustment. Rear suspension by Pro-Link®. Easy to remove the rear wheel with rapid detachable aluminum box-section swingarmDisc brakes on both the front and rear provide excellent stopping power. Wheels that are both light and incredibly robust. Passenger footrests connected to the bike’s frame allow for two-up riding. Front and rear aggressive, dual-purpose tires provide excellent on- and off-road performance.
Improved tire options thanks to an 18-inch back wheel. Straight-pull spokes are used in lightweight rims and hubs. Cool air is directed to the engine by dual airflow shrouds and a headlight/number plate combination. The high/low beams of an Endure-style headlamp are available. A seat designed for motocross is comfortable and flexible, allowing the rider to move about as freely as possible. Massive, long-lasting fenders protect the rider from flying debris—engine protection is made of lightweight tubing. The self-cleaning, wide-section, foldable, cleated foot pegs provide excellent comfort. Turn signals set on flexible rods are more durable.Tripmeter/odometer; neutral light; high-beam light; turn signal; side-stand; and neutral light are all included in the compact speedometer. Comfy grips and brush guards are two features of high-quality control knobs.
Honda 2021 XR650L Adventure Bike – Price
The new Honda 2021 XR650L Adventure Bike is available at $6,999 only.
Honda 2021 XR650L Adventure Bike – Technical Specifications
Engine
| Type | 644cc air-cooled, dry-sump, single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Valve Train | SOHC; four-valve RFVC |
| Bore x Stroke | 100.0mm x 82.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 |
| Induction | 42.5mm diaphragm-type CV carburetor |
| Ignition | CD w/ electronic advance |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Five-speed |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet |
| Final Drive | #520 O-ring sealed chain; 15T/45T |
Suspension
| Front | 43mm air-adjustable leading-axle Showa cartridge telescopic fork w/ 16-position compression damping adjustability; 11.6 in. travel |
| Rear | Pro-Link Showa single shock w/ spring preload, 20-position compression damping, and 20-position rebound damping adjustability; 11.0 in. travel |
Brakes
| Front | Single 256mm disc w/ twin-piston caliper |
| Rear | Single 220mm disc w/ single-piston caliper |
Tires
| Front | 3.00-21 |
| Rear | 4.60-18 |
Measurements
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 27° |
| Trail | 102mm (4.0 in.) |
| Length | 86.2 in. |
| Width | 33.7 in. |
| Height | 49 in. |
| Seat Height | 37.0 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 13.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 57.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.8 gal., incl. 0.6 gal. reserve |
| Color | Red |
| Curb Weight | 346 lbs. |
Conclusion
Honda-inspired colors and designs. Steel semi-double-cradle structures save weight and increase strength and accuracy. The 43mm Showa cartridge fork’s 16-position compression damping adjustability improves off-road performance. Pro-Link® rear suspension. The robust 644cc SOHC four-stroke engine is excellent on and off-road. A radial four-valve combustion chamber achieves high power and combustion efficiency (RFVC).
