Honda to equip US-spec CB650R, CBR650R with E-Clutch technology

MANILA: Honda’s upcoming CB650R and CBR650R for the United States (US) market will come with the Honda E-Clutch.

Per the Japanese motorcycle company’s American arm, the aforementioned middleweight motorcycles will be equipped with the Honda E-Clutch, which is said to make “the riding experience easier, sportier, and less fatiguing.”

The Honda E-Clutch — American Honda noted — is a technology that will appeal to riders of various skill and experience levels.

“Honda has long been a pioneer in the field of innovative motorcycle clutch and transmission technology, and we’re pleased to continue that tradition with the 2024 CB650R and CBR650R,” American Honda Public Relations Manager Colin Miller said.

“By eliminating the need to pull in a clutch lever during starts, gear changes, and stops, E-Clutch simplifies riding and makes it more enjoyable for beginners and experts alike. And yes, if and when you prefer to ride in a traditional manner, the clutch lever can still be used,” he explained.

Both motorcycles will be released in the US in September.

Honda CB650R

The 2024 Honda CB650R is powered by a 649 cubic centimeter (cc) engine paired with a six-speed transmission with E-Clutch technology. Stopping power comes from dual 310-millimeter (mm) disc brakes with radial-mount four-piston calipers and anti-lock braking at the front while the rear gets a single 240-mm disc, also with an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

It has a 41-mm front fork with 4.3-inch travel and a Showa Single Shock with 5.1-inch travel at the back. It rides on 120/70 series tires on 17-inch wheels at the fore and 180/55 series tires on 17-inch wheels at the rear.

It is available in a single Pearl Smoky Gray color and is priced at US$9,399 or approximately P549,042.

Honda CBR650R

Likewise, the Honda CBR650R uses a 649 cc powerplant also mated to a six-speed transmission with E-Clutch. It also gets the same set of brakes, uses the same suspension system, and rides on similarly-sized tires and wheels.

However, it gets a full set of fairings, fenders, and cowlings unlike the aforementioned CB650R with a naked body. On that note, it comes in a lone Grand Prix Red color and is priced at $9,899 or about P578,235.

What is Honda E-Clutch?

According to American Honda, E-Clutch is a technology that “eliminates the need to learn shifter-clutch coordination, along with worries about stalling or jerky starts or sudden stops.”

The system uses a pair of small, quick-response electric motors to automatically actuate the clutch when the rider starts out, shifts, or brings the motorcycle to a stop. The rider still needs to use his or her foot to move the gear change lever to upshift or downshift but no longer needs to squeeze the clutch or learn how to time the shifting.

“In that way, it’s like shifting gears on a bicycle. You pick the gear you want to be in, and also get all the fun and exhilaration of precise gear changes,” American Honda explained.

Honda motorcycles equipped with the E-Clutch still get a clutch lever on the handlebar so riders can “override the system or bang off a shift with full manual clutch control” whenever they want.

Also read:

Honda Click 125 to be raffled as grand prize in Shell's extended raffle promo

Here are the 2024 Honda Pilipinas Dream Cup Round 3 results

Honda Winner X gets RUGP Grand Prix Round 1 win