Honda E-Clutch – new standards in gear shifting

Honda will introduce the new electronic clutch technology "Honda E-Clutch" as an option for the CB650R and CBR650R from the 24 model season. The Honda E-Clutch enables smooth up- and downshifts as well as particularly gentle pulling away and stopping without the need to operate the clutch lever. The light and compact system offers more riding fun and flexibility in a wide range of situations and delivers a next-level riding experience.

With the introduction of its new Honda E-Clutch technology as an option for the CBR650R and CB650R for model year 24, Honda will open up a completely new dimension of the motorcycling experience for riders of all kinds and all levels of experience.

The E-Clutch combines elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually operated clutches and Honda's Dual Clutch Transmission technology into a unique blend of these proven approaches. The ultra-compact system weighs only 2 kilograms, and the clutch and gearbox parts themselves are no different from those of a conventional motorcycle, which makes future applications easier to realise.

In use, the E-Clutch is simplicity itself and eliminates the need to operate the clutch lever to shift up or down through the gearbox. The rider simply operates the gear pedal to make ultra-fast, consistent gear changes and so enjoys extra riding fun when riding in a sporty manner. The clutch lever is not needed when pulling away or stopping either. The system becomes active as soon as the engine is switched on and handles both scenarios smoothly, while eliminating the possibility of stalling the engine during operation – offering additional convenience and safety in urban riding, which involves frequent starts and stops.

Besides riding fun and convenience, the E-Clutch offers ultimate flexibility. If the rider wishes, the clutch lever can be operated as usual at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the Honda E-Clutch system becomes active again after less than one second above a certain engine speed, and after 5 seconds at lower engine speeds. If the rider wants to switch the system off for a particular ride, this is also possible via the switchgear on the left handlebar. The switch to manual operation is indicated by a letter 'M' on the dashboard.

The E-Clutch also allows the rider to select a "shift feel" to set the amount of force required on the gear pedal for a gear change. Three settings are available: HARD, MEDIUM and SOFT, each of which can be selected independently for upshifts and downshifts. The technology will also prompt the rider to shift down – via a symbol on the dashboard – if it detects that the motorcycle is in a high gear at a certain speed.

The E-Clutch controls clutch engagement and disengagement based on its detection of parameters such as vehicle speed, throttle opening, engine speed, pressure on the gear pedal, clutch motor angle, clutch shaft speed and gear position. The clutch is operated by an actuator unit with two motors located in the right-hand engine cover. While the clutch is being engaged or disengaged, the engine's ignition timing and fuel injection are also controlled, resulting in smooth, shock-free gear changes in every situation.

The new Honda E-Clutch system promises riders across Europe a "next-level" riding experience and is a further symbol of how Honda, 75 years after its founding, is keen to build on its rich history of innovative technologies geared to riders' needs.

Junya Ono, Large Project Leader, Honda E-Clutch: "Our Honda E-Clutch is designed to offer motorcyclists a new riding experience that can make their riding even more enjoyable and exciting. It also provides security and comfort when riding in the city or on the daily commute. We hope that many riders will try out our new system to enjoy its unique blend of sportiness and flexibility."