Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Version Teased, India Launch Expected Soon
Honda has teased a silhouette of a CBR650R on social media with the words “Power, precision and more to come”. It is expected that this teaser is the company hinting towards the introduction of an E-Clutch system, available internationally. This system will mean no visual changes to the bike.
The E-Clutch system debuted globally last year, allowing riders to shift gears without using the clutch lever while retaining the option for manual control. This system draws inspiration from the company’s existing dual-clutch transmission systems but works with a standard gearbox and clutch setup.
The innovative setup weighs around 2 Kg whilst utilising actuator pairs and multiple sensors to manage clutch engagement. This allows for clutchless shifting and stall-free operation in stop-and-go traffic.
Ideally, riders will need to simply make use of the gear pedals without the need to activate the clutch lever. You do not need to use the clutch while starting or stopping.. Overall, it should make the CBR650R an easier bike to ride daily. However, you can still use the manual clutch lever at any time, as it remains fully functional.
Honda also allows for customisable shift feel profiles, i.e. Soft, Medium and Hard resistance settings for upshifts and downshifts. The bike will also assist in terms of guidance for downshifting at speeds which are inappropriate in certain gears.
The 649cc inline four-cylinder engine in the Honda CBR650R produces 95 HP and 63 Nm of torque. The only visual giveaway regarding the updated gearbox will be the “E-Clutch” branding on the engine. The clutch case’s size will also increase to incorporate the complex system.
Outlook
It remains to be seen whether the E-Clutch system makes its way into other Honda models as well or just stays with the CBR650R. The teaser helps to confirm that the E-Clutch system is on its way to the Indian market soon. In terms of pricing, it is safe to assume that the updated CBR650R will command a premium over the current Rs. 9.99 Lakh (ex-showroom).
