Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India is gearing up to launch the E-Clutch version of its fully-faired CBR650R in the Indian market in May. The company had earlier launched the updated CBR650R, along with its naked sibling, the CB650R, in January 2025. A recent teaser shared on social media hints at it being the new variant, as the silhouette is akin to the outgoing model. While the E-Clutch technology is already available globally on both models, the Indian versions have so far been offered with a 6-speed manual transmission.
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Honda’s E-Clutch system, first announced in October 2023, borrows characteristics from quick-shifters, manual clutches, and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The hardware of the clutch and transmission remains unchanged compared to usual setups, with the E-Clutch system adding only about 2 kg in weight.
Honda E-Clutch: How does it work?
The E-Clutch allows for clutchless gear changes, both upshifts and downshifts, as well as starts and stops, eliminating the need for the rider to operate the clutch lever. The system activates once the engine is turned on and helps prevent engine stalling. Riders can still use the clutch lever manually when wanted, with the system reactivating automatically shortly after.
The system also offers customisation options, letting riders choose between three gear shift sensitivity levels – hard, medium, and soft – for both upshifts and downshifts. Additionally, the instrument panel can prompt downshifts if the bike is in a gear that’s too high for the current speed. E-Clutch operations are governed by various real-time parameters such as throttle input, engine speed, gear position, and shift pedal pressure. An actuator unit with two motors inside the engine casing handles clutch engagement, while ignition timing and fuel delivery are adjusted accordingly.
This isn’t Honda’s first innovation in clutch technology. The company’s DCT system, featured on models like the Africa Twin, Gold Wingand NT1100, is already well-regarded in international markets.
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Powering the CBR650R is a 649 cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that belts out 94 bhp at 12,000 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 9,500 rpm. It comes paired with a 6-speed gearbox and includes Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). Other design and mechanical elements remain unchanged from the standard model.
The current CBR650R standard variant is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The upcoming E-Clutch version is expected to carry a premium over this price. It will also make the CBR650R the first Honda motorcycle in India to employ the E-Clutch tech.
