After teasing it on social media, Honda has launched a new CBR 650R in India at a price of Rs 10.20 lakh (ex-showroom), making it Rs 20,000 more expensive than the existing variant. As reported previously, the new CBR 650R variant comes with Honda patented electronic clutch also known as E-Clutch.
The new E-clutch technology strikes an ideal balance between the ease of an automatic transmission and the hands-on control of a manual gearbox. Essentially, it functions like the intelligent manual transmission (iMT) found in many Hyundai and Kia models. This allows the rider to shift gears manually without needing to operate a clutch.
Introduced globally in November 2023, Honda’s E-Clutch system blends features of quick-shifters, conventional manual clutches, and the brand’s dual clutch transmission (DCT). Although it retains the standard clutch and transmission hardware, the addition of the E-Clutch system increases the overall weight by about 2 kilograms.
Honda E-Clutch working
The E-Clutch system allows for clutchless upshifts and downshifts, as well as seamless starts and stops, eliminating the need for the rider to manually operate the clutch lever. It activates automatically when the engine is started and helps prevent stalling. Riders can still use the clutch lever manually, and the system will re-engage itself shortly afterward.
The system also offers customizable performance, with three selectable shift sensitivity settings—hard, medium, or soft—for both upshifts and downshifts. If the bike is in too high a gear for the current speed, the instrument panel can prompt the rider to downshift.
E-Clutch functionality is governed by real-time data inputs, including throttle position, engine speed, gear selection, and shift pedal pressure. Clutch engagement is managed by a dual-motor actuator unit housed within the engine casing, while ignition timing and fuel injection are automatically adjusted for smooth transitions.
Honda CBR 650R: Specs & Features
Powering Honda CBR 650R is a 649cc, inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that churns out 94 bhp and 63 Nm of peak torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with the new E-Clutch technology. In addition, the CBR650R also features Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which enhances traction and stability, especially in dynamic riding conditions.
The hardware setup includes the same Showa 41 mm SFF-BP front forks and a rear adjustable Monoshock for agile handling and control, along with high-performance braking components in the form of dual 310 mm radial-mounted front discs and a rear 240 mm disc with dual-channel ABS
In terms of features, the CBR 650R comes with a 5-inch TFT instrument panel that supports Honda’s RoadSync app. Through this application, riders can avail features such as o turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS notifications, and much more. The middleweight sports bike is available in two colour schemes: Grand Prix Red and Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic.
