Honda CB650R and CBR650R Now Sold Only with E-Clutch in India
Honda India has discontinued the standard variants of its CB650R and CBR650R sportbikes, leaving the E-Clutch versions as the only available options. This update comes just six months after these 650cc inline-four models returned to the Indian market.
What Is Honda’s E-Clutch System?
The E-Clutch allows riders to shift gears without using the clutch lever, especially useful in stop-and-go traffic.
- Riders can still choose to manually use the clutch, unlike fully automatic systems like Honda’s DCT or Yamaha’s Y-AMT.
- The system adds 2.8kg to the kerb weight and costs â‚ą40,000 more than the now-discontinued base variants.
Real-World Implications
While the E-Clutch eliminates clutch fatigue in city riding, it still requires manual gear selection.
- Riders must remain attentive, especially when starting from a halt in the correct gear, as attempting to ride off in higher gears could strain the system.
Powertrain and Specifications
Despite the tech upgrade, the mechanicals remain unchanged:
- Both models continue to use the 649cc inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 95hp at 12,000rpm and 63Nm at 9,500rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
Availability and Pricing
Now exclusively available with E-Clutch, both the CB650R and CBR650R come in black and red colour options.
- The on-road price for the CBR650R in New Delhi is approximately â‚ą11.74 lakh.
While the E-Clutch offers ease and flexibility, its effectiveness on Indian roads will be clearer once long-term real-world reviews are in. Honda’s move suggests a bold bet on tech-led riding comfort.
