2024 Honda CB650R E-Clutch Review | Still FUN?

2024 Honda CB650R E-Clutch Review | Still FUN?
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[@RupeWilson]

Anything that can get more people riding motorbikes is a win.

[@Englishbikerdan]

My thoughts exactly.

[@thebrowns5337]

That's how I always see it but the doom mongering dinosaurs with their toxic masculinity bubbling are starting to comment otherwise. They don't like progress or choice or anything seen as 'soft'.

[@bachpham5357]

@@Englishbikerdando you feel more vibrations on the CB650R vs the Daytona 660 ?

[@rjgallman4916]

Did not think of it that way. 😅

[@davidmartin9459]

Booked my theory at the weekend. It's time to become one with freedom

[@whammo11224]

Don't know what's better, the bike or the fact that I'm watching an English video with the sun out!

[@Dan_B_Rides]

I love how Honda are continuously improving the CB/CBR 650 range. Those updates are great and that e-clutch system is so clever in my opinion. I still love the looks of the bike and the performance is perfect for the UK roads. Nice review Dan and looking forward to the future videos of the bike.

[@ThreeB78]

I was thinking the hornet would replace the CB and sprout fairings to replace the CBR. Chuffed that is not the case

[@ram64man]

As good as this is , I think we in the final 1 months of it since the 750 hornet effectively replaced it and is more fuel efficient (not by much but still 5 per litre ) the 650 is in my opinion a direct upgrade to the old cb500 91 man I miss that , same hp , two more cylinders, same wheels AND SME EXAUSE NOTES

[@Irfan87]

The E-Clutch is gonna be pretty revolutionary. Yamaha is already coming out with something similar. And i suspect at some point A LOT of bikes will run a similar system. Cos you get the best of both worlds, without any of the downsides.

[@BennyZ88]

I hate to say it but i think i prefer the old design... The new headlight and intake ports don't look as nice to me... The new dash and E-Clutch look like great additions though!

[@aluisious]

I’d love to buy an eclutch when it’s on an sv650.

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

Omg I just saw that the Akrapovic is selling the old exhaust system for this bike again. Arguably the best looking exhaust for the bike (since nothing low profile exists other than the ixil)

[@starkey75]

I love mine, I struggled with clutch control, just couldn't quite get it right, I was terrible I have no idea how I managed to pass my full licence, However this e clutch is just amazing, I finally can actually enjoy riding without the anxiety of not letting clutch out enough and hearing the terrible over rev or stalling, And as opposed to dct, I still can use the clutch to keep practicing,

[@Englishbikerdan]

Glad this is helping you! Great to hear. 👍

[@M4LLYB]

I've had mine for just over a month and it makes light work of the 15 mile (each way) across london cummute! 1st gear is a little jerky when filtering through traffic but using 2nd gear sorts this out!

[@kurvaonwheels]

Frame sliders look like a must for this one. If you fall on that side, or if you slide and that E clutch hits something, could be bad.

[@Englishbikerdan]

Absolutely!

[@FatBiscuitYT]

frame sliders are wide as it is, they'll be even wider and make commuting in dense cities a pain haha.

[@JT-ue6hw]

I have mine 2 weeks now. I'm a beginner so I turn it off everytime I ride to perfect my controls. But the times I've used it it's really smooth, feels like a cheat code. The best 'quickshifter' on the market, since it's better then a regular quickshifter

[@Englishbikerdan]

Glad you are finding it a useful feature, thanks!

[@KrypteiaXi]

Its a quickshifter that can also do idle gears. The fuck are people complaining about?

[@markfranks1329]

Exactly!👍

[@antoniom4016]

Exactly! Some people plain & simple do not like changes. I think this e-clutch is a genius system by Honda 👌🏾👍🏾

[@Ju_A_B]

1 more thing that can break I guess

[@markfranks1329]

@Ju_A_B Oh, live a little. Any part of a bike can break, yet we still ride them.

[@KrypteiaXi]

@@Ju_A_B dumbest point so far.

[@Dan-56]

I can see an advantage of the E-Clutch over the DCT as it allows for you to manually “feather” the clutch for low speed maneuvers. 👍

[@aleokyn5757]

For me, that new air intake left n right make the bike look awesome, it’s filling the emptiness.

[@X-cript]

but the previous version looks so much better

[@Throttle.Therapy.]

Thank you for the showcase Dan! Ive had my CB650R for 4 years now and still love it! I like the redesign. Im also surprised that this didn't make its way over to the States either. Maybe for 2025 or 26!

[@-Eternal-Damnation-]

Man the CB650R is just so good looking. Beautiful bike! One day I'll have one for myself, but probably not for another 4yrs, life in the UK is so expensive at the moment 😭 Great review as per usual 👍. Yeah i agree, the new air intakes look really odd. Way preferred the previous ones.

[@jacobellw]

That inline 4 is just to die for! Also, Did Dans bottom give this the thumbs up? Biggest shock of 2024. Thanks so much for the video, Dan! Can't wait for the next video.

[@rustworks2588]

What a machine! So glad that its still has all 4 cylinders. She sounds so naughty! The e-clutch addition definately adds to the appeal regardless if your a new rider or not. Kudos to Honda for yet another innovation. BUT Dan..... be honest.... did you flinch the first time you put that 1st gear down without pulling the lever? 😅

[@Englishbikerdan]

I did haha!

[@simonbowen6653]

£100 for the e-clutch, including the quick shifter. This isn't a scooter, gear changes are manual but either with or without the clutch. What's not to like? Honda will run this out across their range.

[@Englishbikerdan]

It's a no brainer for me. You don't have to use it, but it's there if you want and if you're feeling lazy. There's cons as with anything, but I'll go over those on the CBR vid.

[@aapddd]

For me this could be a game changer. I have mental illness and use medications and stuff. I’m still allowed to ride, but I find it’s difficult to concentrate on all those things needed to ride a motorcycle. As a result, I decided to stop riding years ago. Maybe this can get me back into it. Not worrying about the clutch could help me relax.

[@chebha1]

this system was available with Honda Street in 100 CC scooter probably in earlier format used it for like 10 years amazing one probably 1998 - 2008 era

[@alexanderhartwig4897]

Absolutely perfect bike. Definitely gonna buy this.

[@antoniom4016]

Me too, I'm considering this in 2025. I've always liked this CB650R

[@Icem4n84]

Love that there is an option to switch to what would be standard. If it gets more riders into it then I'm for it. An extra £100 is also quite reasonable.

[@CaptainFeathersword]

The technology is great however....as someone who already owns an electric car and just uses the gas pedal and braks (ie can be boring at times), I enjoy having to use the clutch. I think that it keeps me engaged with the bike and everything that is happening around me....that said, I find the choice to drive the bike in a traditional way very appealing.

[@ProphetAndLoss]

It's the best of both worlds. Auto or old school in one.

[@Dimitris4110]

I sold my previous bike and got a scooter because i was bored driving it in the city. This seems like the best of both worlds.

[@davidnunnerley9084]

I love the idea of the e clutch. Brilliant concept in my opinion. Lovely bike too.

[@GoldenBoyGarage]

I have always wanted one of these bikes. I loved the pipes. I didnt know the 400f existed, it fell into my lap, and I love it. I would love to try one of these for a year or two. The intake cheeks I am not a fan of personally. The eclutch is neat and i dont think it should be a crutch for new riders, certainly cool to have

[@mcvaluemenu]

video is fake. no way you're in the UK and in the sun at the same time.

[@Englishbikerdan]

😂

[@deansmith9513]

I ordered one in May.. delays have crept on and on now, until Honda UK are now saying there won’t be any deliveries until October! I’m a new licence holder, so keen to get started asap. If they can’t deliver the bikes, they shouldn’t put them on sale!

[@ZinoAmare]

Reason I bought a cheap second hand bike to ride. Also doesn’t hurt as much when dropping it vs a new bike.

[@Kenicavus]

Personally I miss the 2021 design of the lights & air intake. If I can get that design with e-Clutch, that would be great.

[@slickman5969]

good vid, i agree that the older version looks better

[@CaptainFeathersword]

I think that this is an excellent first big bike for any rider anywhere....I have a 2023 model and it gets to 150km/h in very little time....94hp is lots of oomph, and a lower torque figure makes it very forgiving for errors made while in heavy traffic.

[@trevor2830]

What about compared to a mt07?

[@CaptainFeathersword]

It's really personal choice....horsepower wise the MT-07 is a bit lacking compared to the CB650 (94 vs 75), however you need to really rev the CB650 to grab that power.....I prefer an inline-4 to a parallel twin which drove my decision...someone who values lots of low end torque will gravitate to the MT-07....the CB650 is somewhere between an MT-07 and MT-09 imo.

[@trevor2830]

​@CaptainFeathersword good comparison. I've never rode an inline 4 before but I do know they are high revving and the speed is at the top. While this is a quicker bike as well I've heard persons claim because it has low power at the bottom it's a more forgiving bike. Is that true? For me personally the instant torque of the mt07 especially in 1st gear is a bit snatchy which requires more clutch control but this having to rev to get going especially in traffic makes me wonder in that aspect which one requires more experience or which is the easier bike to ride?

[@CaptainFeathersword]

@@trevor2830 It is definitely forgiving at the bottom of the rev range, which I actually appreciate when I am commuting in heavy traffic....the last thing I want is a snatchy throttle where I ram into someone or hit the curb on a bad day. There is significant power available when I call upon it lol.

[@trevor2830]

​@@CaptainFeathersword😅that's spot on the reason why my hand is always on that clutch on the MT 😆 but you have me considering this as a better choice just to be more respectful and responsible given its long power band once I get going

[@AyaWetts]

Wish they'd sell e-clutch bikes like this in the US

[@trevor2830]

The previous design was perfect all it needed was the TFT dash and morr comfy seat but hey ...its still nice 👌

[@berkk29]

i wish Honda updated the dash on their smaller bikes too like the CB300R with the same dash on this. KTM and some other chinese manufacturers are offering TFT displays whereas Japanese bikes are still using very basic stuff. I dont think it would push the price that much higher.

[@Englishbikerdan]

I am sure new dash will filter down to other models.

[@stabitandsteer]

Currently chewing over upgrading my 2019 CB650R (also in red) to one of these or hold to see what the new CB1000R is looks like. I agree with the intakes. Prefer the older ones too.

[@JohnLongdin]

Thanks Dan, I've got the DCT NT and an e-clutch would be really useful for low speed manoeuvring, I can see the benefits of it 👍

[@GazBromley]

love those downpipes.

[@user-om2fg7yh6s]

I think the intakes and the bike in general look awesome - overall this bike is just really appealing. Only downside is the insurance for these is sky high from what I’m hearing (if you live in London)

[@MH-xd2nd]

Three things spring to mind immediately: 1) Is it not overkill for one brand to have two different automatic systems? Honda already has DCT, which is arguably more useful and logical, albeit much more expensive 2) Why bother including a clutch lever? Either have it and make it a manual bike or make it fully automatic like DCT 3) The 650 naked seems an odd bike to introduce this system. This is the one bike I would have thought buyers would get precisely because they use the clutch and gears.

[@Englishbikerdan]

You've already answered the first question. This is cheaper and a lot less complex than DCT and easier to integrate into existing bikes without designing an all new gearbox. Include a clutch lever so that you have the choice, which is better than not having the choice I think. My guess, is that the smooth nature of IL4 engines made this the perfect bike to introduce the new system. The engines have much smaller pulses due to piston size and I think that has something to do with how this all operates. I'm no engineer though!

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

I agree with all those points. Nick

[@bjornveendorp6222]

Hey Dan, I love the video’s, I just bought a Honda NX500 and I’m very excited for the longer term review! The video’s are great, keep it up 👌🏻

[@djking44151]

Love the idea of the E-Clutch, but man the old 650r was so much nicer looking

[@user-tw9pv6io2s]

Great video, whens part 2 out? Looking forward to seeing it!

[@davidtait7407]

I’m old school,.. or am l 🤨 still think it’s part of the engagement of riding a bike with a clutch. I have a scooter as well and it has its place either for enjoying exploring when I’m away with my Motorhome and a convenient trip in to town. ., but when I’m my motorbike I like to engage with different revs and rev matching and yes, enjoy the mechanics of a machine that needs input from the rider. I’m sure it’s very good for others as well.

[@imraniqbal2712]

i want this for stop and go traffic!

[@Vidve]

The CB650R sounds and looks like the kind of bike I'd like to move up to in a few years, once I hone my roadcraft on my old CG125. The e-clutch especially sounds almost too good to be true, to have the option to go automatic. I just wish it came in blue!

[@kacimara100]

The clutch is similar to the cub bike (small bike) that is used in south east Asia. easy to ride. Good review Dan.

[@2smoulder]

Interesting concept that will appeal to the new generation of riders who like things being done for them.

[@melvin_eats]

I want one!

[@AshleyGriffiths-ee8nz]

Just got my cbr650r because of you from Farnham Honda ;)

[@Englishbikerdan]

Wow that's great! I hope John looked after you!

[@thesmithsteron2wheels362]

great review as always, have this engine in my cbr650r, to be honest not keen on e clutch or dct, also looks like an after thought the way fitted to the bike.engine

[@cliveomahoney4096]

I want my 650R back! They can keep my new Hornet. I also want the e-thingie. For a bike with 50 miles on the clock, you were ragging that throttle a bit; so, I'll pass on that particular one. I agree totally about the new looks.

[@Englishbikerdan]

It's a press bike, this is how they are ridden!

[@otlndsh]

It's interesting that the new MT09's air intakes actually got way smaller than the previous MT09, and they're definitely smaller than this bike's, and it's a bigger engine.

[@lastdimestudios]

Omg - so jealous! Very excited about the e-clutch……and your review of course. Now where’s my wallet.

[@matthewfall-eq8be]

I think its a great system, I have a 2024 cbr650r e clutch which replaced my 2023 cb650r , I prefer the cbr position and better wind protection. The eclutch works just fine but I do sometimes miss 2nd if I'm not being positive with the lever, down shifts are perfect, when in manual mode I was surprised that the quick shifter is disabled so its either eclutch or full manual. I occasionally use the clutch when carrying out low speed manoeuvres but it's not needed really, great bike, enough power for me , and I think the new cbr in red looks fantastic 😊

[@Pch100]

Looking forward to part 2

[@domi9577]

E-clutch seems like a gimmick to get a few more sales but something extra to go wrong. I wouldn't want to get used to an e-clutch as when you ride any other bike you'll be out of the clutch habit. I still can't decide between the 650 and 750. 4 pistons seem excessive, but the 750 is ugly.

[@Englishbikerdan]

It still has a clutch and you can use that as normal if you want.

[@chrisnielsen9885]

A guy at work has a DR650 with a Rekluse clutch which is very similar to this. I got used to it quickly but it didn’t have any negative impact on riding my own bike. You’re overthinking it

[@shemt0v335]

wanna buy this bike because of its looks, sound and technologies. the city where I live is kinda hilly, and I don't wanna use the clutch, also I don't want the DCT... so this bike is an absolutely win-win situation (just a little bit pricey)

[@rexx986]

That was a beautiful day.

[@RE650NZGraeme]

How does the E-Clutch deal with Emergency Braking? I'm sure I would, out of natural reaction, grab the clutch as you hit the brakes hard, and the need to down shift at the same time. Interesting function - thanks!

[@Englishbikerdan]

When you come to a stop, the E-Clutch system will engage the clutch for you. If you grab the clutch, it will disengage the system. Cheers!

[@RE650NZGraeme]

@@Englishbikerdan and you can crunch through the gears at the same time? Just hoping :)

[@milesfinch]

I suppose it would come in handy at the tolls!

[@pgonzalez106]

This is amazing! What Happens if you come to a stop in 2nd gear without using the clutch? Will it shut off?

[@Englishbikerdan]

Nope, it'll just come to a stop in 2nd. It won't stall.

[@pgonzalez106]

Waoo 🤩

[@FatBiscuitYT]

The only thing I dislike about this model is the box shaped air intakes. Compared to the previous years, they look horrible. Other than that, everything else is perfect.

[@wolfpackpete6408]

I think there is an automatic (scooter) license, which would allow someone to ride a maxi scooter but not a manual geared bike. Whether a bike like this would be accepted in that licence category, I don't know

[@mrdrux]

Honda has e clutch and dct. Now ktm and yamaha are developing automatic transmissions. I have a rebel 1100 dct and i love it but would love honda to bring the eclutch to the US.

[@camlong89]

I want one without the e-clutch and other tech I'll never use. They should have two versions.

[@Englishbikerdan]

They do have two versions.

[@Smi7h1sH3r3]

question, if an american travels to europe and wants to ride, do you have any ideas as to how that would work? would our license be valid in the EU? Britain? Not that i'm going to be traveling to another country anytime soon, but hey you never know!

[@leeinwis]

International drivers license is a thing .

[@rustworks2588]

😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 the shlong size joke made the coffee come out of my nose! Thanks! ❤

[@Englishbikerdan]

You’re welcome 😊

[@thebrowns5337]

Got my full licence test coming up, I can only hope the tester has a good tape measure

[@keltecdan]

I wish the cb1000r looked like this. Only thing this bike needs is cruise control.

[@jaychallis7933]

lovely route that, from Mortimer to Wellington

[@mickleblade]

Who doesn't like a firm rear end....

[@kakappawpmaiangche7090]

I am the only one who watch your video from India. So can i get pin?😅

[@HLB2512]

I had ordered one of these in black, was supposed to be in within 3 weeks but then got delayed without even having an estimated date the next bike that had a date was 27/2/2025. So I cancelled and got a BMW f900r

[@derekpang3578]

I like using the clutch. I dont have a qs on my bike

[@Englishbikerdan]

I like apples. Sometimes oranges too.

[@bachpham5357]

Do you know what happens if the final gearing is changed ? How far is the clutch engagement point when you have to override it ? Other reviews seem to say that the clutch biting point is set quite far out which is incredibly annoying for me especially while doing the low speed stuff which is exactly the only scenario that I need to override it.

[@Englishbikerdan]

I currently have the CBR E-Clutch, so I'll test and put that in my CBR650R video.

[@bachpham5357]

@@Englishbikerdan thanks a lot man. I've asked a Honda dealer here in France about the effects of changing the final gearing on the e clutch system and they said that it can make it malfunction. I've always found the original gearing to be too tall. If you can ask Honda about this it would be very helpful 😄

[@luketerry1745]

Impressive technology but not for me. Even though you can still use it manually, that fact it’s on there and not being used would drive me mad. I’m the same with quick shifters unless it’s on a track bike. I’m just getting old and scared of the future 😂

[@Englishbikerdan]

Haha fair enough!

[@TheLentastic]

How was the big windshield on your old CB? I currently have the small one but I would consider the bigger one if I the wind protection would be significantly better.

[@hakankillberg6043]

Nice system that e-clutch but dont like the looks of this bike. The older looks much better

[@FourIntoOne]

Interesting review Dan. I completely get the E clutch has a very real and useful use case, but I for one don't want it - the process of riding the bike with all its processes ndn complexities of operation is one of the things I enjoy. On a seperate note I really don't like the facelift on this bike, WAY prefer the old version.

[@markfranks1329]

Really? Can't see any major differences to the old one other than a new headlight assembly and the addition of a TFT screen.

[@FourIntoOne]

@@markfranks1329 The hideous ugly new panels at the front extensively mentioned in this video as well

[@markfranks1329]

@@FourIntoOne Ahh, hideous....to you.😉

[@anthonylawrence295]

I had the 2019 cb650r..And felt build quality was not that good..honda standards have gone down ..but they are made in Thailand now .!!!

[@KrypteiaXi]

These bikes are very well made. If you compare them to bikes that cost 15K or more thats a you problem.

[@ninoanipse9098]

Does the gear automatically go low when push the break or you have to push it to go low gear?

[@Englishbikerdan]

You have to use the shifter, as it's not an automatic.

[@kentrussellagtapon9980]

Does it still have the harsh vibration like the old model? Planning to buy this one soon, maybe. 😂😂

[@johntheaccountant5594]

I do not like the new air intake cowlings. I do not like the new head light. E-Clutch doesn't make sense to me as using the clutch is part of the riding experience. Looks like I shall have to find a second hand 2022 or 2023 CB650R.

[@Englishbikerdan]

Ok. Ok. Try it, you might like it. Ah well, lots to choose from!

[@duanestiles4821]

Yes that is because of the way you guys have to do the motorcycle and the revenue is created for your country

[@CharloBagis]

I may be biased because I own a 2023 model, but this year 's facelift looks like a downgrade in my opinion. In another note Dan, do you know if the e-clutch could be retrofitted to an older model? I'm expecting a No but no harm in asking

[@goodkqrma]

send one to the US

[@SBKPete]

Why would it have a quick shifter, if it has the e-clutch 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Englishbikerdan]

The quickshifter is part of the E-Clutch system and it wouldn't work without it.

[@deus2645]

2:09 I can't find neutral, neutral finds me

[@korazon3spinado]

Are you going to get one? It's similar to the one you had.

[@Englishbikerdan]

I am tempted, we'll see!

[@TheDervMan]

I'm used to DCT but that e-clutch is freaking me out 😉

[@moto_flow4776]

All CB’s have spongey breaks 😂

[@imraniqbal2712]

have you tried to change the modes of e clutch from soft to hard?

[@chrisrunandbike2917]

Would you buy this or the 750 Hornet? They seem to fill the same niche?

[@Englishbikerdan]

In terms of how they ride, they are wildly different. Do you want punchy raw power, or a smooth screaming engine that begs to be thrashed? The CB650R is also a much more plush/composed ride I think.

[@F3udF1st]

I don't like the direction this is going, with more and more cars being only automatic today. Kills much of the fun of driving/riding. But that could just be me being silly.

[@bachpham5357]

Just want to note that in Europe Honda is delaying the shipment of this bike to after October at least due to a parts issue.

[@brahnseer3512]

I wanted to purchase the new 500 Hornet, but delivery time was three months! That would take until September and nearing the end of the riding season here in the U.K. I declined!

[@MacAlex007]

Good that I'm in Europe and got one already. 😁😁😁

[@sheguo1171]

Did she auto blip when you downshift in e-cluch system ?

[@Englishbikerdan]

Yeah it does.

[@MacAlex007]

Sorry to say but no, it doesn't auto blip. This bike has a cable operated accelerator. So there's no riding modes and no autoblipper. Besides... I have one of these. I know 😉

[@Zx6rBlue]

Do i buy a 2024 with the e clutch or find a 2023 black edition for less money with extras used? I really wish they had brought out a black edition for 2024

[@siwynjones]

Good luck finding a Black Edition for less money; the couple I’ve seen have been pretty much as expensive as a new 2024 model. How do I know? I’m having the same dilemma. 😁 Much prefer the styling of the old model.

[@Zx6rBlue]

​@@siwynjones I agree the prices for a used black edition are almost as much as a new bike. It does look so much better tho.

[@markfranks1329]

Another excellent report, young Daniel. This is fantastic technology. You've explained the concept perfectly; that is, using it IF you want to or completely ignoring it by conventionally using the clutch, IF you so desire. The choice is YOURS. Simples. For all the Flat Earthers, what is so difficult to comprehend about that?🙄

[@512460]

Question where's the cb1000 hornet. This cb650 with e clutch wasn't even introduced, yet its here and the cb1000 hornet with was showcased the same time as the Mt09 24 and others yet not a review in sight.

[@SirMountainpass]

Valid point - local dealerships have no firm idea (yet) as to when it should hit the showrooms…

[@jessietan5748]

Does the price make any difference with & without E-CLUTCH variants?

[@siwynjones]

E-Clutch model is £100 extra, currently.

[@jessietan5748]

@@siwynjones Thank you, ride safe 🙏

[@wafiqM]

My honda ex5 can do it too