Is Honda's New E-Clutch Just An EXPENSIVE GIMMICK?

[@spitescorner]

Get the only pair of Spite Approved (TM) sunglasses with @FlyingEyesWorld : Code SC10 for 10% off: flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=spitescorner Do you want a bike with E-Clutch or do you still prefer Clutch Classic?

[@dejuanmills77]

@spitescorner, If you had a choice between the 650RR and the ZX4RR, which one would you choose/prefer, and why?

[@nonyabusiness4151]

Hey Spite could you review an RC30 through 46? Gear driven cams, V4 sound. Your 2014 video was good but the older gens are worth a review. ^ZX4RR

[@daddio1954]

I would take e clutch. Just bought a new CB 1000 R that doesn’t have the clutch and it would be nice to have. However, the bike has a great speed shifter and everything else is wonderful about it. I never thought I’d like one of those, but today I got stuck in stop and go traffic for about 20 minutes in 95 degree weather ; e clutch would’ve been absolutely optimal.

[@jamesmerritt1899]

I'm a disabled rider. I currently ride a vstar 1100 with a custom autoclutch. Stuff like this can help people who otherwise couldn't ride to get back on 2 wheels

[@mattyb7736]

I have a smashed left ankle and lower leg, shifting is an issue ( apart from my old '50s Enfield which is right foot shift. I like the E clutch idea for its benefits to those that have difficulty using a clutch. I have found DCTt fits my bill perfectly given my disability. I love my africa twin.

[@ADobbin1]

As an option you are right, but they are going to make them standard.

[@John_Ridley]

I once saw a comment by a 60 year old German woman who said "if you can't do something as simple as adjust the valve lash on your engine, you probably shouldn't be driving a car." It's all perspective.

[@countryjoe3551]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@estebanod]

It’s a bit unfair of a comparison for Honda. The German lady probably had German cars, of course she had to work on their engines! 😂

[@ricatiman]

E-Clutch is the future... so long as the rider can still use the clutch manually when they want to. I was in the MV Agusta store and saw their new adventure bike, that also has an e-clutch, but their bike cost nearly 4 times as much! Anything that gets more people on bikes, the better. I'm all for it, with 56 years of riding experience.

[@NoBaconForYou]

Nope. I was going to buy this bike new, but now that it has an e clutch, I’m definitely not going to.

[@davidmuller8898]

@@NoBaconForYouyou can buy a model without it

[@Mr50403]

Manual vs Automatic. The market shows automatics win.

[@flaming_viper5472]

At 16:46 seeing @LifeOfBurch just relaxing and learning back grabbing the seat as Spite talks about the comfort in city traffic really makes his point an even stronger one

[@LifeOfBurch]

I was straight vibing...with the bike still in 1st gear no less 😂 That E-Clutch really came in clutch (pun intended) hitting all that traffic after hours of riding!

[@chaseontwowheels]

Dang man, whoever must have taken that thumbnail photo was SO GOOD! haha Looking forward to doing more press launches with ya dude.

[@spitescorner]

I had a bunch of great ones to choose from! Thanks dude. Looking forward to the next one

[@thefaboo]

My dad hasn't ridden in years due to arthritis, but between tech like e-clutch and linked brakes, I think I might be able to convince him to get back on the road in the next year or two.

[@thegreenman2030]

Has he every taken a look at a Can-Am? I know it’s not exactly the same as a MC but it would allow him to enjoy being back on the road again. I have some disability issues and sooner then later two wheels won’t be an option. The ugly Can-Am might keep me riding for awhile longer.

[@thefaboo]

@@thegreenman2030 Definitely an interesting idea. He hasn't looked at what's on the market in quite a while. He'll be 70 next year, and I've been thinking that I might be able convince him to let me set him up with something that'd get him back out there for a few more years. He used to really get after it (even took a goldwing offroad a few times 😂), and I figure it'd be a shame if he didn't get to try all these new rider aids.

[@thegreenman2030]

@@thefaboo I hope your able to get your father back out. Sometimes we forget just how much joy small things can bring into our lives, riding is one of those things that does it. I took a long time off because of life and just got back into it over the last year. I was extremely nervous at 1st but I also felt that feeling that only people who ride get and it helped me push through the anxiety of getting back on. Unfortunately my off road riding life is over, I still love street riding, and will continue to do it for as long as I am physically able to. I never considered a Can-Am before until I recently watched a few new videos that came into my feed. One from Revzilla and another from Spite earlier this week or late last week on a used Can-Am Ryker. I didn’t expect him to like it but he really did, as well as the guys from Revzilla. If and when I get tot the point where my disability doesn’t allow me to be on two wheels then I’m going to do my best to get on three.

[@damon20r]

I just wanted to point out with the truck driver that there is no way for him to pull out into stop and go traffic without blocking the other lane for a few seconds. Another driver stopped and waited in order to let him into traffic. Unless you expect him to wait the hour or however long it takes for the school traffic to be over with? You may be on a motorcycle but when you have to maneuver an 80+ foot truck it's not usually as simple as just squeezing into traffic. I would have hoped you had a little more insight to see that.

[@The_RC_Guru]

Same. People have no consideration or common sense/patience/spatial awareness. It’s a ME ME ME world.

[@hondacivet]

I gained a ton of respect for truck drivers after playing Euro Truck Simulator 2. Holy shit driving those things is hard XD

[@loganurquhart11]

As a truck driver I just bulldog my way into traffic. Lol

[@Jon-nz3dm]

Yeah this was not cool. Completely unnecessary and childish response

[@PetrolJunkie]

Someone left the truck a gap to pull into traffic, which is nice of them. I've seen many drivers take whatever space they get without worrying about what they block. Those are usually the guys used to dealing with drivers who have no patience or respect for others. If they don't do that they won't make their turns. Sometimes you don't get a choice on how you handle a situation like that. Spite, unfortunately, is one of the reasons why that truck driver did what he did. Too busy needing to do what he's doing to be considerate of others. Ironic considering how many comments about that sort of thing he makes. Believe me, I sympathize. Try driving a 100k wrecker pulling an 80k combo in heavy traffic. If I don't bully the cars I can't even merge let a lone swing to make room to go around a turn. Seems like a daily event where I end up blocking whole intersections or multiple lanes because cars will not give way so I can turn. I can't wait for traffic to clear because it never clears. People who never have to deal with issues don't understand how unnecessarily hard they make other people's lives.

[@blakew5672]

Clutch intimidation is a real thing. It certainly was for me. I know how to drive standard cars, but I’m not good at it and I don’t enjoy it. I’ve wanted to ride motorcycles since I was 20, and never got around to it because I didn’t trust my ability to pilot a manual vehicle, much less one where the consequences of making a mistake are as high as they are on motorcycles. So, at the age of 40, I finally bit the bullet and took the MSF course. I was pleased to learn how much more intuitive the clutch on a bike is versus a car. It was still a lot to take in at the time though, and I was honestly scared I’d fail the test for stalling the 250 Rebel they had me on that for all intents and purposes didn’t have a friction zone lol. Anyway, I passed. Six days ago i went and bought my first bike, a 2022 Rebel 1100 DCT….and I LOVE it. I can focus on learning basic and safe riding technique with one less thing to worry about. While I’d prefer the option to also have full control of the clutch when I wanted it, I’m a huge fan of the DCT so far. In the future if they release more bikes with the e-clutch system I can definitely see myself upgrading to one.

[@EDWARDG0916pnut]

At first I liked the DCT, but then after awhile I hated it. I really wasn't in control of the bike at all. And I have never liked or learned how to manually shift a bike. My first bike was a CVT and then I upgraded to an Africa Twin with a DCT. (That was a big mistake. The bike was too tall, too top heavy, and more hp than I knew what to do with) Anyway, 2 yrs ago I crashed, (heart attack), bike is gone, sold back to dealer; fixed and re sold. Don't ride anymore.

[@cweber9112]

As someone who is a truck driver that dude was just fine making that maneuver. You would be the same person calling him “smooth brained” if your local fuel station was out of gas because they had to wait an hour to leave a customer. That being said sign me up for one of those clutches on a cruiser. The DTC is cool, but this is something on a completely different level. I thought the DTC was going to be the future, but after seeing this there is no doubt that this will become mainstream in the industry.

[@MrFelixGun]

This ^

[@mpalm44]

My dad finally broke down and bought himself a bike. 2014 Honda CTX700 with the DCT. He's comin up on 67 years old. I couldn't care less that it's an automatic, He's finally gonna be out there riding and I'm stoked for him!! Also glad he's not a Harley brother.

[@John_Ridley]

I LOVE the CB650. And having watched this I would enjoy the eClutch. If they get cruise control on it, I'll have to take a hard look. I don't buy bikes without cruise anymore though.

[@thewiredfox2691]

This sounds like a 1st world problem! ;-p

[@stevetaylor9265]

Yup. Speeding ticket problem

[@John_Ridley]

@@thewiredfox2691 10 hour days in the saddle, it's really nice to shake out your right arm.

[@233kosta]

I'd love cruise control on mine, but not if it means giving up the rather excellent cable throttle.

[@thewiredfox2691]

If PETA throws red paint on a Honda, does anyone even notice?

[@hondacivet]

Wow Honda really thought ahead there

[@ThePresidentofMars]

Isnt peta the most hypocritical though?

[@basilf1]

Short answer, yes. I'd trade in my CBR 650R. I like the e-clutch. I'd option it on a new bike. The long answer, I'd take the e-clutch but I don't need it. Or want it enough to pay extra. I enjoy operating the clutch. Even in rush hour, commuting every day, I've never cared much. Or wished I didn't have too. I got back into riding because modern cars have too many electronics and driving aids. And have become insanely expensive! I just want to be a part of the process of operating a vehicle. So, for me, the e-clutch doesn't alter the process of riding much. Just would be a nice tool to have available for me to use on the road.

[@St.FighterZ]

Would you prefer the eclutch or a ride by wire quickshift/autoblipper if you had the choice? The latter would be nice because it doesnt effect clutch feel if you were to use it.

[@benjamingarrett9960]

This would help me a lot as a new rider

[@fredmaldonado9204]

Thank you Spite. You articulated the e-clutch with the precision of a motorcyclist surgeon. Other people tried to explain it. But they were too giddy having fun with it. You enjoyed the e-clutch and you explained thoroughly how it works and functions. I am happy that you have your own channel. Keep up the good work.

[@101BadBreath]

Anything that lowers barriers to entry and gr more people into riding is good for all in this sport.

[@lagunastc]

This tehnology on adventure bike or a touring bike would be amazing. Transalp with this and tubeles tires would be amazing

[@R2690-f3y]

I think the clutch or no clutch debate is like , the rear view camera initial era. Everyone hated it, but once they got it, Folks cant live with out it. Clutch in cars is almost discontinued in fact you need to place a custom order for the ones they still make. I love my quick shift on my Panigale and would love something like this in slow speeds at low RPMS

[@marekzacek5400]

very clever system. Having both options of manual and clutchless shifting is sweet. Presented with such option I would definitely give it a shot

[@PetrolJunkie]

I like the idea of an electronically shifted manual transmission over the DCT and a few other offerings. The reason is that they generally keep all of the manual bits and incorporate a method for the computer to shift as well. You can still shift manually all you want. It's one step up from a quick shifter. I feel like that's more appropriate for a motorcycle.

[@wallacemjr]

Did you know that you can include a gearshift pedal on the Africa Twin DCT?

[@PetrolJunkie]

@@wallacemjr Yeah. Even if you add the shift lever it still doesn't fully work like a standard clutch. I get why some people like it, but I think it's a better option for something like the goldwing. The thing about an electronically shifted manual transmission is that if you bypass the electronic part it is still 100% riding a manual transmission. DCT, even with the lever, is not. It's an automatically shifted manual, but because of the way it's set up it's more like an automatic that you can manually shift. While that may seem like the same things said differently, there is a difference. There are things you can't do with a DCT. Don't get me wrong, there are situations were the DCT works better, but when you encounter it's downside there is little you can do to make up for it. DCT is fine for the average skilled rider. But more advanced riders will appreciate the E-Clutch more.

[@CanyonChasers]

I'm sad our track playfullness didn't get a cameo! Haha. I couldn't not cameo you in my review!

[@davidruggles996]

I came here to see @CanyonChasers Dave blow by at Mach 2😜🤣💪😎

[@spitescorner]

I couldn't find it. I might have cut the cameras before then. It bummed me out when I was looking.

[@JamesExcell-InterJex]

This is a great addition to the motorcycle community.

[@NoBaconForYou]

Nope. I was going to buy this bike new, but now I’m definitely not interested. I’ll get an R7.

[@ADingoTookMyDasco]

My car has a manual transmission. It's the best anti theft system out there. Around half a dozen friends recently took up motorcycling & one of the major concerns for all of them was using a clutch. It took a few lessons in the office car park to get them used to using one. If they didn't have me willing to teach them more than half would have been too intimidated & wouldn't have bothered getting their license. Having automatic as an option is going to open up motorcycling to a whole range of new riders. And you can count yourselves lucky in the USA. You may not have a choice about the E-Clutch, but here in Australia we only get the LAMS/A2 restricted version with 46 hp. That's half the power for the same price. And the smooth brained Truckie must be on holidays from Sydney. I see him all the time on my daily commute, either driving a truck or a bus, and he's one of the biggest reasons that I commute on a motorcycle year round.

[@joekenorer]

I've used it, it's like working the clutch faster than you possibly can and works at high revs with no problems. I want one on the liter bike with cruise control, that's the next level of this whole game.

[@Bugside]

Bold move stopping sales of the regular bike on the US

[@spitescorner]

I thought so too, not 100% on board with that decision.

[@KindOldRaven]

@@spitescorner It's weird for sure. Is it just their attempt to push normalizing this tech a bit more? I mean I could see that as things like DCT were also very successful but I'm also fairly sure that some riders will skip the bike because of it.

[@sunsinger970]

Long term it's a winning play.

[@ColoradoNate]

They shouldn’t need to sell two models. The only thing is you should not have to turn it off every time you turn the bike on. It’s not a “safety issue” like ABS is. So if they do that it’s perfect and even if you choose not to use it, probably improves your resale value.

[@VolkswagenGamer]

I think they have found their niche. Very very accessible motorcycles (DCT, a dozen 125cc bikes).

[@SummitCoyote]

"That sounds really expensive!" your RCR impersonation is really good lol.

[@Rogan_Dorn]

"NOT A CAR."

[@hondacivet]

Yeah I thought Mr. Regular was making a cameo for a second

[@anthonycrutcher6048]

I had to do a double take when I heard that

[@checkingreality]

@@hondacivet brian's not going to end up this channel for two reasons. 1. he has integrity. 2. Spites not a furry

[@whitemarmite]

seeing another biike being brought to the market that has an assited shift, such as this honda example as well as the kawazaki hybrid. it opens up so much more than just a learning aid, it means those with dissabilities can look to ride normal bikes again. those with missing limbs, or restriced movement in their hands. they can get back onto a factory bike, without the need to modify it just so they can use it.

[@acegear]

this will make honda better for first time riders hope the eclutch goes down to entry level offerings

[@scottshafer9813]

Love it! I ride a Super Tenere , old K bike , two cvt clutch scooters, and have done demo days on every Honda dct . I absolutely dig not using a clutch and or depending on my mood not even shifting gears ⚙️. Being spoiled by choice is a good problem to have. Thanks Spite for the thoughtful content you bring 😊

[@tylerchristopher4242]

You're a real cool dude Spite. Been watching you for ages back on YN days, been following you solely since. Preference of content 👌🏽 keep it going, more recognition of quality of character will happen ❤ great review/insight to this new feature too

[@TheSt4rG4mes]

I can already see my buddy tugging my throttle waiting on a red light while Im in first gear. I can see his laughter as i lunge forward cuz of the E-clutch :D

[@TravelingMeerkat]

Clutches are normal here on cars, automatic costs extra.

[@ride-to-the-X]

Good one! We need more riders, anything that can help people get started in motorcycling is a win, also good for people with disabilities. Could see my self with a e clutch on a commuter bike.

[@SummitCoyote]

all things considered this thing would be really nice on a bike designed for commuting.

[@ellwoodwolf]

Gimmick? Like ABS, or ride by wire ride modes, or on the fly suspension changes, or cruise control, or electric throttle valves..... It's awesome for those who want it- first thing that comes to mind is stop and go traffic - I do wonder about smoothness on an engine with low torque

[@sinnamortai]

I would love it if they put the E-Clutch on future Rebel models. I have the 1100 DCT and it's great for when in traffic, but I still wanna have the feel of a manual.

[@spitescorner]

I think an Eclutch rebel would be awesome

[@wallacemjr]

It seems that the NC 1100, which uses the same engine as the Rebel 1100 and Africa Twin, will be the next to have the e-cluch. I understand that the Africa would benefit the most from the e-cluch.

[@sunsinger970]

Rebel 650R?

[@k3y155]

This sounds like a really good quick shifter. From the sound of it I would like to see a bit more of a seamless integration between the e-clutch on/off settings, or at least the ability to keep it off for every start. I would want this on sport-touring rigs.

[@hammond2600]

The E-clutch has been around for decades, just not on motorcycles. However, car and truck E-clutches require you to push a button to activate the clutch. The car I drove, the button was activated by pushing the shift knob downward, shift, then release the knob to let it move back up. The truck I drove, had a button on the front of the shift knob so basically, when you grab the shift knob to shift, you simply squeeze which activates the clutch, the release after you shift.

[@sawyer4981]

Curious how much work it adds to replacing the clutch pack. I personally don't think I'd really ever use it outside of stop and go traffic. But hey... if there's no additional expense & it doesn't make maintenance any more difficult, why not?

[@spitescorner]

Maybe a few extra screws to remove but the system only changes the shaft that opens and closes the clutch pack not the clutch pack itself. The clutch is unchanged only this additional mechanism on top of the clutch.

[@sawyer4981]

@@spitescorner Dang, honda really coming in... clutch 😏 I think this will be pretty great for newer riders while they're learning! Handy for commuters too.

[@Falcon561]

i'm an avid ctx 700 dct rider and just cant see myself ever going back to manually shifting. as a primary commuter i enjoy just relaxing

[@ricatiman]

Spite - just 1 minute of waiting by you and that truck was out and rolling with traffic. How long do suspect that truck had to sit there as nobody would let it into the roadway. Just think of all the food, bike parts, motorcycles and beer get delivered by these great truckers. Give them some respect and treat them with a bit of decency, PLEASE! If you need to Rant about other road users, please start a rant channel and keep it off your usual great ride and test channel. Thanks...

[@damon20r]

Yeah, I had made a comment about it also. Really changes my view of the channel.

[@IceMastaChristopher]

Wasn't a good look.

[@spitescorner]

Can y'all not take a joke?

[@MrFelixGun]

​@spitescorner You weren't making a joke.

[@spitescorner]

@@MrFelixGun I guess sarcasm is dead then, huh.

[@shauns5278]

Definitely one of the better videos I have seen on this subject Spite! If they can shave the weight on future generations it's definitely a promising piece of future tech.

[@spitescorner]

I mean, it's only 4.5lbs. That's not even a percent of the bikes overall weight. Most riders will never notice.

[@karicallegra8194]

@@spitescorner yeah honestly a good bit of that can be made up just by switching out the factory battery for a lithium one. Great review BTW

[@schrodingersmechanic7622]

Most riders I've seen can afford to lose far more than 4.5lbs

[@yamaharider8014]

I would welcome the e-clutch, as my tired old hands don't like pulling on the lever in stop and go traffic. The toe shifter still allows for control of the shifting. Being able to turn it off is smart too. From Florida.

[@GL4SS_20]

37 years old…CB650r eclutch will be my first bike, can’t wait!

[@raphymartinez]

I think what you meant to say at the end was that we need the bike to remember if you had this feature on or off when you turned the bike off. That way, if you don't want to use it, you'll never have to think about it, but if you do, it's there for you. This is more realistic and cost-effective for the manufacturer than building two versions in hopes that they build the correct ratio of them.

[@firestorm755]

It won't be for everyone but for riders that have bad hands down to maybe arthritis or even missing a hand this will be a game changer

[@thetowndrunk988]

I think it’s the best thing ever, personally. I hate working the clutch around town, yet I still want full control of the transmission.

[@toofastnobrakes]

Don’t get me wrong, I am 1000% AGAINST automatic bikes. The thrill of shifting manually helps make the experience. But this is something I could get behind. It’s a quick shifter when I’m feeling lazy around town. And I can turn all that shit off for the track and the backroads

[@ItsSvetsi]

Its the perfect system. You can ride the bike literally any way you want. What could be better than that? It will only get better and more responsive as its iterated on, too. I love this.

[@greatbigeye2506]

I love this tech and hope they offer it on all of their bikes. Currently enjoying the hell out of my DCT Rebel 1100.

[@spitescorner]

I heard it straight from the mouth of one of their executives, they are expanding the eclutch lineup

[@greatbigeye2506]

@@spitescorner Excellent!

[@yocobicus]

I would say having the e-clutch be programable to "start as off" would be a worthwhile setting, otherwise it feels like corporate bullying. what if I would like to only start/stop with it on for track days. or keep it set to off normally, but if I know there will be a backup, traffic, construction. I could turn it on for that ride. Then if I someone else uses it they can decide what they like.

[@cooltechdreamer]

Have u ever driven a big rig? It not easy to just get out in the blink of an eye, they take time and a lot of decision making cut my CDL brotheren some slack! Love the content 👌

[@BlackHillsMotoAndrew]

I don’t see any harm. I had a week this summer where my left hand was almost too sore to ride. Probably would have used it then. I’ve also had plenty of all day rides where I might have switched to this because of exhaustion. Also, when do you ever look at someone else’s left hand while riding. Either way I’d feel zero shame ripping a canyon with the e clutch or simply taking a chill ride home if that’s what I wanted to do but even if you were a newer rider feeling self conscious who’s going to notice what your left hand is or isn’t doing. I say go for it. We do need more riders on the road.

[@onecookieboy]

In most of the rest of the world, the e clutch is a low cost option, another $200 or so, and it has the advantage of being a normal clutch and transmission, not an automatic or DTC (which is entirely different and very expensive). As you said, you can ride the bike like any other 'manual' control bike, or let it sort the clutch for you, which might be nice in heavy traffic. Then. there's the accessability thing, I have a friend who had polio as a child, and he rides even though his left arm doesn't really work. He has a clutch and brake lever on the right side, but it isn't that easy, he would love something like this (on a different type of bike). PS, the new 2025 BMW GS range now have. an automatic clutch as an option, and as an afterthought, this isn't that much different to a quick shift, and we like them.

[@joaomadalenopereira]

Just a note, in Europe it seems the non-E-Cluth versions are being phased out as inventory reduces. At the begginging of the year there was still the standard models available, but at least in Portugal, they have been out of stock for 6 months now. My Honda dealer said that from now on there's just the E-Cluth versions.

[@rotorhead5000]

I think it has a neat potential in hard enduro and trail bikes. Instead of a regular clutch lever, have it as a reostat to modulate the clutch, so its taking all the load, and you arent getting arm pump. Just a thought, i know what part of me wears out on a hard dirt ride first.

[@richardwarsinske7064]

Slight variation on Beniben's post: "Put it on a Hornet 750 and I'm in". We don't have an option in the US but if we did (Hornet or E-clutch) I'd like the opportunity to try both! Loved the Chase cameo!

[@HikerDave57]

My neighbor wants an Africa Twin but hates the idea of DCT because as a dirt biker he's used to having the fine slow speed control of a clutch. I didn't really notice you address low-speed handling in the riding portion of the video. Is that a downside? I ride a Honda NC750 DCT and I'm pretty happy with that; two things less to worry about not just one thing less. (When I want to renew my man card I hop on my daughter's Dyna Lowrider and go for a ride.}

[@At.Aversa]

I always wonder about slow maneuvers with these systems like doing a u turn or a figure 8 but i could be over thinking it, i have driven a bike with a quick shifter a Husqvarna so a KTM quick shifter and i thought it was pretty awesome and i can see think like this work especially on bikes with a heavy clutch.

[@spitescorner]

It's funny for like 2 minutes then you get used to it. Some guys were struggling, but I got used to it quickly.

[@rufysufy]

I'm one of the guys with the 1100/dct combos. Other than the bike's weight from being a massive touring bike, I really appreciate it in commuting in stop start traffic. However there are cases where I do wish I had more control over the bike. There are cases where I would like to slip the clutch a bit to smoothen out the jerky throttle, the DCT also struggles a bit in uphill corners (of which there are many). I've had a scenario or two where the gearbox just spazzes out and cuts power for a split second to prevent from stalling. Its always a bit jarring when it happens. Haven't been riding big bikes for long, but when I was doing my A license (unrestricted power) on an MT-07 I remember how much I hated being in traffic. I always came home with aching wrists and knuckles. Now I just wish more bikes came with e-clutch. I think it's the best of both worlds. Its also the one thing that prevents my wife from riding bikes. She loves them, she loves being on them, She just can't be arsed doing the whole clutch and gear dance. For both of us, being on a bike means being free and closer to the elements and it's all about the journey. Not having a clutch/shift gears really doesn't take away from that experience at all and I'm willing to bet there are other riders or potential riders like us as well.

[@kevinroach5692]

what about clutch plate life? easier or harder on the plates?

[@spitescorner]

Honda claims there is no additional plate wear but I wouldn't be so sure. Hard to tell in an afternoon of riding but I would expect the plates to wear fractionally faster. So maybe instead of lasting the life of the bike they last like 60K miles.

[@hakankillberg6043]

Great video. I have heard if you take of from a stop with the e-clutch the throttle respons is very abrupt not as smooth without the e-clutch. Is that correct? Also can you drive around very slow with the e-clutch for example round cones (not just strait)maybe then its better without the E-clutch to control the speed as normal with your clutch. But then how well operates the clutch without e-clutch on. Is it as good as a regular clutch or fo you have to compromise the with a worse clutch?

[@sdbobbyt]

Growing up in the 70s I got a Honda Trail 70 with clutch, my big brother got the Trail 90 with 3 speed auto clutch. It made the 90 easier to ride than the 70 but I always thought it took something away from the feel of riding. More like a scooter.

[@solidsnake2665]

Interesting thing Honda is doing. Love it, do different stuff always. In the future this might be something like a quick shifter. When you ride a bike with a good one, you think why haven't I always had this?

[@shinyribs2178]

The same guys who would poopoo this e clutch and brag about how manly they are while shifting gears are the same guys who will demand quick shift and auto blip. After riding regularly for decades, I can think of many tired days where I would have really enjoyed this.

[@Lemmingadventures]

I'm poo pooing for sure. I don't want those other things either. I want to use throttle control and clutch/shifter balance. It's what riding is to me.

[@donderstorm1845]

i haven't tried it but i'm all for it. i love technology and innovation, and i think honda has more than enough experience building good cars/bikes that they can build something good like this. they must've gone through extensive testing before releasing it.

[@dohmino]

Just saw Burch's video. I thought I saw you in his video. Really excited to know what other models Honda brings this too.

[@gravitydotkom]

It seems like this is truly a trickle down effect of seamless gearbox that MotoGP bikes use

[@dustclouds]

There is nothing wrong with normal manual clutch unless you're amputee or otherwise physically impaired... In which case I would've definitely considered a DCT or e-clutch... Otherwise, keep it simple! Manual clutch and (optionally) quickshifter is all you need

[@wallacemjr]

DCT brings comfort and safety. I have a DCT, Scooter and motorcycle with a normal clutch.

[@Lemmingadventures]

I agree. This is just taking the long way to automatic motorcycles. What's the point?

[@Jon-nz3dm]

7:57 he’s so invested in not being on track that he even used the right indicator for that turn

[@Nucklehead-mm9gf]

Can it be activated while moving or do you have to be stopped? How does it work for slow speed maneuvering when you need friction zone play?

[@Atrip111]

I think this is pretty neat. More so because I heard afterwards you're going to be able to add it to any bike for like $650. Different from the DCT but kind of the same. Surprising able to get the same effect for much cheaper. My question though is why is it that typically people have given a lot more refrain from DCT motorcycles, electric motorcycles, scooters... But now this comes along and it's amazing.

[@scaryLuv1]

I'm planning on getting my first ever bike and this e clutch was something I've been looking at because I'm not sure how id do with a normal clutch. I've since decided I'm going to get a bike with a normal clutch and learn on that. I feel like it'd would be a lot better in the long run for me to learn the normal way since not every bike is going to have this feature. at least not now. still a cool feature though.

[@waltermajors877]

So can you have the throttle open on upshifts as well as downshifts?

[@arrialscott9426]

Honestly I am interested, the E-Clutch seems like a great feature. 😂 Not the biggest fan of the 2024 CB650 headlight design But the E- Clutch 🔥🔥🔥

[@RambO5018]

Everyone loves QS/Blippers and E-Clutch is just the next step. So i guess it will be possible to get on most bikes soon.

[@Bobert383]

I think it’s great but an odd choice for the first bike to introduce the e-clutch on. I also think it’ll work smoother when they add it to throttle by wire bike.

[@ei..]

I feel like if they got a memory in the software so that you didn't have to disable it all the time, it would be close to perfect. If you don't like it, just turn it off. Then turn it on again when stuck in traffic or something. That would be the best of both worlds! But sadly, when it defaults to on every single time, it can get a bit annoying for people who mainly want to ride without it Edit: just got to the end, and saw you said exactly this. You also mentioned having a cheaper version without the e-clutch, but it would only be very slightly cheaper, as the cost to retrofit an eclutch in Europe is only like €200

[@Hunter1st]

If I was buying a new bike, I'd probably get one with e clutch, but absolutely not even a slight consideration to replace anything I already have. I live for manuals.

[@NoBaconForYou]

I was saving to buy one of these new.. guess I will go used or get an R7. Should have made it optional. I don’t want to deal with a system that I have to turn off every time I get on. I’ve been dailying a bike all year, and I don’t get tired of operating the clutch.

[@wutzitrone4522]

Didn't Honda attempt to rescue their motogp campaign with carbon fiber clutches in 22/23 and failed miserably because they couldn't get the engagement point consistent through the operating range? With this technology, in theory, you could have your fancy carbon fiber clutch electronically actuated and your clutch lever sensing signals to a computer and have it figure out where through a look up table where the engagement point should be...

[@bachpham5357]

Hey man, can the e clutch handle gear ratio changes ? Like installing a bigger rear sprocket? One thing that I hate about systems like these is that it prevents you making very basic customisation..

[@spitescorner]

That's actually a great question I didn't think about. My assumption would be yes, it's very good at handling quick acceleration and deceleration as well as abrupt changes in gear so I think it would handle a bigger/smaller sprocket just fine.

[@bachpham5357]

@@spitescorner the stock gearing on these bikes are sky high. Given that they're very relaxed bikes it would fit to have a shorter gear for that naked feel. The issue is that E clutch bikes has a sensor on the transmission shaft while 2024 non e clutch does not. So I'm afraid that changing gearing will make it go out of whack. Hopefully somebody in the US will try this out as the bikes are simply not being shipped in Europe.

[@CraigSmith568]

I think this is a plus to have this available, but I have to say I've sat in traffic many times with a clutch and not once did I think it was a pain in the ass. Actually I've never even thought about it at all.

[@estebanod]

7:25 holy saturation, this is way too over saturated Spite

[@spitescorner]

Yeah, I'm colorblind so I miss the mark sometimes

[@estebanod]

Ohh I didn’t know, I would gladly offer my help but I’m not a reliable person ​@@spitescorner

[@tohrmentrixabyss1713]

I've been riding my Ninja 300 for a couple of years and I'm constantly changing gears because it doesnt take much to max each one out. The e clutch makes perfect sense but I'm kinda attached to clutching in for shifting but if i had learned on an e clutch it would just be normal so i understand why Honda are pushing for it to be the standard option

[@SynicalBeats]

I think the biggest thing would be being able to take my hand off the bars at lights without going to neutral.

[@dcxplant]

This is one of the few new pieces of tech I would be comfortable with buying the first gen unit.

[@nothanks2310]

Best Honda Ad I've seen yet! Moar ads!

[@RPDXC]

I like the idea of the e-clutch. There are many advantages to it. But one thing honda needs to fix, and they do this as well with the traction control, once you turn the bike off and on, you have to reconfigure the settings to turn your Tc off, turn your eclutch off. Usually scrolling threw settings hitting multiple buttons to get everything off, is a pain in ass. It would be nice if the settings would be saved, so you can leave it one way or the other.

[@spitescorner]

Agreed, but I think it's an EU deal.

[@wallacemjr]

It's their vision focused on security.

[@danimal1158]

Hi Spite. Great content, first time commenter. Did Honda mention this might come to the 500 line? I'm getting older and want to get bk into biking but don't really want a 4 cylinder. Arthritis in my hands makes a clutch in stop and go isn't feasible. Thank you!

[@wallacemjr]

It looks like the next one is the NC 1100 which is a twin cylinder. Check out the Rebel 1100 DCT

[@danimal1158]

@@wallacemjr Thanks for the suggestion. I'm more for the e clutch. I like the idea of a conventional clutch in slow parking lot style turns. I'm also looking for something with less weight than the 1100.

[@spitescorner]

No specifics but one of their execs did say its coming to more models. I wouldn't be surprised to see it hit the 500s soon

[@papercut1987]

knowing that I'm gonna love this e-clutch once I try it actually makes me feel unsafe once I go back to my track bike 😅

[@deant6627]

The one thing I felt disappointed with when I owned the 2023 CBR650R was It should have come out standard with fully adjustable front & rear suspension.

[@John_Ridley]

I did have to give up my standard transmission about a year ago. I would have bought a standard transmission but none are available anymore in cars that I want to buy.

[@soilsmanadv6673]

Will it hold a hill with the engine off, unlike a DCT? It is annoying to have to lock the rear brake to lift a bike off the ground after a lay down on a hill with the left hand grip planted in the ground.

[@wallacemjr]

Yes, it stays engaged when you turn it off. That's why it doesn't have a handbrake like the DCT needs to have.

[@VolkswagenGamer]

I would definitely be interested if there was something like that on the new CBR600RR

[@nikvret9544]

With E clutch must close the throttle to change a gear ?

[@aussiebloke609]

What's the difference - functionally - between a quick shifter and just flicking the throttle off and immediately back on while you do a clutchless upshift? For the life of me, I can't see a point to them. At last this E-clutch has a point - when stopping and starting - and it doesn't take away your fully functional clutch lever, in case you like to old-school some of the time.

[@slakk5093]

You can hold the throttle wide open and flick up through the gears with a quick shifter. The latest quick shifters now let you keep throttle wide open on down shifts too.. very different to ye old manual quick shift

[@KindOldRaven]

I did just get my driver's licence (and motorcycle licence too) at the ripe old age of 33/34 respectively. But I definitely learned how to ride in a manual during lessons and also currently ride a manual :p But then again - that's Europe for ya! PS: Yes, too late to the party, but honestly public transport has been pretty good to me almost all of my life

[@avarria587]

I think i might prefer this over my DCT. The DCT is great on the road, but it's absolute dog shit at very low speeds. It's also very heavy and expensive.