Bike Review: Honda CBR 650R E-Clutch (2024-2025)
Honda CBR650R Review (2024)
My last ride was the CBR500R — and now, we’re taking a look at its bigger brother, the 650R. If you’re in the market for a mid-capacity Honda sports bike, there’s a good chance one of these models is already on your radar.
At first glance, you might assume the CBR650R is just a larger version of the 500R, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. These are two very different machines.
The CBR650R and its naked sibling, the CB650R, have been around for a decade now. Over the years, we’ve seen several updates — in 2017 for Euro 4 compliance, a styling overhaul in 2019 with Fireblade-inspired looks, and then another update in 2021 to meet Euro 5 regulations. The 2024 version is mostly unchanged from the latest generation.
Introducing Honda’s E-Clutch System
One of the most exciting new features on the 2024 CBR650R is the optional Electronic Clutch system, or E-Clutch, as Honda calls it. This system is brand new to the motorcycle industry — it’s not an automatic gearbox, and it’s not a quickshifter either. It sits somewhere in the middle, allowing you to ride without using the clutch lever at all. That includes starting, stopping, and both upshifts and downshifts.
Surprisingly, Honda has priced this new tech at just £100 over the £8,599 base price. Considering the innovation, you might expect it to cost closer to £1,000, but no — it’s available for just a hundred quid. Let’s take a closer look at what else the bike has to offer.
Engine & Components
The CBR650R features a 649cc dual overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine producing 94 bhp. This engine has remained consistent throughout the model’s history. For newer riders, there is an A2-compliant conversion kit available.
Up front, the bike sports dual radial-mounted calipers on 310mm discs, Showa forks, and a rear shock. The back end is fitted with a single-piston caliper and 240mm disc.
Colours, Weight, and Tyres
As with the 500R, you have two colour choices: Matte Gunpowder Metallic Black or the Grand Prix Red tri-colour.
There are a few tweaks for 2024, including a revised rear subframe that’s shed over 400 grams from the 2023 version. The bike now comes equipped with Dunlop Roadsport 2 tyres and, notably, a stunning new optically bonded TFT display. This setup is intuitive to navigate via the soft keys on the left handlebar and connects with Honda’s RoadSync app for navigation, music, and calls.
On the Road – E-Clutch Impressions
- No clutch use required — not even at a standstill or during gear changes.
- Feels almost like launch control when pulling away.
- Clutch unit is slightly noticeable against your leg when riding.
- Very smooth shifting up and down — especially better than a quickshifter at low RPM.
- Uses two motors and a set of gears to operate the clutch.
- You can override the E-Clutch manually using the lever if preferred.
- The screen is fantastic — crystal clear and full of useful info.
- The overall ride is comfy, capable, fun — but more civilised than a supersport.
Final Thoughts
It’s not every day you get to try something genuinely new in the sports bike world. The E-Clutch on this bike adds a fun, unique element to the riding experience — especially around town where it makes stop-start riding far easier. At very low RPMs, it can be a little jerky — particularly when filtering — but you always have the clutch lever there if needed.
What’s most exciting is how this system could open up riding to those with mobility or medical issues affecting their left hand. It’s intuitive, responsive, and genuinely enjoyable to use. Honda is reportedly planning to roll this tech out to more models in the future, which is great news for accessibility in motorcycling.
Aside from the E-Clutch, the CBR650R is just a lovely bike to ride. It looks sharp, delivers plenty of power, and is incredibly easy-going for road use. If you’re buying one, consider the optional Racing Kit (rear seat cowl, tank pads, double bubble screen, oil level gauge) and the Comfort Pack (heated grips, tank bag, rear seat bag).
Between this and the CBR500R, the 650R would be my clear choice. As great as the 500R is, the 650R offers more long-term value and performance — especially if you’re starting on an A2 licence.
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