2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle Review Specs

Four-cylinder middleweight sports motorcycles are rare and highly desirable. The 2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle exemplifies this category with a smooth, turbine-like delivery of inline power across the entire rev range. It offers enhanced performance through the optional E-Clutch system, along with aggressively updated styling inspired by the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade. Modern features such as a new TFT screen and Honda RoadSync connectivity further enhance its appeal.

Honda introduced the fully faired CBR650F in 2014 alongside the naked CB650F, offering strong four-cylinder performance with a sporty touring focus. Five years later, it evolved into the CBR650R, with the transition from “F” to “R” reflecting a sharper focus on sporty performance for real-world street use.

Through this evolution, the CBR650R became a unique offering. It delivers the excitement and performance of a supersport machine while maintaining practicality and reasonable running costs, making it suitable for both daily use and weekend riding.

The motorcycle has been well-received in the market. In 2021, it became the best-selling sports bike in Europe, driven by continuous improvements and a major front-suspension upgrade.

For 2024, the 2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle receives important updates in styling, functionality, and technology. It becomes one of the first Honda motorcycles, along with the CB650R, to feature Honda E-Clutch technology. This system is designed to improve the riding experience for both beginners and experienced riders by simplifying clutch operation while maintaining control and engagement.

The updated model features sharper styling from front to rear, a new 5-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync connectivity, and simplified controls through a 4-way toggle switch. Engine performance remains unchanged at 70 kW of power and 63 Nm of torque, with an A2 licence option available. The chassis includes Showa SFF-BP USD forks, dual radial-mounted front brake callipers, and a tyre setup of 120/70-ZR17 at its front and 180/55-ZR17 at the rear.

Honda E-Clutch offers flexibility, allowing the rider to use the clutch lever conventionally or rely entirely on automatic clutch operation. The rider can start, shift gears, and stop using only the gear lever, while the system smoothly and efficiently manages clutch engagement. The clutch lever remains functional at all times and can be used whenever required.

2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle – Features and Specs

Honda E-Clutch

Honda E-Clutch combines elements of quickshifter technology, manual clutch systems, and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission to create a unique riding experience. The system is compact and lightweight, adding only 2 kilograms while retaining conventional clutch and transmission hardware.

In operation, the system eliminates the need to use the clutch lever during gear changes. The rider simply operates the gear lever for quick and consistent shifts. It also manages clutch engagement during start-up and stoppage, reducing the risk of stalling and improving convenience, especially in city traffic.

The system offers flexibility, allowing manual clutch use at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the system reactivates automatically after a short interval, depending on engine speed. Riders can also switch off the system through the handlebar controls, with manual mode indicated on the display.

Honda E-Clutch of brand-new 2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle allows riders to select from HARD, MEDIUM, and SOFT shift feel settings, which can be adjusted independently for upshifting and downshifting. It also provides shift-down suggestions through the instrument panel when required.

The system operates by analysing multiple parameters, including vehicle speed, throttle input, engine speed, gear position, and shift pedal force. It uses actuator motors in the engine cover to control clutch engagement while adjusting ignition timing and fuel injection for smooth, consistent gear changes.

Styling & Equipment

The design of the 2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle highlights its four-cylinder engine and emphasizes a strong sporting identity. The updated styling features redesigned dual LED headlights and revised fairings that combine muscular proportions with sharp lines.

The riding position is aggressive, with clip-on handlebars mounted below the top yoke and rear-set footpegs. The redesigned seat unit is more compact, contributing to the bike’s focused appearance. The rear section is clean and minimal, supported by a steel mudguard and number plate mount.

The seat height remains 810 mm, and both rider and pillion seats have been reshaped for improved comfort. The USB Type-C charging port is mounted under the seat for added convenience.

The new 5-inch TFT display uses optical bonding technology to improve visibility by reducing glare and enhancing brightness. It offers multiple display layouts and integrates Honda RoadSync for smartphone connectivity.

Honda RoadSync enables navigation, call management, music playback, and voice feedback through a Bluetooth headset. It is controlled via a simple 4-way switch on the handlebars, ensuring easy operation while riding.

Chassis

The steel diamond frame uses twin elliptical spars and pressed swingarm pivot plates, with a carefully balanced rigidity that enhances handling and rider feedback. The geometry includes a rake of 25.5 degrees, a trail of 100mm, and a wheelbase of 1,450 mm. The kerb weight is 209 kg, increasing slightly to 211 kg with the E-Clutch system.

The front suspension features Showa 41 mm Separate Function Big Piston USD forks, which separate damping and spring functions to improve performance and reduce weight. The rear suspension uses a monoshock with preload adjustment, mounted directly to an aluminium swingarm.

Braking is handled by dual 310mm front discs with radial-mounted four-piston callipers and a 240 mm rear disc with a single-piston calliper. The system includes dual-channel ABS for improved safety.

The 2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle is equipped with cast aluminium wheels fitted with 120/70-ZR17 front and 180/55-ZR17 rear tyres, providing a balance of grip and stability.

Engine

The 649 cc DOHC 16-valve engine remains unchanged for 2024 and is tuned to deliver strong and engaging four-cylinder performance. It produces 70 kW of power at 12,000 rpm and 63 N·m of torque at 9,500 rpm. A 35 kW version is available for A2 licence holders.

The engine features direct cam actuation for a compact design, including a bore and stroke of 67 mm and 46 mm and a compression ratio of 11.6:1. Iridium spark plugs and dual air intake ducts improve efficiency and create a distinctive intake sound.

Design elements such as asymmetric piston skirts reduce friction, while treated cylinder sleeves improve heat transfer and durability. A silent cam chain with a special coating further reduces frictional losses.

The engine layout is compact, featuring a forward-leaning cylinder arrangement and a stacked gearbox. The six-speed transmission is paired with an assist and slipper clutch, which improves shifting performance and prevents rear-wheel instability during aggressive downshifting.

Honda Selectable Torque Control manages traction and can be switched off if required. Fuel consumption is approximately 20.4 km/l, providing a range of over 300 km from the 15.4-litre fuel tank. The engine meets EURO5 standards with updates to the ECU, catalytic system, and onboard diagnostics.

2024 Honda CBR650R E-Clutch Sports Motorcycle – Technical Specifications

Engine

Fuel System

Electrical System

Drivetrain

Frame

Chassis

Suspension

Wheels

Brakes

Instruments & Electrics