Riders can shift gears without operating the clutch lever

Adventure and sport models join the E-Clutch range

System preserves manual feel while reducing rider workload

The Honda CB750 Hornet E-Clutch in action. [Honda Korea]
The Honda CB750 Hornet E-Clutch in action. [Honda Korea]

Honda Korea is expanding its lineup of manual-transmission motorcycles that allow gear changes without operating the clutch lever. The strategy aims to broaden rider options by preserving the feel of manual riding while reducing the physical demands of clutch control.

The company announced Thursday that it will officially launch the XL750 Transalp and CB750 Hornet fitted with Honda E-Clutch, the brand's electronic clutch control system, on Friday.

E-Clutch is Honda's proprietary electronic clutch control technology. On manual-transmission motorcycles, it allows riders to shift gears using only the throttle, brakes and shift pedal — without squeezing the clutch lever. Novice riders can ease into gear changes, while experienced riders can focus on riding by cutting down on complex hand operations.

Operating the clutch lever temporarily suspends the E-Clutch system, letting riders revert to conventional manual control at will. Unlike a fully automatic transmission, the system retains the tactile feel and riding character of a manual gearbox.

Honda Korea first introduced the technology in South Korea last August with the CBR650R E-Clutch and CB650R E-Clutch road sport motorcycles. The latest additions extend the E-Clutch lineup into the adventure and sport naked segments.

The XL750 Transalp is a dual-purpose model designed for urban commuting, long-distance touring and off-road use. It features dual LED headlights inspired by the flagship Africa Twin adventure model, and gains a side cowl color pattern and undercowl that reinforce its adventure motorcycle identity. The undercowl also protects the lower engine on rough terrain.

The CB750 Hornet is a middleweight sport naked model built around a lightweight frame for agile handling and strong performance. Designed to handle everything from daily commuting to spirited sport riding, it combines an undercowl with aerodynamic efficiency and a dynamic visual profile.

Both models share a 755cc parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft, producing a maximum output of 91.0 ps and peak torque of 7.6 kg·m. The powerplant is tuned to deliver strong torque in the low-to-mid rev range, making it capable in city traffic, on long tours and in sporty riding conditions.

Both bikes also come equipped with a suite of electronic rider aids, including throttle-by-wire, Honda Selectable Torque Control and an assist-and-slipper clutch — all aimed at improving stability and handling across different riding environments.

The XL750 Transalp E-Clutch will be sold in a single white color at 14.19 million won (approximately $9,360). The CB750 Hornet E-Clutch will be available in black and yellow at 11.79 million won. Both prices reflect reductions in value-added tax and individual consumption tax.

Honda Korea also plans to launch the CBR500R E-Clutch and NX500 E-Clutch later this month. The CBR500R E-Clutch will come in red and matte black, while the NX500 E-Clutch will be offered in black and white. Both models are priced at 9.8 million won.

"Honda E-Clutch is not simply a technology designed to reduce the burden of clutch operation — it is a system developed so that more riders can experience the joy of manual-transmission motorcycles more easily and freely," Honda Korea CEO Lee Ji-hong said. "We hope riders will use the new E-Clutch models to experience Honda's unique riding character and performance across a wide range of environments, from city commuting to long-distance touring and adventure riding."


kwater@heraldcorp.com