Honda's CBR650R full-cowl sport bike is getting a major update for the 2024 model year.
The changes are likely to be aimed at making it cooler, easier to handle, and more attractive.
CG: SRD
Both CB650R use the electronically controlled clutch.
We have received information that the CBR650R, which was fully remodeled in 2019 from the previous CBR650F to a sportier version, will receive a major update for the 2024 model year.
What is expected at this stage is a revamped exterior, which could be styled closer to the new CBR1000RR-R.
The CBR1000RR-R is expected to undergo a full model change for the 2024 model year, and it is likely that changes will be made to its appearance, including larger winglets. The CBR650R, which will be remodeled at the same time as the CBR family, is likely to inherit the image of the flagship model.
In addition, the mechanism is expected to employ an electronically controlled clutch for easier handling. A motor-driven actuator would automate the clutch, which was previously operated manually via wire or hydraulic pressure. The clutch lever would remain and serve as a switch.
Honda applied for the trademark "Honda E-clutch" in January 2023, and has also applied for another patent for a clutch-by-wire system for motorcycles. Electronic throttles, also known as throttle-by-wire, are becoming popular in motorcycles, and it is likely that clutch operation will also be controlled by electrical signals.
In the foreground is the CBR650R and in the background is the CG of the 2024 CBR1000RR-R projected by the editorial department. Since the models will be changed at the same time, can the CBR650R approach the image of the RR-R?
CBR650R [HONDA] 2023 model meets 2040 emission regulations but may adopt electronic throttle control as well as E-clutch.
CB650R [HONDA] The CB650R, which uses the same frame, suspension, and engine as the CBR650R, is also expected to adopt an electronically controlled clutch in the 2024 model year.
E-Clutch looks fun to operate manually.
In addition to the trademark "E-Clutch," Honda has applied for a patent for a clutch-by-wire system, which appears to offer three modes: "Auto Mode M1 for automatic control," "Manual Mode M2 for rider manual operation," and "Manual Intervention Mode M3 for temporary manual operation.
Auto mode allows starting/stopping without left-hand operation, and shifting gears can be done simply by operating the shift pedal with the left foot. It is as easy to operate as if it were a Super Cub with an automatic centrifugal clutch. In addition, even in auto mode, the clutch lever can be held to automatically enter manual intervention mode, allowing the clutch to be disengaged at will. Releasing the clutch lever returns to auto mode again.
In manual mode, the motorcycle cannot start automatically by throttle operation alone. Depending on the clutch operation, the motorcycle may stall, which can be said to be the same as a conventional clutch operation.
The advantages of the E-clutch are that it is expected to lighten the lever operation and may also prevent wire breakage. It is also a welcome feature for beginners who are not accustomed to manual operation, so it may become more widely used in small- and medium-displacement vehicles in the future.
The connector under the clutch lever is the output part of the rotation sensor (160). It looks much the same as the conventional clutch lever.
At the base of the clutch lever is a cylinder (131) with a piston and spring set inside. This generates a reaction force.
Here is an illustration of the actuator (50A), in which the motor (52) controls the hydraulic pressure and operates the clutch.
The meter is likely to include features such as a clutch mode display.
