As already reported, the 2024 CBR650R is expected to be equipped with an electronically controlled clutch named Honda E-clutch and a new look. At the same time, the CB650R is also expected to undergo a model change, but the focus of attention will be on whether it will be a Hornet or not.
CG: SRD
CB1000 Hornet is likely to debut in 2024.
The CB650R is part of the Neo Sport Cafe Concept. The concept is a series that was completed all the way down to the CB125R in 2018, with the CB1000R as the flagship. Six years after this was introduced, the CB1000R is expected to change its concept to the CB1000 Hornet in 2024.
In addition, a new CB750 Hornet will be launched overseas in 2023, and will likely be newly launched in Japan as the 2024 model. What is interesting, then, is whether the CB650R, which is expected to adopt an electrically controlled clutch in the 2024 model year, will take over the Hornet's name at this time.
Currently, it is unclear whether the new CB650R will continue to follow the neo-sport café concept, but it is possible that the style will be updated. The direction of the new CB650R may give us a glimpse of how Honda plans to market its sports naked models in the future.
In the foreground is the CB650R and in the background is a CG of the 2024 CBR1000 Hornet as projected by the editorial department. The CB650R will be remodeled at the same time, so the CB650R will be closer to the Hornet!
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.
CBR650R [HONDA] 2023 model meets 2040 emission regulations but may adopt electronic throttle control as well as E-clutch.
Honda E-Clutch looks fun to operate manually
The Honda E-clutch, for which Honda has applied for a trademark, is expected to be a clutch-by-wire system, and this patent has been filed by Honda. The auto mode allows the driver to start/stop the car without operating the left hand, and the gearshift can be shifted simply by operating the shift pedal with the left foot.
In addition, the clutch can be disengaged at will in manual mode. Depending on the clutch operation, the car may stall, which can be said to be the same as conventional clutch operation.
The advantage of the E-clutch would be that the lever operation is expected to be lighter, and it would also prevent wire breakage.
It is also expected to be installed in models for beginner riders, as it is considered less expensive than a dual-clutch transmission. The E-clutch is a welcome feature for beginners who are not accustomed to manual operation, so it is also a mechanism that is expected to expand the range of riders.
The connector under the clutch lever is the output part of the rotation sensor (160). It looks much the same as the clutch lever of a conventional manual transmission vehicle.
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.
