With this system, the clutch is operated electronically without using the clutch lever.
Honda has announced that it is working on an E-clutch system which will effectively allow the rider to use the gearbox without having to pull in the clutch lever at all.
This system should help reduce rider fatigure when it comes to negotiating stop-and-go traffic, something that’s quite common on our roads. While this system is in use, if the rider wishes to, they can manually operate the clutch as they would conventionally without the bike missing a beat. Honda also claims that this system can ‘achieve smooth starting, shifting gears and stopping more natural than a rider’s manual clutch operation.’
At the minute it is unclear whether this technology is backwards compatible with only certain models or whether its a universally compatible system which can be applied to bikes of other manufacturers as well.
The Honda E-clutch system appears to perform a similar function to the Rekluse Smart Clutch System (found on premium MV Agusta models and available for large Harley-Davidson motorcycles). Honda also has its patented DCT gearbox which is available on models like the Africa Twin ADV and the Gold Wing tourer.