Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) brought select members of the media together to sample one of the latest features on its motorcycles, the new E-Clutch. Offered as an option on select Honda Big Bike models, the E-Clutch is a new technology that automatically controls clutch operation without the need for the rider to operate the clutch lever. The rider still has to shift gears manual. Nonetheless, this enables smooth starting while still giving the rider the pleasure of gear shifting.

This new technology was created in pursuit of a high level of sportiness, comfort, and peace of mind. As a result, it delivers an improved riding experience for riders familiar with a manual, with the added convenience of an automatic clutch if desired.

The E-Clutch should not be confused with Honda’s unique dual clutch transmission (DCT) also offered on some models. The E-Clutch only automates the clutch operation, making the bike still a manual transmission system with the rider always in control of gear shifting. In this way, the clutch and transmission mechanisms are the same as on conventional manual transmission motorcycles.

The E-Clutch has both an automatic and intelligent manual mode. In automatic mode, it allows the rider to accelerate and slow down, while shift up and down gears, all without any operation of the clutch lever required. The E-Clutch takes care of all the clutch operation and smoothly facilitates upshifts and downshifts for a smooth ride. Even when slowing to a stop or accelerating from a stop, the E-Clutch automatically engages, preventing the bike from stalling.

The E-Clutch is designed to allow the rider to concentrate on throttle, brake, and gear shifting operations, and on controlling motorcycle behavior, especially on exciting winding roads. And in circuit racing and other sports riding scenarios, in addition to conventional quick shifter control, the system can also instantly half-clutch, working just like a quick shifter in reducing changes in motorcycle behavior due to gear shifting. Best of all, when used in heavy traffic in the city, the rider need not worry about clutch operation in traffic, that may lead to stalling when starting or stopping, fatigue in traffic congestion. In these situations, not having to operate the clutch lever can help to reduce rider fatigue and provide peace of mind.

Once the rider operates the clutch lever, it enters the intelligent manual mode, instantly switching to a conventional manual. In this mode, the bike can be operated like a conventional manual, and the E-Clutch will allow the rider to modulate the lever and adjust how much slip or bite the clutch delivers. It requires clutch lever operation in all riding states (starting, gear shifting, and stopping).

We got a chance to sample it ourselves on models like the Honda NX500 and CBR500R. The E-Clutch practically feels like a quick-shifter, allowing the rider to quickly shift up and down the gears without the need to modulate the clutch and throttle to ensure smooth acceleration or deceleration. Simply shift a gear and the E-Clutch system takes care of the rest. Even when rolling to a stop, provided it’s been shifted into first gear, the E-Clutch kept the engine idling, ready to pull away again at the next instance. From a dead stop to a leisurely coast, it almost feels like a centrifugal clutch in how there’s a slipping sensation as the bike slowly accelerates. Yet it’s also quite enjoyable knowing even intimidating big bikes like the NX500 and CBR500R can now be even easier to handle in traffic if they have the E-Clutch option.

The E-Clutch is now available as an option for select Honda Big Bikes. Some models still have conventional manual transmission variants. However, if you give the E-Clutch a try, you might never go back.

At the event, HPI also took the opportunity to launch the MyHonda+ App. The Honda Philippines website has been upgraded as well to reflect the same look and fell as the new MyHonda+ Philippines app. Both are designed to make it easier for customers to discover, own, and stay connected with their Honda Motorcycles and Power Products. These platforms allow users to explore Honda's lineup, events, book test rides and services, and access product information with greater ease.

The MyHonda+ app provides convenient access to product information, promotions, service bookings, and rider communities (Commuter & Big Bike models, Electric Vehicles, and Power Products) on one platform. To get started, simply download the MyHonda+ app through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

"This dual-platform launch marks an important milestone for Honda Philippines as we continue to expand both our product lineup and our digital capabilities," said Jomel Jerezo, Vice President for Sales and Customer relations operations of Honda Philippines, Inc. Through these innovations, we aim to deliver a more connected ownership experience that brings greater convenience to our customers while supporting the future of mobility in the Philippines."