2025 Honda CB650R E-Clutch: First Ride Review & Chase Score

First Ride and E-Clutch Introduction

• 🏍️ The 2025 Honda CB650R with E-Clutch is put to the test in real-world city and highway conditions, moving beyond a typical press launch.
• 💡 The primary focus is on the E-Clutch technology and its potential to make motorcycling more accessible.
• 📍 The reviewer, Chase on Two Wheels, aims to provide an honest take on the bike's performance, surprises, and areas for improvement.

E-Clutch Technology and Performance

• ⚙️ The E-Clutch allows for automatic operation without a traditional clutch lever, enabling riders to start and stop without stalling.
• 🧠 Honda's E-Clutch is praised for retaining the feel of a motorcycle with a manual shift lever, unlike other automatic transmissions.
• 🚦 In city riding, the E-Clutch makes navigating traffic effortless, though the bike is noted to be a bit sluggish off the line due to a lack of low-end torque.
• ⬆️ Upshifting and downshifting are described as incredibly smooth, with the E-Clutch performing better than a standard quick shifter.

Engine, Handling, and Comfort

• 💨 The 649cc four-cylinder engine produces approximately 94 horsepower and 46 ft-lbs of torque, with a curb weight of 456 lbs.
• 🛣️ Highway performance for the 40-80 mph test was surprisingly good, exceeding expectations despite initial concerns about torque.
• 💨 The bike lacks cruise control, and wind protection is minimal, making it less ideal for long-distance touring.
• ⚠️ Vibrations are noticeable around 7,000-8,000 RPM, particularly in the feet, engine, legs, and hands.
• 🛋️ The rider position is comfortable with a slight forward lean, and the seat is deemed suitable for mid-length rides.

Suspension, Brakes, and Controls

• 🌟 The suspension is surprisingly capable and comfortable for a bike with an MSRP of $9,399, feeling solid and well-tuned.
• 🛑 Brakes are described as adequate but lacking initial bite, possibly needing more break-in time on the 38-mile test unit.
• 🕹️ Controls are typical Honda, functional but not premium, with a slightly awkward placement for the turn signal button.
• 📱 The LCD screen is simple and functional, showing necessary information, but suffers from reflections in bright sunlight and has excessive black bezel space.

Chase Score and Final Verdict

• 📊 Throttle Response: 5/10 (sleepy off the line)
• 📊 Agility: 7/10 (light and nimble, but not razor sharp)
• 📊 Brakes: 5/10 (soft, lack initial bite)
• 📊 Acceleration: 6/10 (smooth but lacks torquey punch)
• 📊 Suspension: 6/10 (comfortable and capable, but soft)
• 📊 Comfort: 7/10 (solid ergos, decent seat)
• 📊 Tech: 9/10 (E-Clutch is a game-changer)
• 📊 Ease of Use: 9/10 (easiest way to learn manual shifting)
• 📊 Versatility: 5/10 (best in city, struggles with wind protection)
• 📊 Fun for the Money: 5/10 (value from tech and usability)
• 🏆 Final Chase Score: 64/100
• ✨ The reviewer believes the E-Clutch is the most significant aspect, making motorcycling more accessible to beginners and commuters, even if the bike itself could use more power and stronger brakes.