The Honda NT1100 has been the fruit of our conceptual dreams of late. Whether in the form of the NT1100 X Crossover or the NT-R, the Japanese brand’s versatile touring machine can always serve as the basis for something even better than it already represents. And if not better, then at least different. This would be the case, if it were to happen, of a variant of the model equipped with the innovative electronic clutch. Honda E-Clutch.
In any case, and unlike the virtual renders we were talking about at the beginning, there is a good chance that Honda will end up incorporating a new model into its range. NT1100 E-Clutchas pointed out by the Japanese media Young Machine. This is what our colleagues at Visor Down have reported, trusting the good eye of the Japanese, giving a lot of credibility to what for the moment would only be a rumor.
Honda NT1100 E-Clutch 2025: The third wheel
If we cast our minds back a little, we will remember that Honda showed the world, for the first time, its E-Clutch system at the end of last year, defining it as “the first automatic clutch control system for motorcycles with conventional transmission.” Shortly after, he officially presented it, announcing that it would be launched on the new 2024 CBR650R and CB650R.
Broadly speaking, the Honda E-Clutch borrows elements of the technology and operation of quickshifters, conventional manual-type clutches and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique combination of these well-proven approaches. The ultra-compact system weighs just 2kg and physically the clutch and shifting are no different to those of a conventional motorcycle, aiding in the viability of future applications.
The Honda E-Clutch’s operation is pure simplicity, eliminating the need to use the clutch lever to shift up or down. The rider simply has to operate the selector lever to effect gear changes. We had the opportunity to test it thoroughly recently when we carried out a test on the brand new CB650R E-Clutch.
At this point, Honda knows that it must get the most out of each of the technologies included in its current model range. That is why everything points to the current NT1100 being the next motorcycle from the brand to benefit from the E-Clutch. However, it seems that the brand is working on a variant initially intended for the Japanese police.
Remember that the NT1100 is offered as an option in the DCT version, equipped with the brand’s well-known automatic transmission. While this does its job perfectly on a bike of this type and characteristics, the simplicity shown by the E-Clutch would take the driving experience to another level.
Now it only remains to wonder if Honda is already planning a civilian version of the NT1100 E-Clutch and if so, when it would be available to be enjoyed by lovers and followers of the brand.
