350cc Honda Bikes May Soon Have AMT
It’s reported that Honda is looking to introduce a cheaper version of its E-Clutch tech on its Indian bikes
After launching the CBR650R and CB650R’s E-clutch variants in India, Honda could soon introduce this tech in its smaller capacity bikes as well, as reported in a publication. The brand is reportedly looking to implement a more cost-effective version of the E-clutch tech for its Indian two-wheelers. In easy words, Honda's E-clutch system electronically controls the clutch which results in smoother gear shifting, and stopping without any clutch operation. However the gears still need to be worked out, and even the clutch remains fully functional (which is good news for enthusiasts). This tech makes riding a motorcycle in almost every situation a lot easier, as it eliminates any kind of clutch usage.
It makes a lot of sense for a cheaper version of this tech to debut in its best selling premium bike in India, that is the CB350 series. This is because both the H’ness CB350 and CB350RS have not been updated in a long time, and offering this tech will easily give these bikes an upper hand when compared to the Classic 350 and Meteor 350. In our experience, the bike’s gearing isn’t the best, so having this feature should make commutes on traffic-riddled roads a lot more manageable.
Technologies like Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), and E-Clutch are hugely useful particularly for newbie riders who are not used to switching gears quickly and efficiently. Once this tech becomes mainstream on Honda’s 350cc bikes, expect it to be offered in the smaller capacity bikes later. The Honda Shine and the Honda Unicorn are two of the most popular bikes from the brand, so eventually giving this technology to these two bikes will bring in a lot of newer riders.