New Honda NX500 variant promises easier city rides and touring with electronically controlled clutch operation.
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the new Honda NX500 E-Clutch at a price of Rs 7.44 lakh. With this addition, the adventure tourer now gets Honda’s latest E-Clutch technology, allowing riders to shift gears without pulling the clutch lever.
The new variant commands a premium of Rs 1.11 lakh over the standard NX500, which does not feature the E-Clutch system. Bookings for the motorcycle are now open across all authorised Honda BigWing outlets in the country.
Features Of Honda’s E-Clutch Technology
One of the most notable features of the NX500 E-Clutch is the electronically controlled clutch system developed by Honda. Unlike a fully automatic gearbox, the E-Clutch system does not eliminate manual gear shifting, but instead electronically manages clutch operation through two actuators.
It allows riders to change gears, start, and stop without pressing the clutch lever. Additionally, the clutch lever remains available, enabling riders to manually override the system whenever required.
The system is designed to improve convenience during both city commutes and long-distance touring, while still retaining the engagement of a manual transmission.
Honda had previously introduced this technology internationally on the CB650R and CBR650R. With the launch of the NX500 E-Clutch, it becomes one of the few middleweight adventure motorcycles in India to offer such a system.
Mechanicals Remain Unchanged
Apart from the addition of the E-Clutch system, the motorcycle remains mechanically unchanged. It continues to use the same 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine producing 47 bhp at 8,500 RPM and 43 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM.
The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox, now integrated with the electronically controlled clutch system.
The E-Clutch setup adds only 3 kg to the motorcycle’s overall weight, taking the kerb weight of the NX500 to 199 kg.
The suspension setup includes inverted front forks and a rear monoshock, while braking duties are handled by dual 296 mm front disc brakes with radially mounted Nissin calipers and a single 240 mm rear disc brake. Dual-channel ABS comes as standard.
The motorcycle rides on a 19-inch front alloy wheel and a 17-inch rear alloy wheel.
Simple Yet Functional Feature List
The NX500 continues with a relatively straightforward electronics package. It features a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster and switchable traction control. Dual-channel ABS is also offered as standard.
Unlike several rivals in the segment, the NX500 does not get riding modes or a ride-by-wire throttle system. Honda instead continues with a cable-operated throttle setup, prioritising reliability and easier serviceability.
Premium Pricing And Niche Positioning
Priced at Rs 7.44 lakh, the Honda NX500 E-Clutch firmly positions itself in the premium middleweight adventure motorcycle segment. Rivals include the BMW F 450 GS Trophy and Kawasaki Versys 650.
Despite the premium pricing, Honda is aiming to carve out a niche by focusing on durability, lower maintenance costs, and the uniqueness of its E-Clutch technology.
The motorcycle is available in black and white colour options.
