Thanks to its compact size and innovative tech, the speedy bike looks super-approachable right out of the gate.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreIn line with a larger industry trend, Honda has been releasing more and more motorcycles with its revolutionary E-Clutch system, which essentially makes the use of the clutch lever optional.Because the brand makes such a wide range of two-wheelers, the move has boosted approachability in everything from cruisers to naked bikes to adventure motos.The sleek new CBR400R FOUR E-Clutch makes the sport bike life more accessible than ever. - Credit: HondaNow the tech is coming to a small-displacement sport bike, making nimble, adrenalized riding more accessible than ever.AdvertisementAdvertisementBuilt on the same platform as the retro-styled CB400 Super Four E-Clutch and rolling out shortly after it does is the fully faired new CBR400R FOUR E-Clutch.New (and old) riders welcomeEven those who are skeptical of the (ahem) shift away from classic manual transmissions should not discount E-Clutch.Rather than being a pure automatic, the system allows for optional clutch actuation.Because the bike still has a clutch lever, this little bit of branding is the only obvious indication it's a different beast. - Credit: HondaSee, when your foot connects with the gear shift lever (pulling up or pushing down), the clutch automatically pulls in, then releases once you've made the shift. That means experienced riders can operate it pretty much like any other bike, while newbies can ease into the process with greater safety and enjoyment and much less (if any) stalling.In addition to the Beta Silver Metallic color scheme seen on most of this page, the bike will also come in this darkly dazzling Matte Ballistic Black Metallic treatment. - Credit: HondaAs the tech is beginner focused, it makes sense that Honda tends to put it on smaller bikes, and the CB400 Super Four E-Clutch, merely a prototype earlier this year, is no exception.AdvertisementAdvertisementRolling out to select Honda Dream dealerships this fall (and hopefully many more thereafter), the bike features a 399cc inline four-cylinder engine making a claimed 57.2 horsepower at 11,500rpm and 28lb.ft of torque at 9750rpm.The CBR400R FOUR E-Clutch may be small on displacement, but it's big on style from just about any angle. - Credit: HondaThose numbers may not blow your hair back, but on this nimble little 412-pounder they should still feel sporty and fun.Adding to the first timer appeal is a relatively low seat height of 30.7 inches, plus handlebar and peg placement that is fairly relaxed for this style of bike.As cool as rendered images of the bike might look, making the jump from prototype to production is much cooler. - Credit: HondaThrow in the 5-inch full-color TFT dash and four riding modes and you have a sweet daily driver-level ride that even old-school curmudgeons (this writer included) can appreciate.Availability and pricingThe Honda CBR400R FOUR E-Clutch rolls into select Japanese Honda Dream dealerships in September at a price equivalent to $7,395.AdvertisementAdvertisementGiven its highly approachable nature, the bike seems destined to make its way stateside down the road.Honda CBR400R FOUR E-ClutchAbout the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
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