Honda Patents Pseudo Clutch for Electric Bikes

• Designed to give riders more control on power delivery
• Electronic clutch mimics the feel of a mechanical clutch
• ICE engine-like vibrations can also be simulated

Honda has filed a new patent for an electric motorcycle system that mimics the feel of a conventional clutch. The technology is designed to give riders more control and make electric bikes feel more engaging to ride.

The patent drawings are based on the Honda CR Electric Proto motocross bike. Unlike a normal clutch setup, this system works electronically. The clutch lever on the left handlebar controls the motor’s power delivery instead of physically engaging gears. To put it simply, pulling the clutch halfway reduces power output, while pulling it fully cuts power completely. It can also simulate clutch-based launches. If the rider twists the throttle while holding the clutch and then releases it quickly, the bike delivers a burst of torque similar to a petrol-powered motorcycle.

Honda’s patent also mentions a haptic feedback system. Small vibration motors placed on the handlebar and near the clutch lever can simulate engine vibrations and the feel of a clutch biting point.

The setup could be useful for motocross and competition riding, where riders need finer control over power delivery. Honda also believes it could help riders who start on electric bikes transition more easily to conventional ICE motorcycles in the future.

Interestingly, Honda isn’t the only company exploring such ideas. Brands like Zero and Kymco have also worked on simulated clutches and gear systems for electric motorcycles to make them feel more involving to ride.

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