Honda has introduced its E-Clutch technology to two of its adventure-style motorcycles for the 2026 model year, with the XL750 Transalp and NX500 both receiving the system as an option alongside the traditional manual gearbox.
The E-Clutch system allows riders to pull away, stop and change gears without using the clutch lever during normal operation, while retaining the ability to use the clutch manually whenever they choose. The technology works with Honda's Throttle By Wire system to provide rev-matched downshifts and controlled upshifts, even when the rear wheel is spinning on loose surfaces.
XL750 Transalp
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The XL750 Transalp continues with Honda's 755 cc liquid-cooled, eight-valve Unicam parallel twin-cylinder engine, producing 67,5 kW at 9 500 r/min and 75 Nm at 7 250 r/min. The 270-degree crankshaft delivers a distinctive power pulse, with Transalp-specific Throttle By Wire settings focused on touring and real-world versatility.
The chassis package includes Showa 43 mm SFF-CA USD forks and a Pro-Link rear shock, both with compression and rebound damping adjustment for 2026. Dual 310 mm front discs, a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel provide capability on both tar and gravel surfaces.
The 16,9-litre fuel tank, combined with a WMTC fuel consumption figure of 4,3 l/100 km, supports a potential range of approximately 390 km. Seat height is 850 mm and ground clearance is 210 mm. The upright riding position offers comfort and control expected from an adventure motorcycle.
For the E-Clutch model, riders can select HARD, MEDIUM or SOFT shift-pedal operation feel settings independently for upshifting and downshifting. The system can be switched off while stationary and in neutral for full manual operation. The E-Clutch variant also receives a redesigned 2,5 mm high-strength aluminium skid plate as standard.
The five-inch full colour TFT screen uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. Honda RoadSync provides smartphone connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation when paired with a compatible Bluetooth helmet headset.
The XL750 Transalp features a high-transparency Durabio screen, a renewable plant-based polycarbonate resin developed from isosorbide derived from inedible corn and wheat, providing weather resistance, scratch resistance and transparency.
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The motorcycle uses a lightweight 18,3 kg steel diamond frame with an integrated high-tensile steel subframe. Dual two-piston front calipers operate 310 mm wave discs, with a 256 mm rear disc and two-channel ABS. Rear ABS can be switched off in USER mode for off-road riding. Tubed 90/90-21 front and 150/70-18 rear tyres support the mixed-surface character.
The Transalp's engine is managed by Throttle By Wire with four default modes: SPORT, STANDARD, RAIN and GRAVEL. Two customisable USER modes allow riders to pre-set their Engine Power, Engine Braking, Honda Selectable Torque Control and ABS settings. The five-level Honda Selectable Torque Control includes integrated Wheelie Control.
The six-speed gearbox is paired with an assist/slipper clutch. On the E-Clutch model, electronic clutch control and Throttle By Wire add smoother shifting and automatic throttle blipping on downshifts.
The 2026 XL750 Transalp will be available in Ross White Tricolour, Matt Ballistic Black Metallic and Pearl Deep Mud Gray with new graphic styling.
Pricing for the 2026 Honda XL750 Transalp Manual is R220 849 including VAT, while the E-Clutch version is priced at R230 849 including VAT.
NX500
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The NX500 continues Honda's New X-over concept, combining the comfort and practicality of a road-focused motorcycle with the stance and rough-road confidence of an adventure-style machine.
Powered by Honda's 471 cc liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine, the NX500 produces 35 kW at 8 500 r/min and 43 Nm at 6 500 r/min. Honda Selectable Torque Control is standard, comparing front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear slip and smoothly reduce torque through the fuel injection system.
The chassis includes Showa 41 mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston USD forks, dual 296 mm front discs with Nissin two-piston calipers, and a five-inch full colour TFT screen with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity.
The 17,5-litre fuel tank and WMTC fuel consumption figure of 3,6 l/100 km support a potential range of over 480 km. Seat height is 830 mm and ground clearance is 180 mm, with an upright riding position that gives good visibility and control.
For 2026, the E-Clutch system makes gear changes smoother and low-speed riding simpler, while keeping the familiar feel and control of a conventional motorcycle available at any time. The system reduces the need for repeated clutch use in stop-start urban traffic and allows the rider to focus on the road, line choice and throttle control on open roads and light gravel routes.
The NX500 uses a steel diamond-tube frame designed to give the rider feedback as road surfaces change. The 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel combination, matched with trail-pattern tyres, supports the mixed-use character. Braking is handled by dual 296 mm front discs and a single 240 mm rear disc with two-channel ABS.
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The six-speed gearbox is paired with an assist/slipper clutch, helping reduce lever load and manage rear wheel behaviour during downshifts. On the E-Clutch model, this mechanical foundation is enhanced by the electronic clutch control system.
Pricing for the 2026 Honda NX500 Manual is R131 399 including VAT, with the E-Clutch version priced at R141 399 including VAT.
Both models come with a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, and free rider training is offered on the purchase of any new Honda motorcycle.
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