Honda CL250 E-Clutch- Honda has rolled out the CL250 E-Clutch in Japan on September 19, 2025, and it’s creating a buzz among bike enthusiasts. This scrambler-style motorcycle combines retro charm with a smart new feature, the E-Clutch system, which makes gear shifting effortless without a traditional clutch lever. Priced at JPY 704,000 (around ₹4.19 lakh), it’s designed for riders who want a stylish, easy-to-ride bike for city commutes or light off-road adventures. With India’s love for affordable, good-looking bikes and petrol prices soaring past ₹100 per litre, the CL250 E-Clutch could be a game-changer if it arrives here.

What Is the Honda CL250 E-Clutch?

The CL250 E-Clutch is Honda’s latest take on the classic scrambler – a bike that looks like it’s from the 1970s with its round headlight and rugged tires but rides with modern tech. Built on the same platform as the Rebel 250 cruiser, it uses a 249cc engine for smooth, reliable power. The star attraction is the E-Clutch, a system that lets you shift gears without squeezing a clutch lever, making it perfect for beginners or riders stuck in traffic jams. At 175 kg (only 3 kg heavier than the standard CL250), it’s lightweight enough for easy handling but tough enough for short off-road trips.

Launched in Japan, there’s no confirmed India launch yet, but August 2025 spy shots suggest Honda’s testing it here, possibly for a 2026 debut. With GST 2.0 cutting taxes on bikes under 350cc to 18%, a local release could be priced competitively against rivals like the Royal Enfield Scram 411 (₹2.05 lakh).

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JPY 704,000 (₹4.19 Lakh) – Is It Affordable?

In Japan, the CL250 E-Clutch is priced at JPY 704,000, which converts to about ₹4.19 lakh (1 JPY = ₹0.595). This is the base model price premium colors like Pearl Dusk Yellow might add ₹10,000-20,000. Compared to the regular CL250 (JPY 650,000 = ₹3.87 lakh), the E-Clutch version costs an extra ₹32,000 for its advanced tech a fair deal for easier riding.

If it launches in India, expect an ex-showroom price of ₹3.50-3.80 lakh after local taxes and GST benefits. On-road in cities like Delhi or Bangalore, add ₹20,000-30,000 for RTO, insurance, and FASTag, bringing it to ₹3.80-4.10 lakh.

EMI options? Likely ₹6,000-7,000 per month over 3 years at 9% interest through banks like ICICI or SBI. It’s pricier than budget bikes like the Bajaj Pulsar 150 (₹1.20 lakh) but aligns with premium 250cc options like Honda’s CB350 (₹2 lakh). Compared to the Royal Enfield Scram 411, it offers unique tech at a similar price.

What Makes the CL250 E-Clutch Special

• E-Clutch Technology: The highlight is Honda’s E-Clutch, which lets you shift gears using just the foot lever, no hand clutch needed. It’s like an automatic bike but with the control of a manual, perfect for stop-start city rides or tricky hill starts. Weighing only 3 kg extra, it’s smooth and beginner-friendly, first seen on bigger bikes like the CBR650R but now affordable on the CL250.

• Engine and Performance: Powered by a 249cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, it delivers 24 PS and 22.5 Nm torque enough for a 130 kmph top speed and easy overtakes on highways. The 5-speed gearbox (paired with E-Clutch) feels seamless, offering 30-35 kmpl fuel efficiency. That’s ₹2-3 per km, cheaper than cars or heavier bikes like the RE Classic 350 (30 kmpl).

• Design and Comfort: The CL250 rocks a retro scrambler look with a round LED headlight, knobby tires, and a high fender for that tough vibe. Its 790 mm seat height suits most riders (5’4” and up), and the 175 kg weight makes it easy to handle in traffic. A 13-litre fuel tank gives a 400+ km range per fill-up.

• Safety and Tech: Front and rear disc brakes with ABS ensure safe stops, even on wet roads (60 kmph to 0 to 20 meters). The LCD dashboard shows speed, gear, and fuel levels, plus a USB port for phone charging. Available in Pearl Dusk Yellow and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, it keeps the look classy but practical.

Note – Honda skipped extras like Bluetooth to keep costs low, focusing on reliability and core features.

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Performance: How It Feels on the Road

The CL250 E-Clutch is built for real-world riding, not racing. Its 249cc engine pulls smoothly from low speeds, making it great for weaving through city traffic or cruising at 80-100 kmph on highways. The E-Clutch eliminates gear-shift stress, so you stay relaxed in bumper-to-bumper jams or on inclines. Fuel efficiency hits 35 kmpl on open roads, 28 kmpl in cities, ideal for keeping costs down with ₹100 petrol. The suspension (telescopic forks front, twin shocks rear) and 163 mm ground clearance handle potholes and speed breakers well, while knobby tires grip light dirt or wet tarmac.

Braking is sharp with ABS, and the bike’s light weight makes it nimble for quick turns. It’s not a full off-road beast like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, but it’s perfect for gravel paths or short trails. Vibrations are minimal at cruising speeds, though you’ll feel a bit of that classic thump at idle it adds character! For India, it’d be awesome for 50 km commutes or weekend rides to nearby hills.

Why It’s a Great Fit for Indian Riders

India’s two-wheeler market loves bikes under 350cc – they make up 98% of sales because they balance style, fuel savings, and easy maintenance. The CL250 E-Clutch checks all boxes: retro design for social media flex, 30+ kmpl for budget-friendly rides, and E-Clutch for new riders or anyone hating traffic clutch work. At 175 kg, it’s lighter than the RE Scram 411 (196 kg) and more advanced than the Bajaj Avenger 250 (163 kg). It’s ideal for young professionals, women riders, or adventure fans wanting a bike that handles city streets and light off-road paths. Honda’s 1,000+ service centers ensure affordable upkeep (₹1,500 per service).

Final Verdict: Should You Get Excited for the Honda CL250 E-Clutch?

The Honda CL250 E-Clutch, priced at JPY 704,000 (₹4.19 lakh), is a fantastic blend of retro scrambler style and modern ease, thanks to its innovative E-Clutch system. If it launches in India at ₹3.50-3.80 lakh (likely mid-2026), it’s a strong choice for city commuters, beginners, or weekend adventurers who want a reliable, stylish ride. It’s not for speed junkies (check out the KTM 250 Duke) or those wanting a full auto (Honda Activa is cheaper). While India’s launch isn’t confirmed, spy tests hint at a possible arrival. If you love a bike that looks classic, rides easily, and turns heads, the CL250 E-Clutch is worth the wait.

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