Honda CB750 Hornet 2026 Review with E-Clutch Update

During the European presentation in Portugal's Algarve, Honda unveiled the revamped 750 models for 2026. While the Transalp receives several technical changes, the Hornet stays true to its concept with a targeted yet decisive update. The optional Honda E-Clutch introduces technology that noticeably alters the riding experience. Particularly intriguing is the first-time integration of this technology with Ride-by-Wire, opening up new possibilities in tuning the engine and electronic clutch. Despite some challenging weather conditions on site, it quickly became evident that this update is much more than just a comfort feature.

Honda's E-Clutch has been on the market since 2024. Here's a brief rundown of this unique technology for those who haven't encountered it yet. With the E-Clutch, Honda aims to make motorcycle handling easier and more precise. The system automatically manages clutch operations during starts, stops, and gear shifts, allowing the rider to focus solely on the throttle and gear lever. An actuator unit with two electric motors directly controls the clutch, while the traditional clutch lever remains available for use whenever needed.

Gear shifts are performed as usual with the foot lever but are supported by the electronic clutch control. A precise partial engagement of the clutch ensures exceptionally smooth transitions between gears. Simultaneously, ignition and injection are adjusted like with a quickshifter for seamless gear changes. Riders have three settings to customize the shift feel on the gear lever. If preferred, the E-Clutch can be completely deactivated, allowing the bike to be ridden manually as usual. This first test of the Honda E-Clutch provides more details on its basic functions, advantages, and disadvantages.

With the 2026 Hornet, the Honda E-Clutch reaches a new level of development. For the first time, the system is fully integrated with the Ride-by-Wire throttle on this 750 platform, allowing clutch control, engine character, and ride dynamics to be significantly more interconnected.

A key element of this advancement is the automatic blipping during downshifts. The electronic throttle actively adjusts the engine speed to match the next gear, resulting in noticeably smoother and more stable gear changes—especially during sporty deceleration.

Moreover, the E-Clutch surpasses the functionality of traditional quickshifters. While those only influence ignition and injection, the E-Clutch actively manages the clutch through a defined slip phase. This ensures consistently smooth and controlled gear changes, regardless of RPM or load. Additional features, such as slip detection during upshifts and reduced rear-wheel disturbance during downshifts, further broaden its range of applications.

On the Hornet, the E-Clutch clearly demonstrates why it's more than just a comfort feature. In urban settings, it particularly shines. During slow rides or stop-and-go traffic, the system manages clutch work so delicately that maneuvering and precise low-speed riding become significantly easier. The coordination between throttle response and clutch is so well-tuned that additional modulation with the rear brake, as was previously necessary, is no longer required.

Even in dynamic riding, the system impresses. During acceleration from a standstill, the clutch operation is more intuitive and controlled than previous solutions, without compromising the desired sportiness. It genuinely feels akin to the manual clutch operation of an experienced rider. While riding, the shift feel initially resembles that of a very good quickshifter but goes beyond. Even the best quickshifter has RPM ranges or throttle positions it doesn’t fully embrace, which can result in slightly rougher shifts or require more effort on the gear lever. With the E-Clutch, gear changes are smooth, crisp, and free from disruptive load change reactions, regardless of RPM or load. The best shift assistants might come close to this level, but only within their ideal RPM bands. Whether upshifting or downshifting, fast or slow, the E-Clutch always shifts perfectly. A previous criticism of the E-Clutch, that it didn’t provide rev-matching on downshifts, has now been addressed. As of 2026, the E-Clutch has definitively surpassed the conventional quickshifter, making downshifting into corners wickedly fun. Overall, the E-Clutch delivers a blend of comfort and performance that classic quickshifters simply can't match.

The advantages of the E-Clutch perfectly complement the character of the Hornet. As a versatile naked bike, it feels at home both in everyday riding and through twisty roads, allowing the system's strengths to shine. The upright seating position, well-balanced suspension, and approachable engine make it an easy-going companion for daily use.

The 755 cc parallel-twin impresses with its linear power delivery, which is easy to control yet offers enough excitement and punch in the higher RPM range for sporty riding. It's particularly interesting how its character differs significantly from the Transalp. Thanks to a shortened intake and adjusted engine management, the engine in the Hornet feels more rev-happy and lively, truly embodying the essence of a classic naked bike.

In cornering, the Hornet reveals its playful side. The narrow 160 rear tire provides very agile steering and makes the motorcycle extremely nimble in tight turns. At the same time, the suspension remains stable enough to inspire confidence even during spirited riding. I must also make a case for the new Michelin stock tire. Previously, the Road 5 was the standard fitment, but now it's the successor, the Road 6. In rainy Portugal, the tire clearly demonstrated its wet performance, and I was impressed.

There are, however, some criticisms, mainly concerning ergonomics. At 1.85 meters, I find the Hornet feels a bit cramped. The handlebars seem a bit too high and narrow. A wider setup positioned further forward would improve front-end feel and further enhance the already present agility. All in all, though, the Hornet remains a very well-balanced naked bike that offers great riding pleasure across various applications.

The 2026 Honda CB750 Hornet maintains the price level of its predecessor. In Austria, it is priced at €9,290 for the base version, while the E-Clutch variant is available for €9,990. This makes the standard Hornet €300 more expensive compared to 2025.

The 2026 standard equipment includes a five-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync, five riding modes, traction control with wheelie control, LED lighting, and modern controls via a four-way handlebar switch. In the E-Clutch version, the new belly pan is also standard.

Honda also offers extensive accessory solutions for the Hornet, bundled into various packages. These range from aesthetic enhancements and comfort features to sporty additions like seat cowls or quickshifters for models without the E-Clutch. The accessories are designed for easy combination, allowing for a personalized customization of the motorcycle.