2026 Honda CB750 Hornet Now Standard with E-Clutch in US
Semi-automatic Hornet among 15 models returning for 2026
American Honda announced 15 models returning for 2026. For the most part, these models are coming back unchanged except for new color options, and in several cases, price reductions. Saving money is always welcome, but the big news is the CB750 Hornet will now come standard with Honda's E-Clutch technology. Apart from that, the only notable change is the CB500F is getting renamed the CB500 Hornet.
Joining the two Hornets in today's announcement are their larger sibling the CB1000 Hornet SP, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, the CB650R E-Clutch, the CBR650R E-Clutch, the CBR500R, the NX500, the SCL500, the CB300R, the NC750X DCT, the XR150L, the Gold Wing, and the NT1100 (plus the Police version).
Honda actually announced the E-Clutch version of the CB750 for Europe in November, alongside the Transalp. We haven't heard anything from American Honda about the 2026 Transalp yet, but based on this news, we expect it will also be offered with E-Clutch in the U.S. market as well.
The CB750 becomes the first Honda model in the U.S. model to implement E-Clutch with a ride-by-wire throttle; the Rebel 300, CB650R and CBR650R each combine E-Clutch with a mechanical throttle. E-Clutch allows for gear shifts without needing to touch the clutch lever. Instead, the system uses a small motor to automatically open and close the clutch. Unlike other automatic systems — including Honda's own DCT technology — riders still have full manual control over when to up or down shift using a foot lever. Riders also have the option of controlling the clutch themselves, using a traditional lever to override the E-Clutch. The downside is E-Clutch does add weight, pushing the Hornet's claimed curb weight to 432 pounds from 422 pounds.
Despite adding E-Clutch, Honda is keeping the CB750 at the same $7,999 price as the 2025 model. Meanwhile, the CB500 Hornet and CBR500R see a $1,000 price reduction for 2026. The CBR650R and CB650R see their prices go down by $700, the CB300R decrease by $300, and the NX500 by $500, all welcome news in today's economy (unless you just bought last year's model, of course).
Begin Press Release:
Honda Expands E-Clutch Lineup With New CB750 Hornet, Announces 15 Total On-Road Models
- E-Clutch enables shifting with or without the clutch lever
- Four models now offered with the innovative technology
- New more competitive pricing, including reduced MSRPs on six models
Honda today announced 15 on-road motorcycle models for 2026, highlighted by the expansion of the company's groundbreaking E-Clutch technology to the popular CB750 Hornet naked bike. With this move, Honda now offers a total of four E-Clutch-equipped motorcycles—including the CB650R, CBR650R and the recently announced Rebel 300 E-Clutch cruiser—underscoring the brand's commitment to combining innovation with rider accessibility and control.
This latest new-model announcement encompasses a full range of categories—from adventure and sport to touring and standard—demonstrating the company's continued leadership and breadth in the motorcycle market. Also of note is a renewed focus on the sport bike segment, with MSRP reductions introduced to improve value and competitiveness while maintaining the same Honda quality and performance. MSRP reductions include $1,000 on the CB500 Hornet and CBR500R, $700 on the CB650R E-Clutch and CBR650R E-Clutch and $650 on the CB300R. In addition, the NX500 gets a $500 price reduction.
"Honda's E-Clutch system represents a major step forward in motorcycle technology, offering riders the freedom to enjoy seamless shifting without sacrificing engagement or performance," said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. "Expanding this technology to the CB750 Hornet for 2026—and offering an extensive lineup of fun, practical, value-conscious on-road models—reflects our ongoing goal of making the joy of motorcycling more approachable, intuitive and enjoyable for riders of all experience levels. On a related note, we're pleased to confirm our commitment to sport bike customers, with new lower pricing for multiple CB and CBR models that makes them more accessible and creates a natural path for current Honda riders—like miniMOTO owners—to step up to a sport bike. Importantly, these changes come without sacrificing technology, style or performance."
CB750 Hornet E-Clutch
Honda's CB750 Hornet has quickly earned a reputation for delivering an ideal balance of performance, agility and everyday usability. For 2026, that formula evolves with the addition of Honda's innovative E-Clutch system—an industry-first technology that brings a new level of convenience and control to the middleweight naked segment. The CB750 Hornet is also the first Honda E-Clutch model with throttle-by-wire, which offers enhanced electronic control. The result is a machine that retains the CB750 Hornet's thrilling character and sharp handling, but with a new level of versatility that benefits riders across a wide range of situations.
- Colors: Matte Nightshade Blue; Black
- MSRP: $7,999
- Available: February
- Info
CB1000 Hornet SP
Honda's CB1000 Hornet SP channels decades of naked-bike heritage into a bold, modern performance statement. Delivering liter-class power in a streetfighter package, this premium Hornet model combines precision engineering and a raw street presence. The CBR1000RR-derived engine, premium components and aggressive stance make it equally at home slicing through canyon roads and ruling city streets. True to the Hornet name, the model is a perfect mix of refinement and rebellion—Honda's vision of performance stripped to a pure form.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $10,999
- Available: January
- Info
CB650R E-Clutch
Honda's CB650R brings modern performance and timeless style together in one accessible, enjoyable package. Offering the thrill of a sport bike without sacrificing everyday comfort, it blends the precision of a naked machine with Honda's signature refinement. The inline-four powerplant and advanced chassis deliver a uniquely balanced riding experience—spirited on winding roads yet composed in city traffic. With its minimalist design and innovative Honda E-Clutch technology, the CB650R proves that performance can be both practical and emotional.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $8,699
- Available: January
- Info
CBR650R E-Clutch
Few motorcycles capture the thrill of sport riding while remaining practical for everyday use like Honda's CBR650R E-Clutch. Developed to deliver performance without sacrificing day-to-day usability, this mid-displacement sportbike strikes an ideal balance between track-inspired excitement and real-world versatility. With its inline-four engine, refined handling and innovative Honda E-Clutch technology, the CBR650R combines passion and engineering in a way that makes every ride as effortless as it is exhilarating.
- Colors: Matte Black Metallic; Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $9,199
- Available: January
- Info
CB500 Hornet
For 2026, Honda's middleweight naked offering proudly joins the brand's iconic Hornet family. The newly named CB500 Hornet combines the proven performance and versatility of its parallel-twin platform with a streetfighter aesthetic, resulting in a motorcycle that blends precision engineering, everyday usability and pure riding enjoyment.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $5,899
- Available: February
- Info
CBR500R
With its blend of sharp styling, real-world performance and rider-friendly versatility, Honda's CBR500R brings supersport attitude to an approachable middleweight platform. Whether carving through twisty backroads or navigating city traffic, the model enhances the riding experience with smooth, responsive performance and the thrilling character that has long defined the CBR lineup.
- Colors: Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $6,399
- Available: February
- Info
NX500
Honda's adventure-ready NX500 boasts a proven combination of a responsive twin-cylinder engine, agile handling and adventure-touring versatility. The result is a motorcycle that blends rugged capability with effortless operation, ensuring that every ride is a memorable journey—from the daily commute to weekend exploration.
- Color: Pearl White
- MSRP: $6,899
- Available: February
- Info
CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP
For riders who see every corner, straightaway and braking zone as an opportunity to push the limits of precision, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP delivers excellence. Drawing directly from HRC's MotoGP development program, this flagship supersport model represents the purest expression of Honda's racing DNA brought to the street. Every component—from the aerodynamics to the advanced electronics—serves a singular purpose: delivering uncompromising performance and absolute control. When success is measured in hundredths of a second, the Fireblade SP is not just a motorcycle—it's a statement of intent.
- Color: Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $28,999
- Available: January
- Info
CB300R
Delivering pure riding enjoyment through minimalist design and responsive performance, Honda's CB300R proves that less can be more. Ideal for new and returning riders who prioritize value, approachability, style and performance, this naked bike pairs Honda's Neo Sports Café aesthetic with lightweight agility and real-world versatility. Simple, refined and confident, the CB300R captures the essence of motorcycling in its most elemental form.
- Colors: Pearl Dusk Yellow; Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $4,499
- Available: January
- Info
NT1100 DCT
Delivering long-distance comfort without sacrificing agility or everyday usability, Honda's NT1100 DCT is born from the same engineering DNA as the Africa Twin but with a sportier focus, blending touring practicality with a nimble, confidence-inspiring character. Developed for those who view motorcycling as both a means of covering distance and an experience to savor, the NT1100 DCT is equally at home on weekday commutes or cross-country adventures. Its proven DCT technology, modern electronics package and all-day comfort make it a sport-tourer that delivers more with every mile.
- Color: Gray Metallic
- MSRP: $11,999
- Available: January
- Info
SCL500
Blending modern engineering with nostalgic design, Honda's SCL500 captures the freedom and simplicity of the original scramblers that helped define motorcycling's golden era. Built around Honda's proven 471cc parallel-twin engine, it delivers approachable power and agile handling for riders who want equal parts style and substance. With its upright ergonomics, lightweight chassis and unmistakable scrambler silhouette, the SCL500 turns every commute or backroad into an easygoing adventure—proof that timeless design still has a place in the modern world.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $6,999
- Available: January
- Info
NC750X DCT
Few motorcycles handle everyday practicality and weekend adventure in one package quite like Honda's NC750X DCT. Developed for riders who value versatility, efficiency and real-world usability, this midsize adventure model blends commuter-friendly comfort with genuine touring capability. Its smooth parallel-twin engine, seamless Dual Clutch Transmission and signature built-in storage compartment make it as enjoyable in daily traffic as it is on a winding backroad. Year after year, the NC750X DCT continues to stand out as a forward-thinking machine that embodies Honda's belief that performance and practicality can coexist in perfect balance.
- Color: Matte Pearl White
- MSRP: $9,499
- Available: January
- Info
XR150L
Built with practicality, reliability and everyday adventure in mind, Honda's XR150L continues to define accessibility in the dual-sport world. Prioritizing value and simplicity, the model bridges the gap between daily transportation and off-road exploration. Whether navigating city streets, traversing farm roads or exploring forest trails, the XR150L delivers dependable performance and approachable handling that inspire confidence. Backed by the legendary toughness of Honda's XR lineage, Honda's smallest dual-sport machine is the ultimate gateway to two-wheeled freedom.
- Colors: White; Gray
- MSRP: $3,399
- Available: February
- Info
Gold Wing
For over half a century, Honda's iconic Gold Wing has defined the art of long-distance motorcycle touring. Developed for riders who measure journeys in memories as much as miles, the platform blends comfort, technology and performance in a way only Honda can achieve. With its legendary six-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, refined chassis and advanced technology, the Gold Wing continues to elevate the touring experience, setting the benchmark for two-wheel luxury and adventure. Available in Gold Wing or Gold Wing Tour trims—each offered with an Automatic DCT option—plus a Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT version, the Gold Wing lineup gives riders choices tailored to how they travel.
- Colors
- Gold Wing: Matte Silver
- Gold Wing Automatic DCT: Matte Silver
- Gold Wing Tour: Deep Pearl Gray; Metallic Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT: Deep Pearl Gray; Metallic Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT: Metallic Black
- MSRP
- Gold Wing: $25,500
- Gold Wing Automatic DCT: $26,500
- Gold Wing Tour: $29,500
- Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT: $30,500
- Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT: $33,800
- Available: January
- Info
NT1100 Police
Built on the capable foundation of Honda's popular sport-touring model, the NT1100 Police was developed to meet the unique demands of law-enforcement professionals. Combining proven reliability, balanced performance and long-distance comfort, the model provides motor officers with a versatile, efficient platform for patrol duty. With refined ergonomics, specialized equipment and Honda's signature quality, the NT1100 Police provides the tools and comfort motor officers need to perform their duties across a wide range of environments—from urban streets to open highways.
- Color: White
- MSRP: $14,499
- Available: January
- Info
Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
Motorcycle.com presents an unrivaled combination of bike reviews and news written by industry experts
More by Motorcycle.com Staff
Comments
Join the conversation
QS or any other clutchless shifting causes extra wear on the shift dogs. If you don’t think this is true, then you don’t know how constant mesh transmissions work.
E-clutch is something you don’t want until you live with it. Then it becomes something you can’t see yourself without.