Honda Patents Electric Bike With Artificial Clutch, Flywheel And Engine Vibrations

Honda has patented a new pseudo clutch system that creates artificial haptic feedback to simulate the feel of a traditional motorcycle clutch. The system is designed to replicate clutch engagement and flywheel behavior without using any actual clutch plates or mechanical flywheel components.

Honda Patents Fake clutch system and flywheel

The Japanese manufacturer has filed this patent for its Honda CR Electric Proto with a pseudo clutch system and fly wheel mechanism. The electronic clutch lever can be used to control power delivery and provide riders with a more engaging riding experience.

The new system uses haptic feedback through the handlebar and clutch lever to mimic the sensation of real clutch operation. When the rider pulls the clutch lever, the throttle response is reduced or disengaged. Releasing the lever recreates the feeling of clutch engagement and acceleration, similar to a conventional petrol-powered motorcycle.

In addition, the technology includes an artificial flywheel system that uses a motor-driven rotating mass to simulate the inertia and momentum of an internal combustion engine. This gives riders the familiar sensation of engine resistance and smoother power delivery that they are accustomed to on traditional motorcycles.

Honda has also incorporated a vibration generator that produces engine-like vibrations, including the subtle feedback typically felt when a motorcycle is idling. Together, these systems are intended to recreate the emotional and mechanical feel of riding a petrol-powered motorcycle while retaining the benefits of electric powertra.

What are the benefits?

Many riders around the world are deeply familiar with the vibrations, clutch feel, and engine feedback of conventional motorcycles. Electric motorcycles, while offering instant torque and smooth acceleration, are generally very quiet and lack these features. For some riders, this can make the experience feel less engaging.

By introducing artificial clutch feedback, flywheel simulation, and engine vibrations, Honda aims to make electric motorcycles feel more natural and enjoyable, helping riders transition more comfortably from petrol-powered machines to EVs.

Honda is not the first company to explore this concept. Kawasaki Heavy Industries has previously showcased an electric motorcycle concept with a manual transmission, and several smaller EV brands have also experimented with simulated gear-shifting systems.