Honda Reveals the 2026 CB500 Hornet With New E-Clutch Technology
POSTED: 17/11/2025
Honda has officially updated its middleweight lineup with the launch of the 2026 CB500 Hornet, bringing fresh styling, improved performance, and one of Honda’s newest innovations, the E-Clutch system to the popular 500cc segment.
The CB500 Hornet continues Honda’s push toward lightweight, high-value bikes that appeal to new riders, commuters, and experienced riders seeking a fun, agile machine with modern features.
New E-Clutch Debuts in the 500cc Class
One of the biggest upgrades for 2026 is Honda’s optional E-Clutch, introduced for the first time on the CB500 Hornet. This system combines the ease of an automatic clutch with the control of a manual gearbox.
E-Clutch advantages:
- Enables clutch-less starts, stops, and low-speed manoeuvres
- Riders can still use the clutch lever normally whenever they want
- Reduces fatigue in city traffic and daily commuting
- Works seamlessly with the standard 6-speed gearbox
- Provides smoother, more controlled engagement than a traditional manual clutch
This makes the CB500 Hornet more accessible to new riders while adding premium convenience for experienced ones.
Revised Styling and Lightweight Performance
The 2026 CB500 Hornet continues the sharp, aggressive design language of the Hornet family, featuring:
- Muscular fuel tank with compact side shrouds
- LED lighting throughout
- Lightweight chassis for agile urban handling
- 41mm upside-down forks
- Sporty riding position with improved ergonomics
The familiar 471cc parallel-twin engine remains at the heart of the bike, delivering smooth, reliable power that makes it ideal for commuting, weekend rides, and entry-level sport performance.
Technology & Connectivity – A Modern Riding Experience
Honda equips the 2026 CB500 Hornet with a full-colour 5-inch TFT display and its RoadSync connectivity system. Riders can access navigation, calls, messages and media controls directly from their handlebars. Safety tech such as Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) ensures confidence in adverse conditions.
Key points:
- 5-inch full-colour TFT display with modern UI.
- Honda RoadSync: navigation, calls, messages and media control.
- Back-lit switchgear for better night-time usability.
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) enhances safety.
- A tech package rarely seen in the 500cc class.
A2-Friendly and Rider-Focused
As an A2-compliant machine in Europe, the CB500 Hornet continues to be one of the most accessible “first big bikes” available. The addition of the E-Clutch further broadens its appeal by offering riders an easier way to enjoy manual motorcycling without sacrificing control.
Staffordshire Triumph LTD T/A Staffordshire Honda, is Authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA No 676123) This allows Staffordshire Triumph LTD to act as a credit broker not as a lender, for the introduction to a limited number of finance providers. We may receive a comission for introducing you to a lender. You have the right to ask us to disclose the income that we will receive. If you make such a request, we will disclose the amount to you without delay.
Our Initial Disclosure Document can be found HERE
