Automatic Motorcycles: How Good Are They?

One of the most common challenges about motorcycles is shifting the gears. Fortunately, automatic motorcycles have emerged in recent years that do not require the rider to clutch or shift. 

What are these models good at? Should you choose them as your adventure motorcycle? MotoCzysz will give you comprehensive guidance about automated transmission. Let’s read on and consider whether or not to use it!

What’s The Difference Between An Automatic Motorcycle And A Manual Motorcycle?

The automatic motorcycle is in charge of all gear changes automatically. It employs a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) to allow smooth and rapid gear shifts. 

On the other hand, the manual motorcycle depends on the rider’s operation rather than the engine. Gears allow the rider to adjust the engine power to the actual speed on the road. 

Both motorcycle automatic vs. manual methods have upsides and downsides. One type of gearbox may be more suitable for your journey, depending on your use and preferred riding experience.

Some of the most apparent differences between motorcycle automatic transmission vs. manual include: 

Ease of use

Automatic bikes are easier to handle since they manage all gear changes and clutch operation for you. 

Automatic is ideal if you’re searching for a method of travel that will get you from one place to another with the minimum trouble. Especially well-suited to urban areas. And you can learn how to ride a bike from this video. 

The electric models are easier to use

Focus on the road

One argument in favor of automatic motorbikes is that you can focus 100% on the road. There is no worry about whatever gear you are in and how to modify it.

Definitely Not A Scooter 

Many people confuse automatic bikes and scooters because of their similar appearance and operation. There are some differences between them that you should check.

Engine size

Motorcycle engines come in different sizes, ranging from 150cc to more than 2000cc. A 150cc engine may reach a maximum speed of up to 60 mph. You can occasionally come across automatic motorcycles above 400cc. 

On the other hand, Scooters have motors ranging from 50cc to 550cc in capacity. 

Wheel size

A motorbike has a front and rear wheel size of 16 inches or bigger. When operating rapidly, it makes the motorcycle much more stable.

A scooter’s wheels come in sizes, from 10 inches to 16 inches. The two wheels are small, making the bike unstable when running at top speed.

Fuel efficiency

Motorcycles need around 44 miles per gallon on average. On the other hand, new models may now go up to 85 miles per gallon on average.

Because a scooter has higher mileage than a motorbike, it is more fuel-efficient. Some scooter variants have a fuel economy of up to 132 miles per gallon.

There are several differences between the bikes

Is Automatic Motorcycle Right For You? 

If you don’t like shifting gears now and again, you should purchase an automatic motorcycle. Automatic transmission not only makes your riding more enjoyable but also makes it safe.

Safety 

Poor shifting is a factor in unavoidable motorcycle accidents. So, learning the technique of shifting gears is vital if you want an exhilarating, safe ride.

For newer riders, the automatic transmission has shown to be really beneficial. Women love it since it is simple to use.

Even old riders who don’t want to shift continuous gear often choose automated motorcycles over manual models.

Learning how to shift, clutch, and brake with both feet and hands can be complicated for new riders. 

Moreover, the anxiety of probable incorrect shifting, which might result in an accident, just adds to the hardship.

Leisure

The less you worry, the more enjoyable your experience will be. 

You won’t have to be concerned about lousy switching with an automatic motorcycle. You have to activate the throttle and shift gears for you.

The vehicle offers a high level of safety and leisure

Different Types Of Automatic Motorcycles 

Electric cars have gained popularity all over the world. These models account for more than 90% of all vehicles sold in the USA. On the other hand, electric motorcycles come with a different story.

Some riders are still unwilling to take away the pleasure of changing their riding experience. Yet, some will start to adopt automatic transmission soon.

Besides, the growth of electric bikes does not end here. Whatever the automatic transmission is missing might show up later. 

For the time being, you may choose from a range of automatic bikes as follows.

No-shift automatic

This type of gearbox, often called CVT transmission (Continuously Variable Transmission), offers you the convenience of entirely gear shifting.

There are no clutch or shift levers to cope with. All you have to do now is to crank the throttle, and there you go.

Dual-clutch manumatic

This transmission combines the advantages of both automatic and manual transmissions. This method employs a mechanism that utilizes two clutches to handle the even and odd gears, respectively.

It lets the rider select between two alternative gear shifting modes. You may choose between moving manually at your own speed with an automated gearbox or a dual-clutch manual transmission.

Centrifugal-clutch design 

Semi-automatic transmission is another term for this centrifugal-clutch design.

These electric motorcycles don’t include a clutch lever positioned on the handlebar. Hence, you’ll have to swap gears by stomping on a foot lever.

There are three options to consider

Five Most Popular Automatic Motorcycles 

There are some famous options for electric bikes in the market. We’ve broken down the priority list to the top five best automatic motorcycles to assist you in concluding.

1. Honda NC700X 

Honda is the indisputable leader in the field of automatic bikes.

Currently, only a few brands produce electric bikes. However, you can expect to see more significant corporations soon follow.

The NC700X DCT from Honda runs with a 670cc liquid-cooled two-cylinder motor. It generates 51 horsepower and 45 pound-feet of torque.

According to its specifications, you can immediately tell that this motorbike is suitable for racing.

Its dual-clutch innovation lets you choose from the wholly automated or the manual 6-speed gearbox, depending on your interests.

This option also comes with a DC fast charger. Hence, you do not need to worry about waiting too long for a full charge.  

2. Honda Africa Twin DCT 

With the dual-clutch transmission design, the parking brake stays where the clutch lever would typically be. 

There isn’t even a shifter in the Honda Africa Twin, at least not the one like on an ordinary motorbike.

The drivetrain of this Africa Twin Adventure Sports is relatively smooth. The throttle is seamless, and the fueling is spot on. There are no concerns with rapid throttle response even in the faster modes.

The clutch on the Africa Twin DCT is lightweight and straightforward to control. You will also find the manual gearbox light and easy to use.

The structure on the basic Africa Twin comes with a 45-millimeter upside-down frame and a linkage-style mono-shock at the rear. 

The electronically variable suspension comes on the more costly Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT variant.

Journeys and new places are important to the Africa Twin. And now, in addition to the current Apple CarPlay functionality, they’ve added Android Auto support to make it even easier.

3. Honda NC750x DCT

The Honda NC750X has extensive structural improvements as well as a reworking of its purpose. 

There is also a 6-speed manual transmission available and a fully automatic dual-clutch transmission.

The updated electronics in the NC750X make it much easier to handle and improve your opportunity to customize the power supply. There are three default power settings on the NC750X and a user-configurable alternative.

Throttle response, shifting programming, stability control, and compression braking are customizable DCT model settings.

This Honda DCT option slows upshifts to optimize acceleration. Its throttle response is also the harshest. 

To optimize deceleration, you will increase the engine compression braking but reduce the traction control.

4. Aprilia 850

Aprilia is an Italian automobile manufacturer that specializes in scooters. 

Aprilia’s Mana 850, unlike Honda’s DCT-focused model, comes with a CVT system and cornering ABS. 

The gearbox may turn to a seven-speed DCT utilizing the foot pedal and clutch lever placed on the handlebar, making this electric bike even more remarkable.

It features a solid 839cc V-twin motor with three riding modes to select from Rain, Sport, and Touring.

The sport-tourer mode saves fuel by reducing response and power delivery without decreasing ride comfort. 

The Sports mode aims to reach maximum torque, engine braking, cruise control, and instant power. 

Meanwhile, rain mode reduces torque by 25% to assist you in managing the bike more easily in wet conditions.

5. Honda VFR1200X

If you’re a fan of solid engines, the VFR1200 DCT is perfect for you.

Imagine a 1237cc V4 engine that produces 127 horsepower and 93 pound-feet of torque. Then, you will have the most enjoyable riding experience ever. 

You may choose between two transmission choices: automatic with a few riding styles or the traditional 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Honda DCT gearbox features software updates to give real-time efficiency, whether on quiet city traffic or the motorway.

It also includes a cutting-edge design and outstanding features like anti-lock braking and traction control systems. 

Aside from the options above, motorcycle news also reports that there are new worth-trying options, such as the Honda Gold Wing or the CTX700 DCT. 

Some models include an adjustable windscreen, wheelie control, and LED lighting. They also offer a warranty. If you notice any problem, you can ask to receive financial compensation.

Are Automatic Motorcycles Good? 

The answer depends mainly on your preference.

Allowing your bike to move to the next gear on its own saves you a lot of time and effort. If you have any trouble shifting gears, you can leave it for the automatic transmission bikes. 

Furthermore, automated motorcycles, such as the Honda Gold Wing Tour, are no longer confined to scooters. You may now choose from a more extensive selection of electric full-sized bikes.

If you’re used to gearboxes, though, shifting gears turn out to be a breeze.

The rider can find that shifting the gears manually gives them a more pleasant experience.

It all comes down to how you think about shifting gears when deciding whether or not the automatic transmission is good for you.

Honda dominates the list

Pros and Cons of Automatic Transmission 

Everything has both benefits and drawbacks. So does the electric motorcycle transmission. It would be best to consider both sides before deciding to go for it.

Pros

This system comes with advanced technology that guarantees the convenience of the rider’s safety. Here are some of their advantages:

• Because of the simplicity, it is ideal for novices.
• It’s perfect for high-traffic regions since it eliminates the need to change gears every second.
• Motorcycles with automatic shifting gears will be able to stop more rapidly.
• It is the ideal answer for people who have trouble clutching and changing gears at the same time.
• This option allows for a more comfortable and safe driving experience.
• The transmission removes the worry of clumsy shifting, which may cause an accident.

Cons

Aside from the outstanding benefits, this kind of transmission has some drawbacks that may discourage you from buying. Please check these features carefully:

• Automatic motorbikes are more costly than manual bikes since they have more sophisticated features.
• It also implies that maintaining an electric motorbike is more expensive than maintaining a traditional motorcycle.
• Automatic transmissions have more components, which might increase weight.
• Compared to a manual gearbox, a planetary gear system features fewer gear ratios.
• The torque converter may reduce total maximum torque

Consider both pros and cons to come up with the best decision (Link)

Conclusion

By weighing the benefits and drawbacks, you should be able to determine whether an automatic gearbox is the right approach for your bike.

Whether you choose manual or automatic, it’s essential to think about your demands and choose the one that will offer you a more satisfying ride.

Hopefully, you will find this article helpful. If you need any further information, please feel free to ask. Thank you for being interested in the post!