Riding a motorcycle is both convenient and thrilling at the same time. Technological advancements have made motorbikes faster, more comfortable and safer than ever before. Having said that, motorcycle transmissions have also evolved with time in terms of functions. Similarly, just like automatic cars, you can also find automatic motorbikes in the market. This technological advancement not only revolves around speed but riders’ safety and convenience have also been taken into consideration.
Let’s dig into some more details about automatic motorbikes, how they work and have a look at their pros and cons.
What is Automatic Motorbike
Automatic motorbikes run with automatic transmissions. In these motorcycles, you don’t need to shift gears frequently. , simply twist and you are good to go. The transmission system is built-in and there is no clutch or gearbox integrated into automatic motorbikes.
Automatic motorbikes are easy to manage for beginners since they don’t need to worry about managing the clutch, shifting gears and applying brakes. All you need is to throttle the engine and let the motorbike shift gears for you.
History of Automatic Motorbikes
Several motorcycle manufacturers have tried incorporating automatic transmissions in their bikes over the years. However, in the 70s Hondamatic was launched and Moto Guzzi quickly followed them and introduced their version. Later on, Aprilia launched Mana 850 Auto in 2007 and soon after that Yamaha introduced FJR1300 a semi-automatic motorbike in the same year.
However, these motorbikes couldn’t catch the attention until Honda launched its Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox VFR1200 in 2010.
Different Types of Automatic Motorbikes
There are three types of automatic gearboxes available in the market. The automatic motorcycles are manufactured using one of these automatic gearboxes:
- Continuously variable transmission
- Semi-automatic transmission
- Dual-clutch transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Continuous variable transmission or CVT is a common transmission available in motorbikes. CVT has no gears hence, motorists can enjoy a ride on a fully automatic motorcycle. The continuously variable transmission works with a system of two shafts (a fixed shaft and a mobile shaft) equipped with a pulley with two opposite cones. A metal or rubber chain is stretched in a V between the two cones of each pulley. Know more about the types, pros and cons of automatic transmission.
A Semi-Automatic Transmission (SAT)
Semi-automatic transmission is also known as centrifugal clutch design. The motorcycles with semi-automatic transmissions do not have a handlebar-mounted clutch lever. Hence, you can shift gears with the help of a foot-operated gear shift lever and the bike’s engine control unit operates the clutches automatically.
Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
The double-clutch transmission or dual-clutch transmission is similar to SAT. However, as the name suggests, DCT comes with two clutches – one for odd gears and one for even gears. Unlike other types of transmission, DCT allows fast gear shifts, resulting in a smooth ride and negligible power lag.
When shifting into gear or changing gear, one gear is disengaged at the same time as another gear is engaged, which avoids interruptions at the engine level and saves considerable time to engage or trigger a speed.
Pros and Cons of Automatic Transmission
Pros
Several reasons let us choose a motorcycle with an automatic transmission:
- It offers smoother and more relaxed driving in heavy traffic.
- The driver is more focused on the road, as changing gears is not an issue.
- Automatic transmission motorcycle ensures that the bike’s engine runs at a constant RPM that keeps the engine and tyres stress-free.
- Motorbikes with automatic transmissions are easy to handle The latest ranges in automatic bikes are reliable.
- The automatic transmission is more fuel efficient than the manual bike.
Cons
Here are some of the disadvantages of automatic motorbikes:
- Motorcyclists accustomed to driving motorbikes with an automatic gearbox often have difficulty riding.
- Given the advanced technology integrated, automatic motorbikes are expensive, as compared to manual.
- Maintaining manual motorcycles is easier than automatic motorcycles, however, you can follow these motorbike maintenance tips to keep your motorcycle in perfect condition.
- The torque converter in automatic motorbikes can negatively impact the overall torque.
Difference Between Automatic Motorbikes and Manual Motorbikes
Both manual and automatic motorbikes serve different purposes and can be compelling depending on your need. However, the main difference between them is the transmission. Manual motorcycles come with manual transmissions which use gears to operate. On the other hand, the engine of an automatic clutch motorcycle runs with the help of a torque converter which makes the drive convenient.
That’s a wrap on automatic motorbikes. It is safe to say that automatic transmission is the future of the automotive world, considering the UAE is promoting all-electric modes of transportation. After knowing all about automatic motorbikes, if you are planning to switch from a manual motorcycle to the automatic one, take a look at these used motorcycles for sale in the UAE.
Also, make sure you have a motorbike licence in Dubai. If you are living in Dubai, make sure to enrol in a motorbike-driving course at any of the dubai driving licence schools to obtain your licence.
Besides, here is a list of motorbike slang terms for bike enthusiasts. Moreover, learn the solo bike riding tips before heading out for individual trip.
Stay updated with UAE’s top auto blog to know more about motorbike maintenance and care.
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