An automatic motorcycle makes managing traffic much simpler in cities where driving can often require quick stops and starts, without needing to operate a clutch or switch gears while riding.
These bikes use computers that open and close clutches as engine rpm fluctuates. There are various drive modes you can select as well.
1. Ease of Use
One of the primary considerations when purchasing a two-wheeler is whether to get an automatic transmission. These systems offer numerous advantages over manual ones, including eliminating rider involvement in managing gear ratios; all that’s necessary to activate them is twisting the throttle; once set in motion they ensure engine and wheel are aligned at desired speed – they are often known by their acronym CVT or DCT and come standard on numerous motorcycle types.
These systems are popular among commuters as they make maneuvering through city traffic much less stressful; however, their ease of use usually comes at the cost of being more costly than manual bikes and less fuel efficient overall.
2. Practicality
Though experienced riders may consider an automatic motorcycle to be heretical, its popularity among certain riding styles is rising quickly. This trend can especially be found among city and commuter riding styles as its lack of shifting allows riders to focus more easily on traffic flow and maneuvering tight spaces without shifting. Furthermore, automatic bikes don’t stall due to using an advanced computer-managed system for managing engine power and clutch.
But for touring and spirited rides, an automatic transmission may take away some of the joy of selecting an appropriate gear ratio – longer ratios tend to reduce fuel consumption while shorter gear ratios offer faster acceleration.
Notably, some auto systems allow riders to customize how the bike operates by selecting Drive or Sport mode. When in Drive mode, upshifts will occur automatically based on speed and throttle input; when selecting Sport mode however, gear changes are made by the rider themselves.
3. Engagement
Motorcycle transmissions rely on clutches to shift between gears at different speeds, using engine-driven centrifugal or servo clutches that disengage when shifting up and engage when shifting down. This system ensures smooth acceleration from zero to sixty while staying efficient for efficient riding.
The transmission’s computer can manage shifting or you can select driving modes tailored for various conditions (wet weather, traction control or better fuel economy). Furthermore, it comes equipped with an automatic reverse feature activated via a switch located on the handlebar.
Beginners often find it easier to start riding an automatic motorcycle than a manual one due to not needing to use a clutch. This gives them time to gain their sea legs as well as learn balance, braking and acceleration, sensing traction, traffic rules etc before switching up to manual bikes.
4. Fuel Economy
Utilizing the optimal fuel is key to maximizing performance and improving MPG. Follow your owner’s manual’s advice when selecting an octane rating – higher-octane fuels may negatively affect performance as they result in cooler combustion temperatures leading to decreased power and poor MPG results.
Assuring your tyres are properly inflated is critical in order to maximize fuel economy, as underinflated tires produce more drag, leading to reduced economy and an inefficient engine. Avoid labouring at low speeds and revving up top gear too often; both actions consume additional fuel. In addition, tucking in can reduce wind resistance so you arrive at your destination less fatigued.
Honda continues to dominate the automatic motorcycle market, but as electric bikes gain more traction it is not unrealistic to assume we may see a shift towards all-electric models like the Lightning LS-218 that could transform how we ride two-wheelers.