Honda launches new transmission

Dual Clutch Transmission works by offering both a 'traditional' manual gear change operation, but by hand rather than foot, as well as a fully automated style gearbox with two different modes for riding preference and variety.

Historically, the use of a left-foot operated manual-shift gear lever and left-hand clutch lever has been an integral part of the motorcycling experience, and mastering clutch control and gear shifting at the same time has been one of the unique skills required of a motorcyclist. However, just as alternative gear-shift technologies have appeared in race cars and more recently on road-going cars, and quick-shifter systems are in use on racing motorcycles, the use of such technology has never really made it to the street on two-wheels successfully - until now.

For the first time, Honda's Dual Clutch Transmission system offers riders the enjoyment of a six-speed manual gear-select option in Manual Transmission (MT) mode via electronic trigger-shift controls, whilst also offering the more relaxed capability of effortless and seamless gear changes in Automatic Transmission (AT) mode should they wish. Within AT mode, there are two options - D-mode for a relaxed ride and S-mode for a sportier feel. All three modes are selectable from a switch on the right handlebar.

Honda's new Dual Clutch Transmission has been introduced on the new VFR1200F sports touring machine.

Source: JUST BIKES, September 2010, Collectors Issue #255