BMW Announce Automatic Motorcycles With ASA! (R1300GS, R1250RT)

Thanks to all of our channel sponsors - you can find out more about each of them here!
CALIMOTO - the ultimate navigation app for bikers! Use the code "BOB30" for a 30-day free trial, or "BOB10" for 10% off a premium membership:
motobob.cc/u/calimoto
CARDO - the best comms units on the market! Use "MOTOBOB" to get 10% discount on their PACKTALK EDGE, FREECOM X and SPIRIT lines, and 15% off the PACKTALK BOLD and FREECOM+ lines:
motobob.cc/u/cardo
METZELER - the crème de la crème of motorcycle tyres. We've used their adventure-ready Karoos, mile-munching Tourances, sticky Sportecs and Ractecs, and the king of all-rounders, the Roadtecs. All of them get a huge thumbs up from us, so do check out their full lineup here:
motobob.cc/u/metzeler
SPEEDO ANGELS - keep your expensive-to-replace speedo clear of scratches and damage. Use "MOTOBOB20" for 20% off any product:
motobob.cc/u/speedoangels
QUAD LOCK - our #1 choice of motorcycle phone mount, well before they came on board as a sponsor. We love their top-drawer build quality, as well as their huge range of mounts, accessories and adapters that mean you can always find a setup to suit any bike. Use this link to get 10% off all products:
motobob.cc/u/quadlock
BEMOTO - excellent insurance cover with brilliant customer service. Quote "MOTOBOB" for free licence defence cover:
motobob.cc/u/bemoto
Want to be one of our sponsors? Email [e-mail]

[@NunoRocha1980]

These kinds of systems are a blessing for people like me. I suffered a stroke when I was still young and was unable to ride any motorbike with a gear pedal because my left foot doesn't move. At the time I had a Yamaha XT600E and unfortunately I had to sell it. The solution I found was to buy a scooter for commuting, but obviously it's not the same... When Honda launched the DCT, I was able to ride a motorbike again. I'm very pleased to hear that more manufacturers are taking the step in this direction.

[@mark675]

Fair play for keep riding 👏 👍

[@NunoRocha1980]

@@mark675 I’ll do it till I can’t no more 😅

[@jimporter]

Snap, I can’t use a traditional shift due to drop foot. Shame the BMW announcement specifically says that they won’t have shift paddles although they could, that means you will only be able to run it in auto mode no manual option.

[@lawrieyoutube4375]

It is great to hear this. Happy riding

[@DAVJULART]

As many geriatric folk give up driving cars with manual transmissions when they lose clutch control, I’ve long advocated switching to automatic transmissions when still young enough to learn (as I’ve done). It could be that BMW are looking to keeping us aging gits riding longer enough to make one or two more new bike sales. Cracking bonus that it helps get kidz like you back on two wheels😃

[@philbarrett3739]

I'm happy for this tech to exist as long as we still get traditional gearboxes as an option. Bikes that do everything for me take away the fun of riding.

[@carlosandleon]

Try a scooter. It’s a guilty pleasure.

[@Theo-hx3wt]

​@@carlosandleonuntil you have a curve in front of you

[@carlosandleon]

@@Theo-hx3wt You underestimate them my bro. Scooters are the most fun bikes there is. 125cc twist and go.

[@Theo-hx3wt]

@@carlosandleon i have a 701 svartpilen and i disagree

[@I_am_Thursday]

Of course we fucking won't. It'll become 'taxable' like all the other shit like TC/ESA/TFT/Modes yet whats remarkable is people actually want that shit. Of course they're never real bikers and do a couple of thousand miles a year at best.

[@idguinness]

When I first heard about DCT, it repelled me as a motorcyclist. However, in 2022, I was suffering from tennis elbow in my left arm and really struggling to use the clutch on my 2014 BMW GS. Consequently, I bought a used 2020 DCT Africa Twin and installed a DCT foot shifter. Whenever I disagree with the chosen automatic gear, I can naturally override it (instead of using the hand controls). The DCT is super smooth, and I thoroughly enjoy the ride. I doubt I would have tried the bike if it weren't for the injury, but I really should have. Riding an automatic motorcycle is quite fun and less fatiguing. I've had three GS bikes, starting in '97 with an R1100GS. I'm totally happy with my Twin, but it's good to know I might return to a GS someday.

[@glennbrown3263]

7:17 . I’ve just come back to biking again in my 70’s, after a 20 year gap. Changing gear was never a problem in my younger years and I fully expected to buy a bike with a manual gearbox. However, after major surgery on my left knee, I found I struggled to downshift and I’ve ended up buying a Honda NC 750 with DCT. I didn’t want to love it because it isn’t “cool” but it’s a brilliant bike and allows me to ride again. Whilst I really appreciate the DCT, if I can get more mobility into my knee, I will probably go back to a manual box.

[@bcuzicancuellar5478]

Absolutely! I’ll be one of the first to buy one Bob. I’ve owned 5 DCT bikes and 1 AE, which I think is what BMW is developing. It’s Yamaha’s YCCS system, Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift. It’s awesome. I had it on my 2009 FJR 1300 AE and was flawless. Love my DCT,s as well. There is a bit of a learning curve, but once you learn how to use one, you’ll never go back to riding a clutched bike. Just yesterday, I was in stop n go traffic on my 2018 Goldwing DCT, non tour and came up on a guy parked by the side of the road on his Harley. Of course I stopped to see if I could be of help and he informed me that his clutch had gone out, but help was coming. I’ve got over 250,000 miles on both systems and haven’t had any issues so far. Can’t wait for the GS to get it. Now, if they can add it to the M1000XR, I’ll be getting one of those as well! Love your channel. Ride safe…

[@FreeTimeAdventures]

I bought a 21' Honda AT with the DCT system out of curiosity, and for the most part, I love it. Traveling and commuting when traffic gets heavy is much less of a pain on the clutch hand, and I don't really miss having a clutch lever generally. There's a few moments, though, where it would be nice, and that's usually when carving up twisties and when doing harder off-road trails. The AT makes a lot of power and without a clutch lever. You can't really control how hard the bike clutches-up. That can be a bit difficult in some situations. Overall, though, with a little experience and some throttle finesse, there's really nothing you can't do on a DCT bike, and I really enjoy it. I do think that Honda's E-clutch system will also be really cool for people who don't want to let go of the clutch entirely..

[@MrWannamakeyousmile]

You can control how hard bike clutches up with rear brake, it is very useful on hard off road terrains but you gotta practice.

[@Erosennincss]

For my next bike, I'm looking basically at Honda only because they have the DCT on a big part of their range. I love how smooth it is :) And it's good for everyone to have options!

[@birchwoodbiker]

GOOD CHOICE you love it👍

[@BelfastBiker]

To me, e-clutch is not the "budget option" - that makes it seem like it's a crappy option. I believe e-clutch is the superior system for most bikers. Full control of your gearing, and none of the hassle of clutch. Perfect combo. Almost all bikes will be some combination of auto clutch or gears in a decade.

[@ireallylovegod]

People will look back to manuals and think ,why? just why?

[@lawrieyoutube4375]

That sounds good to me.

[@QuangHaiinh]

@@ireallylovegod it is cheap and simple, like brake. Manual clutch not going anywhere.

[@ireallylovegod]

@@QuangHaiinh The new Honda E-clutch system is £100 extra , pretty cheap really though...

[@birchwoodbiker]

You have to ride them to appreciate how good they are, I will shortly have both E Clutch and on my 3rd DCT, doesn't mean I don't like manual, I just enjoy riding with these changes👍

[@greatbigeye2506]

Great news! My hand and wrist are just done with all but the lightest clutch pulls. Love my Honda DCT bike.

[@coreyknapp2151]

Im 100% interested. Getting older and no longer feel shifting is a test of a true motorcyclist.

[@johnlane2225]

Bob asked…. Is auto something motorcyclists want? I am a proponent of always having the right tool for the job. I own a Honda AT DCT and love it. It is fantastic off~road, much like the Recluse Clutch on a dirt, trail bike. I also love it in heavy, stop and go traffic, especially in National Parks, when you don’t want to be pulling in the clutch every 10 seconds for 30 minutes straight. On the other hand, when I am canyon carving, I love the clutch and gear on my VFRX.

[@specialcircs]

I love a quickshifter, and never thought I would, but for me full auto is a step too far. I think full auto (in cars too) removes an essential part of the driving experience, and riders/drivers no longer understand gearing, and how it should be used.

[@aeskellion]

i ride an ebike daily, and i’ve been on manual motorcycles and i have never wished my bike was manual.

[@ireallylovegod]

you still get a foot lever.

[@mark675]

Auto in cars is fine for me cus they're brilliant in stop-start traffic, motorbikes are meant to be involving so I agree that a quickshifter is great but up and down quickshifters aren't for me, feels too much like a computer game and takes the skill out of it

[@TankSwift]

Hobby vs Necessity is such a huge deal in this community

[@mrmark8603]

Exactly. Talk about missing the point! If this appeals to you, just stick with your Miata and leather driving gloves!.

[@kevinturner6888]

I’m a HUGE fan of this, I ride a ‘21 NC750X DCT and LOVE the DCT, and have been waiting for other manufacturers to match this somehow, so I can have more options for future bikes. I just hope it’s smooth and not jarring. But it may take some time to perfect it, the DCT took time to get to where it is now.

[@suppersready4you]

I am willing to give it a try. Great feature to have. Thanks Bob for the info. Great job as always!

[@Jubelly]

Did a test ride with a honda dct and e clutch. Both systems are brilliant! I prefer the e clutch, as it is more engaging. Both are so smooth and really impressed me.

[@pauljallen3022]

Hi Bob, Been riding BMW for years, I have driven Toyota Landcruiser for years my work vehicle. HJ 75 to Hilux from manual to now Auto Hilux. Now would never go back to manual Hilux. I have ordered the R1300 GS Auto. I did ride the BMW 650 Sport Scooter for 12mths it was great in city traffic. Have since had a R1250GS just clocked up 17000 ks. Will keep you posted on receiving the clutchless auto.

[@ShandiNicole1982]

As an amputee who loves to ride… I approve.

[@mrmark8603]

Always great to hear from the BMW marketing dept.

[@tvdinner325]

Head?

[@HondaDCT]

Got NT1100 with DCT. Great gearbox!

[@amc2550]

Interesting to see how it smooths out the jump from first to second

[@donkeizluv]

slower clutch release

[@johnslack3608]

An interesting video, as an older rider with a 2023 Honda NT1100, I really like the DCT on this bike. Yes the weight of 248 kg is a bit high however I am getting used to that. One feature which I would like manufacturers to consider would be a rear brake lever where the clutch lever was. Having owned a number of scooters the benefits of the brake lever on the left side of the handle bar is apparent. I find the foot brake difficult to engage and hard to use.

[@birchwoodbiker]

I'm looking forward to a ride on the NT1100, I'm on my 3rd NC750x DCT wouldn't change it, but I am adding the CB650R E clutch to my collection, and for me it's just weight and size that would stop me buying the NT but a stunning bike.👍

[@grol094]

Yes, for sure. The clutchless ooption - especially if it can be right from stop to start, will be a great thing in city traffic - and also for people with a left hand weakness issue.

[@101BadBreath]

My wife wants this, she has issues with order of operations but loves riding... With short legs her best option at this stage is Rebel 1100 DCT but glad to see more options on the way that hopefully filter down to more intermediate bikes (looks at MT-07).

[@stefanaichner489]

I’ve been waiting for automatic motorbikes to become mainstream for years and will certainly consider buying one if my model (BMW RnineT) becomes available with one

[@MrKeithp88]

Without the DCT from Honda i would have had to give up biking due to wrist and forearm issues. Glad to see more manufacturers joining in. Still too enamoured with my Crosstourer to change though.

[@asterix908]

Having Daily ridden the DCT, around town, traffic and through twisties, Clutch is a must for me in the next bike. There are times you need the clutch.

[@johnredden3629]

I tried the Honda DCT at the London EXCEL show on the Honda stand and really liked it. I currently ride a 1200 GS and would definitely opt for a GS with that tech on it when it becomes available and IMO it will.

[@dougrandall2370]

I have driven the DCT in for tours or traffic. I thought it was amazing.. For going through the twisties, I would love to have the shifter at my foot to complement it. This BMW system seems like you give me both. Shifting shift or product for spirited and automatic for

[@ridingwithmarshall]

I've had 2 automatics before, and 2 of my 4 bikes are currently automatic. I've ridden plenty of new Wings and ATs, Even the Yamaha FJR Auto. The fun of the DCT is the power at the green light; no loss of power as you speed up from pulling in a clutch, and the computer is still faster than your speed-shifter. Stop-n-go traffic? It's a breeze with DCT, just blip the throttle and the bike will walk a step forward. No fatigued clutch hand. However, you will have to re-learn your parking lot doughnuts, because you can't feather the clutch. You have to use the rear brake to scrub off power. If I were to pay full price for a new Africa Twin or Goldwing, I would have to search my feelings for awhile first. Honda clutch levers are always easy to pull (take THAT HD!) no matter what size the bike. Even with as many DCTs as I've owned, I'm not going to say that I didn't miss the clutch control. I've argued with the DCTs choices plenty of times (correcting with paddle shifters). Something like a Goldwing is pretty Car-like already (in sound and feel). Taking away the clutch control would make it too boring. Long trips would be less fatiguing, but I've done 9-hours on my old Goldwing plenty of times without DCT.

[@barrydaly7174]

I knew the designers loved the Honda NC750X

[@asterix908]

exactly. the new design is reminiscent of NC, and now the automatic 🙂

[@yoog]

Looks nothing like an nc750x and this most definitely won't be as boring

[@barrydaly7174]

@@yoog Oh, Ok. Thank you for your subjective opinion, on my subjective opinion...

[@birchwoodbiker]

@@yoog Intresting how many NC750x DCT have you ridden, I have just as much fun and Go much further on fuel😜👍

[@yoog]

@@barrydaly7174 your welcome

[@13thearl]

Getting old, arthritis, DCT is a godsend.

[@JadeSchexnayder-nj1jm]

I think this new technology is great if you want it. I am an older guy that grew up driving manual transmission cars,trucks and motorcycles. I no longer care to manually shift. I still have a lot of fun driving. I own a Honda Rebel 1100 with the dct transmission to commute to my work. I still have as much fun as I did when I was a young man driving a motorcycle with a manual clutch. Thanks for the great video Motobob!!!

[@suniljagdeo7043]

Automatic transmission have been around for years. I use to live in London and had a 2008 Aprilia Mana 850. There was no clutch lever but had up and down shift buttons and an gear lever. Practical, brilliant bike for local traffic and city roads.

[@jimporter]

I got to ride one a while ago as The Bike Experience charity use one for disabled riders. Really wish they still made them.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

I have one in the garage with only 2000km on it. Love riding around town on it…

[@justathinker8669]

Step thru commuter bikes (they're something like a scooter and very popular in SE Asia) had them ages ago...

[@PeterHTB]

I have a DCT Africa Twin and it's great. I know it's something else to go wrong but until then it gets a thumbs up from me. It took a while to forget the muscle memory of years of manual ge ar changes but after 4500 kms I rarely reach for the lever now. DCT is so good in traffic and slow manoeuvres on or off road. No risk of stalling on take-off. Time will tell if dual clutch is better than clutch and gear change actuators or vice versa but it looks like clutch levers may get rarer.

[@prettyflowers9956]

My recent Africa Twin DCT purchase has renewed my motorcycle love. Commuting, city traffic and even puttering through small towns with a DCT allows me to enjoy the ride 10 fold over my clutched bike. Looking forward to a BMW option as a possible purchase.

[@brendandaly9768]

I'm really looking forward to this. I recently lost the use of my left wrist and hand following a motorcycle crash. This system would allow me to get back out on a bike without having to make any modifications.

[@jerryfuentes1402]

Great to have the technology as long as you have options for the traditional shift.

[@acsugumar]

If there is one mechanical arrangement that is more cumbersome than a foot-operated clutch and hand-operated gear lever as in a car, it is the hand-operated clutch and foot-operated gear lever on a motorcycle. In certain situations, trying to shift into gear while also struggling to balance a heavy bike can prove to be quite challenging. Starting off uphill on a slope can also be tricky as the bike will try to roll back.

[@TornelliGuitars]

I’ve owned two Honda DCT bikes now (starting with the Africa twin) and I love their system. I worried it may take away from pure riding pleasure a bit but it’s the opposite and so good whenever you get to a town with start stop traffic. I find it’s always in the right gear for the riding mode I’ve selected which was initially a concern too.

[@steveminers5764]

Absolutely. Why not?

[@johnoverby4190]

I just bought a 2018 Goldwing with dct and I love it. I’ve had 4 BMW r1200 rt’s and enjoyed them all but if BMW comes out with an rt will this transmission, I will probably buy one!!!

[@allthingsbike.2574]

Excited for this news. I'm currently saving for an honda nc750x. New to riding so the more manufacturers selling manuals is a definite plus! 👍

[@peterwilson8039]

I’m the last person to ever ride a cruiser, or a big touring bike, but I rode a friends Suzuki M109, and the thing was crying out for a good old fashioned 3 speed automatic. Cruiser riders love the big nasty clunk when they engage first, so you would need to retain that feature.

[@sidweazel2883]

It’s definitely impressive and I love the innovation, however personally I don’t want more sensors and electronics, I want full control. Just keep it simple, reliable and easy to service.

[@sergiolacueva9443]

En primer lugar, muchas gracias por los subtitulos en español. Tengo 48 años, desde los 12 años montando en todo tipo de motos y estoy cansado del embrague y del cambio de marchas, al igual que en los coches. El cambio de marchas desaparecerá, tanto en los coches como en las motos. Por seguridad y por confort. El DCT es una maravilla. Y los maxiscooters también. Un saludo enorme desde Zaragoza (España). 👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻🙋🏻

[@junlorenzana4493]

I think this is a great move for all big bikes manufacturer because it basically entices beginners like me to consider getting one. If I have one less thing to operate during my noobie stage and have the ability to turn it off once I get to be comfortable with the bike, then it is a lot easier to get into the game. Right now, I am seriously considering getting my first bike because of this which is the CB650R. But hey if BMW is going to incorporate it with their GS models, I would like to have that as well :)

[@mactv172]

It definitely is something that people who live in countries like the Philippines would love to have. One, the traffic is really frustrating. Having to always be pressing the clutch is really tiresome. So having the option to not have them and also have the bike you dream of is definitely something else.

[@_Corsa]

Yes please. I have a 2021 GS, do not own a car so it’s my daily. I also do a lot of road touring, no dirt. Not a fan of the 1300 looks so if I were to upgrade I’d like to see this option on the bike I’m eyeing, the RT.

[@jantomasowe4562]

The big advantage of having a clutch is that you can disengage the engine when all it does is make the bike jerk. I have only owned twins but they all, including my 2016 Africa Twin, get more or less jerky in certain slow speed situations. The other challenge is preventing the bike from upshifting in slow downhill corners. No matter how smooth the shift is, you normally do not want that. This may partly have been solved with the newer generations with IMUs, I do not know.

[@lincolnkaden7758]

I’m curious… what do you if you want to use the friction zone for low speed manoeuvres, or dip the clutch get over an obstacle?

[@hanglibat]

Well, I think we have to see this from manufacturer's perspective. This tech will surely grant more access and attract more new riders. As long as the manual options still there, I'm happy with it. For example, in my case, I started ride bigger cc bike with Honda XADV 750. The reason was due to the DCT transmission. I was afraid if I would not be able to control clutch. However, after 1++ years, I decided to purchase Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro. Surprisingly, there were no such problem with my clutch play. And for me, manual with quickshifter is awesome. More engagement with the road. More fun and satisfaction. I'm happy if manufacturer continue developing more new techs to ensure more people can ride a motorcycle. After all, motorcycling is all about our feel. Doesnt matter if it is auto or manual. More choice for biker all around the world.

[@RH-xm5uk]

I had the Yamaha T-Max, Suzuki Burgman 650, Yamaha FJR1300 with automatic clutch (no lever), and now the Energica Ribelle. So yes, fully automatic, yes please.

[@lawrencejpritchard]

Love it purely for the performance aspect. Nothing against a clutch, I can only have one bike to do everything so it would make commuting a lot simpler and if I choose to shift for fun in manual mode with my toe or fingers, i dont see a big difference. Interesting to see how it compares to Honda's system as I have heard lots of people comment on the refinement of the shifting behaviour over generations. If other manufacturers like Yamaha and BMW are opting for a different approach, I wonder how good it is in the first iteration. A topic to follow for sure.

[@kevinjackson8037]

I have two cars one with a DSG gearbox and one with a manual gearbox, and I prefer the DSG for commuter stop start motoring. For the same reason I bought a Honda NC750X with DCT which is great to ride.

[@GerrySalmon1]

I ride an Africa Twin DCT and a BMW R1200R...the DCT on road I can take it or leave it, off road, magic, I love it! It is the one reason I would not look at other adventure bikes, even the GS. Until now...smart move from BMW if they put this option on the 1300GS.

[@bigjoe4020]

I can only speak for myself and the short answer is YES I would like an automatic BUT with the option of a manual mode so I can control when it shifts when I want to. However, when I am just cruising along I would like to leave all that pesky shifting biz to the bike. Now this may be because I am getting on a bit at 61 and just like to sometimes take it easy. Anyway the Misses who also rides said she never like all that shifting biz and like the auto option, and in her case I think she'll never need the manual option. So, the answer is I think there are more peeps then you think, especially in the advances ages cat, that would like to have that and THAT is why so many manufactures are now looking at following Honda.

[@dougiequick1]

Correct me if Im wrong but I believe Yamaha had many years ago now sold a 1300cc Inline 4 with fully automated clutch and maybe shifting not sure? The FJ1300 AS or something?

[@DAVJULART]

I can imagine automatic shift is useful for long distances on motorways or when driving in town or stop start commuter traffic. High speed burns along twisties is for me much more fun using clutch lever and left foot (not the quickshifter) on my RS. At least then you can slip the clutch if you need to drop a gear exiting a bend.

[@laurencefaux6451]

There are many times when feathering the clutch and general good clutch control (tight uphill hairpins - Stelvio) are crucial and I wonder how that is addressed as the system will only be able react and not preempt.

[@ireallylovegod]

On the DCT system you'll need to use the rear brake and it works well

[@benmitchell2072]

I ride a GS adventure, the big Rhino, mostly on dirt/gravel in standing position. I would love this tech if it works as prommised. Changing gears standing is never quite as neat and tidy as when you are sitting down cruising on bitumen.

[@bongoslide]

For me its a knackered left foot after a motor bike accident that has me looking for auto gears, and im sure there are others, so not all begginers,the only issue is hold up a bike of size?

[@hyperchrome8523]

Owning a 1250GS I always ride with one or two fingers on the clutch. Especially off-road. Removing power when I need is very important to me an the automatic system won’t be able to anticipate anything. So probably on the road it’s fine but I have to see it working off-road.

[@patrickmcbride1460]

I had a Rebel 1100 DCT (wrecked so it’s gone), but want another almost for the DCT alone, but would look forward to other bikes offering similar options

[@punchbuggyyellow7097]

It's very much not for me, but I have a bunch of friends who have just started riding & they all asked me about automatics. They were all intimidated by learning how to use a manual gearbox for the first time on top of everything else they had to learn to ride a bike. I can also see how it'd be attractive to commuters in stop start traffic. Plus there are people out there who have physical disabilities that make something like this a godsend. Anything that makes motorcycling accessible to more people is a good thing in my book.

[@dougmacpherson2610]

This sort of equipment may attract more people to the activity. I have been on 6 different DCT bikes and about the same number of manual transmission Suzukis and BMWs. Give me the DCT every time.

[@ulyspot]

I would be interested in trying the eclutch system on the Honda CB650R due to the fact that it still retains a functioning clutch lever and can be shifted manually through foot shifter.

I thought I was “against” DCT until I tried it once. I loved it and I was hoping BMW would came out with something similar for a few time now. My prayers have been heard 😊 I have a R1200RT and I was thinking if I should trade it for a Honda NT1100 because of DCT but I was not very happy with the idea… now I don’t need to 🎉

[@tonikunec]

I've owned a Honda AT 2022 DCT for a year now, and I have to say, I enjoy it more than riding bikes without it. The same goes with cars, I love my paddle shifters much more than a stick :).

[@Stan-ui3gs]

Left foot amputee, love the tech. ❤

[@thomasheiberg3136]

i would love it on my 1250 gsa❤

[@bkitayama]

I have never used a manual transmission in my life… I am not that young, but with the prevalence of automatic transmissions in cars, many young people have also never driven anything with a manual transmission. Motorcycle manufactures probably want to attract people like me, and more importantly, people far younger than me who have never used a manual transmission. The average age of someone riding a motorcycle has increased greatly over time, and motorcycle manufactures are probably trying to reverse the tide. I always shied away from motorcycles because of the fear of shifting. Automatic transmissions (and no transmission in my case) removed my fear, and now I love riding a motorcycle! I can’t see myself not owning one anymore! Commuting and basic errands are far more fun and efficient on a motorcycle! (On a side note, I had to buy an electric motorcycle to get a small, nimble, highway legal motorcycle with no transmission… My range sucks, so I would love a small gas powered automatic motorcycle. I hope they make one, and cost isn’t a factor for me.)

[@matsnord4092]

I bought a quickshifter to my bike. I rarely use it, would probably like e-clutch better, never tried it. Tried Honda DCT and kind of liked it. Automatic is something that is coming and BMWs robotisized gearbox may be interesting alternative to DCT.

[@samuelangel8898]

I have been riding for about 25 years now and the thought of not having a clutch seems very weird. But the way that things are now at least in the United States where most people don’t even know how to drive a stick shift anymore. I see why BMW is looking into the future. I think if the new system is smoother than how traditional quick shifters have been on boxer engines it will be a huge hit. I am still tor and that’s considering my riding style is about 80/20 on my GS

[@VDubUploads]

Not something I would do (I still only seek out cars with manual transmission as well) but as many have said, nice to have an option, especially for those who need it/physically challenged so they can still enjoy riding.

[@corujariousa]

Let's hope BMW will add the backlit buttons ahead of this more complex feature.

[@Honda_Africa_Twin]

I’m curious to know how this will work on boxer motors in their new 1300 series model lineup, and if this is the fix for the agricultural quick shifter on those bikes. But I can see myself buying a K1600 GT(L) with this system.

[@petersluik7192]

Right now I just ride for fun, so I want a bike that is a bit old school without any electronics. However, many moons ago when my bike was my only means of transportation and I had to commute through dense traffic everyday, I would have welcomed a system like this with open arms. I guess it all depends on what you use your bike for and I can also see it being very useful for older people or people with limited mobility.

[@M1100go]

so, what do you do when you drive through a tunnel then?

[@SingleTrackMindState]

Not for me in my current situation but I could see if you did a lot of city, very technical adv riding or gold wing rider.

[@rleerm]

Why dct if you can go all the way with cvt? CVT or full manual, no compromise for me

[@125ZJK]

Dct came out in 2010. I've had crf1000l , xadv and now nc750x all dct and like my cars I wish I did it years ago.

[@davidburne9477]

Well, I would love it on my MV because with the revvy 800 Turismo Veloce the clutch from rest is the weak link. Get it wrong and you either stall or kangaroo hop away. On my Guzzi Mandello, though, it would be pointless, as the clutch is perfect. Haven’t stalled it yet! My experience on big boxers is that the gearbox lacks engagement feel, so it might be a good option. It seems to me that this is a good solution for less than optimal clutch/gearbox issues, or for lazy riders and/or those spending a fair bit of time in stop/start traffic.

[@thomasponde]

Got africa twin dct got to highly recommend.. Automatics are a pleasure to ride

[@adflyers]

Perfect for newbies riding in traffic and cruising for long rides

[@martyi398]

DCT, E-Clutch & other forms of automatic shift motorcycles are the future, they allow riders to focus on the road or trail and not what gear you have selected, and these also have a manual shift mode just like a lot of cars with paddle shifters for more rider engagement!

[@shardlake]

1300cc Twist and Go! Will probably appeal to some, especially any with mobility issues, be interesting to see how much it costs. Personally prefer less tech as possible for bikes I plan to keep for a while.

[@marwanabouljoud2411]

Much like a lot of technology, auto and DCT are enablers that many will need for a variety of reasons. As such this is terrific so many are not limited. Then it boils down to choices and it is a good thing to have them when you need them.

[@jeffshootsstuff]

Once I have arthritis so bad I can't run a clutch lever I'll consider one of these. Or have my left foot amputated.

[@russellmangold9890]

The only reason I'm contemplating getting a motorcycle now is simply because of the dct/asa options out there......when you don't have to shift, you can simply concentrate on the road and enjoy your rides more.

[@JackMihoff6969]

Works the same or similar to DCT? I like this one better as there is still a foot shifter compared to Honda’s DCT bikes where the shifters are buttons for your fingers which I find lame.

[@sunrisejak2709]

Lame? The tap of a thumb or forefinger is brilliant. Works superbly once acclimated.

[@JackMihoff6969]

@@sunrisejak2709 glad you find it brilliant. For me it's lame. To each their own. I compared this system to DCT's but I personally don't like both and still prefer to use a clutch.

[@sunrisejak2709]

@@JackMihoff6969 I agree with you. Whatever you find works for you is respected by me. I don't see a down side with DCT or equivalent. But,,, if manual operation is brilliant for you that's cool too. I guess it also might depend on where you're at in your "motorcycle career". I'm 71 yrs old and on my 35th motorcycle (that I can recall) (I'm a "motorcycle fanatic") I just sold my precious 1989 Suzuki RGV 250 2 stroke GP replica. A bit of a handful to ride fast these days it's but crazy fun! 😎 So I now retain my Honda NT1100 with DCT as at this juncture it seems to fit with my motorcycle enjoyment needs. (but getting heavier by the year) 🙁 I might not have come to the same conclusions if this discussion were 10 years ago. 😁 Anyway enjoy 2 wheels. I hope I can keep riding until I'm 80 or if I'm even breathing 9 years from now! 😬

[@barney3417]

As a BMW fan boy and had over 12 in the last 18 years I have learned " never touch a first gen of any BMW motorcycle " I'm sure it will be great , after a couple of years!!

[@tomofnorthcal]

I owned a DCT owned a Rekluse clutch on a BMW F800S Have a Livewire Am looking to get the CBR650R with an e-clutch in the future

[@birchwoodbiker]

It's intresting the recluse clutch, I think Honda original c50 70 90 were exactly that, drop it into gear and twist👍👍👍

[@capobiancg]

Where's the RT pre-order link?

[@DavidSkelhon]

DCT can leave you stranded if you loose a sensor. I prefer a clutch for low speed manoeuvring, and that’s ultimately why I sold my DCT AT after a year.

[@Damiv]

I commute two hours in traffic every day. I’d absolutely take an automatic with adaptive cruise control on my bike. I can just drop it in manual mode for weekend fun.

[@HowardR-cu9ub]

I still tend to still use my clutch even with my quick shifter. Having an auto box would be too much like a scooter for my liking. Using the gears is part of the ride for me. Next they will be bringing out an auto throttle 😁

[@wraymogg]

Bikes serve different purposes. I have a street bike, that is pretty and loud, I have a fun bike, for riding on the slopes for a maximum of 300km, but I still need a bike for longer distances. Last year I made a tour with an average of 700 km per day, and I would have LOVED a Honda Goldwing with DCT. Actually I am waiting 2025 to see who's launching a new tourer model, Indian, BMW or Honda, with the next items: dynamic cruise control, hill assist, backing up, blind spot warning, android auto on a modern big TFT. Of course, Honda's DCT, airbag and exceptionally smooth engine is a huge bonus.

[@yorkchris10]

can-am dropped one gear and added reverse on their SMT. The CVT was next. A good way to keep things on-highway.

[@AscotTradingGroup]

I've got an automatic. They're brilliant! Why would you choose a bike with a clutch, if you had the choice? Automatic every day of the week for me.

[@davidkendall1614]

Brilliant in stop and go traffic maybe. Anywhere else, boring. The Africa Twin with DCT was a hard pass for me. Now eClutch which allows all the manual control except the clutch lever may be the answer for ease of use AND engagement with the machine, depending on how well it functions. Automatics or CVTs are not for me, as long as all the limbs continue to work! Glad you have the option though if you enjoy it, but others would choose a clutch.

[@JesseFlannery]

Computers doing things we used to do for free, and then charging for it. Fun.

[@lawrieyoutube4375]

I would have to try eclutch. But I want/need to select the best gear BEFORE cornering, or approaching a hazard, not have the bike change gear on its own at inappropriate moments or too late. I see it as an absolute safety feature of motorcycling that the rider has full control of gear selection. An option to turn on 'auto gear change' would be convenient, like cruise control. A moto that changes gear like an automatic car would be horrible. Great when stuck in traffic I'm sure. but a full time auto change would turn each bike that had it into a scooter. IMO. My Subaru Outback car is auto but with manual over-ride selection. (Steering wheel paddles) And I use it. When off Road and on steep descents it provides much greater control. I rode a bike for years before getting a car licence and I am sure it made me a better driver. For those with an impairment, I wholeheartedly endorse the availability.