Honda release info on new dual-clutch transmission for sportsbikes
September 8, 2009 - Alan Dowds
Radical new transmission setup released from Honda ... Scroll down for the full story
Dual-clutch transmissions are commonplace on high-end cars, but seemed too expensive, heavy and complex to ever appear on a bike. But Honda has finally released info on its dual clutch automatic transmission, which will apparently appear for the first time on its new V-four sport-tourer this autumn.
The essence of the system is that there are two clutches - each of which is connected to half of the gears in the gearbox. So when you're in first gear, second gear is also selected, but the clutch for second is disengaged. When you change up, the transmission ECU engages the second gear clutch at the same instant it disengages the first gear clutch. Then the disengaged clutch selects third gear, ready for when you change up next, whereupon it is engaged as the second gear clutch is disengaged.
It's a bit complex to explain, but there's an extra diagram here and here's a video:
Here's the press release in full.
September 8, 2009 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that it has developed the Dual Clutch Transmission*1, the world's first*2 fully automatic motorcycle dual clutch transmission for large-displacement sport bikes. The new transmission provides riders sporty riding enjoyment with easy operation, while its superior transmission efficiency delivers fuel economy equal to or better than a conventional manual transmission. A new VFR large-displacement sport bike equipped with the new transmission will be released in Europe and North America in 2010, with sales to commence in Japan at a later date.
This world's first motorcycle dual clutch transmission features a light, compact design that allows it to be combined with existing engines without substantial layout modification. Further, the new transmission delivers the precise acceleration control riders require thanks to electronic control technology that helps ensure smooth, seamless gear changes. In order to respond to rider demands in a broad range of situations, the transmission is equipped with three operating modes, two full-auto modes (D-mode for regular operation and S-mode for sporty riding); and a 6-speed manual mode, which delivers the same shift feel as a manual transmission. Honda intends to gradually expand the deployment of the new transmission to more and more of its large-displacement motorcycles, particularly sports models destined for use in developed countries.
Honda will continue to deliver motorcycles that match the needs of society and users' lifestyles, spreading the joy of riding and mobility.
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