Yamaha has recently unveiled an innovative addition to its lineup with the introduction of an Automated Manual Gearbox (Y-AMT), signaling a significant step forward in motorcycle technology. This new gearbox system is designed to enhance the sporty riding experience across Yamaha’s upcoming models, promising both manual control and automatic convenience.
Features of the Y-AMT Gearbox
The Y-AMT gearbox is lightweight, weighing just 2.8kg, and is operated via switch cubes located on the handlebar for seamless accessibility. On the left side, riders can manually shift gears using see-saw shift levers controlled by the thumb and index fingers. Meanwhile, the right side features a mode switch offering two automatic modes: D+ for a more spirited riding style, allowing higher revs before shifting, and D for smoother shifts suitable for urban riding conditions.
Versatility and Convenience
One of the standout features of the Y-AMT gearbox is its versatility, allowing riders the option to switch between fully automatic modes or manually shift gears even in automatic mode. This setup enhances convenience and control, eliminating the need for traditional foot-operated gear shifts.
Industry Trends and Future Prospects
While Yamaha pioneers the Y-AMT technology in its models, other leading motorcycle manufacturers like Honda, KTM, and BMW are also exploring similar automated transmission systems. Honda has successfully implemented Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) in its flagship ADV models, KTM is teasing AMT setups for upcoming models, and BMW is developing automatic transmissions for its latest offerings.
Future Outlook
With increasing interest and advancements in automated transmission technologies for motorcycles, industry experts predict a broader adoption among manufacturers in the near future. The availability of extensive research and development data supports the feasibility and potential benefits of integrating AMT systems into various motorcycle segments.
