Source: MotorcyclistOnline.com
We are spoiled for options these days in terms of new motorcycles. Riders have access to displacements and engine configurations that run the gamut from easygoing to race-ready. There is a huge range of motorcycle segments, a broad variety of electronic rider aids, seemingly endless amounts of aftermarket upgrades, the list could go on and on. This is equally true in terms of transmissions, with ever more twist-and-go options available beyond the scooter set. There are growing numbers of electric motorcycles along with a slowly expanding list of DCT and semi-automatic options available in the gas-powered realm. So why not take a look at some of the best options out there this year?The LiveWire One is a great commuter machine, capable of providing some spirited riding when pushed. (LiveWire/)LiveWire One | $22,799The LiveWire One is a compelling electric motorcycle package with a Revelation motor developed by Harley-Davidson, a nimble cast aluminum frame, Showa suspension components, and Brembo braking kit. It charges fully at a DC fast-charge station in an hour, or will charge to full power in 11 hours on a standard 110V outlet. Range depends on the ride mode selected, with the uppermost distance listed at 146 miles in the city. It comes with cornering ABS, drag-torque slip control, and cornering traction control systems, and is Bluetooth compatible allowing riders to utilize a number of additional features from their smartphone.Honda’s venerable Gold Wing is even easier to tour with when you get a model equipped with DCT. (Honda/)Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT | $33,000Honda is definitely committed to offering riders automatic options with a number of its models coming in DCT trim, including its widely loved Gold Wing. This particular version has all the bells and whistles, including a seven-speed auto DCT transmission, 61 liters of trunk space, an airbag safety system, and electronically controlled preload. The 1,833cc-powered machine is a touring juggernaut thanks to its silky-smooth ride quality, the exceedingly high level of comfort provided to both rider and passenger, thoughtful rider aids such as walking assistance and cruise control, and fuss-free touring amenities.Yamaha’s Zuma 125 is easy to operate, approachable for any skill level, and fully automatic. (Yamaha/)Yamaha Zuma 125 | $3,799Scooters remain top of mind when thinking about automatic options, and there is a wide range of models that offer fully automatic setups. The Yamaha Zuma 125 is a prime example. It’s affordably priced, lightweight, extraordinarily nimble, and highly convenient for around-town rides thanks to generous storage under the seat. The V-belt transmission is fully twist-and-go, and the 125cc single engine is smooth and responsive. It’s a machine that riders of all skill levels can be instantly comfortable with, and fuel economy is phenomenal, making this a perfect ride for those in urban environments.The Energica Experia pushes the range boundaries of electric bikes and offers some choice adventure-touring amenities. (Energica/)Energica Experia | $23,750Energica is among a handful of companies pushing electric motorcycle technology forward, and its Experia adventure-touring motorcycle has a range of appealing features that make it an enticing twist-and-go option. Its new motor and battery combo offer up to 261 miles of range in the city and up to 100 hp. A DC fast charger will give you 80 percent charge in 40 minutes as well. It utilizes Sachs adjustable suspension front and rear along with Brembo braking kit, it comes with seven selectable ride profiles, four ride modes, and four regenerative modes. There are also cornering ABS, cruise control, and six-level traction control. That’s in addition to touring touches like 112 liters of storage space between the panniers, top case, and storage compartment.We’ve really enjoyed the DCT option on the Africa Twin in previous tests and it continues to be an option for riders in 2024. (Honda/)Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT | $18,399As alluded to in our rundown of the Gold Wing, Honda has broadly committed to offering its DCT auto transmission to a wide range of riders. Those looking for on- and off-road adventure will love the Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT. The 1,083cc twin engine is torque-rich from the first turn of the throttle, making it great for just about any riding condition. The transmission can operate like a full automatic, or riders can utilize paddle shifters in manual mode. The bike also has a G Switch which reduces the amount of clutch slip when using the throttle to improve off-road feel. Additional amenities like electronically controlled suspension, a variety of electronic rider aids, and a highly comfortable cockpit make the Adventure Sports ES DCT ideal for long on-road travel and hard off-road riding alike as proven during the 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES DCT MC Commute Review.Cruising is even more relaxed when you get Honda’s DCT version of the Rebel 1100. (Honda/)Honda Rebel 1100T DCT | $11,349For cruiser enthusiasts, the DCT version of Honda’s Rebel 1100T is a great option (check out the Top 5 Features of the Honda Rebel 1100T Bagger article and video). It packs a 1,083cc parallel twin that’s smooth and torquey, and as with the previous versions we’ve reviewed from Honda, it can operate as a full automatic or be manually shifted using the built-in paddle shifters. It’s a stylish option in blacked-out trim, and its low center of mass and approachable seat height make it easy to operate for a broad range of riders. We’ve found Honda’s DCT system to be extremely convenient and capable during previous tests on earlier models, so it is a no-brainer if you’re in the market for a well-calibrated automatic motorcycle.A true do-it-all twist-and-go, the Honda NC750X DCT is great for riders who want an easier-going machine. (Honda/)Honda NC750X DCT | $9,499Honda appeals to an easier-going and practical segment of riders with its approachable and capable NC750X DCT. The auto transmission trim comes with all the features riders have come to appreciate in this platform, including the integrated storage compartment and underseat fuel tank, selectable torque control, neutral and comfortable cockpit, and a highly amenable 745cc parallel-twin engine. It’s a fantastic do-it-all machine capable of longer weekend touring excursions and commuting in congested urban environments. Check out our 2020 Honda NC750X DCT ABS MC Commute Review and 2021 Honda NC750X DCT MC Commute Review for detailed insight on this fuel-sipping bike.The Can-Am Ryker Rally is perfect for riders who want more stability in their machine and a twist-and-go transmission. (Can-Am/)Can-Am Ryker Rally | $14,599The Ryker three-wheeled motorcycle from Can-Am is an oddity, but its CVT transmission with reverse function makes this machine quite appealing to riders who, for whatever reason, are looking to get out of the two-wheeled game. The Rotax 900 ACE engine offers up to 82 hp and 58.3 lb.-ft. of torque, so power isn’t off the charts but is still there enough to have some fun. It has stability control, traction control, ABS, and hill hold control systems, adjustable KYB suspension, a foot-operated electric brake system, and a huge range of color options to choose from. These aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but for those who do bite the bullet, they’ll find a stable, super-easy-to-operate machine that will definitely start a conversation at every stop.The Zero SR/F will have you beating everyone off the line during your daily commute. (Zero Motorcycles/)Zero SR/F | $20,495The Zero SR/F is another fully electric twist-and-go option that we have found to be surprisingly enjoyable during the 2020 Zero Motorcycles SR/F Review MC Commute, 2020 Zero Motorcycles SR/F Review, and 2023 Zero Motorcycles SR/F Long-Term Ride Review. It’s a torque-rich commuter platform with selectable ride modes, cruise control, stability control, the latest Cypher III+ operating system, fully adjustable Showa suspension, and the option to get remote diagnostic information and, in some cases, fixes to issues that may arise through the Zero app.
