Yamaha updates new motorcycle technology: Shifting gears with just a switch and button

Yamaha has been quick to catch up with the trend of using automatic transmissions in the motorcycle market by introducing the Y-AMT automatic manual transmission technology developed by Yamaha. Like Honda's Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), Y-AMT provides the rider with the ability to shift without a clutch, shifting is done via a rocker switch located on the left handlebar.

In fact, automatic transmissions for motorcycles are not completely new equipment, this technology has reached the mass market since the late 70s, early 80s. However, in the early stages, automatic transmissions were not really popular because riders did not take advantage of the benefits of clutchless shifting.

Back in the present day, similar to Honda’s DCT, the Y-AMT system comes with a finger-operated transmission: “MT” or “AT” fully automatic. Shifting is controlled by the index finger and thumb, with “+” for upshifting and “-” for downshifting, the plus lever is pulled to upshift and pushed to downshift with the index finger.

The default “D” automatic mode provides smoother shifting at lower rpm, suitable for daily commuting and long-distance riding. In addition, “D+” mode will shift slightly higher in the rpm range for a sportier driving feel.

In fully automatic mode, the driver can change gears at any time using a switch on the handlebars. Y-AMT uses two electric actuators that perform the functions of the driver's left hand and foot in operating the gearbox.

The Y-AMT system weighs 2.8 kg and is designed to be slim and light, no wider than a traditional motorcycle gearbox. Although Yamaha has not announced an official release date for Y-AMT, it is expected to be installed on Yamaha touring and sport-touring models such as the Yamaha Tracer GT soon.