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Honda DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission): Is it right for you?
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- Опубліковано 17 сер 2024
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Honda DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission): Is it right for you?
Let's break through the marketing and understand what the DCT is, what is ISN'T, who it's for, and what are the main pros and cons. After riding the DCT Africa Twin back to back with the standard shift version, I am in a good position to tell it like it is.
#honda #africatwin #dct #hondadct
00:00 Intro
01:46 What it ISN'T
03:00 Advantages
05:54 Disadvantages
12:55 Who is it for?
13:51 Would I but one?
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Hey, so how about QuickShifters. They seem like a good middleground between a DCT and going full Manual. I've noticed a lot of reviewers talking about how they make a big change to their riding.
I'm also scared of loosing my clutch. XD But that might just be me.
I have the 2016 DCT I use it in manual mode a lot in the dirt but I also notice if you're in the twisties on the street that it won't upshift it does good with the engine braking I love my Honda Africa twin
WOW !! ... a super good explanation ... thank you
Thank you for that valuable information brother. I was looking into the HONDA NM4 (ABS). Now decided against it. The DCT sounds like a CVT which is a totally different mechanical technology. I had cvt cars and they done horrible on slight hills, especially mountains.
For cruising in the country, and steep sharp curvy mountains would a DCT HONDA NM4 ABS be suggested?
Here are my few cents worth: I rode a NC750X DCT for several years, every day as my daily commuter. Where I lived (South Africa), lane-splitting was allowed. I put thousands and thousands of miles on that bike, and I absolutely loved my DCT gearbox. I can directly address many of the disadvantages mentioned in this video for STREET riding. When it comes to off-road riding... not so much - I have no experience riding off-road with a DCT Gearbox.
Yes, the bike can't see what is coming, but I got to learn the bike so well, that I could instinctively give just the right amount of throttle input to get the bike to do what I wanted it to do. I learned how and when the bike would shift in all the shifting-modes. I could accurately anticipate each shift, and ride accordingly. This is important to note - I aligned my riding to what I knew the gearbox would do.
With spending most of my time in traffic, I was in normal Drive Mode (D) most of the time. The best fuel economy I got was 450km on one 14.1L tank of gas - that is an average of 75 miles per gallon for that tank. I would often average 60 miles per gallon in town, due to the short-shifting nature of that parallel twin in Drive Mode.
Down-shifting in a pinch was also not a problem - it became second nature to twist the throttle open wide, while simultaneously down-shifting one, or even two gears with my left thumb on the manual down-shifter button (as mentioned in the video, you can do this, even in automatic mode, and the bike will shift for you). By the time the throttle engages, I have dropped two gears already, and off I went.
Dragging the rear brake during slow-speed riding is a good practice, even when you are on a manual bike. It is even good advice for when I ride my Mountain Bike! I really got to use it on my DCT NC750, and it is a skill I now have for life. Just lightly dragging the rear brake makes all slow-speed riding more stable and predictable. With the DCT gearbox, I learned that modulating the rear brake gave me lots of extra control over the power I could put down, which is NOT something I use on my manual bike.
I agree that the DCT gearbox is probably not for people who love to ride hard all the time, or who often have a good old off-road thrashing. Don't get me wrong - I found the DCT plenty fun when I wanted it, but I am a more sedate rider by nature, and the DCT fits that riding style perfectly.
Three years ago I moved to the United States, and had to sell my little NC750, with nearly 200 000km on. Today I ride a manual midweight adventure bike, but I am seriously considering getting a 2021 DCT Africa Twin, as it would meet most of my riding needs.
Thanks for your video - very well put together!
thanks for sharing
that was awesome to read, because you analyse. thanks from Australia
I have DCT sens 2017 X-ADV750 fully agree with your comment. You need km to learn how the bike behave 70000km Greets.from Finland 🇫🇮never back to manual
Awesome feedback thanks I am still getting use to my 2017 dct.
Rebell 1100 DCT is so sweet to ride and, you cam mod it. So much.
Every single person who says that he prefer a manual bike, didn't ride DCT from Honda. Doesn,t suits every single individual, but those who tried it most likely are currently driving a Honda DCT. In Europe we mostly have stick shift cars and those riding an automatic, would never go back to manuals, but before trying, they always brag about they skills,the pleasure of driving, shifting etc. The same applies in motorcycling. I mostly don't agree with your disadvantages, you have manual mode or a Sport mode in case you want a greater control over the gearbox, but yes, it's still an automatic and not connected to your brain. In D it wants to be economical and sometimes is holding the engine so low in revs that just before downshifting, that the bikes starts to shake a bit. A thing i noticed: how do you want to easily make a u-turn if your head is pointing forward and not over the shoulder? 😂 I bought a DCT HONDA because i enjoy riding a bike but i don't enjoy "extra work". And this is my second DCT, first being a NC700SD that i loved so much. I would't ever go for manual again, it takes away my concentration. Don't get me wrong, I can shift like a pro, but it is still an extra job that needs to be taken care of and needs to be done properly every single time, otherwise can lead to nasty surprises. Thanks for your time making the video and i hope you're been taking my words from a constructive point of view. Best regards!
I have ridden Honda Wave(same Honda Cub technology, auto clutch but shifting gears with pedal)
Easy to use, easy maintenance, great for city riding and very lightweight(if the bike fell down)
I still bought the 2nd bike with manual clutch for fun.
Exactly ..safety wise DCT is the best as manual shifting needs additional attention from the rider and makes the ride more vulnerable to accidents
Yeah it’s rough using your fingers and foot. I tried it and other than a gimmick for old people that don’t want to shift their bike anymore it’s pointless. They are pushing it because they aren’t selling very well. Otherwise it wouldn’t be a “up grade” that costs more money.
I have a dct, trying to go back to manual. Need that clutch when off road. Hate using the rear brake so much
I test rode the DCT CRF1100L twice before trying the manual CRF1100L and buying it. I found even in its most aggressive mode the DCT just wasn't quick enough, if I didn't ride aggressively on the street or go offroad I would've gone for DCT and as such if I could justify owning a Goldwing I'd buy one in DCT, not manual. For the Africa Twin I want the additional control that a clutch and engine braking gives you.
The best video about DCT on UA-cam. After Honda made the DCT system available for more than five years, this is the best analysis and understanding of DCT published on the internet. To me, the biggest thing about the DCT is that anyone may use it right away with ease, but to use it at an expert level takes a lot of learning and experience. Thank you so much Big Rock Moto for training your attention onto this topic.
I believe you are correct geirstella 10. It does take learning the variety of functions you have at hand. The numerous riding modes, in full Auto and how to manipulate the operation of each mode for desired riding effect. The ability to quickly override auto with finger/ thumb shifts for intermittent change. I believe some people may be overwhelmed or intimidated by this tech. But like you I believe once you own it, or place enough kms on it, you become integrated with the technology, embrace it, and enjoy riding that much more. I certainly have, and won't be going back on a bike such as this. 17000 km strong. I've ridden in all conditions ( minimal single track) from 2' C to +46'C. Sea to 8000 feet. Rocky mountains and Vancouver city. This bike is incredible :-) 2020 ATASes
I bought a 2016 DCT in 2017, knowing nothing about DCT.Have rode 16 000 miles touring UK and Europe and enjoyed every mile.
Admittedly, only light off-road ,with road tyres.
I agree with everything you said, slow speed tight manoeuvres are sometimes tricky but for general riding/ touring switch to manual and enjoy.
The grin factor is Massive 😀
I've owned a 2018 DCT Adventure Sport for over a year now and ride it almost every day. I have ridden a small amount off road, but mostly on paved roads and often on long country rides. I watched your video all the way through and I agree in principle with your final assessment. But I believe there is a point here that is missed by almost every review out there including yours.
This is not a bike with an Auto and Manual mode to be ridden strictly differently depending on which mode is selected. Too much time is spent trying to second guess what the bike will do or how the DCT will react. This is a bike that rides best when both modes are used actively together, for example the use of the gear paddle switched to control up shifting and down shifting as is your preference and then allowing the bike to take over again when you no longer have a preference for a gear. The programming used to decide when the gears are switched back to D mode from manual is sublime, as is the responsiveness for the gear selectors, up or down shifting is a near instantaneous gear change.
When ridden in this way the bike is life changing, aggressively sporty and throaty with a responsiveness that inspires confidence.
DCT is more different than most riders realise.
sounds like paddle shifters on my turbo forester.
John YOU NAILED IT! You know about the magic sauce! I love the DCT on my Honda. When all you young men get to be 70, you will lust after the DCT! DON'T GET ME wrong! I enjoyed clutching even on the race track. But as one finds that the cruel passage of time has taken its toll.... the DCT looks even better!
Had my 2018 DCT now for a couple of years and wouldn't go back to a manual, although I do have a Honda Blackbird with a manual shift. The DCT is great to ride for all the reasons you mentioned and the issues you raised are there but all in all its a great innovation and will only get better as new models roll out. Weight is a n issue with the AT but my mate has a BMW 850 and it's just as heavy if not heavier. At the end of the day it's what you enjoy and everytime I jump on my AT iI have a big smile on my face. Thanks for the very informative vid. Only by people explaining the characteristics of the DCT will more people become aware of it qualities.
So Ian, I am a 65 year old who has been riding motorcycles since I was 10 years old. I fell in love with Adventure motorcycles long before they were called that. I first laid eyes on, and purchased a 1986 KLR 600, which was sadly stolen from my yard in late 1987. I then immediately purchased a 1988 KLR 650, which I still own and ride. Anyways, why I am writing is that in the spring I will be purchasing (if they will be available in the US) a 2024 Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT. The reason is that unfortunately as I advance in age, I have developed something called Neuropathy in my legs and feet which means I have no feeling and some reduced mobility in my ankles. This has made riding very difficult for me. Honda may have saved my love of this sport for me. I have been watching your channel for many years and while reviewing this one, I thought I would add physical difficulties as another reason someone may want/need to purchase a DCT. Anyways, thanks and keep doing what you do so well.
Before seeing the video I read the description “After riding the DCT Africa Twin back to back with the standard shift version, I am in a good position to tell it like it is.” That triggered me because you cannot just test ride the DCT and make up your mind. You need to own it and ride it for a long time to get used to it and to understand it. But seeing the video I fully agree with almost everything!! Good job! You really understand the DCT and presented it in a great way!! Well done!!
You make a valid and very valuable point: The DCT has an almost flat learning curve, but it is very long. Thank you Sir!
I have a 2016 DCT Africa Twin, with 35.000km in it. I use it for on road, off-road, with passenger on long trip. I bought it after only 10km test ride. So no long learning curve for me, never D mode, use Sport 1 mode on and off road, Sport mode 3 with TC off on loose uphill terrain. Use the hand bar pallet to faster downshift if needed. On very slow speed manoeuvers, I may use the parking brake instead of rear brake, then it is same difficulty than feathering a hand clutch. Yes too bad it's heavy. But this bike is so well balanced that off road is easy, and DCT makes it even easier.
I friggin love the DCT! Off road is the learning curve! Also, you can get the footpeg kit for manual mode...its about $400 though! I would love a new video with the footpeg in manual mode!
@@gillesgenete9598 I’ve never tried the parking brake. Great idea I will give it a try.
I miss wheelieing
Hi - I live in Central Mexico. I bought my NC 750X DCT in 2020 when I retired. Previously I'd owned a number of manual shift bikes of various sizes. As stated in the video the DCT does have a learning curve and I agree its probably not a good choice for new riders but is one which is very quick to pick up on.
Whilst I understand your reluctance to use the bike in Drive mode I find that for stop/start commuter traffic it works just fine. Also for long distance highway touring when traveling at close to maximum speed limits being in Drive mode is great and gives incredible low fuel consumption. If I need a bit extra oomph to overtake something then a downshift on the left hand paddleswitch provides it. Also changing your riding style to accomodate the DCT quickly becomes the norm, for example, when overtaking allow for a little more time to pull out and pass traffic rather than expecting to get a rocket boost to pull out and shoot past traffic in a flash. For general road riding out of town where the road has lots of bends and maybe some inclines and declines I use the Sport2 mode. This is especially useful when traveling with a passenger where in Drive mode my bike feels decidedly underpowered. Note here that the NC 750x is not a high powered bike to begin with and I suspect that a bike like the Africa Twin would be more obliging here.
By far the biggest initial challenge for me was getting used to dragging the rear brake when slow speed riding and, as you noted in your video, particulary when making tight slow turns. The answer here is practice, practice, practice!
In summary my feelings about the DCT echo those of Jan Coatzer to the letter. I love the system and have no wish to return to manual shifting. Not having to be concerned about using a clutch and manual shifter makes riding a much more enjoyable experience and as a more sedate rider in my advancing years burning up the asphalt whilst ripping through the gears is no longer my principle desire as a biker. I much prefer to let the DCT do its thing so that I have more time to take in the scenery :)
Thanks for your very informative video.
Thanks Ian, great summation of the AT DCT. I owned a 2017 AT DCT for 2 years and put a lot of miles on the bike, mainly on-road touring miles, with just a little bit of offroad. My default setting was S2, which tended to shift at the point where I would shift, and it was perfect for 90% of the time. You quickly learn that it can't see ahead the way you can and make pre-emptive changes, but a quick downshift with the thumb when approaching a bend or an overtake soon becomes second nature. The only time the system bugged me was in the Alps, where the road was more technical with mile after mile of steep up and downhill twisties, and the bike always seemed to be in the wrong gear. In this situation I used to switch it into manual mode and change up and down with thumb and forefinger. It performed perfectly using this method. I was tempted away from Honda by the new R1250GS and convinced myself that 'quick-shifter pro' was as good as DCT. It isn't! If I could pay to have DCT retrofitted to by GS, I'd do it an a heartbeat, and if I ever buy another Africa Twin (which I may well do), I would definitely go for the DCT version.
that alps adventure sounded a bit of a pita. that really put me off dct. tho most of my long distances are in flatlands (f, b, n). doh!! i'm arguing with meself
@@raymondo162 You can get a Honda quick shifter for $500 that really negates the issue.
Not sure why I never hear that in any of the reviews that in any mode your can still use the index and thumb shifter to drop or go up in gear. In a short time it will find it's way back to where the bike wants to be. I have just become accustom to down shifting when ever I want to accelerate or slow with higher RMP
I had the 2019 AT1000 manual just changed it for the 2021 AT1100L DCT it’s fantastic😎
I ride an NC750X DCT, which I have had for about 18 months. Your video very much highlights the advantages and disadvantages and, as always, is a very balanced and helpful review. For business use in an urban environment it is difficult to fault. You can concentrate on everything that is going on around you without having to give a thought to what gear am you are in. You will always be quickest off at the lights and yet in D mode you will be getting excellent mpg. The two distinct disadvantages, in my view, are the slow control manoeuvres which, without the benefit of a clutch to feather, make it more tricky. It maybe that I just need to perfect the technique of using the rear brake to modulate my speed. The second that I find (at least in D mode) is the lack of engine breaking. This, of course, can be improved by using the sports mode. That said, the ease with which one can make a manual gear change with the levers, means that you can override the DCT with ease, but this only comes with experience. 95% of the time I wonder why all bikes aren't made this way!
I am 57 and I have all three types of motorcycles in the last 37 years of my life- scooter, manual shift and DCT. I cannot agree more with what you say in the video. Recently I bought myself a Rebel 1100 DCT model and I enjoyed the ride. Great video, indeed. Two thumbs up.
Finally we get an unsponsored and unbiased review that is actually useful. I'm always wary of DCT owners telling me to get one, as you say, do your research and make you own decision. I would also say don't be swayed by a hungry salesman whose job is to conceal the reason you shouldn't buy something. For me there is also the day DCT starts misbehaving itself and where is my dealer. Another great balanced opinion video Sir. Thank you from UK.
I felt very nervous about buying this trans, but the dealership owner is a friend. So with trust in hand I bailed in last year on an adventure sports es. I've dirt biked, street biked for over 40 years. Mountain sled, quad, RZR in Mountains. Have a Z06, Boss. So I'm no stranger to clutches or a variety of transmissions. We've been across most of BC on Forestry roads, highways, cities, all while +46 for days this year, and DCT is the bomb! I truly didn't expect this to be so wonderful. You can change the format of shifting by the push of a button, and over ride with manual shifts buttons at a whim. In traffic of tight offroad you can't stall. I wouldn't buy this with out DCT, and more important toly Electronic Suspension. It changes the bike from dirt/gravel MX feel to stiffer pavement slayer at push of button. Add gear or pillion, push a button and bike maintains it's suspension abilities. Truly genius! You have a valid point though. If crap electronically goes awry you probably won't fix it along the roadside :-( I've gambled and bet on Honda reliability, and so far it's been true Honda great. Never though I'd be riding a big scooter, but I love it :-) Try one for a few days and you just may like/love it ehh :-) 🇨🇦
Agreed on your observations. Can’t just test ride this bike and expect to create a fair review. I also agree that this is a very thorough and well researched video.
The DCT on my GW Tour is....... magical.....period ! I love this thing. I do not miss the clutch, simple as that. One thing I do recommend to all, on a cold engine, PLEASE warm her up before you throttle her. DCT loves warm oil.
GW Bagger is next on my list :)
I have a 2021 Honda Rebel 1100DCT and I really like it.
I have been riding for a very long time and it took a few minutes to get used to, but that was it.
You are spot on with the advantage/disadvantage section of your video.
My biggest advantage besides the fact that riding in heavy traffic is now effortless, is that now I can enjoy riding a little more by NOT having to think about what gear I'm in and whether or not I should shift.
I have 6 Manual bikes, both road and dirt and one AT DCT. It took me a while to adjust to the DCT but now I love it. I think the D Mode is fine for general touring within where sports is not needed. I’ve also added the foot shifter so I can also ride like I have a quick shifter bike. Overall I think it’s a great system. Thank you for the review.
Im riding for 30+ years owned several bikes. İn my opinion dct is the most important invention . I owned 2016 africa manuel 25 k km than owned Dct nc750 it was great bike than owned 2019 dct africa. Im in love with it. is has also anventages on offroad riding also. When riding on tight turna like hairpins you dont need to make half clutch and your left foot can support the bike.
I recently bought a 2022 NC750X DCT and I really love it. I have some physical limitations that cause me to have difficulty shifting a traditional motorcycle anymore. I learned and rode on traditional bikes for many years, but as I get older, my issues make it very difficult to continue to do so. The DCT makes it a whole new ballgame. I'm still learning to deal with the lack of a clutch as far as using it in low-speed maneuvers, but I find that using the rear brake and being smooth on the throttle makes up for much of what I've lost with the clutch deletion. The DCT is a great thing for those of us who have lost feeling in our lower legs and feet. :)
I have the dct box on my vfr1200x crosstourer. I bought the bike because of the dct box. It's brilliant for all the reasons you espouse. The extra weight is not a factor on the already heavy crossy. Touring with a pillion is amazingly comfortable. I also have a standard box on my Yamaha, and I prefer the Honda every time - such that the Yamaha is being sold!!
Love my VFR 1200X DCT, powerful V4, shaft drive and DCT, I wished the same in my dreams nearly 30 years before...
Regards from AUSTRIA
I have 2020 Africa twin adventure sport es with DCT.
I live in New York and I love it,
I wouldn’t get regular shift bike anymore after having this bike.
I bought my DCT out of physical necessity. Love the way she floats on the superslab, chugs through town, and fishtails on the gravel. Good bike but I really hate the hard luggage it came with.
DCT gear shifts with the optional foot lever are AWESOME !
Sport mode S2 is super and D-mode is just to save fuel - perfect for long adventure rides !
Yes!!
I take my DCT to the Blue Ridge Parkway as often as possible and love every minute. I relax and sight see and don’t worry about shifting. It’s a game changer in the mountains !
All good points, thanks for covering the DCT. I have a Wing DCT, and yes I had to adjust some riding techniques. Slow Control is one of the most difficult things to master, and I’m not quite there yet. I took a class in May 21, given by active motor officers, and one of them rode my friends DCT (he was taking the same class) and he rode it through their course like he had been riding it forever. One of the most important points you made is learn on a shifter first, you have to know the basics to be able to advance to a different platform with competence.
I was vehemently against this technology for many years. I guess it is my advanced years talking or I am more open-minded to change. Ultimately it is about the ride and our motorcycle culture and community. Who cares what you have or what you ride. It is the fact you have the balls to get away from the ordinary and the mundane. Complacency is death. Good presentation as usual. Pensive and entertaining!
Riding a 2016 DCT Africa Twin myself for almost two years now. The reason I got it was because of riding home-work-home every day and lanesplitting a good portion of those daily rides.
I had been in a accident at work with woodworking machines, leaving me with 2 fingers half amputated on my left hand. This happened a few years earlier. So commuting daily always left me with painfull (half) fingers and stress about traffic/using the clutch ALL the time.
I should have gotten a DCT right after having the accident, it is the best riding experience for me for sure!
Looking back at riding the DCT for almost two years now, I would recommend it to anyone!
if it was me, i'd be recommending being more careful around woodworking machinery ;-)
We love the Honda DCT system, but here's our pipe-dream idea/wish for the future: DCT is already lightning-fast and fully computerized, we also have throttle-by-wire. Why not include a clutch-by-wire too? With electronic foot shifter, of course. I theory they could make the experience indistinguishable, with the best of both worlds - choose quickshifter or automatic mode while keeping full clutch control. Wouldn't that be the Holy Grail of motorcycling? :)
You can add a foot shifter to the bike, ths making it an up&down quickshifter, just without the clutch lever
@@mancavemoto Of course, the foot shifter has been an optional accessory for years. But only pairing with a well implemented clutch-by-wire would finally erase the last true downside of the DCT.
Clutch would allow fine power control and slow speed maneuvering without using the rear brake, various offroad tricks, or just the good old engine revving when in motion - things, that are not possible with the current DCT...
Honda have recently submitted the patent application for clutch by wire. It will save them a fortune not having to make and ship different engines.
www.visordown.com/news/general/robo-clutch-honda-patents-ride-wire-clutch-system
Important to note that in Fig 3 it is shown with the other controls including the front positioned shift button for DCT.
My guess it will be first seen in the rumoured CRF850L Transalp with the new 850cc engine shown a while ago as this has a far more integrated DCT system and will likely just be available in one engine configuration. www.cycleworld.com/story/bikes/honda-nc850-in-the-works/
@@jimporter Wow, this is super exciting! Thank you so much for sharing this, very promising news indeed.
ATAS ES DCT 2022 here👍 I was very impressed my first 500 kms, but now after 2500 kms, I'm not really sure. I feel like the DCT has already started getting a slack when shifting. Especially between 1. to 2. and from 3. to 2., and 2. to 1.. It's not as seamless as it used to be right out of the box. Also, I have experienced to many times that it suddenly jumps from 2. to 1. in the middle of a slow turn in tight cornering junctions. This resulting in me almost loosing balance. And yes. The "kickdown" is slow, and some times very reluctant both in D and S1.
I do still enjoy the DCT, but there have been moments I wish I had the manual version instead.
I bought a 22 Goldwing for Christmas with the DCT . I love it . Riding through traffic is so much more relaxing especially going north from Florida through Atlanta . Any big city traffic is so much easier. On long multi state rides you can enjoy more of everything around you because you have 1 less thing to think about. I’ll still keep my FJR 1300 . 👍
I watched this video before I bought my NC700x DCT in early September 2021. Pretty much spot on. The NC700/750 is not as capable off road as the Africa Twin but the same advantages and disadvantages apply equally. Slow speed control is a learning process, took me about a week in a parking lot to get a smooth 18’ u-turn consistently.
The auto mode is a joy in the city. On the road and especially in the twisties I have learned to combine manual shifting while still in sport mode to get the best cornering and smoothness.
I recently moved the rear foot brake to the left side of the handlebar(Some AT owners have done this also). It opens up a whole new experience in control. Off-road it frees up the right foot to dab or counter balance. On road it lowers the braking response time and improves feedback for me.
I bought a 500 mile 2019 used with a DCT because it was a great deal. I was apprehensive at first but actually really like it now after putting 1k miles on it mostly off road. I’m an experienced off road rider/racer and really don’t see what the low speed ride-ability issues people talk about..use the front or rear brake to modulate speed and it’s not an issue. This is actually my first bike that wasn’t originally equipped with knobbys, so I’m ignorant to any on road concerns.
Once you figure out which mode you like and get the traction control dialed its really nice.
The only thing I think it doesn’t do well is anticipate down shifts, but the trigger shift is super easy and always available.
Little known fact, Factory Honda racer Jean-Michel Bayle won a Japanese Supercross on a works DCT bike in the mid 90’s.
I own a 2023 Africa Twin with DCT, and I rarely experience unvoluntary upshifts for the sake of fuel economy. Two things to mention: if you fully close the throttle, the DCT won't upshift at all, so you have your full engine brake. And the newer AT models have a so called 6 axis IMU, which can detect leaning angles. The AT uses this information for adjusting the ABS braking in corners, and it uses IMU data to keep the DCT from shifting unneccesarily in turns. However, you still may encounter unexpected downshifting in very narrow turns (for example in small runabouts) when you enter the turn in 2nd gear and slow down very much. In order not to stall, the bike may shift down in 1st gear, which is quite an odd feeling when you encounter it the first time.
When riding with DCT you should not always rely on the DCT to properly shift down. I made the experience once or twice that I approached an intersection and wanted to stop, and I just pulled the brake. The powertrain felt like still pushing forward so I had the impression that I had to brake down against the engine. This becomes much, much better when you shift down manually, before the DCT computer realizes that you seriously want to get slower. And another thing to mention: There is this Austrian guy named "Varahannes" who has put over 400,000 miles so far on a 2016 Africa Twin with DCT. He says that during normal riding he never touches the rear wheel brake: "I downshift instead, DCT is my rear brake."
Last thing to mention: If you want to shift manually and miss a foot lever, Honda sells you one for your AT with DCT. It costs about 500 USD, at least over here in Germany.
I've had mine for one week and I must admit I had my doubts before I took possession of it. Now, I love it. I can relate and understand everything that Ian mentioned. My riding is a lot more fluent and smoother and consequently, for me, a lot safer. It frees my mind to focus on other things on the road and enjoy the journey. I know that the bike will never stall and therefore eliminates dropping the bike from a stall situation. I've been practicing the throttle rear brake relationship and it's taken me a short time to master. I find it a great challenge in learning to control such a large bike. The technicalities of riding this bike is the least of my worries. What is challenging is controlling the weight. I've taken it into simple off road environment and I found that it almost feels like a small bike beneath me providing you maintain correct off road body technique. For what I intend to do this bike is for me. Thanks for your video and information Ian. Love your content.
Hello there. Honda CTX700 DCT owner here. It's a cruiser. Why would you want a manual transmission? :) I learned to ride on a manual 2-stroke back in 1994 and hadn't ridden for decades (I drove freaking lot of km). So I knew my bike will be 'automatic', I just didn't want to deal with manual tx in 2019 when I bought it. Couple of things to share:
The way to stabilize chassis in the corners (you said it may upshift when you're engine braking), I mitigate that by trailbraking with the rear brake (brakes are linked so both are engaged). Technique I learned on a bicycle, btw :) If you maintain the steady speed, the DCT behaves.
As for the D-mode - it's my favorite, it's not a bike to haul a$$. Sure, it priotizes fuel economy, but it's just fine in 95% of riding situations. I manually downshit when negotiating hills at highway speeds (120 km/h) and, sometimes, I engage the S-mode in a crawling, stop and go, traffic to prevent the bike shifting from 1 to 2 for like 1 second.
And yes, one needs to be careful with the throttle as there's no clutch but it kinda teaches you to be gentle.
I use the bike mostly in mixed traffic - city, rural, highway, that's pretty much 80% of my rides, with occassional long trips (2000 km a month ago). I never felt the bike was underpowered and I'm pushing 110 kg all geared up with about 40 kilos of luggage.
Another advantage - I can afford to hold the bike with the rear brake on hills and only put my left foot down. It's a godsend in the traffic in the city built on hills.
BTW, the way it shifts is that it always has two gears engaged - the one that's actually driving the wheel and the one it thinks you'll be using next based on which direction you were shifting in - it shifts extremely fast in this scenario. When it so happens that circumstances dictate it needs to shift down and it expected to shift up, it takes a bit longer as it needs to disengage the pre-selected gear and select the one that's needed.
Excellent review. Absolutely well done. This is without a doubt the best DCT review that I have seen.
For my commute DCT sounds like a good option. I put an auto clutch in my current bike to help alleviate the slow speed, heavy traffic clutch work.
I have had my 2016 since 2016, I also have a trials background so learning the slow speed stuff was a piece of cake. When off road and 80% of the time on road ,I shift manually. I do not enjoy riding in groups and because of the excellent engine braking I would be afraid others may ride too close and dont feel like flashing my brake lights just to alert them. When cars are behind I am in the habit of flashing my brake lights. The paddle shifters are precise instantaneous and smooth. And as you stated "It's not an automatic!"
I just got a new Honda Rebel 1100 with the dct package and recently joined a vfw riders group ,most of the memebers are older and die hard Harley people , I've let a few guys ride my rebel and when they got back HUGE smile and a holy 💩 this thing hauls
I bought the AT without DCT. For me the risk of not liking the DCT was simply to great. I've put 8000 kilometers on it (since nov 2020) and I love everything about the bike. As a rider since 1970 using a clutch is second nature. Cruise control for my right hand was a necessary condition. That's where the problems are in long touring trips.
Getting older and clumsier, I think dct might extend my riding career.
You nailed it. New Rider, only 15,000 kms under belt, had 2016 DCT. Absolutely the wrong bike for Noob. Then bought small 300L to learn off road control. Now learning that and the slow speed riding + manual and loving it. Now replacing DCT with manual. Hasn't arrived yet but given my interest about off road and off asphalt I am optimistic that now I will have the right bikes in the garage. Well at least for now.
Have GW dct and love it. All OK in twisties if switched to manual. I didn't know I was suposed to have a problem with slow speed turns until watching this video, LOL!
This video is a great example of why I like your content. You go thoroughly into detail and you cover everything that matters, I really apreciate what you are doing! Btw. I have watched this video already probably like 4 times 😁
The ability to control the bike at slow speeds with the clutch is something I like to do regularly….ie, practicing low speed maneuvering. I can’t imagine not being able to use the friction zone to do that? However, the ability to ride through urban environments and long trips without having to constantly pull the clutch and shift the gears could definitely have its advantages. I don’t really mind it myself, and actually kind of enjoy using the clutch and shifting the gears manually. Just gives me the feeling of “yeah, I’m on a motorcycle!” If that makes sense? Of course, everyone who has a Harley can attest that at every opportunity you have to pull the clutch you have to give some throttle and hear that exhaust you spent so much money on!
I have a 2021 Honda Gold Wing DCT and I love it. You do have to get use to using your back breaks and the throttle in slow turn maneuvering. I still think it’s easier using the friction zone with a clutch during slow speed turns, especially with a passenger. With that said, the DCT is the best all around experience.
manual vs dct... that was the biggest decision i had to make in my life. my dealership gave me the chance to try it and i felt in love. i have to say that in some situation i wish i had a manual again.... i think to own an Africa Twin DCT + owning a enduro bike or even a dualsport bike is really a good bundle to own. one better of for long adventure and one to just have fun in the trails
I have been riding my 2020 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT Air Bag model for 2 years now, and I love it. I have not found myself in any circumstances where the DCT has not put me in the appropriate gear for the circumstance. I am considering purchasing an adventure/touring bike in the near future, and I will get that bike in a manual transmission, because I am an aggressive rider when I am off-road. In my experience, Honda is pretty good at allowing prospective buyers to take a DCT for a test ride. So, before you spend the money on a major purchase, try to take one for test ride so you can decide for yourself.
ride a dct NC750X before changing to 1250GSA,
to be honest, some times, I do miss dct, it does reduce your workload.
1250gsa has a quickshifter, but you do need some tricks to make it work in a nice way .......
Thank you fore your info, I am 66 and have been riding over 50 years. I presently own 3 Victory Motorcycles (love them) but life is short and I was at the Honda dearler today looking to get a Goldwing DCT. I NEVER have ridden one and your video is making feel more like I would like to get one: Thank you very much and great job.
You have hit the nail on the head with all your conclusions. Having owned the 2018 ATAS with the DCT for 3 years now, l made some small riding adjustments that overcame any of the shortcomings of this great machine. The move I use most often is downshifting while in sport mode, it’s so convenient to tap your thumb down before a turn or a pass, then grab a handful of throttle and hang on, let the bike up shift for you. Puts a smile on my face every time !
For a scooter, I would use the rear brake like the clutch. Release for more speed and pull in for less, while applying throttle the whole time. I guess this would require a bit of relearning because the rear brake is on the right foot.
I bought the 2020 AT DCT because I was tired of hearing everyone else's opinion and wanted my own. I really enjoy it. There is no question that it's different but it's those differences that as an owner with time on the machine when I switch from my dirtbike to the AT I subconsciously change my riding technique to accommodate. I use it as a sport tourer with 95% on the pavement as I think most adventure bikes just don't make sense for serious offroad riding.
(Warning: lengthy feedback, get your readers on) The bike is new to you so I'll just give a few small updates from someone that has driven one over 10,000 km now.
Although it is rare, you can stall the bike. It usually happens just as you are taking off and if the engine and transmission are cold, but yes, it has happened a few times.
I learned to ride on scooters, and graduated to this after several years, so for me the DCT was a natural choice as I'm used to "twist and go" technology. It may be harder for older riders that have used a clutch for decades to get used to this. It tends to favor lower rpms even in sport mode but the override paddle shifter works brilliantly for those times when you are chugging up a hill or pulling out to pass a transport truck.
The engine braking is annoying unless you are going down a steep hill, it can be quite jerky, but after a while you develop much more finesse on the throttle and a few changes in your settings help to smooth it out. Then it's not too bad.
As far as anticipation of gear changes, give it some time and you will realize that this bike is a lot smarter than you give credit. The electronics and built in gyro do know when you are coming down a steep hill or rounding a sharp corner, it knows all that, trust me.
I agree with D mode being useless. It's like riding a tractor. I always ride in S2 just to make the rpms go to a normal range. Burns more gas though. Don't expect to get 600km out of a tank in S2. More like 350.
I don't think it will upshift while you are leaning the bike. The Gyro tells it not to. At least, I've never had that problem, and there is always the paddle shifter if you think it's revving a bit low on that bend.
I can't speak much for off-roading other than to say the bike is fully engineered to handle just about anything, that all comes down to rider skill and experience, but I have taken it on a few dodgy rail trails as a beginner and still made it through without dropping the bike. I owe that to the bike's engineering more than my skill level since I have none when it comes to deep sand or gravel.
I don't worry much about 25 lbs. I put more than that in my top box, but the bike overall is quite heavy. People who have this bike should make sure they can lift it, which is not easy at over 550 lbs.
Yep even after a full year and many practice sessions in the parking lots, I'm still struggling with U turns and low speed maneuvers with this bike. I've finally resigned to (usually) paddle walking it when I need to do tight maneuvers. All I can say from what I've learned so far is don't be afraid to lean it. This is more important with the DCT than worrying about the rear brake. I see even in your video when you tried a tight U turn, you were keeping the bike straight, and that's why you couldn't turn very well. Lean that sucker and give it some torque to keep it from falling. Guys that teach slow speed riding courses say once you know how, the Africa Twin is like "cheating" when it comes to U turns.
You could also mention the cruise control and how much that helps on long trips. I use mine all the time now and it really saves your wrist. If I end up selling this bike one day and getting a touring bike, I'll most likely go for the Goldwing DCT, if I can get one, they have been sold out in Ontario for the past two years.
This is all just feedback from someone who has had one for a year or so. Subject to change over time.
Everything else you mentioned is spot on!
Great overview! I ride the 2018 AT Anniversary Edition with DCT and love it. My comment on D mode is to think of it as Touring Mode only. The quick upshifts and coasting are fine on the 4 lane roads, but I always ride in S mode. The shifting is fine and mostly better than I could do as it senses incline and braking force to make quicker downshifts when needed. Of course you can always downshift with a finger at any time. Your comment about WFO throttle is valid, but again I just hit the button and twist. haha Off-road G mode makes all the difference with how it shifts. I haven’t even explored User modes much, but that might satisfy some users particular needs better. Heavy traffic with DCT is a Godsend ! My old BMW had a 4 finger clutch and traffic was an exercise in forearm building. Thanks !
Have to say that your reviews are the best, most thorough and balanced I have come across on this platform. Particularly enjoyed your Transalp and NC750 series😀Greetings from the UK👍
I bought a 2016 AT with DCT a year ago because it was what was available. I've grown to love the DCT, but I ride almost exclusively in manual mode. Shifts are smoother and quicker than I could ever achieve consistently with a manual clutch. But I like to control the gear. I live in a fairly hilly area and the DCT just can't cope with riding up a steep hill, especially at low speed. Off-road, it's great. The times I wish I could feather the clutch are getting fewer and farther between.
Riding through Las Vegas in the traffic makes me appreciate the engineering that Honda brings.
Right on the money. I’ve owned nc700 and gold wing dct both are great saves your hand from cramping and I down shift with a flick of a button in 2 tenths of a second it will hold the down shift for 8 to 10 seconds. You were correct about down hill gear hold , I warn people about that as the biggest disadvantage. Was coming down a hill in Tennessee holding in 3rd and suddenly up shifted which sent me Accelerating towards the edge of the road very unnerving
Just brought a new Africa Twin DCT and love it! Getting used to it off road, foot brake tip is the best, been riding for 30 years and it’s so nice to ride. Great videos thank you!!
This channel and your thourough reviews have convinced me to get the Africa Twin with a DCT as my first adventure bike. I wish all reviews were as solid as yours.
Thanks!
I rode Africa Twin 1000 2017 - 2019, Xadv 750 and the new Goldwing, the DCT is pure heaven, when you can stand up to get some wind without have to put your wrist into the clutch all the time. It's practical for me! And I love the way they sound, with higher gear, and low RPM, twist it and there you got the sound. I wish Honda make a smaller bike with another butter smooth DCT in Indonesia
I have a 2018 NC750s and even though it might occasionally shift mid-corner, it's smooth and fast enough that it doesn't bother me too much. The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages for me. I can 100% concentrate on the ride, the traffic and the environment I'm in. It's just relaxed and let's me focus on what's important. Would definitely always opt for the DCT until electric bikes with enough range are available.
Tried the previous generation version and liked it a lot. I had seen the videos about using the rear brake and it was easier than turning my GoldWing with a manual clutch (it is a few hundred pounds lighter). I suggest that you try it before buy it. On the road it is wonderful, Don't rev the throttle at the light or you will be in for a big surprise.
I've been riding 2020 CRF1100 DCT for a year now (before that - 2017 NC750X DCT). I also own and often ride a classic bike (1991, modified as a custom scrambler). I have zero problems with clutch/manual and very much enjoy riding. And in strict offroad terms, I still slightly prefer manual.
BUT. I'm sure I will NEVER even consider anything other than DCT for my main touring/everyday bike (until we all ride electric anyway). The advantages are so indisputable, to me, that it's not even anywhere near a close call.
Quick note about riding modes. 99% of the time I ride in "S2" & select "D" mode ONLY when I start to get worried about reaching the gas station lol.
Very interesting. I've never ridden a DCT but I have long used the rear brake to modulate power - it gives much improved control over the bike in slow traffic, lane splitting or just tight manoeuvring as you are doing here with the Honda. Slipping the clutch and riding the rear brake is an advanced riding skill but an essential one, particularly when riding slow with a pillion. I think DCT is the right transmission for a car because it permits much better control but I wouldn't get it for a bike though I'd be curious to try it.
Good Overview as usual. I've been testing a DCT Africa Twin for the past year and absolutely love it. You're right that the 'D' mode short shifts and I only tend to use it when I'm just cruising or riding the motorway (Highway). Sport II is a good mode for general riding and as the bike is now fitted with an IMU you can start to control the changes without using the triggers. Brake a little harder or add some rear brake and it will change down quicker. It doesn't take long to get in tune with it.
I can see people not liking the lack of clutch in slow manoeuvering, but again you get used to it quickly. As you say it can't stall, and I was taught and always use the rear brake to stabilise any bike in slow-speed stuff anyway. The marketing can be somewhat patronising, and that guy in the plaid shirt certainly needs a kick up the jacksy! But it's a great system that works well and I think really makes a difference on long rides. Cheers
Proud owner of DCT AT 2017 . Just amazing even on off-road with 60:40 or 50:50 tyres simply amazing experience . 👍🏻
I have a Honda NC750X DCT (my 2nd DCT bike) and BMW R1250GS, love them both :-)
Love this video. It’s exactly what I needed. Just want to point out to Big Rock Moto that the section title about whether or not you would buy one says “would I BUT one.”
Love the DCT gearbox.Your assessment I think is spot on.Each to their own.Thanks.
Great video. I bought a 2021 Africa Twin with the DCT in March of this year. A little background on me: I'm 64 years old I have been riding for 52 years. I have owned primarily sport bikes, GS 1100, Interceptor 750, CBR 600, CBR 929, FZ1, MT09, and a bunch of dirt bikes. I was very skeptical about the DCT, but I was having trouble finding a standard shift model. I also have rheumatoid arthritis so I don't know how long I'll be able to use my left hand to clutch anyway. I can now say after 6000 miles of on and off road, I will not buy another bike that has a standard shift. I have gotten so comfortable with the DCT I don't even think about it. I agree that it may not be the best choice for hard core off road, but honestly, how many people really get that serious with a 500 lb bike off road? I think this is the best video I have seen to educate riders about the DCT.
thanks for sharing
Currently riding a Honda 750NC DCT and love it. Been very happy with it both in city traffic and on long term cruises.
Given how long DCT has been out overall I'm amazed this sort of video is still being made
it's because most people are still confused and wrong about the technology
been riding for over 45 years on road motorcycle off road in Europe and Africa . I now have a DCT it's just so cold but you need to do 3 or 4 thousand miles to get it working up to speed with your gear shift but then it just takes the confidence to let go and have fun . so move with the times. you need to have the fath to do the jump. if you don't jump you will never sky dive . that's how I feel about the Dct .
Thanx for honest opions & insights well done! Have had the DCT since 2019 on My great Vfr1200X Crosstourer & am a fan. Am also the lucky owner of old school XL650V Transalp. My expirience with DCT is very positive indeed. Dont think i would buy another new bike without it ever again. Like any new thing it needs time to grow on You. Weird at first but as you learn the behaviour its an absolutte joy. The offroad part yes it might tend at certain times to upshift at the ‘wrong’ time but by keeping finger on the downshifter you will learn to know When it happens. The magic of the DCT it will eventually seem to learn Your ridingstyle after a while & keep in gear longer. For touring & commucting its an absolutte pleasure & brings back the feeling i had as a kid riding for the first time. The Power Of Dreams.
Coming from a VFR800F1 I specifically bought the Africa Twin AS ES 2021 because of the DCT, after riding the VFR1200X DCT of a friend.
You just have to select the right mode for the job, and you are right the AT can’t think for you, so you have to do that!
Setting up the 2 user modes can help… there you can set up engine brake and on the ES also the preload, damping and if set up is for on-road or off-road ABS. Strange enough not the G mode which is automatically set in the standard off-road mode. But can be set manual as well as the rear brake ABS. At least in the “gold” display, which I have set for each riding mode. When the set up is to your satisfaction, you can change to less information displayed.
Thanks for your clear explanation, well done!
I use d- mode in the rain, s1 most of the time , s2 on the freeway. Manual mode offroad. Love it!
I have a Honda VFR 1200X Crosstourer. With DCT.
I love it!
I was not excited about DCT , but you may have changed my mind to test ride one.
Funny how people see things differently! Few months back I was looking to buy a 2020 standard and was considering the DCT but after watching this I'm glad I went with a manual. Granted, I was unable to test ride a DCT and have never ridden one but you have to use the information available to make a decision.
I think you’ve 100% hit all the niggles that I found on my 2016 AT DCT, I sold it after 12 months.
For me, a light clutch lever and quick shifter gives a better riding experience for most on road use.
Ah-ha! I wondered if someone would mention that. I am in the market for the upcoming NT1100 next year. I think that statement applies even more to a sportier road focused machine. (I will try both versions though.)
Thanks for thr thorough review. We'll done. I've had 2 DCT models (XADV and Africa Twin) I'm a huge fan. I wish my BMW had DCT. Honda has employed numerous sensors and inputs are assessed and through algorithms it tries to match what it thinks you're expecting the bike to do. I think they' ve done an admirable job. Also I think it's a bit of a paradigm shift. Evaluating the shifting in comparison to manual shifting is the wrong approach. Ride it like you would a DCT car. Forget about the gear selection or the rpms. To go fast turn the throttle more and to go slower turn it less. Sounds stupid but I ride with the throttle and the brake. Ignore the rpms or the gear. The bike will do a reasonable job of responding. Yes, of course there are exceptions and yes U turns are awkward. But when I drive my DCT Audi I'm never complaining it's in the wrong gear or not predicting what I want. Gas and brake. Is it perfect? No. But if I had my choice the DCT would be on all my bikes except for my racing 2 strokes. Street bikes it's great. So start with a "clean sheet" don't compare just modulate the throttle to match whatever given speed you need and let it do it for you. Cheers,
I’ve owned my 2019 DCT Africa Twin for a year and I believe that I should have rather bought the manual version. I do enjoy the bike, but I think the manual would have been better for me. I like to have better control over which gear I’m in and I believe clutch control is important for off road riding.
You can control your gears through gear shifters on handlebars and it doesn’t stalls so fun on off-road. Just try it out you’ll definitely love . 👍🏻
Lance, I love my DCT but I totally get what you’re saying manual shifting. There is nuances/pros and cons for both transmissions. I’m kind a like you in the middle but for me going off road and climbing hills in technical sections that 1000 mL motor just ripped through any need to feather a clutch
Great Video, Thanks. You said you don't the time lag when opening the throttle for an overtake, I solve that by hitting the Down Shift Button as I open her up, Works well.
Yes 💯 agree with all you say.. I bought the dct model and I love it. I will say I have gotten use to the D mode now. It’s not to bad. Only on down shift I on a hill/bend I might have to down shift myself..
Also on a U-Turn I can do them a lot better now that I dropped the front 10mm and the read 1 inch.. no need to use the back brake.
I’ve been green lanes one time on it and loved it. Never done green lanes before..
I bout this bike because I use to ride sport bikes.. but after a crass I lost the use of my left foot ( foot Drop ).. I first went to cruiser bikes but I never used it..
So I thought yes why not the dct Africa Twin.. because it’s more an all weather bike. It’s an off road bike and I don’t need to use my foot 🦶
👍👍👍 Great video 👍👍👍
I have a 2016 Africa Twin with DCT. A favorite feature of it is while riding standing off road, changing gears with my hand is easier Han using a foot.
A disadvantage is it’s hard to get the front end in the air for going over logs, rocks, etc.
Off road, I always use manual mode.
On highway, think of “D” mode as economy mode in cars. It will always shift to keep the lowest RPM. Also, when in any automatic mode, you can downshift with your thumb. This is handy for passing or approaching a hill.
I just sold my DCT and I do miss not having to worry about shifting. You're totally right about being awesome in traffic and long touring rides...I would have to say even in gravel roads it's better. You do get used to the tight turns on it. It just takes time and practice. Great review
I normally ride an ultra glide, so using the rear brake on slow speed maneuvers is already something I'm used to. for me, it would make both bikes consistent in riding style. I just wish dealers would let you test ride one (grrr)
@@johngartee7129 I feel you, I just bought a Husqvarna 701.and they wouldn't let me test ride it. They said to watch UA-cam videos...thanks, lol
@@AutoMan84 Okay? Where do you guys live? Here in Germany you can testride every motorcycle (maybe some limited editions are not possible). You can even go to the official websites of the manufacturers and search for a dealer, that can offer the testride for the specific date you are looking for. And most dealers even offer their test ride motorcycles for rental as well. So you can take it for a weekend trip or something like that.
@@Wollestar I live in Canada where riding motorcycles is not as common as Europe and that was during Covid where everything was selling out. I wish we had the same situation as in Europe
@@AutoMan84 Ah okay. The covid situation explains a lot as well. Always interesting to see how things are in other places. Thanks for the answer
I have the 1000cc DCT and believe it holds gears much better than you give it credit for. It anticipates my corner entry by reading my tail braking and compliments the tail braking very well. Occasionally I’ll down shift into corners just for the fun of it. The upshift you describe mid corner never happens. Low speed I agree the throttle against rear brake is tough to learn and the only drawback.
Unfortunately the video gets a couple of things wrong.
1) Is it an automatic transmission? Of course it is, as it offers to select gears automatically. A torque converter does not define an automatic transmission. There is just one way to build an AT using a torque converter, but there are a couple of others as well, and these are still ATs. And I guess nobody would argue that a car with a DCT is a manual either.
2) "Gear shift is slow, or at least slower than in cars with DCTs." The first part is wrong (it is less than 500 msec AFAIK, which only quickshifters/blippers may outperform, thereby putting considerable stress on the gears), the second partially true. DCTs in cars try to anticipate which gear will most likely be needed next and pre-select this gear. In consequence they will only open the first and close the second clutch when the next gear is needed. If for whatever reason, however, the pre-selected gear does not fit for the next maneuver (i. e. shifting up instead of shifting down or vice versa), the selection of the then needed gear takes considerably longer. Honda's DCT, on the other hand, does not pre-select gears but always shifts them in immediately before the clutches change their positions. Thus the time to switch gears is always the same, which is sometimes slower and sometimes faster than what you may be used to from your car.
3) "D-mode is undrivable." Of course this is a very personal statement, but personally I like D-mode for relaxed driving in the city or on the Autobahn. There I do not need high revs, so why not conserve mechanics and environment at once.
4) "There are premature upshifts, as the DCT cannot read the driver's mind." Even though the DCT of course cannot read my mind, I am more and more impressed of the experience Honda has put into its logic. If I am riding in the mountains, for example, I simply use the S3-mode, and I will definitely never get an early upshift, being always ready to accelerate with optimum torque. (To my taste, shifting up is even a bit late sometimes.) The same is true when going downhill. Using its attitude sensor the controller will recognize that you are going down and shift into a lower gear automatically. (This, BTW, happens in all modes but less aggressively than in S3.) The only necessity is to tell the controller what you really want by selecting the mode fitting for your purpose.
D mode is the japanese understanding of eco mode.
It's made do maximize torque efficiency, so as long as you are keeping your speed constant and the engine is not turning off it will try to reach the upper gears to keep revs low.
Thanks for the info!
Just rode a first gen AT DCT. All the positive and negative things in this video are spot on. I was impressed overall except for the mid corner downshifts than can happen. Was first gen though. The low speed rear brake modulation is not a problem really as I’ve always ridden this way. However, it’s just not for me. I ride a motorcycle to be the most engaged with a machine as I can get. In a world of manual transmissions disappearing every model year in cars and trucks, the engagement and joy of operation is dwindling. Hell the tractor trailer I drive is automatic and I hate it. You’d think it would be a benefit in traffic but it’s not. I can’t lug it to hold the gear as traffic is creeping cause it will downshift and then it will up shift when traffic is starting to slow after speeding up a bit therefore I can’t take advantage of the excellent engine braking that big rigs posses. 13 manually shifted gears gives you options trust me. A once outta first gear you really don’t need the clutch again until it’s full stop, up or down shifts. DCT is great tech and is getting better but it won’t be for everyone different reasons. Now electric bikes that’s a different animal. Ride one of those and then really become confused.
My next bike will likely be a DCT. I currently own and ride a 2019 Super Cub, which you have to shift but doesn’t have a clutch.
I’ve had carpal tunnel surgery a few years ago and I think it is coming back.
I borrowed my neighbor’s GS1200 a few weeks ago and rode for a day. Great bike. I loved everything about it. The only issue I had was that my hands were very sore the next day (and during the ride) due to having to use the clutch.
Since my limitation is my own physical limitation and since I do not ride aggressively or off-road, the DCT seems like it would be a great feature for me.
Hi Andy... you are correct ! I have the same issues. Buying a Honda with DCT is a fantastic idea that works! You won't regret it.
Spot on analysis. Really nothing to add. I like mine a lot . And using the rear brake in a u turn is very natural to me. 2020 standard AT.
I have owned my 2019 AT Standard DCT for about a year and half now. I love it, there are only a couple instances where I would prefer a clutch. The first being riding off road and needing to pop the wheel up to go up and over an obstacle. I still haven't quite figured that out yet. The other instance is the ability to coast down hill. It would be nice if there was a way to disengage the clutch for that.
I have had it shift on a corner twice that I can remember, the first time scared the crap out of me, and if it wasn't for traction control I would have gone down. The second time, I wasn't being very aggressive, so I was able to adjust before it was a problem.
I think my favorite thing about the DCT is that fact that it is next to impossible to stall. This comes in very handy in sand and rocky hills.
Thanks for your work. I have often thought I would make it to a Hump day ride with the Monkeys in hopes of meeting you, but it I usually don't have time to get out there from Orange county before Kickstand up time. Maybe one of these days.
Very informative review of the DCT. I don't own a DCT bike, but I have been riding DCT bikes a few times. It is really great for normal riding and touring will be fantastic. I may buy one if I were to get a new bike. I found myself in a situation a while back on my manual bike where I was absolutely glad I did not have a DCT. I was going around a slow corner in deep sand. The front washed out a little and I inadvertently opened the throttle at angle while I tipped over and I could pull in the clutch as I held the bike up. On a DCT, I would have pulled off at speed and crashed into the bush. Other than that, I truly enjoy the technology.
Thanks for the video. I'm a older rider and day after day of clutching aggravates my tennis elbow. We ride 2 up and appreciate gentle so thanks DCT
I love my 2016 DCT Africa Twin. It was a bit of a learning curve at first, now it stays in sport 1 and traction control off when I ride it. My 2007 KLR 650 is still a hoot to ride for a host of different reasons too.
I'll add this, While ridding my Honda AT with the DCT in the most twisty and steep mountain roads, I had so many shift changes per mile that I would have worn out my clutch hand and surly missed a few shifts because of fatigue. Also agree about the helmet smashing thing, what a difference the DCT make with that. 200 plus miles on those switchback turns, countless shifts, and not one helmet impact.
The points you hit on are right on. I have a Goldwing 2018 DCT and find my type of riding more enjoyable on it. I would like to have a rear brake lever where the clutch lever is on a manual bike; then do away with rear brake foot pedal, like a scooter. I get more “feel” with the left brake lever when riding my Kymco AK 550.
Sounds like a great idea!