The two-wheeler industry is yet to fully explore the idea of an automatic gearbox. While scooters have been using a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for almost three decades now, motorcycles still largely depend on manual gearboxes which use a foot operated shifter.
With technology improving with time, manufacturers have taken a leap forward with the introduction of automatic gearbox which include a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) system from Honda a few years ago, and more recently Yamaha bringing out an automated manual transmission (AMT) in July this year.
While the DCT gearbox is much costlier than a standard manual gearbox, the AMT is a much more cost effective means to shift gears without physical intervention. Recently, KTM also introduced its own version of an AMT gearbox which will soon make its debut in the public domain at the upcoming edition of EICMA in Milan, Italy. Let us deep dive into the functionality of this AMT gearbox from the Austrian bikemaker.
The working of KTM’s AMT gearbox is more or similar to the Yamaha unit albeit changes in terminologies used. For starters, the AMT allows riders to choose between using a manual shifting operation in M Mode – without a clutch – or a completely automated transmission in A Mode. The forward drive is initiated by raising the engine speed as soon as the 1st gear is engaged at which point the centrifugal clutch comes into play and sets the motorcycle in motion.
This helps the bike to start on a slope, pulling away, stopping, and slow-speed manoeuvring in heavy and congested traffic, especially for the bigger motorcycles. Additionally, the engine never stalls even when the revs drop significantly.
KTM’s AMT gearbox offers a unique blend of traditional motorcycle gearing and modern automation. Unlike conventional gearboxes, the AMT features a P-N-1-2-3-4-5-6 sequence, with “P” denoting Park for secure immobilisation. The Park and Neutral positions can only be activated using the handlebar-mounted shift paddle, regardless of engine status.
The AMT’s shifting is electronically controlled by the ECU and Transmission Control Unit. An electromechanical actuator initiates shifts by turning the shift drum, resulting in a remarkably quick 50-millisecond shift time, comparable to traditional transmissions with bi-directional quickshifters.
While the AMT’s automated functionality is impressive, its true party trick lies in its Manual Mode. In this mode, riders can shift gears using either the traditional left-side gear lever or the left handlebar shift paddle. This allows for a sporty, “Ready to Race” riding experience without sacrificing speed or agility. KTM has achieved this by carefully designing the AMT to maintain traditional gearbox proportions and weight.
The AMT system offers a wide range of customizable settings, with shifting modes working in conjunction with ride modes to cater to individual preferences. Initially available on select KTM models, the AMT will gradually be introduced across the KTM lineup in the coming years. This gearbox recently found its place in the prototype version on the formidable Iron Road Prologue at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo.
