[RahulNagaraj]

Austrian automaker KTM has unveiled a new gearbox system for its motorcycles in the form of an AMT.

The new KTM AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) system aims to "achieve refined usability". While this is the first official announcement of the AMT system, the gearbox has already been featured on a prototype version of the KTM Super Adventure R motorcycle in the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo, ridden by Johnny Aubert.



Being an AMT system, KTM bikes equipped with this tech will allow customers to choose between fully automated, semi-automated or fully manual gear shifting methods. The fully automated shifts remove the need for riders to use both the clutch or gear lever, while semi-automated shifts can be done via paddles on the left handlebar.

Both the fully and semi-automated shifting methods are achieved via an electromechanical actuator connected to the bike's ECU, TCU and the quick-shifter. Bikes will feature a centrifugal clutch, which will step in before the engine revs are low enough to stop the engine, essentially preventing any stalling. The KTM's AMT system features gears ordered in P-N-1-2-3-4-5-6. The P and N states can only be selected via the paddles on the handlebar.

While riding in automatic mode, the AMT will work with the bike's ECU and TCU to shift gears in-line with the riding mode the bike is in. This means, the gear shifts could be more aggressive (hold gears for longer) when in sport mode, compared to more gentle shifts in rain or eco modes.

While KTM hasn't officially announced on which of its bikes the AMT tech will make its debut. Reports do suggest that the upcoming 1390 Super Adventure could be the first KTM model to feature the new gearbox.

Source: VisorDown

Link to Team-BHP news

[Laks]

More and more motorcycles are taking the AMT route. Call me old fashioned, but, engaging the gears manually, honing the skill of using the gear pedal, the clutch and the throttle in perfect synchrony is one of the many things that makes motorcycle riding engaging and fun. Like the magnetic cassette tape, the Vinyl record, the CD which became obsolete in the wake of streaming, I fear manual transmission in motorcycles too will soon become a thing of past. Sigh!

[Turbanator]

Originally Posted by Laks

Call me old fashioned, but, engaging the gears manually, honing the skill of using the gear pedal, the clutch and the throttle in perfect synchrony is one of the many things that makes motorcycle riding engaging and fun.

It can still be fun, look at some of the videos of 1300GS/ GSA. In countries like ours, we will see more bikers getting used to such transmissions. One does not need continuous engagement with left-hand

[NomadSK]

Interesting, long back when I used to ride bikes, I invariably used engine braking to modulate my speed. I don't know how that would be used on AMT transmission. I guess this would take out the fun from "Motorcycling" and make it feel like "Kinetic Honda" of yesteryears.

But again AMT transmission with cruise control, will make both hands free.

[maverick029]

Originally Posted by Turbanator

It can still be fun, look at some of the videos of 1300GS/ GSA. In countries like ours, we will see more bikers getting used to such transmissions. One does not need continuous engagement with left-hand

And with the free left hand, many will use their phones to call or text to keep the ride engaging

[Asish_VK]

Originally Posted by maverick029

And with the free left hand, many will use their phones to call or text to keep the ride engaging

We Indians are already doing it even with non AMT bikes. Expertly managing clutch and phone using the neck & shoulder combo. With an AMT bike atleast our necks and shoulders will be free