Honda Motorcycles & The Dual Clutch
Last week was the New York Cycle World International Motorcycle Show – yeah we missed it too. But one bit of interesting news that came from it was the announcement that Honda Motorcycles will introduce a Dual Clutch setup.
The first optional dual clutch will be available on the upcoming Honda VFR1200F sport-touring motorcycle. This option will allow seamless shifting and a smoother ride. We’ll explain – it sets up “independent clutches for odd-and even-numbered gears” – the quickest shifting you can manage, in other words. The system offers two automatic modes if you get bored with all the manual shifting.
“With the dual clutch in the manual mode, it is literally milliseconds,” says Jon Seidel of American Honda Motor Co. “As quickly as you can use the paddle shifters, the gear engages. “As this is the world’s first application of this technology on a motorcycle,the initial response has been extremely positive. “The dual clutch transmission is an innovative new technology,” Seidel said. “Will it replace manuals? Probably not. But it is technology that works and adds fun and excitement to riding. Riders will also appreciate the fully automatic mode for stop and go city driving”
Specs:
Honda VFR1200F / VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission
Engine Type: 1237cc liquid-cooled 76° V-4
Bore and Stroke: 81mm x 60mm
Compression ratio: 12.0:1
Valves: SOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI 44mm throttle bodies
Ignition: Digital electronic
Transmission: 6-speed (VFR1200F) / Six-speed automatic with two modes and manual mode (VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission)
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension
Front: 43mm; 4.7 inches travel
Rear: Pro Arm single-side swingarm with Pro-Link® single gas-charged shock; 5.1 inches travel
Brakes
Front: Dual 320mm discs, CBS 6-piston calipers with ABS
Rear: Single 276mm disc, CBS two-piston caliper with ABS
Tires
Front: 120/70 ZR17 radial
Rear: 190/55 ZR17 radial
Wheelbase: 60.8 inches (1545mm)
Rake: 25-deg
Trail: 101.0mm (4.0 inches)
Seat Height: 32.1 inches (815mm)
Fuel Capacity: 4.9 gallons
Color: Candy Red
Curb Weight: 591 lbs (VFR1200F) / 613 lbs (VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission)
The Source: Wired
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