Advancements in motorcycle technology are making automatic transmissions more popular, offering a convenient riding experience. While manual ones still dominate, automatics are gaining traction among new riders and those prioritizing comfort. Let’s explore the best automatic motorcycles in 2025, delving into their features and suitability for different riding styles and experience levels.
Honda Motorcycles with Automatic Transmissions
Honda leads in automatic motorcycle transmission technology, offering a diverse range of models with their Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). Their early adoption and development of DCT technology have given them a competitive edge in the automatic motorcycle market.
Honda Rebel 1100 DCT
This cruiser combines classic styling with modern engineering. It features a powerful 1084 cc parallel-twin engine and a DCT system. The Rebel 1100 offers a comfortable riding experience with effortless gear changes, ideal for city streets and highway cruising. It also boasts selectable ride modes and standard cruise control.
Honda Africa Twin DCT
This adventure bike is renowned for its versatility and off-road capabilities. The DCT version enhances its practicality with seamless gear changes, allowing riders to focus on navigating challenging terrains. The Africa Twin offers a comfortable riding position with a high seat, tall handlebars, and a narrow seat for easy maneuverability.
Honda NC750X DCT
This versatile motorcycle is great for commuting, long rides, and light adventure touring. Its 745cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power, and the DCT ensures a comfortable and engaging ride.
Honda Gold Wing DCT
The Honda Gold Wing offers ultimate comfort and convenience. The DCT system provides seamless gear changes, allowing riders to relax and enjoy the ride. The Gold Wing DCT has been popular, with two-thirds of Goldwings sold since 2018 featuring the DCT transmission.
Honda Trail 125 ABS
The Trail 125 ABS features a centrifugal clutch that simplifies gear changes. While not a fully automatic motorcycle, riders still need to shift gears, but the clutch operation is automated, making it more beginner-friendly.
Yamaha Motorcycles with Automatic Transmissions
Yamaha has introduced its Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission (Y-AMT) technology, set to revolutionize the automatic motorcycle segment:
Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT
This sport-oriented naked bike is one of the first Yamaha models with the Y-AMT system. It offers riders manual shifting and also a fully automatic mode with two settings: “D” for a relaxed experience and “D+” for spirited riding.
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ Y-AMT
This sport-touring motorcycle combines comfort and performance with the Y-AMT system. It offers similar functionality to the MT-09 Y-AMT, allowing riders to choose between manual and automatic shifting modes.
Yamaha, a multinational Japanese conglomerate founded in 1955 that produces various vehicles, including motorcycles, plans to expand its Y-AMT technology to more models, including the Tracer 7, MT-07, YZF-R7, and possibly the MT-10.
Kawasaki Motorcycles with Automatic Transmissions
Kawasaki has entered the automatic motorcycle market with its hybrid models:
Kawasaki Z BEV and Ninja HEV Hybrid
These motorcycles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor and an automatic transmission. The Ninja HEV model features a 399cc electric motor and automatic transmission. The hybrid system offers improved fuel efficiency and performance, while the automatic transmission enhances convenience.
Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS
This upcoming model is expected to feature a semi-automatic transmission that automates clutch operation and gear changes, promising a smoother and more engaging riding experience.
BMW Motorcycles with Automatic Transmissions
While BMW is not traditionally known for automatic transmissions, they are entering the market with their innovative Automated Shift Assist (ASA) technology.
BMW R 1300 GS Adventure
The R1300 features ASA as an option, automating the clutch and gear change with two electromechanical actuators linked to the bike’s ECU. This technology makes the large adventure bike more accessible to a wider range of riders, especially those who may find a manual transmission challenging.
Best Automatic Motorcycles for Beginners
Honda NC750X DCT
The NC750X DCT is beginner-friendly due to its low center of gravity, providing excellent low-speed handling and stability. Its comfortable riding position and user-friendly engine characteristics make it easy to control and maneuver, inspiring confidence in new riders. This versatile motorcycle is ideal for commuting, long rides, and light adventure touring. Its 745cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power, and the DCT ensures a comfortable and engaging ride.
Honda Rebel 1100 DCT
The Rebel 1100 offers a comfortable riding experience with effortless gear changes, ideal for both city streets and highway cruising. This motorcycle is an excellent choice for beginners due to its low seat height, lightweight, and manageable power delivery, especially in Rain mode. Its advanced safety features, like wheelie prevention, traction control, and ABS, enhance its beginner-friendliness.
Zero DS
This electric motorcycle offers a smooth, quiet ride with instant torque and no gears to shift. It’s a great option for beginners who want a simple and fun way to learn to ride. The Zero DS eliminates the complexities of shifting gears and clutch operation, allowing beginners to focus on the fundamentals. Its electric powertrain provides predictable and manageable power delivery, making it easy to control and less intimidating for new riders.
