Flappy paddle or bust?

[elixermixer]

The flappy paddle debate
There are those thatdebate annual or die and vice versa. This is less about that and more wondering if anyone else has driven a motorcycle that has a similar transmission and how was it in comparison to the spyder se5.
For example I know the newish Honda vfr1200 can be had with a dual clutch transmission that has both manual AND auto mode...
On a side note I am under the belief that semi auto trans and the like will not be accepted in a performance aspect until they develop a race track pedigree just like with f1 and then on to most high end sports cars the flappy paddle has taken the lions share leaving manuals to the "purists" and those that be damned with outright lap times.
Does the same future hold true for the motrcycle world?

 

[daveinva]

Honda's tried for decades to popularize automatic/semi-automatic bikes. Hasn't taken off, but that's perhaps in part because they put the auto trannys on underwhelming bikes (DN-01, anyone?)

From a technical/performance standpoint, the Spyder's SE5 transmission is frankly a marvel. It's faster than the manual transmission, highly reliable, intuitive to use, and more engaging than a scooters' CVT. There's absolutely no reason why similar technology couldn't be adopted by other bikes for use.

Well, okay, there IS one reason: cost... $1500 is a steep price to pay for an option. Beginner two-wheel riders aren't going to pay that, and experienced two-wheel riders in the market for more expensive bikes aren't going to see a need to give up their clutch and pedal. Given the premium BRP places on making the Spyder easy to use, the SE5 makes sense, but outside of that niche, it's a hard road.

That said, the key here is cost. $1500 will scare off many riders, but $500 might not. If the cost can come down, again, I see no reason why semi-auto bike transmissions won't increase in popularity. They'll never be as prevalent as a clutch on a bike, in large part because a wet clutch on a bike has a certain utility/safety to it that is unique to two wheels-- no advantage to a manual transmission on three wheels, or in 2012 on four wheels for that matter. But again, I see a growing market for them.

Bottom line: I prefer manual transmissions on cars because I find them fun, but in 2012 they make no practical sense-- auto transmission technology, efficiency and price surpassed manual transmissions over the last 10-15 years. On two wheels, however, a manual transmission still makes practical sense for certain riding styles... but even then, technology will continue to evolve and offer new options.

 

[elixermixer]

I think that's why I was wondering about the VFR because it is a highly advanced transmission and not like the dn-01 or worse the aprilia mana but rather a twin clutch almost sports car set up. I think if motogp prototype racing allows the teams to adapt such a transmission it would get a solid foot on the ground and I think the spyder has opened up many to the idea as well. Do I think it has it's fault, absolutely and rowing gears is always more "fun" but I guess I was thinking hyper performance bikes that already have quick shifters and such compared to lamborghini and Ferrari etc

 

[Ga Blue Knight]

By the way the Spyder's transmission is not automatic, you have to at least shift up. The auto part is in the clutch other than that the transmission is the same as the manual.

 

[Bob Denman]

They're just not making the push toward the Sportbike market yet...
Given some time; Who knows?? :dontknow:

 

[elixermixer]

Has anyone used any other motorcycle with a similar transmission?

 

[Questions]

We have four different types of transmissions in our garage.
1. 2006 Iveco (cab/chassis) motorhome with sequential gearbox that can be driven in automatic or manual mode (basically a manual gearbox that can be driven either way)
2. 2010 5 speed manual Hyundai Getz which is towed behind motorhome.
3. 2012 Mercedes c250 sedan with 7 speed auto that can be driven in manual mode for when you feel a bit sporty,
4. 2009 SE5 Spyder
All have their own purpose.
Regards
Paul...Radar

 

[Camdenlake]

The Yamaha FJR1300 comes in a AE model. Uses like a recluse clutch setup. Has the same kinda button system as the spyder SE. It does not shift for you at all. Its is qutie sporty. Takes some getting use to though.

Josh

 

[elixermixer]

How do you think the fjr compared to the spyder semi auto trans?
I fully believe more and more will show up especially with the popularity the spyder has shown them to be. Combine that with if they ever change the rules for motogp and there will be a strong change both for ease of use and outright performance

 

[Camdenlake]

I have not had a chance to ryde a se spyder. It sounds from others similar. Let off on throttle and its in a netral state. I can see if demand it will get more common.

Josh