Honda launches dual clutch version of VFR1200!
Motoring Staff
2010-05-05
For decades, manual shifting has served as an integral and required part of the motorcycling experience. But just as alternative shifting technologies were utilized to improve lap times at the highest levels of racing, electronic shifting has at last made its way into a large displacement, high-performance motorcycle.
Honda introduces dual clutch transmission, the world's first fully automatic dual clutch transmission for large-displacement motorcycles. This new transmission offers riders the enjoyment of full sports riding capabilities along with effortless and seamless operation, applied in a powerful, large-displacement machine. At the same time, this transmission’s superior efficiency can deliver fuel efficiency equal to or better than a conventional manual transmission.
The dual clutch transmission features a light and compact design that allows it to be combined with existing engines without substantial layout modification. Mechanically, the system is similar to the larger dual clutch transmissions fitted to automobiles which have more room for a large transmission system, allowing for long transmission shafts and multiple shafts.
However – space is at a premium on motorcycles; making it difficult to use an automotive-type dual clutch transmission. Limited ground clearance and shifting of the motorcycle’s centre of gravity when turning are other limiting factors – as is potential interference with the rider’s legs. To solve these problems, the Honda dual clutch transmission uses two main shafts and in-line hydraulic clutches.
Then hydraulic passageways for the system are located behind the right side engine cover; making for a shorter transmission shaft so it will fit onto the motorcycle. Unlike typical automotive transmissions that use independent shifters to directly shift the gears, the motorcycle system uses a motorcycle-type shift drum, resulting in a simple and more compact shift mechanism.
Further, the new transmission delivers the precise acceleration control that is an integral part of sports riding, thanks to electronic control technology that helps ensure smooth, seamless gear changes. And since it uses conventional transmission gears, it behaves just like its manual transmission counterpart; giving valuable feedback to the rider. It’s also as rugged and durable as the conventional manual transmissions that Honda has developed.
To respond to rider demands through a broad range of conditions and situations, the transmission offers three operating modes: two full-auto modes (D-mode for relaxed, fuel efficient operation and S-mode for sports riding), and a six-speed gear-select mode for full rider control via electronic trigger-shift controls that deliver the same shifting response as a manual transmission.
Similar to dual clutch technology seen on most car variants, the dual clutch transmission configuration employs independent clutches for the odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) and the even-numbered gears (2nd, 4th, 6th), respectively. The two clutches operate alternately to effect gear changes. For example, when changing from 1st to 2nd gear, the computer detects the up-shift and engages 2nd gear, then releases the 1st-gear clutch while engaging the 2nd gear clutch to achieve a seamless gear change.
The VFR1200F Dual Clutch Transmission employs dual concentric input shafts (one shaft runs inside the other hollow shaft), an exclusive in-line clutch design, and concentration of hydraulic circuitry beneath the engine cover to achieve a compact design. Compactness and lightness is further enhanced through the use of a simple shift mechanism design based on that of a conventional motorcycle shift drum. Optimized shift scheduling achieves fuel efficiency equal to or better than that of a fully manual transmission, enabling this dual clutch transmission to deliver both sports riding and economical performance – whatever the rider chooses.
The two clutches are laid out in-line along the transmission, with the hydraulic control of the piston installed on the inner face of the clutch disc. This configuration minimizes lateral intrusions in the direction of the engine.
The dual clutch transmission features two operating modes (AT and MT) to suit the style of riding the rider chooses by selecting a switch located on the right handlebar:
In AT mode, all gear shifts are performed automatically, controlled by a microcomputer with an intelligent electronic shift function that constantly evaluates rider and motorcycle behaviour and recognises when to change gear. The rider chooses with the right thumb, either ‘D’ for maximum fuel efficiency, or ‘S’, for maximum performance. The clutch and gear shifts are then electronically controlled by the computer giving the rider the freedom to concentrate on enjoying the road ahead.
In MT mode, the rider uses the trigger shifters to select gears. In this mode, the rider can enjoy direct control of gear selection. Shifting up or down is operated by the ‘+’ or ‘-’ trigger with the left forefinger and thumb.
In every operation mode, the dual clutch transmission system offers quicker, smooth gear shifts with dependable traction and seamless acceleration because drive power is continuous.
As an indication of the deep level of innovation involved in developing such a novel transmission, Honda has 100 patents pending related to this design.
Colours
In 2010 the VFR1200F Dual Clutch Transmission will make its debut in the same colours as the VFR1200F manual transmission:
- Seal Silver Metallic
- Candy Prominence Red
- Pearl Sunbeam White
Honda SA has confirmed that the VFR 1200 DCT will be launched toward the end of July this year.
