Yamaha Unveils Automated Manual Transmission Technology for Faster Gear Changes

We already know that KTM is readying its first automatic adventure motorcycle, which will rival the DCT-equipped Honda Africa Twin. Now, Japanese manufacturer Yamaha has taken a bold step to show that its AMT (automated manual transmission) models will introduce a new dimension to sports riding. Yes, you read that right! Yamaha's new Y-AMT setup just does that. Weighing 2.8 kilograms, the new Y-AMT takes inspiration from Jin-Ki Kanno, Yamaha Motor’s exclusive development ideal focusing on rider-machine unity. 

Yamaha's Y-AMT technology gets a choice of either a finger-operated manual shift system or a two-mode fully automatic mode, both operated through the switch cubes on the handlebar. The see-saw shifting levers on the left side cube – a plus lever for upshifts and a minus lever for downshifts – enable you to manually shift gears with the index finger and thumb, in turn eliminating the need for a clutch lever. 

The right-side switch cube, on the other side, features a dedicated MODE button allowing you to choose between two programmes to suit different riding scenarios – D+ and D. The former allows you to make gear changes later in the rev range, delivering a sporty riding experience, while the latter offers a softer gear shift experience while maintaining a low rpm. The D button is ideal for city commuting. Riders can also choose to shift manually at any time by using the see-saw shift levers, when in AT mode. Rather than your foot, the new Y-AMT lets your fingers do the gear shifting.

Yamaha NMAX Turbo Unveiled

Elsewhere, Yamaha recently unveiled the next-generation model – the NMAX Turbo. The Yamaha NMAX Turbo maxi-scooter gets an electric CVT gearbox, which, according to Yamaha, offers a sudden surge of acceleration. However, the engine is the same Blue Core 155cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected unit which develops 15bhp and 14Nm of peak torque in non-boost mode. 

Also Read: Yamaha NMAX Turbo Unveiled in Indonesia, First Yamaha to Get Electric CVT Gearbox

With this tech comes two riding modes – T-Mode (for city commuting) and S-Mode (for highways). The T-Mode provides the rider with an additional electric boost to pull off overtaking more conveniently. Moreover, the Yamaha NMAX Turbo is equipped with a 'Turbo Y-Shift' function, in turn aiding a performance boost using three levels: low, medium, and high. As standard, the NMax Turbo gets dual-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system), traction control, and Y-Connect.