HONDA'S NEW V4 road bike, due for release in 2010, will feature a dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission - a world first for motorcycling.
The system will offer three different modes: two will be fully automatic, while a third will allow the rider to use the six-speed gearbox in the conventional manner.
One clutch will operate 1st, 3rd and 5th gears, while the other will be responsible for 2nd, 3rd and 4th. The system has been in use in the car industry for a number of years, however, sources say Honda have had to refine the system to make it more compact for the new VFR.
The system will allow for faster, smoother gearchanges, whether in the auto or manual mode.
So, if you're planning on lashing out on the new VFR we reckon you ought to flog your tool chest now, because there's no way anyone will be carrying out home servicing on this baby.
