Best Automatic Transmission Motorcycle [Top 18]

Most bikers prefer motorcycles with manual transmission. But some prefer the automatic ones to avoid the complexity of shifting. If you’re one of them, you’re probably wondering, what is the best automatic transmission motorcycle for you?

The top 18 automatic transmission motorcycles include the following:

  1. Energica Eva EsseEsse9
  2. Honda CTX700N DCT/CTX700 DCT
  3. Harley-Davidson LiveWire
  4. Honda Africa Twin
  5. Zero SR-F
  6. Honda NC750X DCT ABS
  7. KTM Freeride E-XC
  8. Honda NM4
  9. Zero DSR
  10. Honda Gold Wing
  11. Aprilia Mana 850
  12. Honda Super Cub 125
  13. Energica Ego
  14. Honda NC00X DCT
  15. Evoke Urban S
  16. Honda VFR1200X DCT
  17. Brutus V9
  18. Honda NM4 Vultus DCT

Read on to learn more about these motorcycles with automatic transmissions and what makes them distinct from one another.

Best Automatic Transmission Motorcycle

automatic transmission motorcycle
Energica Eva EsseEsse9

Motorcycles with manual transmission allow bikers to get a real feeling of driving their machine. This feeling may not be achieved 100% with an automatic transmission motorcycle. However, there’s no denying that the latter is less complex than the manual one.

Bikers riding automatic transmission motorcycles will most likely experience fewer shifting issues. They won’t encounter up-shifting and down-shifting problems. Instead, everything is controlled by the motorcycle’s onboard computer.

Let’s take a look at 18 of the best automatic transmission motorcycles available in the U.S. and other countries:

1. Energica Eva EsseEsse9

The 2020 Energica Eva EsseEsse9 motorcycle features an upright seating position, classic lines, and a round headlight. It may seem like a modern classic motorcycle to you, but it’s more than that. Impressively, it also features a futuristic drivetrain.

According to Energica, you can get 250 miles out of a charge if you gently ride this bike. Other highlights include having a premium chassis to keep everything in check and playing with roughly 150 torques.

When it comes to power and intent, many bikers say that the 2020 Energica Eva EsseEsse9 comes pretty close to the Harley-Davidson LiveWire. The EsseEsse9 is electric and does not need a clutch at all.

2. Honda CTX700N DCT/CTX700 DCT

The Honda CTX700N DCT/CTX700 DCT has a utilitarian bent and unorthodox design. It has an impressive 6-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission.

This Honda automatic transmission motorcycle features a parallel-twin engine with 670 cc and DCT transmission. It is comparable to other middleweight motorcycles that are just as easy to ride.

With the DCT system, riders can go fully automatic, but they can also conveniently shift to a manual transmission. There are thumb paddles located on the left handgrip to allow them to do so.

Honda describes this hybrid motorcycle as a modern cruiser because of its features which include its relaxed riding position. The CTX700N DCT model is its naked version. At the same time, its protective fairing identifies the CTX700 DCT.

In 2019, both the CTX700N DCT and the CTX700 DCT were not in Honda’s cruiser lineup. But it was one of the bestsellers in 2018.

3. Harley-Davidson LiveWire

Next is the automatic transmission motorcycle – Harley Davidson LiveWire. The 2020 Harley-Davidson LiveWire is one of the most exciting and gimmick-free bikes on our list. The fact that it doesn’t have a manual transmission is only one of the many things that set it apart from other Harley Davidson motorcycles.

This Harley Davidson automatic transmission motorcycle was developed at Harley’s headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is an electric motorcycle with 105 horsepower, roughly 146 miles of range, and a charging time of 60 minutes.

Its controls are well refined, allowing you to run, cruise, turn and stop smoothly. It doesn’t require any direct fossil fuel input. Lastly, it is a Harley.

4. Honda Africa Twin

Honda’s Africa Twin has always been available with a dual-clutch transmission. However, it launched it in two trims in 2020 to cater to all types of riders.

The regular 2020 Honda Africa Twin is basically the same as the dirt bike initially introduced by Honda in 2016. But, of course, there have been notable modifications.

However, it’s the 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES motorcycle that’s new to everyone. It has a bigger fuel tank, an adjustable windscreen, and heated grips. Also, it has an electronically controlled suspension.

This Adventure Sport ES variant allows you to shift between three modes. If you want it the traditional way of shifting using handlebar triggers, you can ride it manually. For longer hauls, you can shift to its Automatic Drive mode. If you want to wick it up in the canyons, you can shift to its Automatic Sport mode.

The Adventure Sport ES variant also features a G switch which boosts its off-road functionality. Its advantage is that it minimizes clutch slip when you need to change gears.

5. Zero SR-F

Another recommended motorcycle under the electric street bike options is the 2020 Zero SR-F. It is a premium two-wheeler comparable to the features and performance of the Energica Eva EsseEsse9 and the Harley Davidson LiveWire motorcycles.

This handsome hybrid motorbike has compact, naked lines that will remind you of the Honda CB650R. Also, it looks muscular and is tightly packed. 

In terms of mixed riding, the 2020 Zero SR-F offers roughly 125 miles. But it definitely offers more than that, especially when you ride to the canyons and back. Aside from that, its Level 2 charging system will definitely not fail you.

6. Honda NC750X DCT ABS

motorcycle with automatic transmission

Another Honda motorcycle with automatic transmission is the Honda NC750X DCT ABS. We all want to experience an efficient, quick, hassle-free, and fun ride. You can achieve all that with the Honda NC750X DCT ABS motorcycle.

This automatic transmission motorcycle is, in fact, ideal for beginners. It features an efficient power delivery and upright seating position. Its ABS adds more in terms of safety and convenience.

The NC750X DCT ABS motorcycle may be a beginner bike, but veteran riders will surely love this Honda model too. It features 54 hp and a torque of 50 pound-feet. This bike will surely allow you to have fun as it takes you anywhere you want to be.

7. KTM Freeride E-XC

Even dirt bikers need alternatives in the automatic category, and the KTM Freeride E-XC is one of the most recommended ones. It is the first electric off-road motorcycle from KTM. Not to mention that it is the first electric off-road motorcycle under the mainstream motorcycle brand category.

The E-Ride technology of KTM itself propels the Freeride E-XC bike. It may seem like a straight-up dirt bike. However, its electric motor also features a single-speed transmission. That way, riders can focus on the single track instead of focusing on their gear.

This bike is quite costly, but it’s definitely sturdy and dependable. Try to compute the high cost of fluids, gas, and maintenance if you have an internal combustion bike. It’s actually just as costly as or even more costly than getting a KTM Freeride E-XC. Come to think of it. You may even get a great value for money with this KTM bike.

8. Honda NM4

Another excellent Honda automatic transmission motorcycle is the Honda NM4. The Honda NM4 motorcycle doesn’t look like your typical motorcycle. Once you look at this handsome motorcycle, you can tell that it is distinct and unique.

It features a 670 cc fuel-injected parallel-twin engine. This hybrid motorcycle is designed to achieve a wide power spread and an efficient automatic operation. These features can be attributed to its DCT transmission.

Honda integrated roomy saddlebags in this bike model. It also features an impressive windscreen and a flip-down passenger seat. According to Honda, this handsome bike forms part of the Touring category.

By merely looking at its futuristic styling and advanced design, you’d know that the Honda NM4 bike doesn’t come cheap. Despite its hefty price, it gives you that feeling of safety and comfort. Not to mention that your Honda NM4 will surely make you a head-turner.

9. Zero DSR

All Zero motorcycles feature a single-speed transmission, and they all don’t require shifting. Zero bikes are being used in rider training sessions conducted all around the United States. Therefore, it is safe to say that these bikes are not at all intimidating and are, in fact, very user-friendly.

The Zero DSR and Zero DS hybrid motorcycles form part of Zero’s top-of-the-line series. Being dual-sports, you can ride them comfortably whether you are off-road or on the street.

In 2019, Zero announced that all their bikes had received major upgrades. These include a higher top speed, improved charging, and a better range. Suffice to say that even in the absence of a clutch lever, everything about the Zero DSR is all good.

10. Honda Gold Wing

Next on our list of the best automatic transmission motorcycle is the Honda Gold Wing. There are two handsome Honda Gold Wing models released in 2020. One is the Gold Wing Automatic DCT, and the other one is the Gold Wing Tour.

Among the two models, the Gold Wing Automatic DCT motorcycle is the base model Wing. It features an impressive seven-speed DCT. Also, it is a massive six-cylinder tourer with ample storage room.

However, if you want added comfort, added storage, an added level of safety, the Honda Gold Wing Tour is the perfect hybrid motorcycle for you. This bike has an additional 50 liters of storage capacity. It has reverse gear and electronic suspension preload adjustments. Aside from that, it also has a walking mode which will allow you to move its mass around.

If you’re not impressed, then you should know that the Gold Wing Tour can come with an airbag. It’s definitely another level of safety that other motorcycle brands don’t offer.

11. Aprilia Mana 850

motorcycle automatic transmission

Unlike Honda’s DTC machines, the Aprilia Mana 850 features a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Italian motorcycle maker Aprilia builds this motorcycle. It is best known for its sports bikes. But it has eventually started producing automatic bikes to cater to all types of riders.

Mana 850’s transmission features three-mode settings:

  • Rain,
  • Touring, and
  • Sport.

The Rain mode minimizes torque by 25%. Its Touring mode scales back the bike’s responsiveness and increases fuel efficiency. At the same time, its Sport mode offers maximum performance in terms of torque, engine braking, and power.

12. Honda Super Cub 125

At first glance, the Honda Super Cub 125 may look like a scooter. But, according to Honda, they don’t consider it one. Instead, this bike is categorized as a motorcycle. Maybe, how it’s categorized is not an issue at all. Because once you look at it, you’d know that it’s one pretty cool machine.

New bikers will definitely fall in love with the Honda Super Cub 125. It has impressive vintage styling, it has an efficient engine, and it is affordable. This hybrid motorcycle is small and doesn’t look intimidating.

The Super Cub 125 features a fuel-injected, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It propels a wet weight of roughly 240 pounds with standard ABS. This also makes it a perfect setup for commuters.

13. Energica Ego

The Energica Ego motorcycle is an all-electric automatic bike. It is environmentally acceptable even if it is driven at its maximum performance.

According to Energica, this bike is the very first street-legal electric Italian sports motorcycle worldwide. Its very first prototype was completed in 2013. Then, the very first model was launched to the public in 2015.

14. Honda NC00X DCT

The Honda NC00X DCT motorcycle features a dual-clutch transmission. It comes in 2 modes, namely, semi-automatic and automatic.

This motorcycle performs impressively in drag races. In fact, it can even outperform bikes with a manual transmission. Suffice to say that this bike is powerful. You will surely enjoy riding one.

15. Evoke Urban S

Another one of the best automatic transmission motorcycles is the Evoke Urban S., Similar to the Energica Ego motorcycle. The Evoke Urban S is a motorcycle featuring an electric drive. It is an Italian-styled naked sportbike that has an enhanced power controller. This motorcycle boasts of its precision braking and clutchless design.

The Evoke Urban S bike moves around with agility at 400 cc torque.

16. Honda VFR1200X DCT

The VFR1200X DCT is another automatic transmission motorcycle model from Honda. It easily adjusts to dusty or rough roads, and it’s also ideal for city driving. Apparently, this motorcycle is one multi-purpose machine. If you’re in for different types of road adventures, then this bike is ideal for you.

17. Brutus V9

The Brutus V9 hybrid motorcycle is an electric drive. Nonetheless, it is comfortable to use for travel. With its classic design, it is surely one heck of a head-turner.

This machine is not like any other typical electric bike. It comes in full size and has full power too. Undoubtedly, this one boasts performance and acceleration.

18. Honda NM4 Vultus DCT

Lastly, but definitely not the least, the Honda NM4 Vultus DCT is also one of the best automatic transmission motorcycles. It has impressive performance with its 670 cc engine. Also, with its elegant design, you’ll definitely have fun riding it.

Conclusion – Best Motorcycle with Automatic Transmission

To sum it up, the top 18 automatic transmission motorcycles are:

  1. Energica Eva EsseEsse9
  2. Honda CTX700N DCT/CTX700 DCT
  3. Harley-Davidson LiveWire
  4. Honda Africa Twin
  5. Zero SR-F
  6. Honda NC750X DCT ABS
  7. KTM Freeride E-XC
  8. Honda NM4
  9. Zero DSR
  10. Honda Gold Wing
  11. Aprilia Mana 850
  12. Honda Super Cub 125
  13. Energica Ego
  14. Honda NC00X DCT
  15. Evoke Urban S
  16. Honda VFR1200X DCT
  17. Brutus V9
  18. Honda NM4 Vultus DCT

You definitely won’t go wrong if you choose any of these automatic transmission motorcycles. But, of course, it’s always best to identify which suits you be to ensure an ultimate biking experience.

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