Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin: off-road test of the DCT [VIDEO]

Dunes, desert and an example of Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports driven forcefully on a grainy and endless surface, listening to the progressive scan of the ratios of the sequential dual clutch transmission DCT, Dual-Clutch Transmission, developed by the technicians of the well-known Japanese manufacturer.

The characteristics of the DCT gearbox

A transmission designed to guarantee a gear progression similar to that offered by a traditional six-speed solution, as indicated by the brand, but supported by the synchronisms of a robotic system, as can be seen in the film in which the aforementioned example of Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports. But this solution is designed for a wide range of modelsGolden wing. Together with the aforementioned explorer model, this gearbox is offered on the versatile and technological crossover X-ADV or on the already known and consistent ones NC750X, NC750S, Integra and Crosstourer.
The system Dual-Clutch Transmission is based on two clutches: the first dedicated to 1a, 3a e 5th gear; the second to relationships 2, 4 e 6. A choice that allows you to preselect each step specifically for the lack of use of one of the two clutches, depending on the gear in use. The response is therefore quicker. The house reports insertions of just 70 milliseconds, providing the sensation of constant and smooth progression.

Three modes of use

Three modes of use are linked to the sequential dual-clutch gearbox which shape the very experience of riding the vehicle. That Manual, marked MT, allows you to obtain feedback similar to that of a traditional transmission 6 marches, as mentioned, can be recalled via the paddles located on the handlebars of the motorcycle. L'Automatic, recognizable by the acronym AT, is further divided into Drive (D) which appears more suitable for use in urban or metropolitan areas, but also on the motorway at constant speeds, therefore Sport (S) to constantly enjoy a greater consistency of pace at higher rpm and more reactive responses from the chassis during acceleration and braking, as for example in the proposed video. These can always be intervened manually, considering what is indicated by the manufacturer, using the aforementioned handlebar paddles with a return to automatic which conveniently occurs for example after a quick overtaking through an automatic reset. From the 2016, motorcycles equipped with a gearbox DCT they present a Sport mode which is in turn segmented into three storable levels: S1, S2, S3. Each of these corresponds to an increasingly lively character. On the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin we also notice a functionality G, which can be recalled at any time via a button on the fairing, which accentuates traction by reducing the partial slippage of the clutches in the open-close phase and during rhythm progression.

Historical notes on the DCT

The solution Dual-Clutch Transmission It dates back to 2010 and was originally introduced on VFR1200F that he proposed 173 horses of maximum power. The second generation of this transmission appeared in 2012 at the debut of the diverse range NC, offering customers a type of gearbox that combined the qualities of an automatic with the energetic qualities of a manual. Features that can be used on any road surface or terrain, even in the most challenging deserts.

Video: Honda Moto