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Automatic motorcycles are gradually gaining popularity. The popularity may be slow, but the time will surely come in the near future when these clutchless bikes will be common. Currently, only a few motorcycle manufacturers are taking transformational steps in the automatic motorcycle domain.
Automatic and electric technology is very common in cars. However, the pace seems to be very slow on motorcycles. Gas-powered motorcycles still don’t seem to be replaced by automatic and electric bikes at any time soon.
Honda is among the most notable Japanese manufacturers who have successfully made a mark when it comes to automatic motorcycles. It is making waves with its transformational Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) technology. At the same time, it is durable, affordable, and beginner-friendly.
Continue reading this article to learn about the five best beginner-friendly automatic motorcycles available in 2024.
1. What Makes Automatic Motorcycles Easy to Ride?
1.1 No Clutch and Gear Shifting
The most prominent aspect of automatic motorcycles is that they are easier to ride than manual bikes. Reason? They have no clutch, and riders don’t need to shift gears.
If you ask a beginner rider completely new to motorcycling about the most difficult thing about riding a motorcycle, it will be gear shifting. New riders don’t have an idea of when to shift gears. They cannot judge the right time to shift gears during the right time.
Also, new riders are not very familiar with the appropriate clutch action. These are the reasons why they stall their motorcycles while riding.
Suppose your motorcycle completely eliminates the clutch operation and gear shifting and does it for you; the riding becomes much easier. This is what the automatic motorcycles bring to the table.
1.2 Useful Automatic Motorcycles' Features
Automatic motorcycles:
Have no clutch.
Do not require gear shifting.
They are easier to ride and manage.
They are beginner-friendly.
It is easier to learn to ride on automatic motorcycles.
They are less complicated to ride.
Ensure smoother rides.
Do not stall.
They are easier to maneuver through busy traffic.
They require less maintenance.
With an automatic motorcycle, you can focus more on the ride and enjoy it.
2. Five Best Automatic Motorcycles for Beginners in 2024
The number of automatic motorcycles currently available in the market is quite low. Those who want to buy automatic motorcycles have very few options to choose from. This means that you have even fewer options if you are a new rider looking for a beginner-friendly automatic motorcycle.
However, we have compiled a list of the best automatic motorcycles for beginners that are fun, super easy to ride, reliable, and established.
Also Read: 10 Best Harleys for Beginners
2.1 2024 Honda NC750X DCT
The Honda NC750X DCT is among this category's most suitable beginner-friendly automatic motorcycles. Usually, there are more automatic scooters that suit beginner riders. Also, most of the automatic motorcycles are not beginner-friendly.
The Honda NC750X DCT is an adventure-style bike with Honda’s remarkable DCT technology. Despite being marketed as a dual sports ADV bike, it is a road-biased bike for city traveling and daily commuting.
The tires installed on this bike are more road-biased. Meanwhile, the suspension installed also supports road travel more. However, you can still do a bit of light off-road adventure.
Though the liquid-cooled 745 cc parallel-twin engine may be a bit bigger for beginner riders, this bike is easy to ride. The engine delivers the power smoothly with a decent throttle response.
The engine produces a decent horsepower of 58 hp and a torque of 69.15 Nm. It is not a speed monster. However, you still need to be careful while riding such a motorbike.
Being a DCT-equipped motorcycle, it is not completely automatic. The rider has options to choose between automatic and manual mode. However, the manual mode isn’t completely manual. There is no clutch on this bike. Instead, it has a small thumb shifter. The rider can easily shift between gears in the manual if he wants more control and customized rideability.
The Honda NC750X DCT is a great-looking bike with innovative, aggressive, and sharp aesthetics. The fuel tank is installed under the seat, making room for a secured storage space between the seat and handlebars. Overall, it is an impressive motorcycle and a great package for beginners looking for an automatic motorbike.
2024 Honda NC750X DCT Specs | |
---|---|
Maker |
Honda |
Model |
NC750X DCT |
Motorcycle Type |
Road-Biased Adventure-Style Bike |
Engine |
745 cc Liquid-Cooled Four-Stroke 55º Parallel-Twin |
Peak Horsepower |
58 hp / 43.25 kW |
Peak Torque |
69.15 Nm / 51 lb-ft |
Transmission |
Six-Speed Automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission |
Induction |
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI); 36 mm Throttle Body |
Top Speed |
170 kmph / 106 mph |
Seat Height |
31.6 in / 802.64 mm |
Wet Weight |
493 lbs / 223.62 kg |
ABS |
Standard |
Traction Control |
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) |
Throttle-By-Wire |
Standard |
Ride Modes |
Four Ride Modes: Sport Rain Standard Rider Customizable |
Storage Capacity |
Integrated Storage Capacity in Motorcycle’s Design (Can Accommodate Full-Face Helmet) |
Base Price |
$9,499 |
2.2 2024 Zero DS
Zero Motorcycles is among the big names in electric motorcycle technology. It is an American brand offering different versatile e-bikes in its lineup.
The base-model Zero DS (Dual Sports) is a perfect automatic motorbike for beginners. All you need to do is to only twist the throttle and go. Also, if you want to go green, the Zero DS is an electric bike featuring a battery and motor instead of an internal combustion engine.
The 14.4 kWh Z-Force® Li-Ion intelligent power battery makes this bike cover a maximum range of 144 miles within the city. If you want to do low-speed highway cruising, it offers 107 miles of total range. The range comes down to 98 miles if you go on a highway at high speeds.
The Z-Force Permanent Magnet AC Motor delivers a peak power output of 68 hp and a peak torque of 132 Nm. The Zero DS can also be ridden at a maximum top speed of 104 mph. However, for riding at constant speed, this bike can be comfortably ridden at 75 mph.
If you choose this one as a beginner, you will not have to switch to an off-road bike in the future if you want to do some adventure riding. Also, you can do so many things with this bike. You can take it out for light cruising, city traveling, touring, and adventures.
The absence of a clutch and transmission makes the Zero DS an ideal automatic bike for beginners. It is an ideal beginner bike for learning. However, being an electric bike, the Zero DS’ price is on the higher side. The price starts at $15,995.
The price may be too much for a beginner. However, considering that electric technology is the future, it is not a bad deal.
2024 Zero DS Specs | |
---|---|
Maker |
Zero Motorcycles |
Model |
DS |
Motorcycle Type |
Electric Dual Sports Bike |
Battery |
Z-Force® Li-Ion Intelligent Integrated |
Charging Time |
9.7 hours (with Standard Household) 4.5 hours (Level 2) 1.8 hours (with 6kW Rapid Charger) |
Motor |
Z-Force Air-Cooled, Interior Permanent Magnet AC Motor |
Peak Horsepower |
68 hp / 51 kW at 4,500 rpm |
Peak Torque |
97 ft-lb / 132 Nm |
Transmission |
Clutchless Direct Drive |
Top Speed |
Maximum: 104 mph / 167 kmph Sustained: 75 mph / 120 kmph |
Seat Height |
32.6 in / 828 mm |
Wet Weight |
527 lb / 239 kg |
Stability Control System |
Integrated Bosch Advanced SCS |
Storage Capacity |
28 L Combined Storage Volume |
Base Price |
$15,995 |
Also Read: 8 Best Dual Sport Motorcycles for Beginners
2.3 2024 Honda Navi
Though it is a mini motorcycle, the Honda Navi is the cheapest option for buying a beginner-friendly automatic bike. Despite being smaller than normal bikes, it doesn’t compromise on its styling. Above all, the Navi is from Honda so you can ride this bike for years without any issues.
If you are completely new to motorcycles, don’t know about motorcycles, and don’t want to know either, the Honda Navi is right for you. It is quite colorful, compact, and attractive. Despite being a minimoto, it has a strong road presence.
As a beginner, you can use the Honda Navi comfortably for city traveling and commuting to your workplace or university. It features a 109 cc SOHC single-cylinder engine with a one-speed automatic CVT transmission.
As a beginner, you don’t need to feel intimidated by a large bike when you can have the Honda Navi. It is no less than the very popular Honda Grom or Monkey. It can take you to most places and is a perfect learning platform for beginners. Above all, it is quite easy to afford as it only costs $1,999.
2024 Honda Navi Specs | |
---|---|
Maker |
Honda |
Model |
Navi |
Motorcycle Type |
Standard Mini Motorcycle |
Engine |
109 cc Air-Cooled, Single-Cylinder Four-Stroke Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
8 hp |
Peak Torque |
8.94 Nm at 5500 rpm |
Transmission |
V-Matic Automatic CVT |
Induction |
16 mm Carburetor |
Top Speed |
90 kmph / 55.9 mph |
Seat Height |
30 in / 762 mm |
Wet Weight |
234 lbs / 106.14 kg |
Fuel Economy |
110 mpg |
Storage Space |
Built-In Lockable Storage Compartment (Can Accommodate Lunch and Laptop) |
Base Price |
$1,999 |
Also Read: 10 Best Beginner Motorcycles for Women
2.4 2024 BMW CE 02
BMW has long been working on electric technology and wants to take it to another level. The German manufacturer previously produced the electric scooter in 2022, which is undoubtedly an engineering marvel.
BMW recently introduced an e-bike called the BMW CE 02 to level up the game. Considering its unique style and engineering, it may not be classified as a motorcycle. However, it seems to fulfill its purpose and looks great.
The BMW CE 02 is a small, lightweight e-bike. It falls under the BMW Urban Mobility category. It looks very unorthodox to be called a motorcycle. However, if you are looking for an urban commuter that definitely looks cool and appealing, the BMW CE 02 is a great choice.
Considering the design, low weight, small size, and ease of riding, it is ideal for beginners. Nonetheless, being an innovative electric bike, the price is slightly on the higher side. It comes at a base price of $7,599.
The BMW CE 02 uses a removable 2X 1.96 kWh traction battery, along with an externally-excited air-cooled synchronous motor. The motor is capable of delivering a power output of 11 kW at 5,000 rpm and a peak torque of 54.9 Nm, which is great for a ebike of this size.
The BMW CE 02 has a skateboard-style seat. There are no foot controls on this bike as both the front and rear brakes are operated using the hand levers.
Being an electric motorcycle technology, the BMW CE 02 feels very responsive. It accelerates quickly as soon as you open the throttle. Despite an unconventional design, it is a very stable ride.
2024 BMW CE 02 Specs | |
---|---|
Maker |
BMW |
Model |
CE 02 |
Motorcycle Type |
E-Bike |
Traction Battery |
Removable, 2X 1.96 kWh Usable Energy Content |
Motor |
Externally Excited Air-Cooled Synchronous Motor |
Peak Horsepower |
14.75 hp / 11 kW at 5,000 rpm |
Peak Torque |
54.9 Nm / 40.5 lb-ft at 1,000 rpm |
Charging Time (With Optional Quick Charger) |
3 hours (80%) |
Charging Socket |
Single-Phase Domestic Socket 120 V |
Top Speed |
59 mph / 95 kmph |
Seat Height |
29.5 in / 749.3 mm |
Wet Weight |
291 lbs / 132 kg |
ABS |
BMW Motorrad ABS (On Front Wheel) |
Ride Modes |
Two Ride Modes: FLOW SURF |
Reverse |
Electric Reverse Gear |
Display |
3.5-inch TFT Screen Display |
Charging Socket |
USB-C |
Base Price |
$7,599 |
2.5 2024 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT
The Honda Rebel 1100 doesn’t seem to fit in the list of best automatic motorcycles for beginners. It is very unfortunate that Honda hasn’t installed the DCT technology in one of their small-displacement Rebel models.
Though the Rebel 1100 is big and may not suit most of the beginners who are completely new to the motorcycling scene. However, there are many characteristics that make this bike suitable for beginners who are familiar with riding a motorbike.
Firstly, considering the high price of most automatic motorcycles, the 2024 Rebel 1100 comes at a base price of only $9,549.
Secondly, it has a DCT, meaning you can switch on the “Automatic Mode” and enjoy effortless riding. You don’t need to engage the clutch or shift gears; just turn the throttle, and the bike will handle these tasks for you.
Above all, you are getting loads of modern tech features at such an affordable price. On top of DCT, the Rebel 1100 also offers Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), ABS, slipper & assist clutch, cruise control, four riding modes, and wheelie control.
You will never be bored of the Rebel 1100. It is a fun and thrilling bike for city traveling and highway cruising. If you are a beginner, don’t treat the bike above your capabilities. It may not be the fastest bike, but the throttle response and acceleration are great, especially for a beginner.
So, if you want a great-looking sports-style automatic cruiser, you may not get a better deal than the Rebel 1100. However, let’s just hope we get to see the DCT version of the Honda Rebel 500 in the near future.
2024 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT Specs | |
---|---|
Maker |
Honda |
Model |
Rebel 1100 DCT |
Motorcycle Type |
Sports-Style Cruiser |
Engine |
1,083 cc Liquid-Cooled 22.5° Parallel-Twin Four-Stroke Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
85.8 hp / 64 kW at 7,000 rpm |
Peak Torque |
98 Nm / 72.28 lb-ft at 4,750 rpm |
Transmission |
Six-Speed Automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission |
Induction |
PGM-FI Electronic Fuel Injection; 46 mm Throttle Body; Throttle By Wire |
Top Speed |
Electronically Restricted to 99 mph Without Speed Limiter: 128 mph |
Seat Height |
27.5 in / 698.5 mm |
Wet Weight |
509 lbs / 230.88 kg |
Fuel Economy |
48 mpg |
ABS |
Standard |
Cruise Control |
Standard |
Traction Control |
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) |
Throttle-By-Wire |
Standard |
Wheelie Control |
Standard |
Clutch Technology |
Slipper & Assist Clutch |
Ride Modes |
Four Ride Modes: Rain Sport Standard User-Customizable |
Base Price |
$9,549 |
3. The Bottom Line
Automatic motorcycles are slowly progressing towards a bright future. Many motorcyclists, particularly beginners, prefer the effortless rideability of these bikes. The biggest attraction of automatic motorcycles is that they have no clutch. The automatic system installed in these bikes controls gear-shifting tasks without requiring the rider’s input.
The ease-of-ride automatic motorcycles offer is what makes them ideal for beginners. The Honda DCT technology is on top of the automatic motorcycling scene as it offers both automatic and manual modes.
On the other hand, we have electric motorcycles that are completely automatic. The rider only has to twist the throttle and go.
As of now, there are more scooters than motorcycles that are automatic. However, as technology progresses, more motorcycle manufacturers are seen to put more effort into the electric motorcycle domain.
If you are a beginner rider looking for the best learning platform, this article lists the most eligible beginner-friendly automatic motorcycles in 2024.
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