Selecting the right motorcycle can be a difficult decision for a rider as there are countless models and brands with varying benefits. One of the big focuses is whether the bikes will come in an automatic, semi, or manual transmission. While riders argue that one type is better, each has its own benefits and drawbacks. The following are some pros and cons that we hope might help you.
1. Manual
Manual motorcycles involve the rider changing gears using a clutch lever and gear shift lever usually found below the rider’s left foot. Examples are Spark T0135, X1R, Raider150, Sniper150, RS150, and many more.
- Fuel Economy: Generally, fuel consumption figures are about 10% lower, so manual transmissions are more efficient. But this is not always correct. If you are an inexperienced driver, you may over-accelerate the engine and shift gears at the wrong time, which will undoubtedly increase your fuel usage.
- Acceleration: Manual are better when it comes to acceleration. This happens because the manual gearbox is lighter, has more speeds to choose from, and does not have a torque converter, which will “swallow” some of the overall torque. However, this is not always true.
- Reliability: This is another important factor, and usually manual transmission proves itself better in this regard. This is because automatic transmissions have more parts and other complex machinery that may malfunction. The manual gearbox is much simpler.
- Traffic Condition: Due to traffic jams, shifting gears and operating clutches every minute is really annoying and even tiring.
2. Auto
No shifting gears are needed. “Gear Shifting” is on the front pulley(driving) and its rear pulley(driven). The quickness and positioning of the “Gears” depend on the engine’s revolution (RPM), the weight of the ply balls, and the stiffness of the center spring.
- Ease of Learning: Automatic motorcycles are obviously easier to learn than other types.
- Engine Size: Most scooter engines have a displacement range from 50 cc to 250 cc.
- Turning and Maneuvering: The longer wheelbase of motorcycles makes it less accurate in maneuvering and turning at low speeds. The smaller wheelbase of the scooter can provide better maneuverability and steering.
- Rider Safety: Both motorcycles and scooters require proper training and education. In 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 88,000 injuries from motorcycle or scooter accidents. Safety should always be a top priority.
3. Semi-auto
It has a gear shifting foot lever but doesn’t have any clutch lever, all you need to do is release on the throttle before down or up-shifting on the left foot lever.
- Availability: Compared with automatic and manual motorcycles, there are more semi-automatic motorcycles available for sale at lower prices. Choosing semi-automatically will save you money and will definitely give you more choices
- Ease of Use and Beginner-Friendly: If you are just starting to learn how to drive and balance, then choosing semi-auto will help a lot. The balance is good because its parts and accessories are not too heavy. There are also shift pedals in which you can play with gears.
- Fuel Consumption: With the new invention of fuel efficiency, manual and new automatic transmissions have surpassed semi-automatic motorcycles. This new technology is called fuel injection (F.I.), and it can definitely save your fuel consumption!
With the information I just gave you, it is now up to you to choose which of the three options. Depending on your usage and desired riding experience, one type of transmission may be better suited for your ride especially in Singapore. Just make sure you never regret the choice you are about to make. Good luck!
At AloRide, you can rent a motorcycle with any of the 3 mentioned types as low as $45 per day, or $330 per month to try motorcycling in Singapore. No commitment hassle of long-term motorbike ownership.
Rent a motorbike with AloRide today. Check out our catalog at https://aloride.com/catalog.