2018 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles | Model Lineup Review / Buyer’s Guide

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– 2018 Automatic Motorcycles / Review of Model Lineup – 

Are you looking for more information on what motorcycles are out there in 2018 that have an automatic transmission without a clutch? If so, you’ve come to the right place! This page will show you each and every model from Honda that has their DCT automatic transmission with also giving you a detailed Review of Specs / Features and just an overall Buyer’s Guide on each of these 2018 motorcycles giving you any and every piece of info you need to know.

It’s hard to believe another year has passed and it’s time to do another one of these posts covering Honda’s automatic motorcycles but this time around we’re already up to the 2018 model lineup packing the latest and greatest DCT (DCT = Dual-Clutch Transmission) from Honda. If you haven’t already checked out what models were available in the past or if you’re possibly shopping for a used motorcycle with an automatic transmission and need to find out what models to be on the hunt for etc, these may be of help:

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New DCT Automatic Motorcycles… Last year we had some new models added to the mix like the X-ADV that originally started its life the year before as the City Adventure Concept Bike. The year before the X-ADV was introduced we had the all-new Africa Twin CRF1000L DCT and the VFR1200X DCT (new for us but not for the world on the VFR1200X as it has been around for years as the CrossTourer). Thankfully, Honda wasn’t ready to disappoint us for 2018 and they still decided to bring the heat with more new models to the lineup of their already large line of automatic motorcycles. The first and most important as it’s been a groundbreaking model and avenue for Honda to test many new innovations over the last few decades and that holds true for 2018 too with not only the introduction of an All-NEW 2018 Gold Wing & Gold Wing Tour but also for the first time ever – insert drumroll… A DCT Automatic Honda Gold Wing Tour and Gold Wing! Before we dive into the new 2018 Gold Wing models, let’s get one small tidbit of information out of the way and that’s something that has been confusing some people. The Gold Wing you have known for quite some time now isn’t going to be called a “Gold Wing” for 2018, it is now referred to as the “Gold Wing Tour” and the model that is now known as the Gold Wing for 2018 is technically the replacement for what would have been a 2018 F6B / F6B Deluxe (F6B = Flat Six Bagger). Now that we’ve got that big news out of the way and that the Gold Wing models are being added to the list of automatic motorcycles for 2018 from Honda, we’re not done with new models! We also have the new 2018 Africa Twin Adventure Sports CRF1000L2 DCT! Yes, that’s a mouthful for a model name haha! This isn’t just a copy & paste model where they only decided to tweak one part of the bike and try to capitalize on the already popular nameplate of the Africa Twin… Honda legitimately went to work on this bike and took input from owners etc and went to work on making it truly a different model with a host of different features to set it apart from the ‘standard’ model Africa Twin for 2018. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out my detailed 2018 Africa Twin ADVENTURE SPORTS CRF1000L2 DCT Review by Clicking Here where I break all of the nitty-gritty details down and show you what sets the Africa Twin VS Africa Twin Adventure Sports models apart from each other. We have one more new addition, to my friends across the pond this won’t be “news” as you guys have had this new updated model for a couple of years but to us in the USA we have been longing for this larger engine version and Honda has finally decided to grace us with its presence and that would be the NC750X DCT that is replacing what we knew as the NC700X DCT.

Now that we’ve got some of the big news out of the way on what new motorcycle models were being added to the list of automatic bikes for 2018, let’s dive into each model a little bit and show you what all of the options look like on paper for this year. Please keep in mind that I will only be doing a brief paragraph on each model below. Why is that? Because if I dove into the nitty-gritty details for each model on this one page then the page would take about 2 hours to read haha. So, if you want those details and want to do more reading up and research into a specific model then I will have a link below each model taking you to where I do a Review / Buyer’s Guide Overview on each of the models showing you anything and everything about that specific model.

Looking for an Automatic Motorcycle? Don’t want a scooter? You’re not alone… Still to this day the term scooter is frowned upon in the motorcycle community. It’s truly an image thing though as scooters these days aren’t slow like they used to be and some can exceed 100 MPH all day long and outrun many motorcycles in a 0-60 competition or 1/4 mile drag race etc.

To help with this problem and bring even more potential customers into the wonderful world of 2-wheels Honda has brought back Automatic Motorcycles. The last time this venture was explored dates back a few decades and to put it shortly – was a flop so they rather quickly fizzled out and were discontinued and Honda kept automatic transmissions simple utilizing a CVT belt in their scooters. Honda has decided to give it one more try and seems to be hitting the nail on the head this go-around. So much so that Honda not only makes one Automatic DCT Motorcycle but quite a few models and thankfully with those decades that have passed, Honda has learned a lot and of course technically has progressed ten-fold making things possible now that weren’t back in the day. When did automatic motorcycles start to become a “thing” again and start making their way back into market? Let’s dive into that a little below to give you some history:

Review - 2016 Honda Automatic Motorcycle Model Lineup / Bike / Motorbike

The first model into this market segment this century dates back to 2009 with the Honda DN-01 (pictured above). The DN-01 start off on the right track at first though because of its off-the-wall styling and we also can’t forget that price with an MSRP of a whopping $15,599. However, the DN-01 didn’t have a DCT transmission though… The DN-01 had Honda’s HFT transmission. HFT = Human Friendly Transmission, it’s marketing name of what is a proprietary Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The electronically controlled automatic transmission system is unlike more familiar belt-driven CVT systems used on scooters, nor does it have a torque converter, typical of automotive applications. Instead it is a hydrostatic drive that employs a variable displacement axial piston pump with a variable-angle swashplate. Prior to the DN-01, this type of system had not been used in road-going consumer motor vehicles, though it is familiar in industrial applications and heavy equipment such as forklifts and the US Air Force’s MJ-1 bomb lift truck, in use since the 1950s. Honda has also dabbled in this technology since the 1950s. It appeared on their 2001-2014 FourTrax Rubicon TRX500 ATV. The electronic controls allow the motorcycle to be operated in three modes: Drive, Sport and Manual. In Drive and Sport, it functions much like a CVT scooter, with infinitely variable gearing upshifted and downshifted automatically for what the system determines to be optimal performance. Unlike a scooter, engine braking is always available when decelerating. The difference between Drive and Sport modes is that Drive is optimized for economy while Sport is more responsive. In Manual mode, the transmission operates in one of six discrete gears chosen by the rider by pushing a plus/minus button on the left handlebar. It feels much like a normal motorcycle, including hitting the rev limiter at the top of each gear, but the ECU prevents upshifting and downshifting too soon. In all modes, it automatically returns to the lowest gear when stopped. It is also possible to switch into neutral while stopped, unlike a scooter.

Like I mentioned above, the technology crammed in this bike bumped its price all the way up to $15,599 and that was a rather difficult pill to swallow for most… Especially considering a lot of the Automatic Motorcycle market was aimed at attracting first-time buyers that may have been scared by learning how to ride with a true manual transmission and operating a clutch. With it coming in at a price at what most people would pay for an automatic Civic the sales for the DN-01 were lacking. To put it nicely, us dealers referred to DN-01 as “Do Not – Order 1” haha. They were great bikes, just a little pricey at the time. If you can snatch up a used DN-01 for a bargain – they are hard to beat!2017 Honda DCT / ABS Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission

The rather large price tag resulted in Honda putting large rebates on them and helping us clear out our inventory while they went back to the drawing board.

Now, we’re into 2010 and Honda decided it was time to up the anty and bring technology to the table that had never even been considered in the motorcycle industry and that’s when they gave us our first taste of what a DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) is and how much better in was on every level than the HFT transmission used in the DN-01. Honda decided to use the all-new 2010 VFR1200F as its guinea pig with this new technology. It was rather expensive though as the standard model had an MSRP / Price of $15,999 and the DCT model of the VFR came in at the tune of $17,499. History again repeated itself with the VFR1200 DCT model similar to the DN-01 and Honda had to put large rebates to help clean out dealer inventory.

Fast forward a few years. Now we have multiple Automatic DCT Motorcycle models for 2018 with MSRP pricing starting as low as $7,699 – Which is a considerable price drop from the original model that kicked everything off.

Before we get started. All DCT Automatic Motorcycles from Honda for 2018 also have an added safety feature of ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes). Typically ABS alone adds anywhere from $500-$1000 to a motorcycle in Honda’s model lineup. This shows how much bang for the buck you get when you see how small the added cost is to go with the DCT over a manual clutch and transmission model.

Like I mentioned above, 2018 brings you even more options when it comes to DCT Automatic Motorcycles… You now have more automatic motorcycle options than ever before!

2018 Automatic Motorcycle Review Page Index:

2018 Honda Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup Review:

2018 Honda X-ADV

2018 Honda X-ADV Motorcycle Review / Specs - DCT Automatic Adventure Bike

The X-ADV from Honda was an all-new crossover DCT automatic motorcycle that was originally introduced last year and thankfully it’s making its return for 2018 and with some new changes to boot! I’m still a little sad this gem isn’t coming to the USA for a second year in a roll though… I may be the only one though as it’s a little on the different side when it comes to styling but heck if every bike looked the same, it’d be quite the boring world. The Honda X-ADV mixes SUV style and off-road appeal with a tough chassis, long travel suspension, four-piston radial-mount brakes and strong performance from its 745cc twin-cylinder engine mated to a Dual Clutch Transmission. A large underseat storage compartment, 5-way adjustable screen and Smart Key system ensure day-to-day convenience. Do you want to see the 2018 Honda X-ADV released in the USA? How about the 2019 X-ADV? If you do, contact your favorite Honda dealer and let them know to pass the word onto their Honda reps as they’ll never know how large the demand here in the USA is if you don’t let them know. As much as it may seem like at times that the major manufacturers don’t listen to feedback from their customer base, trust me – Honda does. Thankfully due to social media etc, we have never had a louder voice (which can be a bad thing at times haha) so make sure to let Honda know if this is something you might like to get your hands on in the future.

2018 Honda X-ADV Changes? Yes! You can check out all of the detailed info broken-down in extreme detail by Clicking Here for my 2018 X-ADV DCT buyer’s guide review.

Want even more 2018 Honda X-ADV details? 

2018 Honda CTX700 DCT

2018 Honda CTX700 Deluxe Review / Specs - Price, MPG, Release Date - Automatic Touring Motorcycle

The CTX700 DCT is another model returning for 2018 and has been a staple in Honda’s smaller model lineup of the more touring style of motorcycle since its introduction in 2014.

Many of today’s riders – whether experienced, new to bikes or returning to two wheels – have broad expectations of motorcycling and look to expand their horizons on a machine that fits their lifestyle – not the other way round. They’re looking for something that enables and enhances their life. The CTX700 was designed to dovetail perfectly with just such desires. ‘C’ is for Comfort – this equates to driveability and easy cornering, low noise at speed, low seat height, stability and accessible ground reach. ‘T’ stands for Technology – a high-torque, low-friction 670cc engine with excellent fuel economy, Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox, low center of gravity and standard-fit ABS. The ‘X’ is eXperience; smooth all-round performance – including acceleration and stopping – with a relaxed, cruiser-style riding position. All three are key CTX ingredients for a fulfilling and enjoyable ride, whether simply for coffee, a day out or across an entire country.

Some people do get this CTX700 model confused with its almost twin-brother, the CTX700N. Why is that? I’m going to rip on Honda a little bit here but it’s because of their model names. I’m not sure who’s bright idea it was to name them something so similar that only the last letter actually designates which is which. Most people will generically think “CTX700” when they state this model or the model below which is the CTX700N as people don’t notice or should I say pay attention to that last letter. Add that in with the fact that the differences aren’t huge between them and you have a recipe for disaster on confusing models when you call / email dealers etc inquiring about models.

2018 Honda CTX700 DCT Changes? None.

Want even more 2018 Honda CTX700 details? 

2018 Honda CTX700N DCT

2017 Honda CTX700N DCT - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

The naked CTX700N DCT model makes its return for 2018 after being on hiatus last year from the model lineup. Honda never ‘officially’ stated that the model was or wasn’t being discontinued so we didn’t really know if they were just going to be skipping a production year or if the model was walking the plank and not going to be returning for the forseeable future.

The naked CTX700N blends the best of attributes of both cruiser and street motorcycles. The laid-back, feet-forward riding style and low seat height of a cruiser combine with the lightweight feel, ground clearance and agile handling of a standard bike. The CTX700’s 670cc twin-cylinder engine, with its low center of gravity, delivers a high quality, easy-to-handle ride with an emphasis on low to medium speed torque. The bike combines ease of use with freedom of design, and because it sports our lightweight and compact Dual Clutch Transmission, it delivers a ride that is fun, comfortable and exhilarating as well as afforable – just what CTX700N is all about.

 * Honda isn’t building a 2017 CTX700N DCT model for this year. Honda hasn’t announced that the CTX700N manual transmission and automatic DCT models will be discontinued for good and every now and then when they have enough carry over models from the previous model-year they will skip a production year. I’m including the 2016 CTX700N in this list as odds are you’ll still be able to find one of these leftover 2016 CXT models sitting on your local dealer’s showroom floor. The CTX700N model is lumped into the Cruiser category by Honda. This is because it does not have a fairing similar to the CTX700 above which lumps it into Honda’s Touring motorcycle category. Everything else is identical between the (2) CTX 700 models from their frame, engine, seating position etc. Since this model is missing the windshield it comes in with a slightly lower price tag.

2018 Honda CTX700N DCT Changes? None.

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2018 Honda NC750X DCT (NC700X replacement)

2018 Honda NC750X DCT Review / Specs - Adventure Automatic Motorcycle (NC700X model replacement)

The NC700X is coming back, well kind of, for 2018 with more horsepower and even more new features! Why do I say “kind of” on the coming back part, well it’s not really an NC700X anymore – technically. Now it is referred to as the NC750X with the added “5” thanks to its 50cc displacement bump so it’s packing a larger engine with more horsepower and torque but some new electronic bells and whistles as well as styling changes too.

The Honda NC750X is an Adventure style motorcycle that offers exceptional ground clearance and added suspension travel when compared to the other models available with Honda’s DCT transmission. Since its introduction in 2012 the NC700X / NC750X has enjoyed consistent popularity across the world. Reasons for its success are several: its ground-breaking, torque-laden twin-cylinder engine, which sips fuel while punching the bike forward in the low-to-mid rpm ranges, the relaxed, roomy riding position, wide handlebars and comfortable seat and riding position, the compliant, long-travel suspension and distinctive adventure styling all play their part. The storage compartment (where the fuel tank would normally be) capable of holding a full-face helmet and Honda’s unique DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) that over a third of customers choose are further features that set the NC750X apart. As a total package, the NC-X models qualities combine to create a motorcycle which functions superbly. For all types of riding – commuting, touring and simply riding for pleasure – it is a motorcycle with compelling all-round appeal and even more so thanks to the round of changes Honda decided to finally throw on our USA spec model for 2018! If you have followed my blog for a while then you know I’ve been giving Honda a hard time for a while on them not giving us this latest 750cc engine that they have been using in not only the NM4 overseas but also the NC750X that was forbidden here and also the NC750S that hasn’t even crossed the pond yet to our market in the USA.

2018 Honda NC750X / NC700X Changes? Yes! You can check out all of the detailed info broken-down in extreme detail by Clicking Here for my 2018 NC750X DCT buyer’s guide review.

Want even more 2018 Honda NC750X details? 

2018 Honda NC750S DCT

2017 Honda NC750S DCT Review / Specs - Automatic NC 750 Motorcycle / Bike

The NC750S returns for 2018 still packing the DCT automatic transmission as an option paired up with Anti-Lock Brakes too! The NC750S takes a couple different styles of motorcycles, throws them in the blender and then this is what you end up with. It mixes a little bit of cruiser style with some sporty’ness mixed in there too. Its parallel twin-cylinder engine packs the low-to-midrange with effortless torque; capacious storage space where the fuel tank normally sits and the option of Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission set it apart from the crowd of mid-sized naked machines. When combined with a compact form, confidence-inspiring chassis and exceptional fuel economy, the result is a uniquely accessible and practical motorcycle. If you didn’t notice the beginning “NC” part of the model name, it may sound familiar as it is built on the same platform as the NC750X minus a few details while adding some other details too that set the adventure style NC750X apart from this lower-sitting kind of crossbreed I guess you could say for lack of a better word that I could use to describe it at this very moment haha.

The 2018 NC750S still isn’t available in the USA, hopefully Honda will give it a try in our market soon.

2018 Honda NC750S Changes? None.

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2018 Honda Integra

2017 Honda Integra DCT Review / Specs - Automatic Motorcycle / Scooter

The Integra – launched in 2012 as one of three models in Honda’s New Concept (NC) platform – takes its name from the fact that it integrates the comfort, style and convenience of a scooter with the dynamic handling and engine performance of a motorcycle. Equipped as standard with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), for 2014 its torque, fuel-efficient twin-cylinder engine was increased in capacity from 700cc to 745cc. Sharper styling, improved ergonomics and handling complemented the extra power and performance. 2016 saw the Integra receive upgrades that included 41mm Showa Dual Bending Valves (SDBV) front forks, 3-level S mode for the DCT, full LED lighting and LCD instruments. The Integra’s evolution continues for 2018 with refinements to the DCT and additions to the engine’s electronics package, further enhancing an already great package from Honda.

2018 Honda Integra Changes? Yes!

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2018 Honda NM4

2018 Honda NM4 - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

The bat-mobile motorcycle is back for 2018! Well, that may not be its name in all technicality but that’s what I like to call this gem of a weird lil’ bike. When I say weird, I’m not really ‘hating’ on this motorcycle as I love this thing… There’s something to be said about riding a bike that makes people come up and ask you about it no matter if they are your typical ‘cruiser’, ‘sport bike’ or ‘adventure bike’ crowd etc as this thing stops people in their track no matter what style of bike they ride or what they are in to so-to-say. Enough about its party trick when it comes to styling, there’s more to it than just looking like it was designed for batman to ride…

While it’s the NM4’s disruptive form that earns headlines and double takes, the model absolutely delivers in the function department as well. A low center of gravity, enabled in part by the forward-rotated mounting of the powerful, liquid-cooled 670cc parallel-twin engine, results in a comfortable, light-handling motorcycle with a low-slung, feet-forward cockpit from which it’s very easy to reach the ground at stops. The passenger seat converts into a flip-up, adjustable backrest, and the bodywork provides ample wind protection and four separate storage compartments. Gear changes are accomplished via a high-tech, smooth-shifting Dual Clutch Transmission, which has standard and sport automatic modes but can also be manually shifted via handlebar-mounted buttons. The innovative, customizable LED dash display features color-coding for the transmission modes and delivers a host of information, including fuel-mileage tracking. Competent for applications from commuting to cruising, the NM4 more than holds its own on the road. Just don’t expect to go incognito.

The NM4 is still considered a “limited production” model from Honda so you typically won’t see these just sitting around at your local Honda dealer like you can with some models that are made in massive quantities. I think that kind of adds to its appeal for some people though knowing that you won’t see a million of them out there on the roads with you.

2018 Honda NM4 Changes? None.

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2018 Honda Africa Twin DCT / CRF1000L

2018 Honda Africa Twin DCT Review / Specs - CRF1000L Adventure Motorcycle / Bike

The Africa Twin is back again for 2018 and badder than ever with a host of new changes as well as a new model variation added into the mix too (Africa Twin Adventure Sports – shown below). If you’d like to see a detailed breakdown of all the changes on the 2018 Africa Twin versus the 2017 check out the links above and below and they’ll send you straight there.
2018 marks 30 years since the legendary Honda XRV650 Africa Twin first rolled into Europe and while the motorcycle that now bears its name – launched in 2016 as the CRF1000L Africa Twin – shares no common part with its fore-runner, the machine’s ‘True Adventure’ philosophy means that it fully inherits the essence and spirit of what made the original so popular. The balance between power and weight is at the heart of the Africa Twin’s appeal, then and now. The current version has proved itself a modern-day all-rounder, hugely popular with round-the-world adventurers, commuters and casual tourers alike, because it offers enjoyable and usable engine performance in a chassis that works as well off-road as it does on.
For 2018 Honda is building on the Africa Twin’s strengths, and its success. The base model receives a host of detail upgrades to both manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) options that enhance the riding and owning experience, while the new Adventure Sports version (below) extends the platform even further into long-range off-road territory.
2018 Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L Changes? Yes. You can read up on all of the changes in-depth and extreme detail by Clicking Here for my 2018 Africa Twin Review / Buyer’s Guide.
Want even more 2017 Honda Africa Twin details? 

2018 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT (CRF1000L2)

2018 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports CRF1000L

It’s been 30 years since the legendary Honda XRV650 Africa Twin first rolled into Europe and while the motorcycle that now bears its name – launched in 2016 as the CRF1000L Africa Twin – shares no common part with the forerunner it inherits the essence and spirit of what made the original so good.

For 2018 Honda is building on the Africa Twin’s strengths, and its success. The base model CRF1000L Africa Twin receives a host of detail upgrades to both manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) options that enhance the riding and owning experience, while the new CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports version extends the platform even further into long-range off-road ready territory. Displayed previously in concept form, and developed as a powerful extension of the “True Adventure” mantra that drives the Africa Twin platform, the new Adventure Sports version features increased suspension travel, added ground clearance, enhanced creature comforts, and a larger fuel tank for extended range. Both the Adventure Sports and the standard Africa Twin feature a long list of updates to the engine, electronics, and rider interface, while continuing to offer an ideal balance of power and light weight. For a detailed breakdown on everything that sets the Africa Twin Adventure Sports version apart from the standard Africa Twin, check out my Review by Clicking Here.

2018 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports Changes? None to list this year as it is a new model for 2018.

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2018 Honda Gold Wing DCT

2018 Honda GoldWing Review / Specs - GL1800 Motorcycle

The Honda Gold Wing, since its introduction as a naked 1000cc machine in 1975 has always been the ultimate in two-wheeled travel. And it’s a motorcycle that’s been very much on its own journey, growing in physical size and displacement over the decades, all the while creating an enduring and unrivaled reputation for luxury, quality and comfort. Now, in response to the evolution of demographics and the motorcycle market, the development team in charge of the bike’s future have decided on a radical departure from what would be a traditional update trajectory.

So for 2018 the GL1800 Gold Wing takes a new direction and is brand new from the wheels-up. It still has an evocative, flat six-cylinder engine that delivers an avalanche of torque and power, and it still remains Honda’s flagship premium tourer, loaded with features that allow two people to ride in style. Yet it’s smaller, much lighter and much more agile – very much a true ‘rider’s motorcycle’. And as a result the new Gold Wing’s appeal is broader, reaching out to a younger generation of motorcyclists that may have overlooked – or simply not been aware of – the previous design. As happy on an urban commute as it is the open road, the Gold Wing is now a bike for all reasons, rather than just one.

Sharing a common engine and chassis platform, the new ‘Gold Wing will be available as the base model GL1800 Gold Wing, and as a ‘Tour’ edition with top box, which will also offer a version equipped with DCT and air bag. So technically for 2018, the Gold Wing is like the F6B and the Gold Wing Tour is like what we have grown accustomed to calling the “Gold Wing”.

2018 Honda Gold Wing Changes? Yes, a lot! You can read up on all of the changes in-depth and extreme detail by Clicking Here for my 2018 Gold Wing Review / Buyer’s Guide.

Want even more 2018 Gold Wing details? 

2018 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT

2018 Honda GoldWing Tour Review / Specs - GL1800 Motorcycle

Want the “Cadillac” version of the new 2018 Gold Wing with all of the available storage including the trunk and saddlebags etc? Then the Tour version of the Gold Wing is for you.

The Honda Gold Wing, since its introduction as a naked 1000cc machine in 1975 has always been the ultimate in two-wheeled travel. And it’s a motorcycle that’s been very much on its own journey, growing in physical size and displacement over the decades, all the while creating an enduring and unrivaled reputation for luxury, quality and comfort. Now, in response to the evolution of demographics and the motorcycle market, the development team in charge of the bike’s future have decided on a radical departure from what would be a traditional update trajectory.

So for 2018 the GL1800 Gold Wing takes a new direction and is brand new from the wheels-up. It still has an evocative, flat six-cylinder engine that delivers an avalanche of torque and power, and it still remains Honda’s flagship premium tourer, loaded with features that allow two people to ride in style. Yet it’s smaller, much lighter and much more agile – very much a true ‘rider’s motorcycle’. And as a result the new Gold Wing’s appeal is broader, reaching out to a younger generation of motorcyclists that may have overlooked – or simply not been aware of – the previous design. As happy on an urban commute as it is the open road, the Gold Wing is now a bike for all reasons, rather than just one.

Sharing a common engine and chassis platform, the new ‘Gold Wing will be available as the base model GL1800 Gold Wing, and as a ‘Tour’ edition with top box, which will also offer a version equipped with DCT and air bag. So technically for 2018, the Gold Wing is like the F6B and the Gold Wing Tour is like what we have grown accustomed to calling the “Gold Wing”.

2018 Honda Gold Wing Tour Changes? Yes, a lot! You can read up on all of the changes in-depth and extreme detail by Clicking Here for my 2018 Gold Wing Tour Review / Buyer’s Guide.

Want even more 2018 Gold Wing Tour details? 

Models not returning for 2018:

Honda VFR1200X DCT / CrossTourer

2018 Honda VFR1200X DCT Review / Specs - Automatic VFR 1200 Motorcycle / Bike

The VFR1200X / Crosstourer, launched in 2012 in other countries around the world, is Honda’s range-topping adventure sports touring motorcycle. The VFR1200X didn’t make its appearance here in the USA until the 2016 model year. If the Africa Twin DCT is a little too “bare” for you and you want more creature comforts and something that will eat up those highway miles better than any other adventure motorcycle from Honda – the VFR1200X is for you! The original design team, led by Large Project Leader Yosuke Hasegawa, set out to create a machine that gave the rider a sense of challenge and the facility to explore. Equipped with a 1,237cc V4 engine, advanced chassis and electronic package – Combined ABS, Traction Control System (TCS) and the option of Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox – the Crosstourer firmly planted a flag at the high-performance end of the adventure segment. As a go-anywhere, do-anything tool it has few peers – but its real difference lies in the addictive power and soundtrack produced by its soulful V4 engine, something unique in this class.

Want even more Honda VFR1200X details? 

How easy is it to ride one of the DCT / Dual Clutch Transmission Automatic Honda motorcycles?

Very easy! You have essentially (3) drive modes. You can put it in D which stands for Drive and just roll on the throttle to go. You also have a Sport mode shown below with the S. It shortens up the gear ratio inside the transmission and shifts quicker etc while still keeping it fully automatic. Want to change gears manually? Click it over into Manual mode shown above by MT and then you can click through the gears on the left side of the handlebar pictured below.

2018 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycle Controls - X-ADV, Africa Twin, CTX700, CTX700N, NC700X, NM4, Vultus

2018 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycle Controls - X-ADV, Africa Twin, CTX700, CTX700N, NC700X, NM4, Vultus

We do still have some that look down on automatic motorcycles considering them as nothing but a glorified scooter so-to-say. More and more are giving them a chance though and I can say that everyone who has taken one for a demo ride is surprised by how much they enjoyed it. I have more and more people who have ridden for many years decide to go with an automatic model as their next motorcycle and to date haven’t had a single one regret their purchase. It’s amazing how much more you pay attention to other things around you can what all you can take in when you aren’t thinking about changing gears etc. They aren’t for everyone of course but I think this segment of the market will continue to grow over the years.

Some of you may be asking where certain automatic models are from Honda. This list is only for what Honda classifies as a “motorcycle” and not their scooters. I know, the line that divided the differences between motorcycles and scooters used to be clear as day but that line has become as blurred as possible. Ask people 10 years ago what the difference was between a motorcycle and a scooter and odds are they’ll say the automatic transmission on a scooter is what really sets it apart from a manual transmission motorcycle but that’s not the case anymore.

As always, I love to hear what you guys think…


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