a lot of people can not drive a stick shift and don't want to try to ride a bike for that reason. do you think people had this same conversation when they started putting automatics in horseless carriages?
03 Honda VTX 1800c
87 Yamaha TT350
86 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 (sold) Have fun in Mexico Mr. Vulcan!
YES my spellin sucks, get over it, or you can be my personal spell check
The CVT system used in scooters is not a good comparison. The DN-01 has automatic transmission, but it doesn't use belts like CVT's. It's a hydraulic transmission with shaft final drive output and mechanical lockup. It's kind of unique in the motorcycle world, I can't think of anything else like it (but I'm sure some of the more mechanically-oriented members will....)
The detuned 680cc twin in the DN-01 and it's 595lb weight will probably limit performance more than that transmission. The transmission is kind of cool, some engineering went into that.
All that said, I'd prefer to shift for myself. But if I was interested in an automatic transmission bike, I'd take a serious look at the DN-01. I've ridden scooters with CVT's before (Honda Reflex). This system is more sophisticated.
Agreed, I'd much rather have the control and such of shifting myself, but the Honda DN-01 is just like an automatic car... Torque Converter, automatic transmission, shaft drive... Sounds just like my Camry... haha
But yeah, if you're not a shifter, rock on the DN-01!
Have owned - 2001 Suzuki Volusia
Current bike - 2005 Kawasaki Z750S
MMI Graduation date January 9th, 2009. Factory Certifications in Suzuki and Yamaha
If you've never ridden before and don't have a physical impairment that would keep you from riding a normal bike, then I would learn on a regular bike. At $14.5k very unique motorcycle I imagine you'd have one of the most expensive trainers ever.
As to the power, can't be worse than my 74 cb360 and that thing is a blast to ride.
The CVT clutch has been improved and perfected since when it first came out, The Nissan Sentra uses a CVT system. Its so simple by changing the gear ratio with a moveable pulley and weights, new materials making belts more durable.
2009 Yamaha TMAX
2008 Suzuki King Quad 750AXI
2011 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 DC Trd Sport, 6 sp manual