It seems the japanese motorcycle companies could borrow the dual clutch transmission (DTC) technology from the automobile world for their next generation R1 and CBR1000 RR. Honda VFR1200 F already uses DTC, but the next step would be develop this technology on superbike models, where it would work slightly differently. But Honda is not the only japanese factory who is planning an electronically controlled gearbox for his sportbike, Yamaha is developing his own system, too.
The DCT of Honda VFR1200 F
Rumours suggest that Honda is already working on the second generation DTC for their sportsbikes, and Yamaha could be doing the same for its R1. According to british press reports, the new system would be less complex, less electronically controlled and cope better with sharp gear changes than that used on the touring model. Rumours have it that Yamaha is developing a simplified system than the Honda one, using a split input shaft and two clutches at opposite sides of the gearbox. It looks like the DTC will be dedicated to racing models, but the DTC’s effect of weight distribution across superbike models has yet to be seen.
Yamaha R1 could get DCT, too
