While automatic transmission has existed for decades in our cars, it is still not unanimously accepted on 2-wheelers, variator transmission aside from scooters. The fault, it is true, lies with a public that is more passionate than pragmatic and who still appreciate being able to “play” with the mechanics, which an automatic transmission does not necessarily allow.. Although the first attempts at automation in motorcycles are not new – the Moto Guzzi V1000 Convert was launched in 1975 – it was Honda who democratized it with its VFR1200 DCT in 2010. A “dual clutch transmission”, translate to double clutch, since adopted on other flagship models in the range (Africa Twin, Goldwing, etc.). And now BMW is entering the dance through the front door, since it is its new R1300GS Adventure which inaugurates the ASA, for Automated Shift Assistant, which remains optional (€900).
A well-managed automatic transmission
Concretely, the ASA is a traditional gearbox assisted by two small electric motors, one for the clutch and the other to manage the gears. Needless to say, this voluntary technical choice on the part of BMW is immediately felt on the handlebars. After waking up the 1300 cm3 flat twin, you still have to kick the selector to engage 1st gear, but without any clutch lever. Anyway, there isn’t one! Then, it’s as if you were riding a standard motorcycle, where gear changes are synonymous with a break in torque and from time to time a slight “klong”. But thanks to well-refined management, the gears move up and down wisely depending on the rotation of the accelerator and the pressure on the brake.. Clearly, it is not necessary to switch to sport mode for the box to make the right decisions, even when driving more dynamically. As for very slow speeds in town, the gearbox remains stuck in second gear, with slippage very well managed so as not to unbalance the bike and its rider. It is only in the event of slight deceleration in a freewheeling manner that the transmission is slow to engage the gears. A rather natural operation, especially since at any time, it is possible to take control again via the traditional foot selector.
Once you have understood these instructions, which obviously require several hours on the handlebars before being completely assimilated, you still have to take advantage of the road qualities of the new R1300GSA and its incredible Boxer. A flat-twin whose 145 hp and almost 150 Nm of torque can take you gently at low revs as well as catapult you into the ropes at the first acceleration. On the other hand, don’t expect a more harmonious melody than before, this twin remains kind of… rough to the ear.
-A motorcycle always above the rest
Technically identical to the standard BMW R1300GS, this XXL trail therefore displays the same strengths, a hint of less agility, in particular due to the 270 kg in running order. But you have to be fussy so as not to be satisfied with behavior that is difficult to find fault with. At all speeds and whatever the route, the Bavarian manages to make you fly over the road at the same time, without cutting you off from the asphalt.. A rigor in braking and precision in the angle which were already the prerogative of the “small” GS to which this Adventure adds an undeniable touch of comfort. Particularly because of increased protection with a huge tank (30 liters) between the legs and a high bubble (also electric) so that the chest, hands and legs are sheltered from the wind and rain. However, some will find that ergonomics loses, because the driving position involves spreading the legs a little further. And we despair that BMW will not be able to manage the splashes of water that paint the back of your calves when the road is wet…
For a first, this automatic transmission turns out to be quite successful. Even if you shouldn’t expect the smoothness of a double clutch, efficiency remains there whatever the driving style.. Keep in mind that a 30-minute test drive at the dealership may not be enough to assess all of its qualities. Also note that ASA is available on the standard R1300GS, for €900. A “small” GS which remains more manageable and easier on a daily basis compared to an Adventure reserved for frequent travelers.
