Manual vs. Automatic Motorcycles: Which One Suits You Best?

Buying a vehicle is usually not a simple choice, just picking one at random or settling on the first one because of its color. In addition to carrying out a thorough analysis of our tastes and needs, it is also important to highlight that it requires a significant financial effort on the part of the consumer. It is common to ask many questions as well as to make comparisons between different models, brands and features.

However, when it comes to buying motorcycles, one of the most common doubts riders usually have is whether they should choose an automatic motorcycle or rather opt for a manual one. To help you choose the best option for you, we have prepared this complete article. Here we explain the main differences and advantages between automatic and manual motorcycles so that making the decision becomes easier. After all, what type of motorcycle do you prefer?

What are the differences between automatic and manual motorcycles?

Before deciding on a motorcycle, it is important to know the differences between automatic and manual ones. After all, an automatic motorcycle is not ridden in the same way as a manual one. But what exactly are all the differences between them?

• Gear shifting - Automatic motorcycles do not have a clutch to change gears; the gear shift occurs as the bike accelerates. Manual motorcycles, on the other hand, do have a clutch, with the rider adapting to the speed and terrain while riding.
• Rider’s skill - On automatic motorcycles, the rider’s skill is less important, since the rider only needs to accelerate and decelerate while the bike itself selects the necessary gear. In contrast, riding a manual motorcycle requires more skill, both in attention to control the vehicle and in reading the bike’s needs in each situation.
• Ease of riding - Automatic motorcycles are much easier to handle, more comfortable, and easier to ride in the city. The most common automatic models are scooters.

Advantages of automatic motorcycles

After reviewing the differences between automatic and manual motorcycles, there are always doubts about which are better depending on each person’s use and needs. Factors such as comfort, speed, or power can be important to consider before making a choice. Interested in automatic motorcycles? Their main advantages are:

• Easy to ride - Without a clutch, automatic motorcycles are much easier to ride. For this reason, they are often chosen by riders who do not have much experience. Their use is very similar to that of a bicycle, since both handlebars are used for braking.
• Larger storage - Most models of automatic motorcycles have much more storage space than other types, and it can be expanded whenever necessary.
• Lower fuel consumption - Many riders choose automatic motorcycles because they know fuel consumption is much lower. This happens because acceleration is uniform, consuming very little fuel in the process.

Disadvantages of automatic motorcycles

Automatic motorcycles also have some disadvantages, such as:

• Smaller wheels - This makes it easier to lose balance.
• More difficulty overtaking - Because of their uniform acceleration, they cannot deliver explosive acceleration, which makes overtaking on the road more difficult.

Advantages of manual motorcycles

Just like automatic motorcycles have certain advantages, manual ones also offer many benefits. Here are some of the most important:

• More power - Manual motorcycles have much more power than automatics, with engines reaching up to 1900cc. This makes it possible to use them both in the city and for long trips on highways.
• Better preparation - Learning to ride a manual motorcycle helps you be better prepared to handle other types of motorcycles, something that would otherwise be nearly impossible without an adaptation period.
• Wider tires - Unlike automatics, manual motorcycles usually have larger wheels, offering better grip and traction. This allows for safer riding on all types of roads.

Disadvantages of manual motorcycles

However, as with automatics, it is important to consider not only the advantages but also the disadvantages before choosing this type of vehicle. The main disadvantages are:

• Higher fuel consumption, especially for beginner riders.
• Time required to master them and to know exactly when to shift gears.

As you can see, the main difference between manual and automatic motorcycles lies mainly in the difficulty of riding them. Therefore, if you do not have much experience, the best option could be to start with an automatic motorcycle, as it will be much easier to get used to riding it.

Of course, besides choosing which motorcycles you want, it is also important to keep in mind the main breakdowns a motorcycle may suffer. After all, these are expenses to be considered over time when using a bike.