They might not be for everyone, but automatic motorcycles appeal to a fairly diverse set of riders. New riders, old riders, riders with pain or mobility issues due to past injuries, riders sick of stalling out at a green light and looking like a noob, kids… The list could go on. Whatever removes a barrier for entry to someone who wants to ride is all right in my book. So we’re going to celebrate some of the best auto bikes out there this year with a rundown of the most appealing options available in 2021.
You’ll notice straight away that Honda has the gas-powered automatic market cornered with its DCT-equipped mounts (sure it’s not a true automatic but it’s twist-and-go nonetheless). Electric bikes shouldn’t be overlooked though, especially for their Earth-conscious appeal. And scooters, rocking that CVT transmission, definitely warrant mention for in-town use.
2021 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT
Honda gave the world its biggest Rebel yet with the new 1100 (read and watch it in action during the 2021 Honda Rebel 1100 MC Commute Review and Is Honda’s 2021 Rebel 1100 DCT Cruiser a Modern Sportster? reviews), and on top of the notable power boost and electronics package, it also offers riders a DCT option at $9,999. This bike was a big step for Honda considering the decades it left the Rebel in the sub-500cc category. And after our first ride on it we’d say Honda has a hit on its hands. It’s comfortable, handles well, has a respectable amount of power and lean angle along with some useful creature comforts like a USB port and LED lighting. The authentic cruiser aesthetic with a twist-and-go version for a reasonable price is a win, win, win.
2021 Honda NC750X DCT
The second of four Honda entries on the list, the NC750X DCT is a more utilitarian machine than the Rebel, with some light off-road capabilities, more lean angle, upright riding position, and integrated wind protection. It’s a little easier on the pocketbook too at $8,999. It proved to be a great commuter and the short-shifting nature of the DCT helped maximize fuel economy. This bike also comes with an underseat fuel tank, providing storage space up where the gas usually goes. That has always been an appealing feature of this particular model, and when combined with its DCT transmission, the NC750X has a lot of appeal to riders in the city who want something convenient and easy to use.
2021 Yamaha XMAX Scooter
For comfort and full-size convenience, the $5,699 XMAX scooter from Yamaha is an enticing option for city riders. The 292cc single can handle stints on the freeway if required, but this CVT machine really shines on surface streets. It’s got loads of storage, wind protection, LED lighting, ABS, and a full range of accessories. I also don’t think scooters get the kind of love they deserve in the States and I’d bet there is an untapped population of folks who would be riders for life if they experienced a machine like this.
2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT
Honda updated its Gold Wing for 2021 with improved passenger seating, new audio system, and more storage capacity in the trunk. Its top-of-the-line Tour DCT prices at $29,300 and without a doubt is the most luxurious ride on this list. The Gold Wing has earned its top-tier status among touring rigs over the decades, and with the twist-and-go convenience of DCT this plush, long-travel bike is a great choice for riders looking to eat up tons of miles in comfort. You can also get a Tour DCT with an airbag, or opt for the standard Gold Wing, also available with the auto transmission.
2021 Indian eFTR
There are a growing number of kids electric bikes on the market, and one of the coolest of 2021 is the Indian eFTR. This little replica tracker takes its styling cues from the FTR750 but provides the operational simplicity of an electric. All junior needs to do is hop on, turn the throttle, and go. While it is important for kids to get the basics down pat if a life of riding awaits ahead, but for pure fun at an acceptable noise level even for in-town backyard use, the $749.99 eFTR is one hard bike to beat.
Damon Motorcycles Hypersport SX
At the other end of the electric spectrum is the new Hypersport SX from Damon Motorcycles. The SX starts at $19,995 and boasts some innovative tech, like the Damon CoPilot system which utilizes radar to notify the rider of potential safety hazards. Its Shift system alters the ergos of the bike from sport to commuter positions on the fly. There are 150 ponies on tap and a 150-mile range and a 2.2-hour charge time at a Level 2 charging station.
2021 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT
The name’s a mouthful, but this top-line Africa Twin has the best Honda has to offer in the adventure realm in 2021. (Read about it in the 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT MC Commute Review and Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT Review) It prices at $17,999 and is a highly sophisticated bike with a bevy of electronic goodies ranging from semi-active suspension, ride modes, traction control, wheelie control, and a lot more, including DCT in this iteration. Our run on last year’s version showed that Honda has gotten this technology absolutely dialed for on- and off-road use.
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com