Clutchless Aprilia headed to SA
2008-02-14 08:04
A version of the futuristic Aprilia Mana, which incorporates technology that negates the necessity for a clutch, is on its way to South Africa and could soon become a regular face on our roads.
Unlike earlier self-shifting motorcycles that faded into oblivion due to lack of interest caused by sluggish performance, the lively Mana offers riders the option of using any of three fully automatic modes (Sport, Touring and Rain), as well as two manual options. These are operated either through the usual lever near the left foot, or sequentially via using two buttons on the handle bars.
The auto modes are continuously variable, with electronics manipulating gear ratios and throttle response to suit the selected riding conditions, and the two manual options both provide slick shifting through seven ratios without the need for a clutch - much like the speedshifter on a racing motorcycle.
According to the Aprilia factory gear changes are quicker and slicker with this system than with a standard transmission.
The Mana (which means 'the stuff from which magic is made' in Polynesian and other Oceanic languages) is unique in that it's a full-sized 850cc V-twin motorcycle that combines exciting sports-bike levels of performance on the open road with the practicality of a scooter around town.
The bike is loaded with features that make it perfect for the city commuter. A dummy fuel tank opens to expose a non-slip, non-scratch luggage compartment and courtesy light. This compartment is large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet, along with cellular-phone and document storage compartments.
The Mana also features a 12V power socket, an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that relieves the rider of the burden of operating clutch and gear levers in traffic, an under-the-seat fuel tank that keeps the centre of gravity low, a handbrake for when you park on hills, and a stainless-steel exhaust incorporating a catalytic converter. But the Mana is not only practical as an urban commuter, it can also be used with great effect to cover large distances cross-country.
The 850cc 90° V-twin creates 57kW and is linked to a seven-speed manually operated sequential gearbox that allows quick clutchless shifting. The power unit is housed in a steel trellis frame with a single-piece aluminium swingarm and complemented by 43mm upside-down front forks, monoshock rear suspension adjustable for preload and rebound damping, four-pot radial front brake calipers clamping twin 320mm discs, and a single 260mm rear disc.
The Aprilia Mana has been well received in Europe, where many scooter riders are expected to use it as a means of shifting from basic two-wheeled transport to serious motorcycling. Motorcyclists who do a lot of city commuting are buying it to make life easier in heavy traffic on weekdays, while the sporting nature of the machine makes it an suitable recreational machine.