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Here are my few cents worth: I rode a NC750X DCT for several years, every day as my daily commuter. Where I lived (South Africa), lane-splitting was allowed. I put thousands and thousands of miles on that bike, and I absolutely loved my DCT gearbox. I can directly address many of the disadvantages mentioned in this video for STREET riding. When it comes to off-road riding... not so much - I have no experience riding off-road with a DCT Gearbox. Yes, the bike can't see what is coming, but I got to learn the bike so well, that I could instinctively give just the right amount of throttle input to get the bike to do what I wanted it to do. I learned how and when the bike would shift in all the shifting-modes. I could accurately anticipate each shift, and ride accordingly. This is important to note - I aligned my riding to what I knew the gearbox would do. With spending most of my time in traffic, I was in normal Drive Mode (D) most of the time. The best fuel economy I got was 450km on one 14.1L tank of gas - that is an average of 75 miles per gallon for that tank. I would often average 60 miles per gallon in town, due to the short-shifting nature of that parallel twin in Drive Mode. Down-shifting in a pinch was also not a problem - it became second nature to twist the throttle open wide, while simultaneously down-shifting one, or even two gears with my left thumb on the manual down-shifter button (as mentioned in the video, you can do this, even in automatic mode, and the bike will shift for you). By the time the throttle engages, I have dropped two gears already, and off I went. Dragging the rear brake during slow-speed riding is a good practice, even when you are on a manual bike. It is even good advice for when I ride my Mountain Bike! I really got to use it on my DCT NC750, and it is a skill I now have for life. Just lightly dragging the rear brake makes all slow-speed riding more stable and predictable. With the DCT gearbox, I learned that modulating the rear brake gave me lots of extra control over the power I could put down, which is NOT something I use on my manual bike. I agree that the DCT gearbox is probably not for people who love to ride hard all the time, or who often have a good old off-road thrashing. Don't get me wrong - I found the DCT plenty fun when I wanted it, but I am a more sedate rider by nature, and the DCT fits that riding style perfectly. Three years ago I moved to the United States, and had to sell my little NC750, with nearly 200 000km on. Today I ride a manual midweight adventure bike, but I am seriously considering getting a 2021 DCT Africa Twin, as it would meet most of my riding needs. Thanks for your video - very well put together!

Every single person who says that he prefer a manual bike, didn't ride DCT from Honda. Doesn,t suits every single individual, but those who tried it most likely are currently driving a Honda DCT. In Europe we mostly have stick shift cars and those riding an automatic, would never go back to manuals, but before trying, they always brag about they skills,the pleasure of driving, shifting etc. The same applies in motorcycling. I mostly don't agree with your disadvantages, you have manual mode or a Sport mode in case you want a greater control over the gearbox, but yes, it's still an automatic and not connected to your brain. In D it wants to be economical and sometimes is holding the engine so low in revs that just before downshifting, that the bikes starts to shake a bit. A thing i noticed: how do you want to easily make a u-turn if your head is pointing forward and not over the shoulder? 😂 I bought a DCT HONDA because i enjoy riding a bike but i don't enjoy "extra work". And this is my second DCT, first being a NC700SD that i loved so much. I would't ever go for manual again, it takes away my concentration. Don't get me wrong, I can shift like a pro, but it is still an extra job that needs to be taken care of and needs to be done properly every single time, otherwise can lead to nasty surprises. Thanks for your time making the video and i hope you're been taking my words from a constructive point of view. Best regards!

Hi - I live in Central Mexico. I bought my NC 750X DCT in 2020 when I retired. Previously I'd owned a number of manual shift bikes of various sizes. As stated in the video the DCT does have a learning curve and I agree its probably not a good choice for new riders but is one which is very quick to pick up on. Whilst I understand your reluctance to use the bike in Drive mode I find that for stop/start commuter traffic it works just fine. Also for long distance highway touring when traveling at close to maximum speed limits being in Drive mode is great and gives incredible low fuel consumption. If I need a bit extra oomph to overtake something then a downshift on the left hand paddleswitch provides it. Also changing your riding style to accomodate the DCT quickly becomes the norm, for example, when overtaking allow for a little more time to pull out and pass traffic rather than expecting to get a rocket boost to pull out and shoot past traffic in a flash. For general road riding out of town where the road has lots of bends and maybe some inclines and declines I use the Sport2 mode. This is especially useful when traveling with a passenger where in Drive mode my bike feels decidedly underpowered. Note here that the NC 750x is not a high powered bike to begin with and I suspect that a bike like the Africa Twin would be more obliging here. By far the biggest initial challenge for me was getting used to dragging the rear brake when slow speed riding and, as you noted in your video, particulary when making tight slow turns. The answer here is practice, practice, practice! In summary my feelings about the DCT echo those of Jan Coatzer to the letter. I love the system and have no wish to return to manual shifting. Not having to be concerned about using a clutch and manual shifter makes riding a much more enjoyable experience and as a more sedate rider in my advancing years burning up the asphalt whilst ripping through the gears is no longer my principle desire as a biker. I much prefer to let the DCT do its thing so that I have more time to take in the scenery :) Thanks for your very informative video.

The best video about DCT on KZfaq. After Honda made the DCT system available for more than five years, this is the best analysis and understanding of DCT published on the internet. To me, the biggest thing about the DCT is that anyone may use it right away with ease, but to use it at an expert level takes a lot of learning and experience. Thank you so much Big Rock Moto for training your attention onto this topic.

Before seeing the video I read the description “After riding the DCT Africa Twin back to back with the standard shift version, I am in a good position to tell it like it is.” That triggered me because you cannot just test ride the DCT and make up your mind. You need to own it and ride it for a long time to get used to it and to understand it. But seeing the video I fully agree with almost everything!! Good job! You really understand the DCT and presented it in a great way!! Well done!!

I had the 2019 AT1000 manual just changed it for the 2021 AT1100L DCT it’s fantastic😎

I've owned a 2018 DCT Adventure Sport for over a year now and ride it almost every day. I have ridden a small amount off road, but mostly on paved roads and often on long country rides. I watched your video all the way through and I agree in principle with your final assessment. But I believe there is a point here that is missed by almost every review out there including yours. This is not a bike with an Auto and Manual mode to be ridden strictly differently depending on which mode is selected. Too much time is spent trying to second guess what the bike will do or how the DCT will react. This is a bike that rides best when both modes are used actively together, for example the use of the gear paddle switched to control up shifting and down shifting as is your preference and then allowing the bike to take over again when you no longer have a preference for a gear. The programming used to decide when the gears are switched back to D mode from manual is sublime, as is the responsiveness for the gear selectors, up or down shifting is a near instantaneous gear change. When ridden in this way the bike is life changing, aggressively sporty and throaty with a responsiveness that inspires confidence. DCT is more different than most riders realise.

Thanks Ian, great summation of the AT DCT. I owned a 2017 AT DCT for 2 years and put a lot of miles on the bike, mainly on-road touring miles, with just a little bit of offroad. My default setting was S2, which tended to shift at the point where I would shift, and it was perfect for 90% of the time. You quickly learn that it can't see ahead the way you can and make pre-emptive changes, but a quick downshift with the thumb when approaching a bend or an overtake soon becomes second nature. The only time the system bugged me was in the Alps, where the road was more technical with mile after mile of steep up and downhill twisties, and the bike always seemed to be in the wrong gear. In this situation I used to switch it into manual mode and change up and down with thumb and forefinger. It performed perfectly using this method. I was tempted away from Honda by the new R1250GS and convinced myself that 'quick-shifter pro' was as good as DCT. It isn't! If I could pay to have DCT retrofitted to by GS, I'd do it an a heartbeat, and if I ever buy another Africa Twin (which I may well do), I would definitely go for the DCT version.

Had my 2018 DCT now for a couple of years and wouldn't go back to a manual, although I do have a Honda Blackbird with a manual shift. The DCT is great to ride for all the reasons you mentioned and the issues you raised are there but all in all its a great innovation and will only get better as new models roll out. Weight is a n issue with the AT but my mate has a BMW 850 and it's just as heavy if not heavier. At the end of the day it's what you enjoy and everytime I jump on my AT iI have a big smile on my face. Thanks for the very informative vid. Only by people explaining the characteristics of the DCT will more people become aware of it qualities.

I bought a 2016 DCT in 2017, knowing nothing about DCT.Have rode 16 000 miles touring UK and Europe and enjoyed every mile. Admittedly, only light off-road ,with road tyres. I agree with everything you said, slow speed tight manoeuvres are sometimes tricky but for general riding/ touring switch to manual and enjoy. The grin factor is Massive 😀

So Ian, I am a 65 year old who has been riding motorcycles since I was 10 years old. I fell in love with Adventure motorcycles long before they were called that. I first laid eyes on, and purchased a 1986 KLR 600, which was sadly stolen from my yard in late 1987. I then immediately purchased a 1988 KLR 650, which I still own and ride. Anyways, why I am writing is that in the spring I will be purchasing (if they will be available in the US) a 2024 Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT. The reason is that unfortunately as I advance in age, I have developed something called Neuropathy in my legs and feet which means I have no feeling and some reduced mobility in my ankles. This has made riding very difficult for me. Honda may have saved my love of this sport for me. I have been watching your channel for many years and while reviewing this one, I thought I would add physical difficulties as another reason someone may want/need to purchase a DCT. Anyways, thanks and keep doing what you do so well.

The DCT on my GW Tour is....... magical.....period ! I love this thing. I do not miss the clutch, simple as that. One thing I do recommend to all, on a cold engine, PLEASE warm her up before you throttle her. DCT loves warm oil.

Finally we get an unsponsored and unbiased review that is actually useful. I'm always wary of DCT owners telling me to get one, as you say, do your research and make you own decision. I would also say don't be swayed by a hungry salesman whose job is to conceal the reason you shouldn't buy something. For me there is also the day DCT starts misbehaving itself and where is my dealer. Another great balanced opinion video Sir. Thank you from UK.

I have 6 Manual bikes, both road and dirt and one AT DCT. It took me a while to adjust to the DCT but now I love it. I think the D Mode is fine for general touring within where sports is not needed. I’ve also added the foot shifter so I can also ride like I have a quick shifter bike. Overall I think it’s a great system. Thank you for the review.

I take my DCT to the Blue Ridge Parkway as often as possible and love every minute. I relax and sight see and don’t worry about shifting. It’s a game changer in the mountains !

Im riding for 30+ years owned several bikes. İn my opinion dct is the most important invention . I owned 2016 africa manuel 25 k km than owned Dct nc750 it was great bike than owned 2019 dct africa. Im in love with it. is has also anventages on offroad riding also. When riding on tight turna like hairpins you dont need to make half clutch and your left foot can support the bike.

I am 57 and I have all three types of motorcycles in the last 37 years of my life- scooter, manual shift and DCT. I cannot agree more with what you say in the video. Recently I bought myself a Rebel 1100 DCT model and I enjoyed the ride. Great video, indeed. Two thumbs up.

I ride an NC750X DCT, which I have had for about 18 months. Your video very much highlights the advantages and disadvantages and, as always, is a very balanced and helpful review. For business use in an urban environment it is difficult to fault. You can concentrate on everything that is going on around you without having to give a thought to what gear am you are in. You will always be quickest off at the lights and yet in D mode you will be getting excellent mpg. The two distinct disadvantages, in my view, are the slow control manoeuvres which, without the benefit of a clutch to feather, make it more tricky. It maybe that I just need to perfect the technique of using the rear brake to modulate my speed. The second that I find (at least in D mode) is the lack of engine breaking. This, of course, can be improved by using the sports mode. That said, the ease with which one can make a manual gear change with the levers, means that you can override the DCT with ease, but this only comes with experience. 95% of the time I wonder why all bikes aren't made this way!

I have a 2021 Honda Rebel 1100DCT and I really like it. I have been riding for a very long time and it took a few minutes to get used to, but that was it. You are spot on with the advantage/disadvantage section of your video. My biggest advantage besides the fact that riding in heavy traffic is now effortless, is that now I can enjoy riding a little more by NOT having to think about what gear I'm in and whether or not I should shift.

We love the Honda DCT system, but here's our pipe-dream idea/wish for the future: DCT is already lightning-fast and fully computerized, we also have throttle-by-wire. Why not include a clutch-by-wire too? With electronic foot shifter, of course. I theory they could make the experience indistinguishable, with the best of both worlds - choose quickshifter or automatic mode while keeping full clutch control. Wouldn't that be the Holy Grail of motorcycling? :)

Getting older and clumsier, I think dct might extend my riding career.

DCT gear shifts with the optional foot lever are AWESOME ! Sport mode S2 is super and D-mode is just to save fuel - perfect for long adventure rides !

I have the dct box on my vfr1200x crosstourer. I bought the bike because of the dct box. It's brilliant for all the reasons you espouse. The extra weight is not a factor on the already heavy crossy. Touring with a pillion is amazingly comfortable. I also have a standard box on my Yamaha, and I prefer the Honda every time - such that the Yamaha is being sold!!

This channel and your thourough reviews have convinced me to get the Africa Twin with a DCT as my first adventure bike. I wish all reviews were as solid as yours. Thanks!

I recently bought a 2022 NC750X DCT and I really love it. I have some physical limitations that cause me to have difficulty shifting a traditional motorcycle anymore. I learned and rode on traditional bikes for many years, but as I get older, my issues make it very difficult to continue to do so. The DCT makes it a whole new ballgame. I'm still learning to deal with the lack of a clutch as far as using it in low-speed maneuvers, but I find that using the rear brake and being smooth on the throttle makes up for much of what I've lost with the clutch deletion. The DCT is a great thing for those of us who have lost feeling in our lower legs and feet. :)

Riding a 2016 DCT Africa Twin myself for almost two years now. The reason I got it was because of riding home-work-home every day and lanesplitting a good portion of those daily rides. I had been in a accident at work with woodworking machines, leaving me with 2 fingers half amputated on my left hand. This happened a few years earlier. So commuting daily always left me with painfull (half) fingers and stress about traffic/using the clutch ALL the time. I should have gotten a DCT right after having the accident, it is the best riding experience for me for sure! Looking back at riding the DCT for almost two years now, I would recommend it to anyone!

Excellent review. Absolutely well done. This is without a doubt the best DCT review that I have seen.

All good points, thanks for covering the DCT. I have a Wing DCT, and yes I had to adjust some riding techniques. Slow Control is one of the most difficult things to master, and I’m not quite there yet. I took a class in May 21, given by active motor officers, and one of them rode my friends DCT (he was taking the same class) and he rode it through their course like he had been riding it forever. One of the most important points you made is learn on a shifter first, you have to know the basics to be able to advance to a different platform with competence.

This video is a great example of why I like your content. You go thoroughly into detail and you cover everything that matters, I really apreciate what you are doing! Btw. I have watched this video already probably like 4 times 😁

Just brought a new Africa Twin DCT and love it! Getting used to it off road, foot brake tip is the best, been riding for 30 years and it’s so nice to ride. Great videos thank you!!

Thank you fore your info, I am 66 and have been riding over 50 years. I presently own 3 Victory Motorcycles (love them) but life is short and I was at the Honda dearler today looking to get a Goldwing DCT. I NEVER have ridden one and your video is making feel more like I would like to get one: Thank you very much and great job.

Have GW dct and love it. All OK in twisties if switched to manual. I didn't know I was suposed to have a problem with slow speed turns until watching this video, LOL!

Have to say that your reviews are the best, most thorough and balanced I have come across on this platform. Particularly enjoyed your Transalp and NC750 series😀Greetings from the UK👍

I was vehemently against this technology for many years. I guess it is my advanced years talking or I am more open-minded to change. Ultimately it is about the ride and our motorcycle culture and community. Who cares what you have or what you ride. It is the fact you have the balls to get away from the ordinary and the mundane. Complacency is death. Good presentation as usual. Pensive and entertaining!

I watched this video before I bought my NC700x DCT in early September 2021. Pretty much spot on. The NC700/750 is not as capable off road as the Africa Twin but the same advantages and disadvantages apply equally. Slow speed control is a learning process, took me about a week in a parking lot to get a smooth 18’ u-turn consistently. The auto mode is a joy in the city. On the road and especially in the twisties I have learned to combine manual shifting while still in sport mode to get the best cornering and smoothness. I recently moved the rear foot brake to the left side of the handlebar(Some AT owners have done this also). It opens up a whole new experience in control. Off-road it frees up the right foot to dab or counter balance. On road it lowers the braking response time and improves feedback for me.

Thank you for making such a great video. You’re a helping person to the community.

You have hit the nail on the head with all your conclusions. Having owned the 2018 ATAS with the DCT for 3 years now, l made some small riding adjustments that overcame any of the shortcomings of this great machine. The move I use most often is downshifting while in sport mode, it’s so convenient to tap your thumb down before a turn or a pass, then grab a handful of throttle and hang on, let the bike up shift for you. Puts a smile on my face every time !

(Warning: lengthy feedback, get your readers on) The bike is new to you so I'll just give a few small updates from someone that has driven one over 10,000 km now. Although it is rare, you can stall the bike. It usually happens just as you are taking off and if the engine and transmission are cold, but yes, it has happened a few times. I learned to ride on scooters, and graduated to this after several years, so for me the DCT was a natural choice as I'm used to "twist and go" technology. It may be harder for older riders that have used a clutch for decades to get used to this. It tends to favor lower rpms even in sport mode but the override paddle shifter works brilliantly for those times when you are chugging up a hill or pulling out to pass a transport truck. The engine braking is annoying unless you are going down a steep hill, it can be quite jerky, but after a while you develop much more finesse on the throttle and a few changes in your settings help to smooth it out. Then it's not too bad. As far as anticipation of gear changes, give it some time and you will realize that this bike is a lot smarter than you give credit. The electronics and built in gyro do know when you are coming down a steep hill or rounding a sharp corner, it knows all that, trust me. I agree with D mode being useless. It's like riding a tractor. I always ride in S2 just to make the rpms go to a normal range. Burns more gas though. Don't expect to get 600km out of a tank in S2. More like 350. I don't think it will upshift while you are leaning the bike. The Gyro tells it not to. At least, I've never had that problem, and there is always the paddle shifter if you think it's revving a bit low on that bend. I can't speak much for off-roading other than to say the bike is fully engineered to handle just about anything, that all comes down to rider skill and experience, but I have taken it on a few dodgy rail trails as a beginner and still made it through without dropping the bike. I owe that to the bike's engineering more than my skill level since I have none when it comes to deep sand or gravel. I don't worry much about 25 lbs. I put more than that in my top box, but the bike overall is quite heavy. People who have this bike should make sure they can lift it, which is not easy at over 550 lbs. Yep even after a full year and many practice sessions in the parking lots, I'm still struggling with U turns and low speed maneuvers with this bike. I've finally resigned to (usually) paddle walking it when I need to do tight maneuvers. All I can say from what I've learned so far is don't be afraid to lean it. This is more important with the DCT than worrying about the rear brake. I see even in your video when you tried a tight U turn, you were keeping the bike straight, and that's why you couldn't turn very well. Lean that sucker and give it some torque to keep it from falling. Guys that teach slow speed riding courses say once you know how, the Africa Twin is like "cheating" when it comes to U turns. You could also mention the cruise control and how much that helps on long trips. I use mine all the time now and it really saves your wrist. If I end up selling this bike one day and getting a touring bike, I'll most likely go for the Goldwing DCT, if I can get one, they have been sold out in Ontario for the past two years. This is all just feedback from someone who has had one for a year or so. Subject to change over time. Everything else you mentioned is spot on!

I own a 2023 Africa Twin with DCT, and I rarely experience unvoluntary upshifts for the sake of fuel economy. Two things to mention: if you fully close the throttle, the DCT won't upshift at all, so you have your full engine brake. And the newer AT models have a so called 6 axis IMU, which can detect leaning angles. The AT uses this information for adjusting the ABS braking in corners, and it uses IMU data to keep the DCT from shifting unneccesarily in turns. However, you still may encounter unexpected downshifting in very narrow turns (for example in small runabouts) when you enter the turn in 2nd gear and slow down very much. In order not to stall, the bike may shift down in 1st gear, which is quite an odd feeling when you encounter it the first time. When riding with DCT you should not always rely on the DCT to properly shift down. I made the experience once or twice that I approached an intersection and wanted to stop, and I just pulled the brake. The powertrain felt like still pushing forward so I had the impression that I had to brake down against the engine. This becomes much, much better when you shift down manually, before the DCT computer realizes that you seriously want to get slower. And another thing to mention: There is this Austrian guy named "Varahannes" who has put over 400,000 miles so far on a 2016 Africa Twin with DCT. He says that during normal riding he never touches the rear wheel brake: "I downshift instead, DCT is my rear brake." Last thing to mention: If you want to shift manually and miss a foot lever, Honda sells you one for your AT with DCT. It costs about 500 USD, at least over here in Germany.

I bought a 22 Goldwing for Christmas with the DCT . I love it . Riding through traffic is so much more relaxing especially going north from Florida through Atlanta . Any big city traffic is so much easier. On long multi state rides you can enjoy more of everything around you because you have 1 less thing to think about. I’ll still keep my FJR 1300 . 👍

I bought a 500 mile 2019 used with a DCT because it was a great deal. I was apprehensive at first but actually really like it now after putting 1k miles on it mostly off road. I’m an experienced off road rider/racer and really don’t see what the low speed ride-ability issues people talk about..use the front or rear brake to modulate speed and it’s not an issue. This is actually my first bike that wasn’t originally equipped with knobbys, so I’m ignorant to any on road concerns. Once you figure out which mode you like and get the traction control dialed its really nice. The only thing I think it doesn’t do well is anticipate down shifts, but the trigger shift is super easy and always available. Little known fact, Factory Honda racer Jean-Michel Bayle won a Japanese Supercross on a works DCT bike in the mid 90’s.

Great overview! I ride the 2018 AT Anniversary Edition with DCT and love it. My comment on D mode is to think of it as Touring Mode only. The quick upshifts and coasting are fine on the 4 lane roads, but I always ride in S mode. The shifting is fine and mostly better than I could do as it senses incline and braking force to make quicker downshifts when needed. Of course you can always downshift with a finger at any time. Your comment about WFO throttle is valid, but again I just hit the button and twist. haha Off-road G mode makes all the difference with how it shifts. I haven’t even explored User modes much, but that might satisfy some users particular needs better. Heavy traffic with DCT is a Godsend ! My old BMW had a 4 finger clutch and traffic was an exercise in forearm building. Thanks !

Great video ! I own a 2017 AT DCT, I love it so relaxing to ride. I wouldn't go back to a manual again if having the choice. It does great for my style of riding, a lot of gravel and paved back roads.

ride a dct NC750X before changing to 1250GSA, to be honest, some times, I do miss dct, it does reduce your workload. 1250gsa has a quickshifter, but you do need some tricks to make it work in a nice way .......

Love this video. It’s exactly what I needed. Just want to point out to Big Rock Moto that the section title about whether or not you would buy one says “would I BUT one.”

Thanks for posting this; thought provoking and timely.

Great video thxs Very informative I just bought my DCT last week I love it

Currently riding a Honda 750NC DCT and love it. Been very happy with it both in city traffic and on long term cruises.

I bought my DCT out of physical necessity. Love the way she floats on the superslab, chugs through town, and fishtails on the gravel. Good bike but I really hate the hard luggage it came with.

I have had my 2016 since 2016, I also have a trials background so learning the slow speed stuff was a piece of cake. When off road and 80% of the time on road ,I shift manually. I do not enjoy riding in groups and because of the excellent engine braking I would be afraid others may ride too close and dont feel like flashing my brake lights just to alert them. When cars are behind I am in the habit of flashing my brake lights. The paddle shifters are precise instantaneous and smooth. And as you stated "It's not an automatic!"

You nailed it. New Rider, only 15,000 kms under belt, had 2016 DCT. Absolutely the wrong bike for Noob. Then bought small 300L to learn off road control. Now learning that and the slow speed riding + manual and loving it. Now replacing DCT with manual. Hasn't arrived yet but given my interest about off road and off asphalt I am optimistic that now I will have the right bikes in the garage. Well at least for now.

Thank you for the great reviews especially on this particular motorcycle with DCT. As I will be traveling 99.9% on tar commuting and touring it all makes sense what you have mentioned in this video - I'm waiting on delivery from factory / distribution center to the dealership.

For my commute DCT sounds like a good option. I put an auto clutch in my current bike to help alleviate the slow speed, heavy traffic clutch work.

The ability to control the bike at slow speeds with the clutch is something I like to do regularly….ie, practicing low speed maneuvering. I can’t imagine not being able to use the friction zone to do that? However, the ability to ride through urban environments and long trips without having to constantly pull the clutch and shift the gears could definitely have its advantages. I don’t really mind it myself, and actually kind of enjoy using the clutch and shifting the gears manually. Just gives me the feeling of “yeah, I’m on a motorcycle!” If that makes sense? Of course, everyone who has a Harley can attest that at every opportunity you have to pull the clutch you have to give some throttle and hear that exhaust you spent so much money on!

I really enjoy your channel. most honest reviews. i am considering buying an africa twin but will probably opt for manual. call me old fashioned.

I just got a new Honda Rebel 1100 with the dct package and recently joined a vfw riders group ,most of the memebers are older and die hard Harley people , I've let a few guys ride my rebel and when they got back HUGE smile and a holy 💩 this thing hauls

That was a superb balanced assessment of the advantages/disadvantages of DCT. For me (a slow rider!), the only disadvantage would be control difficulty in tight low speed manoeuvres, u-turns etc. But I guess lots of practice would be the answer to that.

I rode Africa Twin 1000 2017 - 2019, Xadv 750 and the new Goldwing, the DCT is pure heaven, when you can stand up to get some wind without have to put your wrist into the clutch all the time. It's practical for me! And I love the way they sound, with higher gear, and low RPM, twist it and there you got the sound. I wish Honda make a smaller bike with another butter smooth DCT in Indonesia

That was very insightful, thanks

Thanx for honest opions & insights well done! Have had the DCT since 2019 on My great Vfr1200X Crosstourer & am a fan. Am also the lucky owner of old school XL650V Transalp. My expirience with DCT is very positive indeed. Dont think i would buy another new bike without it ever again. Like any new thing it needs time to grow on You. Weird at first but as you learn the behaviour its an absolutte joy. The offroad part yes it might tend at certain times to upshift at the ‘wrong’ time but by keeping finger on the downshifter you will learn to know When it happens. The magic of the DCT it will eventually seem to learn Your ridingstyle after a while & keep in gear longer. For touring & commucting its an absolutte pleasure & brings back the feeling i had as a kid riding for the first time. The Power Of Dreams.

Spot on analysis. Really nothing to add. I like mine a lot . And using the rear brake in a u turn is very natural to me. 2020 standard AT.

Great explanation of the DCT system. I’ve had 3 of these all DCT and for me never much of an issue. My 2020 model is the best incarnation yet. So slow stuff I trail the back brake. I find it gives much better slow control. I think I would struggle to want to return to a clutch bike for all the valid reasons you state. I think the AT is the best adventure bike at the moment . More reliable than the competition. Thanks for the vid. Always very informative.

Thank you Ian for an exelent presentation of DCT. I have a Honda X-ADV750 2017 70000km, never back to manual.

Great review, thank you. Will try it out when I get the chance.

Veey good video! Here in Greece, most CRF Africa Twins are manual .

Had mine for 6 months or so and really like it. For the most part I am use to some of the issues it has and it's now second nature. I frequently ride it from Pine Valley to Idlywild and back and try to hit as much dirt as we can and it works great!! Great review BTW....

I bought 2020 model cause left ankle fracture. Fantastic. You are correct about slow speed turning. Requires practice. I love the versatality given all the features

Tried the previous generation version and liked it a lot. I had seen the videos about using the rear brake and it was easier than turning my GoldWing with a manual clutch (it is a few hundred pounds lighter). I suggest that you try it before buy it. On the road it is wonderful, Don't rev the throttle at the light or you will be in for a big surprise.

Right on the money. I’ve owned nc700 and gold wing dct both are great saves your hand from cramping and I down shift with a flick of a button in 2 tenths of a second it will hold the down shift for 8 to 10 seconds. You were correct about down hill gear hold , I warn people about that as the biggest disadvantage. Was coming down a hill in Tennessee holding in 3rd and suddenly up shifted which sent me Accelerating towards the edge of the road very unnerving

I hadn't thought about gear changing as a distraction. I had learnt a bit about working memory being limited to thinking actively about roughly seven things at once. Now you point it out, considering how many things a rider has to take on board, removing the clutch as a distraction must free up brain space for other stuff. Good point. :)

Great review, thanks.

Nicely done. You've really upped your game on the channel.

I have 2020 Africa twin adventure sport es with DCT. I live in New York and I love it, I wouldn’t get regular shift bike anymore after having this bike.

Very nice review of the DCT system. From how I understand your explanation and what I've seen when you and others ride it, it seems to work in the same way as the Volkswagen DSG system. That system has been around ages and has proven itself thoroughly throughout that time.

I want one!!! Thanks for your comments

Very informative. I want to try the DCT on dirt and the street. Thanks

Thanks! This is the most serious, structured and unbiased analisys of the question. I think I'll go for DCT.

I bought a 2016 AT with DCT a year ago because it was what was available. I've grown to love the DCT, but I ride almost exclusively in manual mode. Shifts are smoother and quicker than I could ever achieve consistently with a manual clutch. But I like to control the gear. I live in a fairly hilly area and the DCT just can't cope with riding up a steep hill, especially at low speed. Off-road, it's great. The times I wish I could feather the clutch are getting fewer and farther between.

Another great video, thank you!

I have owned my 2019 AT Standard DCT for about a year and half now. I love it, there are only a couple instances where I would prefer a clutch. The first being riding off road and needing to pop the wheel up to go up and over an obstacle. I still haven't quite figured that out yet. The other instance is the ability to coast down hill. It would be nice if there was a way to disengage the clutch for that. I have had it shift on a corner twice that I can remember, the first time scared the crap out of me, and if it wasn't for traction control I would have gone down. The second time, I wasn't being very aggressive, so I was able to adjust before it was a problem. I think my favorite thing about the DCT is that fact that it is next to impossible to stall. This comes in very handy in sand and rocky hills. Thanks for your work. I have often thought I would make it to a Hump day ride with the Monkeys in hopes of meeting you, but it I usually don't have time to get out there from Orange county before Kickstand up time. Maybe one of these days.

Proud owner of DCT AT 2017 . Just amazing even on off-road with 60:40 or 50:50 tyres simply amazing experience . 👍🏻

I bought the AT without DCT. For me the risk of not liking the DCT was simply to great. I've put 8000 kilometers on it (since nov 2020) and I love everything about the bike. As a rider since 1970 using a clutch is second nature. Cruise control for my right hand was a necessary condition. That's where the problems are in long touring trips.

I have a 2021 Honda Gold Wing DCT and I love it. You do have to get use to using your back breaks and the throttle in slow turn maneuvering. I still think it’s easier using the friction zone with a clutch during slow speed turns, especially with a passenger. With that said, the DCT is the best all around experience.

Thank you for showing the slow turn technique/attempt.

Very interesting. I've never ridden a DCT but I have long used the rear brake to modulate power - it gives much improved control over the bike in slow traffic, lane splitting or just tight manoeuvring as you are doing here with the Honda. Slipping the clutch and riding the rear brake is an advanced riding skill but an essential one, particularly when riding slow with a pillion. I think DCT is the right transmission for a car because it permits much better control but I wouldn't get it for a bike though I'd be curious to try it.

The DCT is the best feature on my ATAS 2018. Love every ride. I share on my channel some of my weekend rides.

I love my 2016 DCT Africa Twin. It was a bit of a learning curve at first, now it stays in sport 1 and traction control off when I ride it. My 2007 KLR 650 is still a hoot to ride for a host of different reasons too.

Thanks a lot for your clear expression in this very informative video

Thank you For your great video , I ride a gsa 1200 , and find myself looking more and more at the Honda DCT , and today your the first person to sit down and talk of the main differences between ridding a manual or DCT , I just wished Honda uk would let us have a weekend test and not just an hour if your lucky. It’s such a massive change I couldn’t possibly decide in an hour if it’s for me , so I see me back at BMW for the new 1250 . What a shame Honda !

Coming from a VFR800F1 I specifically bought the Africa Twin AS ES 2021 because of the DCT, after riding the VFR1200X DCT of a friend. You just have to select the right mode for the job, and you are right the AT can’t think for you, so you have to do that! Setting up the 2 user modes can help… there you can set up engine brake and on the ES also the preload, damping and if set up is for on-road or off-road ABS. Strange enough not the G mode which is automatically set in the standard off-road mode. But can be set manual as well as the rear brake ABS. At least in the “gold” display, which I have set for each riding mode. When the set up is to your satisfaction, you can change to less information displayed. Thanks for your clear explanation, well done!

Thanks really enjoyed the dct review.

Thanks for the video. I'm a older rider and day after day of clutching aggravates my tennis elbow. We ride 2 up and appreciate gentle so thanks DCT

I'll add this, While ridding my Honda AT with the DCT in the most twisty and steep mountain roads, I had so many shift changes per mile that I would have worn out my clutch hand and surly missed a few shifts because of fatigue. Also agree about the helmet smashing thing, what a difference the DCT make with that. 200 plus miles on those switchback turns, countless shifts, and not one helmet impact.

For a scooter, I would use the rear brake like the clutch. Release for more speed and pull in for less, while applying throttle the whole time. I guess this would require a bit of relearning because the rear brake is on the right foot.

You hit the nail on the head. I use the DCT for commuting through Los Angeles traffic and I love it. Really dislike the automatic mode, I never use it. I have the CTX700. Top speed sucks. It's a struggle to get to 100mph. My biggest complaint is how quiet it is, and not being able to Rev my engine when splitting lanes to make my presence known. Other than that, love the bike! It's very nimble and easy to ride.

I ride mostly urban and value fuel economy. I am excited to buy a DCT. Iknow my Goldwing will be DCT. My Africa Twin I went manual but that was because I didn't want the weight. If I buy an ATAS in the future that would be DCT. Honda is committed to this technology and it opens riding to some folks who might not be riding. Great content.

I love my 2019 Goldwing DCT. It’s perfect for me , a 65 year old cruiser , tourer. I think your right about aggressive sport riders not liking theDCT. Your right about making tight U turns , a clutch is far superior. Also I was surprised that you endorsed a DCT for off road and adventure riders . I would think a clutch would be desirable , but I wouldn’t know I’m not that kind of rider. I use the toggle switch override all the time especially to down shift. Having said that I feel the DCT is remarkably intuitive in figuring out how to shift gears. I love it on the twisties and the interstate and would recommend it to anybody thinking of buying a Goldwing. Great video , spot on analysis. Thank you!

I have one and I love it; still learning it, but enjoying it!!!

Very informative review of the DCT. I don't own a DCT bike, but I have been riding DCT bikes a few times. It is really great for normal riding and touring will be fantastic. I may buy one if I were to get a new bike. I found myself in a situation a while back on my manual bike where I was absolutely glad I did not have a DCT. I was going around a slow corner in deep sand. The front washed out a little and I inadvertently opened the throttle at angle while I tipped over and I could pull in the clutch as I held the bike up. On a DCT, I would have pulled off at speed and crashed into the bush. Other than that, I truly enjoy the technology.