Auto-cruiser is a strange mix of scooter and big bike
I have always thought it curious the way automatic gearboxes for motorcycles never really caught on. Way back in the 1970s Honda tried it with the 'Hondamatic' version of the CB400 Dream, but while twist-and-go scooters are the norm, anyone wanting a 'proper' bike has to get to grips with a clutch and gearbox.
Until now. Yamaha has produced an automatic version of its big FJR 1300 tourer, and Honda has revisited the idea too. The result is the DN-01, a futuristic-looking cruiser with automatic transmission, which I rode at Honda's recent media day at Silverstone.
Styling-wise, it’s a bizarre mix of West Coast easy rider and engineering design concept bike, with a bit of Mad Max and Judge Dredd thrown in for good measure. A low-down saddle, pointy nose and swooping lines give it a mean, threatening look, not actually matched by the performance.
Power comes from a 680cc V-twin engine, which is actually a de-tuned version of the power unit from the Deauville. Now given that the Deauville, a perfectly solid touring bike, is known in some circles as the ‘Dullville’ for its less-than-thrilling performance, you see where this is going. Producing around 60hp the DN-01 makes for a leisurely ride that is unlikely to keep thrill-seekers entertained for very long.
It is extremely easy to ride however. The riding position is laid back, with huge cow horn handlebars and Harley Davidson-style footboards. Not being used to cruisers I found the seating position, with the feet out in front, a little odd at first but it is strangely comfortable. Tall riders beg to differ but I didn't find it a problem.
It is surprisingly manoevrable at low speeds, even for a slightly rusty rider like me (when I climbed aboard the DN-01 it was my first day's riding since February).
With automatic transmission, you really can just twist and go. There is a gear selection switch and a more sporty setting, but I must admit I did not use them, as I believe most people buying this motorcycle won't bother either.
The problem with automatic mode, though, is that you cannot ride it like a conventional motorcycle. The normal technique of changing down before a bend in order to be able to accelerate out doesn't apply. This, of course, makes for much slower cornering.
And that is the nub of the DN-01 – you rather feel that it is aimed at someone out to enjoy the latest gadget, rather than a serious motorcyclist, even though Honda lists it alongside the Deauville, Pan European and Gold Wing in its tourer range. But at £9,223, it makes for quite an expensive Big Boy's Toy.
17/12/2008 16:55:00
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