KTM reveal AMT (Automatic Manual Transmission) details

KTM reveal more details on the Automatic Manual Transmission (AMT) which broke cover at the 2024 Erzbergrodeo and is set for release on new models soon.

As Enduro21 revealed back in the summer, KTM has been working on a clutchless gearbox or automatic manual transmission for some time now. Still in the final stages of development, former enduro world champion Johnny Aubert rode an Adventure bike in the Erzbergrodeo prologue and we spoke to him at the time for the lowdown on how it feels to ride.

Read that here: KTM developing clutchless gearbox – Johnny Aubert tests new Automatic Manual Transmission (AMT) at Erzberg

At that time, KTM were selective about what they told us but the official release has landed with a little more meat on the bones.

How it works

Dubbed the AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) it allows the rider to choose between using a manual shifting operation in M Mode – without a clutch – or a completely automated transmission in A Mode.

Once first gear is engaged, forward drive is initiated by raising the engine speed, at which point the centrifugal clutch engages and sets the motorcycle in motion.

This makes starting on a slope, pulling away, stopping, and slow-speed manoeuvring easier, they say, particularly on a bigger motorcycle. It’s impossible to stall the engine they add.

Unlike traditional motorcycle gearbox setups, the AMT features a P – N – 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 gear sequence, with P denoting Park to prevent any unwanted rolling thanks to a locking pawl within the gearbox.

Both Park and Neutral positions can only be selected using the shifting paddle on the handlebar switch cube, regardless if the engine is running or not, with the front or rear brake needing to be applied to engage first gear.

The gearbox is electronically controlled via the ECU and separate Transmission Control Unit. Shifts are initiated by an “electromechanical shift actuator”, which turns the shift drum and takes 50 milliseconds, comparable to a traditional transmission using a Quickshifter+ they add.

Manual Mode

In the M shift mode, the rider can purposefully shift gears by using the traditional gear lever on the left side of the engine or with the paddle shift on the handlebars.

This allows more of a sporty riding feel and was the choice of Aubert at Erzberg. KTM say the AMT gearbox maintains traditional gearbox proportions, along with keeping the weight well within the same ballpark.

The AMT system also allows riders a wide range of setup configurations, with shift modes and ride modes to allow for individual preferences.

The new AMT will initially be available on selected upcoming KTM models, with more options being added to the range in the coming years.

Photo Credit: KTM + Future7Media | Andrea Belluschi