Introduction: Why Automatic Motorcycles Are Gaining Popularity in 2025
Motorcycles have long been a symbol of freedom and adventure on the open road. But in recent years, there’s been a significant shift in the way riders experience their bikes—thanks to the rise of the automatic motorcycle. Unlike traditional manual motorcycles that require the rider to shift gears manually, automatic motorcycles offer a smoother, more convenient riding experience.
In 2025, automatic motorcycles are no longer just for beginners or casual riders. They have evolved to offer high-performance, advanced features, and a level of comfort that appeals to a wide range of riders. From daily commuters to seasoned bikers looking for a more relaxed ride, these bikes are becoming the go-to choice for many.
In this guide, we will explore the top automatic motorcycles available in 2025, and we’ll dive into why you should consider switching to one. Whether you’re new to the world of motorcycles or a long-time rider, this article will help you understand the advantages of automatic motorcycles and guide you toward the best models available this year.
What Is an Automatic Motorcycle?
An automatic motorcycle is a type of bike that shifts gears automatically without the need for manual intervention by the rider. This is a big difference from traditional motorcycles, where the rider needs to manually change gears using a clutch and shift lever.
Most automatic motorcycles use a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or a semi-automatic gearbox, which makes riding simpler and less physically demanding. These motorcycles offer a smooth, seamless riding experience—perfect for those who want to focus on the road ahead rather than constantly shifting gears.
For many riders, especially beginners, the idea of not having to worry about shifting gears is a huge advantage. Whether you’re riding through city traffic or cruising on a long highway, an automatic motorcycle gives you more control over your ride, making it more comfortable and accessible.
Benefits of Choosing an Automatic Motorcycle
Choosing an automatic motorcycle can be a game-changer for both beginners and experienced riders. Here are some key benefits:
Ease of Use: With no clutch and gear lever to manage, riding becomes much easier, especially for beginners. There’s no need to worry about stalling or shifting gears in tight traffic.
Smoother Ride: The automatic transmission motorcycles offer a smoother, uninterrupted ride. This is especially useful when riding in stop-and-go traffic, where constantly shifting gears can become tiring.
Less Fatigue: Long-distance riders will appreciate the reduced physical effort required to operate an automatic motorcycle. No more shifting gears every few seconds—just focus on the road.
Better Fuel Efficiency: Many automatic motorcycles are designed with fuel efficiency in mind. Since the transmission adjusts automatically for optimal performance, these bikes often use less fuel than their manual counterparts.
More Accessible for New Riders: An automatic motorcycle for beginners offers a less intimidating learning curve, making it easier for new riders to get comfortable on the road.
These benefits make automatic motorcycles a great option for anyone looking for convenience, comfort, and performance.
The Best Automatic Motorcycles to Try in 2025
When it comes to choosing the best automatic motorcycles in 2025, there are plenty of options to consider. Each model offers different features, performance capabilities, and price points. Here are some of the top picks:
Honda NC750X
- Transmission: Dual-clutch automatic
- Engine: 745cc
- Features: Smooth shifting, great fuel efficiency, versatile performance on both highways and city roads.
- Why It’s Great: The Honda NC750X is known for its reliability and easy handling, making it a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced riders. It also offers an impressive fuel economy, which is perfect for daily commuting.
Yamaha NMAX 155
- Transmission: CVT
- Engine: 155cc
- Features: Compact design, easy-to-ride, perfect for urban commuting.
- Why It’s Great: The Yamaha NMAX 155 is an excellent choice for city riders. It’s lightweight, fuel-efficient, and features an automatic transmission, making it a great easy-to-ride automatic motorcycle for those new to biking.
BMW C 650 GT
- Transmission: CVT
- Engine: 647cc
- Features: Advanced technology, smooth ride, superior comfort.
- Why It’s Great: For those seeking a luxury automatic motorcycle, the BMW C 650 GT offers a premium experience with comfort features such as heated seats and adjustable suspension, perfect for long rides.
Suzuki Burgman 400
- Transmission: CVT
- Engine: 400cc
- Features: Spacious seating, advanced safety features, large storage capacity.
- Why It’s Great: The Suzuki Burgman 400 is a fantastic touring bike with a spacious design and excellent storage space. It’s perfect for those who want a motorcycle with automatic gearbox and are looking for comfort on longer trips.
Top Automatic Motorcycles for Beginners
If you’re new to motorcycles, choosing the right bike is crucial to your learning experience. Thankfully, there are several models designed specifically for beginner riders who want to enjoy the ease of an automatic motorcycle.
Honda Forza 300
Why It’s Great: The Honda Forza 300 offers an intuitive automatic transmission, making it easy for beginners to ride. It also comes with a comfortable seat and good handling, perfect for both city and highway riding.
Kymco Like 150i
Why It’s Great: Compact and lightweight, the Kymco Like 150i is a great choice for those new to riding. It’s easy to maneuver, has a stylish design, and boasts excellent fuel efficiency.
Piaggio Liberty 125
Why It’s Great: The Piaggio Liberty 125 is perfect for beginners thanks to its simple, user-friendly design. Its automatic transmission ensures that you won’t have to worry about shifting gears as you learn.
Key Features to Look for in an Automatic Motorcycle
When searching for the perfect automatic motorcycle, there are several key features you should consider. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors to keep in mind:
- Transmission Type: Make sure the motorcycle has a transmission that fits your needs. CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is the most common in automatic motorcycles, but semi-automatic gearboxes are also available.
- Engine Size: The engine size will affect your bike’s power and performance. Beginners may want to start with a smaller engine (100cc–300cc), while more experienced riders might prefer something larger (400cc+).
- Fuel Efficiency: Since many automatic motorcycles 2025 are built for fuel efficiency, check the fuel economy ratings before purchasing. This is especially important for commuters.
- Comfort Features: Consider seat height, handlebar position, and suspension systems for a comfortable ride, especially if you plan on taking longer trips.
How to Choose the Right Automatic Motorcycle for You
Choosing the right automatic motorcycle depends on your personal preferences, experience level, and intended use. Here’s how to decide:
Assess Your Riding Style: Are you commuting daily? Riding long distances? Or just looking for something to cruise around town? Your riding style will influence your choice of bike.
Consider the Engine Size: Beginners should stick with smaller engines (under 400cc), while seasoned riders may want more power for highway cruising.
Set a Budget: Make sure you know how much you’re willing to spend. There are great options for every budget, from entry-level bikes to high-end luxury models.
Common Myths About Automatic Motorcycles Debunked
There are several myths surrounding automatic motorcycles that may discourage potential riders from making the switch. Let’s clear them up:
Myth 1: Automatic Motorcycles Are Less Powerful
Reality: Many automatic transmission motorcycles offer comparable performance to manual bikes. Technology has come a long way, and automatic motorcycles 2025 can pack quite a punch.
Myth 2: Only Beginners Ride Automatic Motorcycles
Reality: While automatic motorcycles are perfect for beginners, they are also beloved by seasoned riders. Many high-performance bikes, such as the BMW C 650 GT, use automatic gearboxes.
The Future of Automatic Motorcycles: What’s Next in 2025 and Beyond
The future of automatic motorcycles looks promising. As technology advances, we can expect to see even smoother transmissions, better fuel efficiency, and more power-packed engines. Electric automatic motorcycles are also on the horizon, providing an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on performance.
Conclusion: Should You Make the Switch to an Automatic Motorcycle in 2025?
In conclusion, automatic motorcycles are here to stay, and they offer several benefits for riders of all experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easier way to learn or an experienced rider seeking more comfort and convenience, there’s an automatic motorcycle that’s perfect for you. With advancements in technology and an increasing number of options available, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for automatic motorcycles.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between an automatic and a manual motorcycle?
An automatic motorcycle doesn’t require the rider to manually shift gears. Instead, the transmission shifts automatically as you accelerate or decelerate. In contrast, a manual motorcycle requires the rider to use a clutch lever and gear shifter to change gears. The automatic system is simpler, making it easier for beginners to ride and reducing the physical effort on the part of the rider.
2. Are automatic motorcycles good for beginners?
Yes, automatic motorcycles are a great option for beginners. Since they don’t require the rider to manage gear shifts, beginners can focus on learning how to control the bike and navigate the road without the added complexity of using a clutch and gear lever. Automatic motorcycles for beginners are designed to be more forgiving and user-friendly, which helps build confidence quickly.
3. How does a CVT transmission work in automatic motorcycles?
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a type of automatic transmission that adjusts seamlessly to provide the best power-to-speed ratio without discrete gear shifts. Unlike traditional gears, the CVT continuously adjusts the engine’s RPM to maintain optimal power output. This results in smooth acceleration, which is one of the main reasons automatic motorcycles offer a more comfortable and effortless ride.
4. What are the best automatic motorcycles for city commuting?
For city commuting, you’ll want a lightweight, fuel-efficient, and easy-to-ride automatic motorcycle. Some top models include the Yamaha NMAX 155, Honda Forza 300, and the Kymco Like 150i. These motorcycles are designed to handle urban environments with ease, offering good fuel economy and compact sizes that are perfect for navigating through traffic.
5. Can you get an automatic motorcycle with high performance?
Yes, automatic motorcycles can be high-performance bikes as well. While some may associate automatic transmissions with smaller, less powerful models, there are plenty of high-performance automatic motorcycles available, such as the BMW C 650 GT or Honda NC750X. These bikes combine advanced transmission systems with powerful engines, offering excellent acceleration and top speeds, making them suitable for more experienced riders.
6. Are automatic motorcycles less fuel-efficient than manual ones?
No, automatic motorcycles are often more fuel-efficient than manual bikes. Modern automatic transmission motorcycles are designed to provide smoother, more efficient power delivery, which can improve fuel economy. The ability of the transmission to adjust automatically to optimal conditions means the engine doesn’t waste fuel when unnecessary, making these bikes ideal for daily commuting and long-distance rides.
7. Do automatic motorcycles require more maintenance than manual ones?
In general, automatic motorcycles require less maintenance than manual bikes. Since there’s no clutch to wear out or manual gear shifting components to maintain, there’s less mechanical stress. However, CVT systems in some automatic bikes do require regular maintenance, like belt changes or fluid checks. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep the bike in top condition.
8. Are there any automatic motorcycles suitable for long-distance touring?
Yes, there are automatic motorcycles that are perfect for long-distance touring. Models like the BMW C 650 GT and Honda NC750X are designed with comfort, stability, and performance in mind, making them ideal for longer rides. They feature comfortable seats, advanced suspension systems, and large fuel tanks, allowing riders to enjoy longer trips without fatigue.
9. Can an automatic motorcycle be as fast as a manual motorcycle?
Yes, many automatic motorcycles are capable of reaching similar top speeds as their manual counterparts. High-performance models like the BMW C 650 GT and Honda NC750X prove that automatic motorcycles can offer powerful performance, quick acceleration, and high-speed capabilities. It’s all about choosing the right bike for your needs and understanding that automatic systems can handle a wide range of performance demands.
10. Are automatic motorcycles safer than manual motorcycles?
While automatic motorcycles themselves are not inherently safer, they do offer certain advantages. For beginners, the simplicity of an automatic transmission means there’s less to focus on while riding, potentially reducing the risk of mistakes. Automatic motorcycles can also be easier to handle in traffic, as the rider doesn’t need to worry about clutch control or gear shifting, allowing them to focus more on road safety.