Apriliia Mana - eh?

I've just read a review of the Aprilia in the paper (odd thing, like a
hardcopy snapshot of bits of the internet but with no hyperlinks - don't
think it'll catch on)

Anyway, apparently it's got a Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT) but
you can use flappy paddles or something to manually select each of 7 gears.

So is it a CVT or an auto? Or is it a bit like the old Citroen c-matic
which was like a manual without a clutch pedal?

I'm confused.

 

and forgot what you wrote in the 1st paragraph. The internet says:

http://www.maxmoto.co.uk/aprilia_850_mana.shtml

"Aprilia have set up the CVT with three automatic settings and a pseudo
sequential seven speed manual. The auto settings are touring (for good
economy), sport (for maximum performance) and rain (for a softer power
delivery for good traction in the wet), and they are interchangeable on
the move with a handlebar switch. The pseudo manual option is controlled
also via the handlebars (see pic) or through the traditional left foot
selector. There is no clutch lever."

Seems it's right up your street
http://www.maxmoto.co.uk/images/Aprilia Mana 850 GT.jpg
Just mind your tights on the exhaust.

 

Hmm. Exhaust looks wank.