Computer Operated Clutch & Electronic Shift Actuators?

"Yamaha brings another industry first – a computer operated clutch and
electronic shift actuators, eliminate the need to operate the clutch
and improves shift effort."

Is this a good thing? The FJR, or any bike for that matter is not
Grandad's old DeSoto. This is a finely tuned, performance sport
tourer. Half the fun is working the clutch and shifting the gears.

Maybe I am a bit old fashioned but I like shifting, I like controlling
the brakes (even if I do lock a wheel up now and then)and I especially
like the feeling of being smooth on all the controls, completing that
connection with man and machine.

This new FJR is one trick machine. Lots of bling and a performer too.
I wonder if it is a little cooler this year.

Looking at the four big metric manufacturers, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki
and Kawasaki I am thinking for new edge technology Yamaha is leading
the pack. While not everyone likes the styling of the FJR, most
concede it is a model of innovation. Although the Roadliner and
Stratoliner names remind me of a 50's Buick I am starting to like the
styling and the preliminary reviews are mostly positive.

http://motorcyclecruiser.com/roadtests/xv19001st/

Kawi seems only dedicated to making the jugs bigger and crossing that
two litre barrier and Honda discontinued their best bikes a couple of
years back, the Valk and the Nighthawk. What's left is undoubtedly
well engineered but to my tastes bland as toast.

Suzuki has got their cruiser names so screwed up I can't figure out
which model is bigger. Although I still like the SV and V-Stroms.
Solid machines with a good reputation. Had Honda included these in
their lineup I'd bet my last two dollars they would have been
discontinued a few years back too.

Computer operated clutches and electronic shift actuators? I am glad
there are lots of low mile traditional machines out there because I
think I am too old to adjust to some of this new stuff.

Of course I am only looking at the cruisers and tourers, but that's my
story and I am sticking to it.
--


Don
RCOS# 7

2000 - Yamaha Venture Millennium Edition

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