EXPLAINER: KTM’S AUTO MANUAL TRANSMISSION

With their new AMT tech, KTM claims to have blurred the line between sport and comfort – featuring all the benefits of an automatic transmission, but keeping its ‘Ready to Race’ focus entirely on the rider.

Huh? Automated and manual? Sounds like a contradiction in terms, right? Right! But that’s exactly how KTM is referring to the new transmission technology they just revealed at the EICMA motorcycle show in Italy. It’s called “AMT” (or “Automated Manual Transmission”). And while KTM is yet to confirm which models are likely to adopt this technology, or when, here’s a snapshot of what the Austrian manufacturer has divulged about this interesting new tech…

KTM has raced into the automated transmission line-up with its most innovative powertrain developments. Dubbed the AMT – or Automated Manual Transmission – KTM brings a gearbox option that retains its sporty credentials, while achieving refined usability across riding scenarios (as seen with Johnny Aubert steering a prototype version up the formidable Iron Road Prologue at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo).

At its core, the AMT 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 in the A shift Mode, 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 maneuvering much easier, particularly on a bigger motorcycle. In addition, it is impossible to stall the engine, which on its own is a massive benefit.

Unlike traditional motorcycle gearbox set-ups, 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 of whether the engine is running or not, with the front or rear brake needing to be applied to engage first gear.

In terms of shifting speed, the gearbox is electronically controlled via the ECU and Transmission Control Unit. Shifts are initiated by an electromechanical shift actuator, which turns the shift drum. This means shifting between gears takes 50 milliseconds, which is comparable to a traditional transmission using a Quickshifter+.

However, while the merits of an automated transmission are well documented, the AMT’s party trick lies with its 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 left switch cube. This allows riders to maintain a ‘Ready to Race’, sporty riding feel without any compromises in speed or agility. This has been done by carefully engineering the AMT gearbox to maintain traditional gearbox proportions, along with keeping the weight well within the same ballpark.

The AMT system also allows riders a wide range of set-up configurations, with ‘Shifting’ modes working in unison with ‘Ride’ modes, to allow for individual preferences, regardless of application.

KTM has explained that, “The all-new AMT will initially be available on selected upcoming KTM models, including the recently launched 2025 KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO, with more options being added to the range in the coming years”.

For more info, check out the tech guide on KTM’s website. Or immerse yourself in this fascinating 14-minute video in which KTM’s Diete Engelbrecht walks us through the design and engineering of the system and how it translates to both the bike and rider.

AMT AT ERZBERG…

Inspired by the performance of the sequential gearbox found on the KTM X-BOW GT-XR, multiple enduro world champion, Johnny Aubert, put the AMT Prototype through its paces in one of the toughest tests of them all – the 2024 Red Bull Erzbergrodeo Iron Road Prologue. Check out how the innovative transmission handles the extreme off-road challenge and learn how it can enhance your ride.