New ASA automatic transmission presented in BMW R 1300 GS

After years of Honda's unique dual-clutch transmission in the motorcycle sector and the recently introduced Honda E-Clutch, the Bavarians are now also showing their innovative spirit with their own automatic transmission. In May 2024, the ASA automated shift assistant was presented in a BMW R 1300 GS, which is designed to make motorcycling easier and more comfortable.

BMW has now joined the ranks of motorcycle manufacturers offering automatic transmissions, following in the footsteps of Honda's dual-clutch technology. The ASA automated shift assistant, unveiled in May 2024 on the BMW R 1300 GS, aims to enhance the riding experience by providing smoother and more convenient gear shifts.

What features does the new ASA technology offer for the BMW Enduro? Essentially, the system electronically controls the clutch engagement and can also independently shift gears or simply assist with gear changes. With automatic clutch activation, there is no need to reach for the clutch lever when coming to a stop or starting off, as it is not even necessary. Instead, just apply the brakes or accelerate and let the electronics take care of the rest. Even during low-speed maneuvers, all you need to do is twist the throttle. The motorcycle should no longer be at risk of stalling. When starting off, in manual "M" shift mode, the rider shifts gears as usual using the foot control; the ASA only aids in the shifting process. In automatic "D" shift mode, the system calculates the optimal gear change timing when accelerating and decelerating, automatically shifting through the gears. In both shift modes, gear changes should be extremely smooth, with minimal interruptions to power delivery and a barely noticeable shift shock. This should enhance riding stability and prevent the common helmet collision when riding with a passenger. The speed of gear changes should be on par with the well-known Pro gearshift assistant.

The BMW Enduro does not require a dual clutch like Honda's DCT, but is based on a conventional 6-speed transmission and a conventional multi-plate clutch. The clutch and gearshift are controlled electromechanically via actuators, i.e. small electric motors. This means that the on-board computer sends electronic signals to the actuators, which convert them into mechanical movement and thus precisely control the clutch and gear changes. To achieve this, new sensors are required for the position of the clutch plates and the speed of the transmission input shaft. The system is not visible from the outside and is said to weigh just 2.1 kg.

No one has been able to test the new system yet, but BMW showcased the ASA in a BMW Enduro and had test riders demonstrate its benefits. Maneuvering, starting, stopping, and acceleration at various speeds were showcased. The ASA even functions on unpaved surfaces and aims to simplify off-road riding. This naturally leads to the question of which BMW Enduro models will come equipped with the new system. BMW states that it should be compatible with all models, although the complexity will vary depending on the available space around the engine and transmission. The 1300 Boxer was already designed with the ASA in mind. Currently, only the GS Enduro is equipped with the ASA, but it is expected that future 1300 models such as the R 1300 R, R 1300 RT, and R 1300 RS will offer the ASA as an option. The automatic shift assistant is expected to be available by the end of the year and will cost approximately €1,000 extra.

When compared to its competitors, the BMW Enduro stands out in an exciting position. Its features are more akin to the DCT dual clutch transmission from Honda, as the Bavarian shift assistant automatically controls the clutch and also offers an automatic shift mode. However, unlike the DCT, the BMW system does not rely on two clutches, but is more similar in design and technical functionality to the new Honda E-Clutch System, where the clutches are electronically controlled via actuators. The E-Clutch, however, does not have independent gear changing capabilities and also provides a manual clutch lever for manual intervention. In terms of compatibility, the BMW Enduro is comparable to the E-Clutch, as both systems can be integrated with conventional gearboxes and clutches, allowing for installation on any motorcycle. The DCT is notably larger, heavier at 10 kg, and more complex in design. In pricing, BMW's system, if it remains around €1,000, is closer to the DCT than the more affordable €500 E-Clutch system.

When it comes to the BMW Enduro, whether you're tackling uphill terrain, coming to a sudden stop with hard braking, navigating stop-and-go city traffic, or enjoying a smooth ride with a passenger, optimized control of the clutch and gear shifts can greatly enhance comfort and performance in various situations. The Adaptive Shift Assistant (ASA) system, a new technology introduced by BMW, promises to revolutionize the riding experience by providing seamless gear changes without the need for manual clutch operation. During the initial presentation, the ASA demonstrated its capabilities with confidence, sparking curiosity about its potential applications. Future tests will reveal how well the ASA performs in urban environments and off-road conditions. BMW assures riders that the ASA does not alter the character of the powerful 1300cc boxer engine or the overall feel of the motorcycle, but rather enhances the overall riding experience. With a proven track record of success with similar systems, such as Honda's DCT, there is a clear interest in automated technologies that simplify and enhance the riding experience.