Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Standard, Cruiser, Sports), By Propulsion (ICE, Electric), and By Region 2021-2031F

Forecast Period	2027-2031
Market Size (2025)	USD 4.35 Billion
CAGR (2026-2031)	7.36%
Fastest Growing Segment	Electric
Largest Market	Asia Pacific
Market Size (2031)	USD 6.66 Billion

Market Overview

The Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market will grow from USD 4.35 Billion in 2025 to USD 6.66 Billion by 2031 at a 7.36% CAGR. The Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market encompasses two-wheeled vehicles equipped with self-shifting mechanisms, such as Dual Clutch Transmissions or Continuously Variable Transmissions, which eliminate the necessity for manual clutch operation. The primary drivers supporting market growth include rapid urbanization and increasing traffic density, which compel commuters to prioritize vehicles offering simplified maneuverability in stop-and-go conditions. Furthermore, the expansion of the last-mile delivery sector significantly bolsters demand, as fleet operators and gig workers prefer these user-friendly motorcycles for their operational efficiency and accessibility to novice riders.

However, a significant challenge impeding broader market expansion is the higher manufacturing and maintenance cost associated with complex automatic gearboxes compared to traditional manual systems. This price differential can deter cost-sensitive consumers in developing regions where initial affordability is paramount. Illustrating the dominance of this segment in key markets, according to the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, in 2024, the automatic category contributed to 64% of total motorcycle sales in the Philippines.

Key Market Drivers

The Rapid Proliferation of Electric Motorcycles and Scooters serves as a formidable driving force, fundamentally reshaping the global landscape by normalizing clutchless operation for a broader consumer base. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that often utilize manual gearboxes, electric powertrains inherently employ single-speed or automatic transmissions, thereby lowering the entry barrier for novice riders and offering seamless torque delivery for urban commuters. This structural shift is particularly evident in major developing economies where government incentives and rising fuel costs are accelerating the transition toward battery-powered mobility. According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations, April 2024, in the 'Vehicle Retail Data' report, sales of electric two-wheelers in India surged to 947,087 units in the fiscal year 2024, registering a robust 30.06% year-on-year growth.

Simultaneously, Advancements in Dual-Clutch and Continuously Variable Transmission Technologies are expanding the market within the premium and performance internal combustion segments. Manufacturers are aggressively innovating to resolve the historical trade-off between automatic convenience and vehicle weight, introducing sophisticated systems that appeal to enthusiasts seeking performance without the fatigue of manual clutch control. For instance, according to Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., July 2024, in the 'Yamaha Motor Develops Y-AMT' press release, the company's new automated manual transmission system weighs just 2.8 kilograms, ensuring that handling dynamics remain uncompromised compared to manual counterparts. This technological maturation aligns with broader consumer preferences for ease of use in high-density traffic. Illustrating this dominance in high-volume markets, according to the Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association, April 2024, automatic scooters commanded a 90.50% market share of domestic sales during the first quarter of 2024.

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Key Market Challenges

The primary challenge impeding the expansion of the Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market is the elevated manufacturing and maintenance costs associated with self-shifting technologies. Automatic mechanisms, including Dual Clutch Transmissions and Continuously Variable Transmissions, necessitate intricate engineering and precision components that are inherently more expensive to manufacture than standard manual gearboxes. This production complexity results in a higher retail price, which directly discourages adoption among cost-sensitive consumers who prioritize initial affordability and low long-term maintenance expenses.

Consequently, this financial barrier confines the widespread adoption of automatic motorcycles largely to developed regions or premium segments, hampering mass-market penetration in developing economies where price sensitivity is acute. While the technology thrives in affluent markets, its growth potential is capped globally by this affordability gap. For example, reflecting the segment's established volume in regions with higher purchasing power, according to the Italian Association of Cycle, Motorcycle and Accessories Manufacturers (ANCMA), in 2024, the registration of scooters, which predominantly feature automatic transmissions, reached 186,639 units in Italy. However, without significant cost reduction, such adoption levels remain difficult to replicate in emerging markets where manual alternatives dominate due to their economic viability.

Key Market Trends

The emergence of Electronic Clutch-by-Wire Systems is fundamentally altering the market by bridging the gap between traditional manual engagement and fully automatic convenience. This technology appeals to riders desiring manual control without the fatigue of lever operation, allowing them to seamlessly switch between modes while preserving the tactile engagement of motorcycling. Unlike fully automated gearboxes that remove rider input, these systems retain the standard transmission structure but utilize electronic actuators to manage clutch engagement, thereby lowering the entry barrier for novices while satisfying enthusiasts. Validating the commercial success of such innovations, according to Honda Global Corporate Website, January 2025, in the 'Summary of Briefing on Honda Motorcycle Business', the manufacturer captured the largest market share in five key European markets including Italy and Germany during 2024, a performance directly attributed to the expanded deployment of technologies like the Honda E-Clutch.

Simultaneously, the Widespread Adoption of Automated Manual Transmission Systems by Major European and Japanese OEMs is reshaping the adventure and high-performance segments. Manufacturers are integrating electromechanical actuators into standard gearboxes to offer automatic shifting capabilities without the substantial weight penalty associated with traditional torque converters, specifically targeting long-distance tourers who demand reduced rider workload. This trend is particularly evident in the adventure category, where automated logic assists in managing complex terrain by preventing stalling and optimizing gear selection for traction. Highlighting the robust demand for these advanced drivetrains, according to BMW Group, January 2025, in the 'BMW Motorrad presents the strongest sales result in company history' press release, the GS adventure models, which introduced the new Automated Shift Assistant technology, achieved a combined global volume of over 68,000 units in 2024.

Segmental Insights

The Electric segment constitutes the fastest growing category within the Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market due to inherent mechanical characteristics and intensifying regulatory pressures. Electric powertrains typically utilize direct-drive or single-speed mechanisms that function without manual clutches, thereby effectively standardizing automatic operation across this vehicle class. This technical alignment is further accelerated by stringent emission mandates from organizations such as the European Commission and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which incentivize the production of zero-emission vehicles. Consequently, the shift toward sustainable urban mobility directly expands the market share of electric motorcycles featuring automatic transmission systems.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific leads the Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market due to rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes across the region. This dominance is primarily driven by a strong consumer preference for scooters and mopeds, which extensively utilize automatic continuously variable transmissions for ease of use in congested city traffic. Key markets such as China, India, and Indonesia contribute significantly to this demand. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks regarding vehicle emissions, such as those enforced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in India, encourage the adoption of modern and efficient two-wheelers, thereby sustaining the regional market expansion.

Recent Developments

• In July 2024, Yamaha Motor confirmed that its newly developed Y-AMT (Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission) would officially debut on the 2024 MT-09 model. This innovative system removed the traditional foot shift lever and hand clutch, replacing them with finger-operated triggers on the handlebars for manual control. The technology also offered two fully automatic modes, 'D' and 'D+', allowing the transmission to adapt to different riding environments, from relaxed cruising to spirited sport riding. This launch represented a major step for the company in democratizing automated shifting technology across its key sport motorcycle range.
• In July 2024, American Honda announced the arrival of its E-Clutch technology in the United States market, available on the 2024 CB650R and CBR650R motorcycles. The system was described as a bridge between conventional manual transmissions and dual-clutch units, utilizing ultra-compact dual motors to automate clutch engagement during starts, stops, and shifts. Weighing less than 4.5 pounds, the unit allowed riders to operate the motorcycle without a clutch lever while retaining the option for manual intervention. This introduction aimed to enhance rider comfort and convenience without compromising the engagement of a standard sport motorcycle.
• In June 2024, KTM showcased a prototype motorcycle equipped with a new Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) during the Iron Road Prologue at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo. The vehicle, tested by a former enduro world champion, demonstrated a clutch-free design with handlebar-mounted toggle switches for manual gear selection. This development highlighted the Austrian manufacturer’s strategic entry into the automatic transmission segment, utilizing a centrifugal clutch system. The public demonstration of this prototype signaled the brand's intention to integrate automated shifting technology into its future high-performance adventure models, addressing the growing market demand for rider-assist features.
• In May 2024, BMW Motorrad unveiled the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), a new technical solution designed to automate clutch and gear shifting operations for motorcycles. This system featured two electromechanical actuators that managed the six-speed transmission, completely eliminating the need for a manual clutch lever. Riders could choose between 'D' mode for fully automated gear changes based on engine parameters or 'M' mode for foot-controlled shifting. The technology aimed to simplify riding dynamics without sacrificing the emotional connection to the machine, marking a significant advancement in the company's touring and adventure motorcycle lineup.

Key Market Players

• Honda
• Yamaha
• Suzuki
• BMW
• Kymco
• Piaggio
• SYM
• Harley-Davidson
• CFMOTO
• Indian Motorcycle

By Type	By Propulsion	By Region
Standard Cruiser Sports	ICE Electric	North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market, By Type:

• Standard
• Cruiser
• Sports

• Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market, By Propulsion:

• ICE
• Electric

• Automatic Transmission Motorcycle Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE