2 Development of Motorcycle Using Electronic Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission 2002-32-1771

Recently, society has demanded better performance from motorcycle regarding comfort, fuel economy, exhaust emission, and safety, in addition to traditional performance indicators. In the development of power trains, therefore, compact and lightweight hardware with improved transmission efficiency has been introduced, along with system technologies that optimize the engine revolution speed range and reduction ratio to suit driving conditions. This approach focuses on improving overall efficiency and addressing the issues of easier drivability and greater active safety. Electronic Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECCVT) with high transmission efficiency is characterized by a Dry Hybrid Belt, in addition to an electronic controlled DC motor-driven shift mechanism, and an Electronic Controlled wet multi-plates Clutch (ECC). With the transmission ratio electronically controlled to suit various driving environments, ECCVT strikes a balance between driving performance and fuel economy.

The development was conducted through prototype research on three areas simultaneously: a new power train structure centered around this ECCVT, the frame structure, and the electronic control system. We thus developed a motorcycle with two Auto modes, one oriented to fuel economy and the other to power performance, and a Manual mode for sporty driving.