8 Motorcycle Models That Show When You Can Shift Past a Gear

I can skip gears on a motorcycle in many situations, but I don’t treat that as permission to make a large, poorly timed jump in the gearbox. With a conventional sequential transmission, I can move past a gear by making more than one shift while the clutch is disengaged. The key is choosing a suitable gear for my road speed and engine rpm.

Quickshifters and automatic transmissions change the feel of the process, but they don’t make every gear change a gear skip. I’ve found it helps to understand the difference between a clutch-assisted skip, a quickshifter’s normal one-step shift, and an automatic system that selects ratios for me. These eight real motorcycle models illustrate those differences.

1. Honda Africa Twin DCT — A Different Approach to Gear Changes

The Honda Africa Twin with Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gives me a useful example of how a motorcycle can change gears without a conventional clutch lever. Its six-speed DCT uses two clutches to manage gear changes, and I can ride in an automatic mode or select gears using the handlebar controls in manual mode. Equipment and availability vary by version and market.

I wouldn’t describe using the controls as manually skipping gears in the usual sense. I’m asking the bike to change ratios through its transmission system, and I follow the owner’s manual for how the controls work. In automatic mode, the system chooses a gear based on riding conditions; in manual mode, I can request shifts without operating a clutch lever.

When I’d consider this setup

I’d look at the Africa Twin DCT if I wanted an adventure motorcycle with the option of automatic shifting, especially for slow, stop-start riding. It’s a premium-priced motorcycle, and the DCT version typically costs more than the comparable manual model. I’d check the current local Honda price and exact trim before comparing costs.

Even with DCT, I don’t expect a machine to ignore speed, traction, or engine limits. For me, the broader lesson is that gear selection still matters even when the bike handles clutch operation. I stay focused on the road, particularly around traffic; I also find it useful to understand what percentage of motorcycle accidents are caused by cars when thinking about the risks riders face.

2. Honda NC750X DCT — Automatic Shifting for Everyday Riding

The Honda NC750X DCT is another real-world example of a motorcycle that shifts without a conventional clutch lever. It has a 745 cc parallel-twin engine and a six-speed DCT transmission. Depending on the version and market, I can use automatic drive modes or operate the gear selections with handlebar switches.

That makes it easy to confuse “clutchless shifting” with “skipping gears.” They aren’t the same thing. On the NC750X, I’m using Honda’s DCT system rather than moving a standard foot lever through several gear positions with the clutch in.

What I keep in mind

I see the NC750X as a practical option for commuters and riders who want an upright, road-focused motorcycle. Honda has also made the model distinctive with useful storage space where a conventional fuel tank is often found; exact specifications can change by model year. New prices vary, so I’d compare the DCT version with the manual model in my market rather than rely on an old price listing.

When I’m riding in traffic, a hands-free clutch doesn’t remove the need to leave space and anticipate other road users. I’d review what percent of motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers as a reminder that smooth shifting is only one small part of riding safely.

3. Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT — Clutchless Shifts at the Push of a Button

The Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT pairs the MT-09’s 890 cc three-cylinder engine with Yamaha’s automated manual transmission. Instead of a conventional clutch lever and foot-operated shift pattern, I use handlebar controls to request shifts, or select an automatic mode. Availability and equipment depend on market and model year.

I think this is a helpful example because it shows that clutchless operation doesn’t automatically mean I can jump freely between ratios. In manual mode, I use the system’s controls as intended and consult the manual for its operation. The transmission handles the clutch actuation, but I still need to choose shifts that make sense for my speed and riding conditions.

How I’d compare it with a quickshifter

A quickshifter on a conventional motorcycle usually lets me change gear without using the clutch for an individual shift. Yamaha’s Y-AMT takes a different approach by automating clutch operation and providing electronic shift controls. I’d test both systems if possible, because their feel and rider involvement are quite different.

The MT-09 Y-AMT sits in the middle-to-premium naked-bike price range, with the exact new price set by market and model year. I’d confirm whether I’m looking at the Y-AMT version or the regular manual MT-09 before comparing specifications; they are not the same transmission configuration.

4. BMW S 1000 RR with Shift Assistant Pro — Fast Shifts, Not a Free Pass

The BMW S 1000 RR is a high-performance 999 cc sportbike, and versions equipped with Shift Assistant Pro can make clutchless upshifts and downshifts. I like this as an example of why a quickshifter should be understood as a shift aid, not as permission to rush through several gears at once. Equipment can vary by model year and market, so I’d verify the individual bike’s specification.

With a system like this, I make one deliberate shift at a time and let the electronics manage the interruption in drive as designed. I don’t assume that holding or tapping a control will safely skip several ratios. I also remember that an abrupt downshift on a powerful sportbike can unsettle the rear wheel if I select too low a gear for my speed.

Why I’d be extra deliberate on a sportbike

The S 1000 RR is built for performance, with a high-revving engine and advanced rider aids, but it still relies on good judgment. I’d make changes progressively, especially on public roads where surface conditions and traffic can change quickly. A new S 1000 RR is a high-cost motorcycle, and the final price depends on options, taxes, and the local market.

When I think about the consequences of a mistake, I don’t rely on shifting skill alone. I also consider broader safety information, including how many fatal motorcycle accidents per day. My practical takeaway is to keep smooth control and a safe pace ahead of chasing a fast shift.

5. Triumph Street Triple 765 RS — A Quickshifter for Individual Shifts

The Triumph Street Triple 765 RS is a middleweight naked bike powered by a 765 cc three-cylinder engine. It’s available with Triumph Shift Assist, a system designed to support clutchless upshifts and downshifts. I’d check the specification for the exact model year and market rather than assume every used example has identical equipment.

On a bike like this, I use the quickshifter for the shift it’s designed to perform. It can make gear changes feel quick and smooth when I’m applying the right throttle and load, but I don’t treat it like a multi-gear skip button. If I want to move across more than one ratio, I use the process recommended in the manual and keep the clutch and revs under control.

Where this bike makes sense

I’d consider the Street Triple 765 RS if I wanted a sporty, agile road bike with a premium suspension and brake package. The RS trim is typically more expensive than lower Street Triple versions, and prices vary by year and region. I’d compare the exact equipment, service history, and price before choosing a new or used one.

Quick, confident shifts are useful, but I never let the electronics distract me from other drivers. I’d read what percent of motorcycle accidents result in death alongside practical riding guidance, not as a reason to fear every ride, but as a reminder to make careful decisions.

6. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R — Know What Its Quickshifter Does

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is a 636 cc supersport motorcycle. Certain versions are equipped with Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) for clutchless upshifts. I pay attention to that limitation: equipment and function depend on model year and market, and I shouldn’t assume that a particular ZX-6R has a bidirectional quickshifter unless its specifications confirm it.

For me, the ZX-6R is a good example of why I check the manual before trying a shift technique. If the system supports upshifts only, I use the clutch for downshifts. And whether I’m using the clutch or a quickshifter, I don’t force the lever or ask the transmission to take a gear that doesn’t match my speed.

My approach to downshifting

If I need to drop several gears on a conventional bike, I reduce speed as needed and make controlled shifts, allowing engine speed to suit each selected ratio. I avoid making a large downshift while carrying too much speed, because the sudden change in engine braking can unsettle the motorcycle. I follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any electronic shifting system.

The Ninja ZX-6R is a high-performance model, generally priced above basic commuter motorcycles. I’d check current Kawasaki pricing and the precise equipment on the bike I’m considering, since an older model or a different regional version may not match a current specification sheet.

7. Suzuki GSX-8R — A Two-Way Quickshifter on a Road Sportbike

The Suzuki GSX-8R is a fully faired sport model using a 776 cc parallel-twin engine and a six-speed transmission. Suzuki lists a bi-directional quickshift system on applicable versions, allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts. I still verify the model-year details and market specification before treating that feature as standard on a particular bike.

“Bi-directional” tells me the quickshifter can assist shifts in both directions; it doesn’t necessarily mean I can skip multiple gears with one action. I use it for the shifts the system supports and rely on the owner’s manual for operating conditions. If I want to cross more than one gear, I take a measured approach instead of trying to force a rapid sequence.

Why I’d put it on my shortlist

I’d consider the GSX-8R if I wanted sporty styling and a parallel-twin engine without stepping into the most extreme supersport category. Its price is generally in the middleweight sportbike range, but I’d use current Suzuki pricing for my country and account for destination charges or dealer fees.

For me, safe gear selection is part of a bigger habit of managing speed and space. I’d look at what percent of motorcycle accidents are fatal for context, while remembering that statistics don’t replace practical training, protective equipment, and attentive riding.

8. Ducati Multistrada V4 S — Rider Aids Don’t Replace Good Timing

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a premium adventure-touring motorcycle with a 1,158 cc V4 engine and a six-speed gearbox. Depending on model year and market, it’s equipped with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), which supports clutchless upshifts and downshifts. I’d confirm the precise specification for the bike I’m looking at, particularly if it’s used.

The DQS can make normal gear changes easier, but I wouldn’t assume it allows a multi-gear jump in a single action. I shift in a controlled way and stay aware of how the chosen ratio affects engine speed and rear-wheel response. A quickshifter can reduce the work involved in a shift; it can’t choose a safe speed for me.

What I’d weigh before buying

I’d consider the Multistrada V4 S if I wanted a technology-rich touring bike with a powerful engine and long-distance capability. It’s in the premium price bracket, and options can push the cost higher, so I’d check current local pricing and included equipment. Its advanced features are useful, but I’d still prioritize comfort, training, and a careful test ride.

My Practical Rules for Skipping a Gear

On a conventional motorcycle, I can usually skip a gear by pulling in the clutch and moving the shift lever through more than one position before releasing it smoothly. I don’t rush the movement, and I avoid forcing the lever. The motorcycle’s transmission is sequential, so I still pass through the gear positions in order even if I don’t engage each one.

I’m especially careful when skipping gears on a downshift. I first make sure my speed is appropriate for the lower gear, then use smooth clutch control and, when appropriate for my experience and motorcycle, rev matching. A sudden drop into a gear that’s too low can cause a sharp surge of engine braking or make the rear tire lose traction.

What I avoid

• I don’t make a large downshift at high speed without first reducing speed appropriately.
• I don’t force the shift lever if a gear change feels wrong or the transmission resists.
• I don’t assume every quickshifter supports both upshifts and downshifts, or multiple skipped gears.
• I don’t let an automatic transmission or rider aid replace attention to traffic, traction, and road conditions.

So, can you skip gears on a motorcycle? In many cases, yes, with the clutch and a sensible choice of gear. But I make each change smooth and deliberate, and I treat a quickshifter or automated transmission according to its specific instructions. When I’m unsure, I check the owner’s manual or ask a qualified instructor rather than experimenting in traffic.

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