Dual Clutch Technology available on the 2015 Foreman Rubicon feels to us like Honda’s response to the CVT.
Where a CVT seamlessly changes through its gears, Honda’s DCT aims to find the best gear depending on the terrain, load and power input.
This is a big step forward on the Foreman Rubicon from either semi-automatic foot shifting or Honda’s thumb actuated electronic shift.
As rider input from the throttle increases or decreases, the DCT chooses what it feels is the most appropriate gear given the riding conditions and, to take this intelligent system a step further, there are two levels of input based on slower trail riding and more aggressive riding.
However, one shortfall we discovered with DCT was that it seemed to be constantly searching for the right gear. Coming off mostly CVT driven ATVs and SxS, there didn’t seem to be that smooth and quick response we expected when the throttle was squeezed or as trail conditions changed between flatland, hill-climb or rapid descent.
We’re thankful this ATV is equipped with the option to switch back to electronic shift and out of auto. During these varied conditions that mode ended up being the ticket.
Do we like the DCT? Yes! In fact we rode the Foreman Rubicon most of the day with it engaged and just got comfortable with switching back to semi-auto when we felt it was necessary.
We suspect it might be tough for Honda to convince fans of a CVT that this system is worth switching brands for, but do believe current Foreman Rubicon owners will absolutely love this new technology as it really does allow you to put your focus on riding instead of shifting.
