Av8er, From all that I have read and people that I have spoken with it is not so much as more reliable as it is less of a chance for an issue. First the auto by its nature has more mechanical parts and that alone means less problems to me. Because it has a centrifugal clutch the engine needs higher RPM so that the clutch engages, on the manual when you are off the clutch it is engaged.
That's true for the SE5 but not for the SE6 (with 1330 engine). The SE6 has a real clutch that is hydraulically operated, and RPM is not a concern like it was on the SE5. Just ignore the clutch and watch for engine lugging, as you would for any stick-shift vehicle.
When I was in the MFS course we were taught to feather the clutch for control which you cannot do with a semi.
Sort of true and sort of not. It's just quite a bit different, yet beautifully adequate. I'll try to describe some of it here: on take-off, you can feel the SE6 clutch engaging and then very quickly "locking up". You couldn't do it any more smoothly with a manual. Now, on deceleration is where more difference is noticed: you get LOTS of engine braking with either the SE5 or SE6, and you cannot feather the clutch manually, of course. However, you CAN feather the deceleration by using the throttle, and this comes naturally and very quickly... you very soon learn perfect control of your deceleration rate. Also, something not mentioned yet is the option of manual downshift or automatic downshift, which gives even further range of control. However, it IS true that the clutch can never be disengaged at speed, which forces you to maintain momentum rate with the throttle. But this is a very short learning curve (with a throttle that covers its full operating range in only 1/4 turn). Finally, the clutch only disengages right before coming to a complete stop, at just the right time.
The auto has 2 oil filters while the manual has one. I am very happy with my manual to me it adds to the experience "I" want in ryding.
Is the auto bad? I am sure it is not. Do more people have more problems with them? I don't know. Do I see more of a potential for a problem? I do. Will that problem be more expensive to fix? I am sure it will.
And I'm sure you're right about that! Another good reason to stay under full warranty... I have 5 years worth on mine. :sour:
Will other ryders here comment on this? I hope so as I do not have all the answers.
Neither do I, but together I think we've covered a lot. :doorag:
Bottom line- Test drive both, talk to people, read everything you can find, then do what is best for you. And get out and ryde and have fun.
Safe ryding
:riding:
Jeff
My oldest son now owns and loves the big Yamaha. :thumbup:
