Shedding more light on CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) 30^th June 2022

The most heard of types of two-wheeler transmission have been manual and automatic transmission. While manual transmission requires the driver to operate the gear stick and clutch to change gears, the automatic transmission does not need any driver input to change forward gears under usual driving conditions.

While automatic transmission has made driving significantly easier, there's a new type of transmission that might take over. This is CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). A CVT is an automatic transmission where the rider doesn't need to apply the clutch pedal manually.

However, there are fundamental differences between the two. Traditional automatic transmission has a fixed number of preset gears for the driver. However, CVTs have an unlimited number of gear ratios that can accommodate the driving conditions at any given moment. It allows seamless shifts without hard shifting points, making the ride remarkably smooth.

This blog gives you an insight into this fascinating technology and why it is steadily gaining popularity.

Benefits and drawbacks of CVTs.
Benefits:

1. Improved fuel efficiency – Unlike typical automatics, the CVT can change the gear ratio forever to maintain the engine running at peak fuel efficiency. Overall, the more gears offered by an automatic transmission, the better the optimisation of engine power.

2. Smoother driving experience – The absence of harder shift points means the CVT delivers much more consistent performance on the roads. There are no sudden lags in acceleration as experienced with automatic and manual transmissions.

3. Driving uphill – Driving uphill or on steep roads is easier using a CVT. This is because, in regular transmissions, the driver would have to find the perfect gear ratio by themselves. In contrast, a CVT finds the exact ratio needed immediately, providing a smoother driving experience.

Drawbacks:

1. Heavy on the wallet – CVT systems are generally more costly than traditional counterparts. The repair and replacement costs are also more expensive. Additionally, CVT systems don't last as long as conventional systems and start failing more quickly.

2. Lack of high-performance capability and durability – A CVT is an excellent choice for an average driver, but it can't handle the higher horsepower. Hence it isn't used for performance and sports cars.

3. Noisiness – CVTs are louder and whinier than automatic transmission. Under fast acceleration, they tend to drone. This makes driving less enjoyable for the driver.

Working mechanism of CVT.

CVT systems use a pulley system to function effectively. Unlike the traditional automatic transmission, CVT uses several parts for shifting between gears.

This system depends on cones to change through the infinite gear ratios seamlessly in a CVT. These cones are attached to each pulley and the chain and can be moved around to adjust the dimensions of the belt. This allows for faultless shifting, which results in improved power output and better mileage.

A pulley connects the bike's engine and CVT and manages the direction of power. Based on the required energy, the diameter of the pulleys is adjusted.

The CVT's value lies in its simplicity. It has very few components but can work more efficiently for an average driver with increased fuel economy and steady, smooth operation. This technology can enhance the experience of a driver, but not all that glitters is gold.

The main drawback is that the repair costs might be overwhelming. Rather than fearing the expenses, take a step towards sensible investment, i.e. insurance. Consider looking for the best quotes online. Buy 2 wheeler insurance online and get amazing advantages that ensure a noteworthy return on investment during your hour of need.

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Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.