These days we can either go full automatic or full manual when it comes to our transmissions but for the longest time, it was something in between the two extremes that ruled the powersports world:

https://atvconnection.com/articles/l...omatic-clutch/

 

Just found the article you linked to and it is complete rubbish. I don't know of any ATV that used the "something in between" described in the link, including the Honda and Kawasaki pictured. They and every other manual transmission bike I know of which are described as semi automatic, have a conventional motorcycle multiplate clutch but it is connected to the gear pedal, so first part of gear pedal movement lifts the clutch, then it changes gear, then clutch re-engages as you take your foot off. Yes, there is a lawnmower style centrifugal clutch, to make it rev and go when setting off, but it has a one way clutch inside it to stop it disconnecting once on the move. Honda still use this semi automatic system. ES models replace foot change with electronics and motor, and Honda Autos (except for 680) now have a hydraulic operated double clutch, but same basic idea.

 

Not to worry- often the pics we run in these pieces are what we have the rights to rather than of the actual machine in question. The centrifugal design was popular many years back, particularly in the "three-wheeler" era. They appear once in a while still in minis mostly. Though for the most part has been replaced by the systems mentioned. The sheave, centrifugal, and multi-plate clutch all have their place, though, and hopefully we'll get to taking a look at all three of the designs' pros and cons in future installments.