England’s Motorcycle News is reporting that Ducati, expected to debut a significantly revised 996 (known as either the 998 or 999) at Intermot on September 13, may feature a semi-automatic, thumb-operated gear shifter on the new model. This system would be similar to those first used in Formula One automobile racing.
I don’t know about you, but the idea of not shifting with my left foot is not appealing. I have been riding for so long that shifting with my left foot is an intuitive part of the experience.
Just as I prefer my automobiles with manual shift, manual shifted motorcycles add to the experience. Nevertheless, the Ducati system could be advantageous for racing (just as it has been an advantage in Formula One automobile racing).
