Mana 850 isn’t the first bike to employ a continuously variable transmission (CVT), but it is the first bike to add the feature of an electronically controlled semi-manual 7-speed sequential transmission, and a choice of three engine mappings, all made accessible at the push of a few buttons. But what might really generate the brouhaha is the fact that the 839cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, eight valve, single overhead cam, twin sparkplug per-cylinder, 90-degree V-Twin powering the Mana is sourced virtually unchanged from a scooter.
Aprilia have set up the CVT with three automatic settings and a pseudo sequential seven speed manual. The auto settings are touring (for good economy), sport (for maximum performance) and rain (for a softer power delivery for good traction in the wet), and they are interchangeable on the move with a handlebar switch. The pseudo manual option is controlled also via the handlebars or through the traditional left foot selector. There is no clutch lever.
