2010 Honda
NT700V
MSRP $9,999
Introducing the Honda NT700V, newly arrived here in the U.S., and the perfect combination of cross-town commuter and cross-country capability that's been wowing Europeans for over a decade. Think of it this way: If the ST1300 had a little brother, it would be the NT700V. Plenty nimble to eat up around-town urban assaults, and plenty plush and feature-packed for the luxurious long haul. From this machine's potent, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 680cc V-twin, disc brakes (with optional ABS) and bulletproof shaft drive to its integrated saddlebags and weather-cheating adjustable windscreen and bodywork, the NT700V rolls out as the ultimate light-weight tourer/commuter for both entry-level and seasoned riders alike. In other words, the best of both worlds.
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I've owned many motorcycles in my life including the Harley I just traded in on the NT700 in July last year. I've traveled about 300,000 miles in my life. I've put 3,000 miles on this bike so far and I have had nothing but a positive experience. It's not the best at anything but does everything very well. I average 55 miles per gallon (easy 250 mile range on a tank of gas). It can putt around nicely to enjoy the scenery or it can travel 75 - 80 miles per hour all day if I want. Handling is excellent. It's not extremely powerful and yet it is as quick as almost any stock Harley. Unlike the Harley I had before I believe this bike will be dead reliable. What more can I say.
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This bike does everything good, not great: It works just as well in mountain twistys as it does on long hauls, short commutes and short 3 hour cruises.
Engine....I can cruise freeways at 75...but it has a buzzy sound.
Great suspension
Good handling, not great...but very good.
Transmission...needs a 6th gear
Great value for the money...it does everything good. Could I get a better cruiser? Yes, but it would suck at touring. Could I get a better tourer? Yes, but it would suck on sporty riding. Could I get a better sport bike? Yes, but it would suck on the long trips...this bike does it all well.
Great braking
Components feel cheap...and the saddle bag wouldn't close on my most recent trip. I also do not like the seat for more than 4 hours or the grips. Upgraded both.
Reliability....the thing with the saddlebag cover really pissed me off.
It's great for what it is: An all-purpose do anything motorcycle...now, Honda better fix the saddlebag cover!!!
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I purchased this bike on Feb 26th 2010. It is not March 9th 2010 and i have 700 miles on her. I am getting a avg of 53.8MPG running 93 gas. I ride an avg speed of 65mph. The storage capacity is adequate, but the top box makes it perfect. The brakes were a bit spongy, until bedded in.. and now are firm. The front forks are a tad stiff, and I am hoping for them to relax a bit as they are used. If not, i will look into softer springs or progressive ones. Seat is comfy. MPG is getting better.. which is already great. The windshield is going to be perfect for Spring, Sunner, and early Fall, Winter rids will need more wind protection. I am 5'10" and it buffets my head, so... hopefully that is a guide. There is some vibration below 2500rpm, but your not there long enough for it to be an issue. I tis very smooth in the 3500 - 6000 range.
60 = 4500rpm
70 = 4800rpm
75 = 5200rpm
80 = 5500rpm
All are in MPH.
The shaft drive is awesome... nuff said.
It is quiet, smooth, planted, and stable at speed. All in all a great bike, if your looking for sensible, economical, reliable, practical, affordable, and useful transportation with great value and low maintenance. If your looking for a thrill ride, with white knuckle acceleration and blinding speed... you might want to pass on this one.
It has adequate power for the intended segment it was designed to sell for. It is NOT a rocket. It is well suited for what it was made for.
All said and done, I am quite pleased.
