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2010 Honda NT700V Touring First Look

Friday, September 04, 2009

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The Honda NT700V is an all-new 2010 light-duty touring model from the Japanese marque.

Honda Motorcycles extends its street bike touring line with the release of the all-new NT700V. A mid-sized V-Twin, Honda pitches the new mount as “a light touring machine that’s fun, easy to ride and ready to carry you to work and play seven days a week.”

A liquid-cooled 52-degree V-Twin powers the new NT700V. The 680cc Twin sports an 81mm bore and 66mm stroke, with 10:1 compression ratio. A single overhead cam operates the four-valve cylinder heads. Like all Honda street bikes, the NT will source Honda’s programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI).

Steering geometry combines a 26-degree rake with 4.5 inches of trail. Wheelbase is 58.1 inches and the NT700V rolls on 17-inch hoops, with a 120/70 tire up front and a 150/70 rear. The reach to the ground is 31.7 inches from the NT’s seat.

Powering the NT700V is a 680cc 52-degree V-Twin.

Honda’s linked combined braking system (CBS) brings the new design to a halt. The three-disc arrangement places dual 296mm rotors in the front, pinched by three-piston calipers, with a single 276mm disc and three-piston caliper in the rear. The braking can be upgraded to Honda’s full ABS system.

The chassis features a front 41mm fork with 4.5 inches of travel and a rear shock with 4.8 inches travel. Only the shock is listed as being adjustable, with a remote preload adjustment nob dialing in settings for the extra lbs a touring bike needs to carry. Honda’s claimed curb weight for the NT700V is 566 lbs for the standard models and 571 lbs for the ABS unit.

Bolstering its motorcycle touring creds, integrated luggage saddlebags come standard on the NT700V. The bags feature a “pass-through” space between both bags for longer items, which sounds interesting and potentially

The Honda NT700V luggage features integrated saddlebags, which have a pass-through area for wider items. An accessory top case is also available.

quite handy. A fairing blocks wind and weather from riders, along with the five-position adjustable windscreen. Ultimate range will depend on observed fuel economy, but the 5.2-gallon fuel tank should yield at least a 200 miles between fillings (an important threshold for any bike with touring aspirations – at least in our book...). Listed accessories will enhance touring abilities and include the pictured top box (left) and other add-ons like heated grips.

Style-wise, the NT700V looks to us like the forbidden love-child of the ST1300 and Kawasaki Versys. Which really would be a Romeo and Juliet romance if it were true…

Anyhow, the NT700V will be available in either Metallic Red or Metallic Silver, with the ABS version only available in Silver. No MSRP is yet listed for either model.

Model: NT700V / NT700VA ABS

Capable of solo jaunts or two-up travel, now there is another touring option from the folks at Honda - the NT700V.

Engine Type: 680cc liquid-cooled 52° V-Twin
Bore and Stroke: 81mm x 66mm
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Valve Train: SOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, 40mm throttle bodies and 12-hole injectors
Ignition: Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission: Five-speed
Suspension Front: 41mm telescopic fork; 4.5 inches travel
Rear: Single shock with spring preload adjustability; 4.8 inches travel
Brakes Front: Dual full-floating 296mm discs with CBS three-piston calipers
Rear: Single 276mm disc with CBS three-piston caliper; Optional ABS
Tires Front: 120/70 ZR17 radial
Rear: 150/70 ZR17 radial
Wheelbase: 58.1 inches
Rake: 26 degrees
Trail: 115mm (4.5 inches)
Seat Height: 31.7 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5.2 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve
Colors: NT700V: Metallic Red, Metallic Silver
NT700VA ABS: Metallic Silver
Curb Weight*: 566 pounds (NT700V) / 571 pounds (NT700VA ABS)

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Comments

laser - Suzuki GSX650F November 20, 2009 08:56 AM
Hey topakski I have a 2008 Suzuki GSX650F with less than 2000 miles
on the clock, a Sargent seat and Suzuki center stand installed
that I will sale for $6000.00.

Charles mcarthuer - How much longer???? November 18, 2009 04:01 PM
What is take so long to get a NT700V into my local shop? Why are the motorcycle rags, no doing some road test?

HUNTER - APPLES WITH APPLES... November 16, 2009 09:14 PM
Zig - you certainly can't compare new with used. How much for a new Ninja 650 + all the touring essentials??? And unless your 2006 Ninja was different from ours (in Oz it was called an ER6-F) it didn't even get a fuel gauge! The NT comes ready to tour - just add a top box (boot) really. No chain and sprockets to clean, oil and replace, great instrumentation, good wind protection, centre stand, better range ... and unless I am mistaken (haven't reached that point yet on mine) DIY "screw and nut" valve adjustment. And certainly down under, retained values for the NT are amazing. Second hand examples are fairly rare and appear over-priced, until you consider the VALUE, not the out-right COST. Cost examples (all around 30000 miles) - 2004 NT650 (previous carburetted model) - approx $7500AUD - 2004 Suzuki SV650 - approx $7000AUD - 2001 Honda VFR800 (Interceptor) - approx $8000AUD - 2005 Suzuki GSX750F (Katana) - $6500AUD I paid $9000AUD for my 2006 NT with 3000 miles. RRP new is around $15000AUD. Currently on sale and can be ridden away for $13000AUD. Considering our dollar vs yours at the moment, you guys are getting a great deal at $10000USD. That should make them around $11000AUD here! No argument, there are plenty of sportier, faster, more powerful, better looking, better handling bikes out there that are cheaper - at least initially. Start paying for accessories, fuel, servicing, chains etc. and over time (and comfortable distance) the NT will reveal its true worth.

BCH - Let's compare apples to apples November 16, 2009 04:59 PM
Let's consider one of the great values for the all-rounder (V-Strom 650) and compare it to the NT700V.
The V-Strom is $7500 for chain drive, no luggage and an upper fairing only. This is a super value but you need to add luggage, better windshield and mess around with the chain.
For an additional $2,500, the NT700V gives you shaft drive, integrated luggage and a nice fairing. I would say that this is worth $1,000 to $1,500. Take into account Honda reliability, quality and IMO - this brings the relative values into the same "ball park".

Zig - Won't last November 16, 2009 03:04 PM
I've owned the '83 CX650C, Great bike, great motor. I bought that for $500.00 and sold it 4 years later for $1500.00 Had '88 k75 BMW which is probably as close to this new Honda, as a bike will get, bought that for $3200, rode it 2 YEARS 18,000 miles Later, sold it for $2700. With that $4200 bought a new 2006 Ninja 650R, with 1400 miles on it, (Gee, broken in too!). Dropped the driver pegs 1.5 inches, put on a touring windshield, some large Nelson-Rigg Soft saddlebags,fog lights and I Have a commuter/touring all arounder, that will beat pants of the Deauville, for $5800 less. Why buy when the dollar sucks. Does'nt make sense.

Twinstar - Finally in the US, but not Canada? November 13, 2009 09:38 PM
I ride an '82 GL500I Silverwing Interstate, which is just about the perfect bike for me; I believe Honda got it right with the '83 GL650I, then promptly stopped making them! The PC800 a bit later was its successor, then the Deauville, which was never available in NA until now. It's great to see Honda bringing some of their European-market standards to North America. I've sat on them at European shows, and bemoaned the fact that most bikes available in US and Canada were either crotch-rockets or choppers, neither being suitable for a lot of travelling. I intend to get a Deauville when I move to Europe. No doubt the Deauville has better performance, but it probably doesn't beat the old Silverwing for comfort and practicality. Even the GL500I fully laden for touring and(1-up...) can handle trucks at 80mph on the Interstates, so the NT700V should do fine. Until now, there was nothing like the old GL500/650/PC800s available. You can dress up a soft enduro like the Versys , V-Strom, Varadero and F-800 but that's still not a purpose-built built-like-a-tank light tourer.

HUNTER - NT700V November 12, 2009 04:51 AM
Hey all! The Deauville has graced the roads "down under" for a while now. Having lashed out and bought one recently, I can say that: - It looks much better with the screen lowered. Looks are subjective, it's growing on me, and it receives generous comments from a lot of people - none from speed freaks! - The economy is awesome. Cruising at 65-70mph it gets about 70mpg. That drops with luggage and hills, but is still impressive. - No surging. - More vibration than I expected, but either I am getting used to it or the bike is loosening up and running smoother. - Very comfortable. - One of the clearest and most comprehensive dash / instrument panels on offer. - Handles surprisingly well. - Heavy, but feels light once underway. - Oozes quality. No salt on roads here to cause corrosion. Chrome pipes do discolour though. - Panniers are part of the bike - they stay! Would make a tyre change more awkward. - Headlight is brilliant. - Have the dealer throw in 90 degree valve stems - access is tight. - It is a tourer - nothing sporty about it. My mate on a CBR1000F leaves me for dead at the lights (and on the straights but he aint riding at legal speeds) but I'm soon up his exhaust pipes in the twisties. It will never lift the front wheel, and it might not catch the babe, but it gets you from A to B (legally) almost as quickly as anything else, using less fuel and in greater comfort. It is more expensive than the competition, but in reality, it has no competition. It does what it was designed to do brilliantly. A few more horses would be nice, but then you add weight and use more fuel ... For fun, and to enjoy the road, I ride an old GSX750F (Katana) and thrash the pants off it. I ride the Honda to enjoy the ride!

LongRanger - NT700V and the almighty US dollar November 11, 2009 09:44 PM
Great comments about the NT700. Personally, I like it, but I think the BMW F800ST might be a better value as a mid-range sport tourer considering it weighs about 100 lbs. less and makes more torque and horsepower. But 680cc's for $10,000? Yep, get used to it. The US dollar isn't what it used to be, so be prepared to pay higher prices on a lot of stuff we import. Too bad we can't find a way to make bikes like this in the U.S.

Dean Bennett - NT700V November 7, 2009 07:51 PM
I have been a motorcyclist for 42 years. Have been a BMW rider since college. My present bikes are a 2000 R1100R and a 1984 R65,but alas in the past ten years everything BMW has built falls into these flawed designs: 1. Ungodly riding position. 2.Nose bleed saddle position. 3.Belt or even worse chain drive. Also your hard earned dollars gets you a dealer network few and far away. Also three thousand dollar in accesories just to get an already overprice bike tour ready. NT700V Honda. Shaft drive, civilized riding position,saddlebags, dealers in almost every large town, ABS brakes all for eleven grand. I'll own one by next monsoon season in Florida.

JeremyZ - For mature, intelligent riders November 6, 2009 06:46 PM
So many guys are bashing it, and it hasn't even arrived. I've noticed that Honda is marketing it as a touring bike, and not a *sport* touring bike. What that means is that it is slower than the ST13. Here's the thing though. Many of us mature people are ready for a bike that is reliable, low-maintenance, comfortable, and quicker than most cars. Oh, and one that won't roast us in the summer. (which rules out the ST13, FJR, and Concours14) This is it guys. It has integrated hard luggage, shaft drive that only needs greased splines every rear tire change, ABS and LBS that will save your a$$ when a deer hops out in front of you, and the famous Honda reliability. Right now, I'm riding a Kawasaki KLR650 and a Suzuki Burgman 400. Thinking about trading them both in on a Deauville or DL650. I don't ride offroad and the KLR engine is a piece of shit design. (burns oil, breaks doohickey springs) The Burgman is reliable and handles well, but boooooring.

spokexx - missing link November 5, 2009 06:05 AM
is this a test bed for the Transalp coming to America? Listen up Honda, youre missing out on the growing adventure class.

tjr28602 - high end November 3, 2009 05:32 PM
I'm surprised at the amount of hating from Versys and Vstrom fans. Let's face it, the Versys and Vstrom are definately poor when it comes to fit and finish. As a matter of fact I was shocked at the cheaply painted plastic parts and overall low end look of the Versys. This on the otherhand will have a top notch finish without a chain drive. This is a ride with an accent on quality for those wishing to part with an extra $2500.

Poppasarus - GL650I vs NT700 November 1, 2009 01:43 PM
Like Tom T above, I too bought a new GL650I in '83 and put 85000 miles on the ODO. I "upgraded" (not) to a R1100RT BMW and then to a Honda ST1300. I still wish I had kept the Silverwing. Can't wait to try the NT700, just wish it had the longitudinal engine layout.

Ray - PC800 Replacement October 18, 2009 08:31 AM
I purchased a low mileage Honda PC800 two years ago when the oil barons lost their minds and demanded their customers stay addicted to oil but eat the high prices. My 25 mile commute was fun on the Pacific Coast but it did have trouble with the weight (600 lbs.) to horsepower (less than 50). The trunk on the Pacific Coast and weather protection was the best features. It looks like the NT700V will be the perfect replacement. I am older than 50 so I do not need a crotch rocket and I am not a bad boy Harley wannabe. I guess we all mature with time.

Leslie - Too bad it is only a 700cc! October 17, 2009 07:04 AM
I own a 2008 Honda CBF1000ABS...this new bike looks awesome but I think Honda should have just revamped the CBF into something like this and made the CBF into a touring bike. Also, they should sell all their models in both the US and Canada. In Canada you can buy a new CBF for a little over $12000 CDN. In line 4, 1000cc's and some fairing. Add panniers and a top box from Givi for about $1200 and you have a touring bike. As for this design...and I really like how the ST looks...I sure would love this in a larger engine bike. Honda always seems to reinvent the wheel too much by adding new models that have some of the things we want...but for a 700 cc bike...I really think their msrp is way off the mark....too too high!

rexbaum - NT700V October 16, 2009 11:59 AM
I have owned 12 Honda (CB360T thru Goldwing) and four Harley Davidsons. I enjoy taking the bike whether it be around town knocking around and very much enjoy the long trips. This bike has caught my attention! When the dealers get them in, I will go and take one for a ride. Only after putting a few miles on one will any of us know if this is for us. In the mean time, I am glad that they are bringing it the the USA!

Tom T. - NT700V vs GL650I October 10, 2009 06:06 PM
My 1983 GL650I has 248,000 miles on the engine. I'm the original owner. The valves were replaced once. The final drive twice. What a great bike. With the fairing "lowers" screwed on, the only wind felt is on the ankles and forehead. One of the reasons I think the engine has lasted so longer is that I bypassed the sensor that turned the cooling fan on. I placed an on/off switch on the fairing. This allowed me to keep the engine temperature low when idling at traffic signals - San Diego.

I've been in the market to replace my bike for 5 years. The NT700V might be it, however, the windshield looks low even at its highest point. I'll just have to ride it.

The GL650I is built so the rider can sit up straight and the foot pegs are directly under the knees. I hope the NT700V is close to this design.

I'm not sure why Honda waited so long to built a mid-size bike with a stock fairing and bags. Why not build the GL650I again but with fuel injection, zerk fitting to grease the suspension, a slighty lower seat, and a better generator connector.

mdjamilhak - beauty to the eye of beholder October 10, 2009 02:57 AM
With regards of all the negative opinion, I have ridng NT650V (known as Deauville in europe)for almost 9 solid years! This bike was solid workhorse and weekend short touring. Maintenance as simple as it can be, normal DIY oil/plugs/filters change. Mechanic will definitely hate this bike cause the rider less frequent to visit them. Anyway, due to interest in 'adventure' bike I trade-in with V-strom 650 about a year. Somehow I still preferred previous bike and thinking to exchange it when NT700V landed in my country, Singapore. All the best!

RockvilleRich - NT700V October 7, 2009 08:57 AM
Thank you Honda. This is the first new bike out in years that I'd even bother to test ride. If someone wants a large heavy touring bike for two up riding there are tons of options, so I'm really glad to see an actual touring bike that's downsized enough to be FUN to ride, and manageable in parking lots, gas stations, and campgrounds after riding most of the day. I'm sorry to agree with another comment...the NT700V will probably not sell well in the U.S., and would be discontinued. That, in my opinion, is only because U.S. riders are influenced more by hype than actual riding experience. Time will tell.

Randy - Love this bike October 4, 2009 01:38 AM
Two weeks ago I sold my DL1000 V-Strom after putting 25k on it. Loved it but was looking for a change. Pulled out all the old cycle mags and was exploring what to get as I love buying gently used. Pounced on a 2003 FZ1 with 1800 miles for $4,500 and spent another $500 for top case and larger windshield. I love it, but the heat that comes off this 135hp engine will kill me next June (live in AZ and ride all year). I just spotted the NT700V being released and I know it will be part of my future. I've lusted after the European version for years. I went on my honeymoon in 1980 on a CB550 and later owned a CX500. Prior to those I owned a 1977 CB750F1 (google it) but thought it a tad large. It isn't going to be my only bike, but the NT700V has a space cleared in my garage. And no, don't tell me to look at the DL650, I never wished for less motor on my DL1000.

sproffitt - NT700V October 1, 2009 02:22 PM
As an older bike rider in my late 50's the NT looks like what I have been hoping Honda would put on the market. I am the owner of two 1982 GL500I's, (bought one new in '83) one CX500 turbo, one V'star, one Vulcan Nomad 1500 and just for giggles and grins one 1972 honda CB100. I do know a little about how the bikes compare and run, the old silverwings are an excellant bike. My wife and I have rode 2 up many miles and weekend trips on the little wings. we are not large people, I am about 175 and she is 130 lbs. these bikes have 50 h.p. and get along fine locked and loaded. lets face it, most harleys and cruisers arn't pumping much past 60. The torque is there but speed is nothing to write home about. I think the NT at 65 h.p. is going to be good for most applications. It won't be for everyone but when the 1300 is two much and the goldwing is way overboard for everyday riding, the NT may fit the bill.
By the way, I can take one of the '82 silverwings, keep it on the power curve (redline is 9700), and embarass a lot of large V twins.
So yes, I will wait and see but if the New NT preforms 15 h.p. better than the little "Wings" it may be the right bike for me and a lot others that handling 850 plus lbs is just not in the cards. $9,999 for the reliability and peace of mind is not a high price to pay.

auger6890 - NT700V September 30, 2009 06:03 PM
a baby ST1300,i will keep my wee-strom though.

topakski - NT700V vs. Suzuki GSX 650F September 28, 2009 11:33 PM
I've been saving to for the 2008/2009 Suzuki 650F which is going to cost between $5K (2008) & $7,500 (2009). I chose this bike for it's comfortable touring ride and short ride comfort and best of all it's price. The NT700V looks good for me, but for $10K, I don't know. A little bit more money, and I can get the BMW F800ST w/c is also one of my choices.
I'll stick with saving up for the Suzuki for now.

Allen - I wish they would just make it naked. September 28, 2009 09:39 AM
I wish they would just make a naked standard mid-size, and let the buyer decide if they want bags/fairings. Not everyone wants a uncomfortable crotch rocket, sluggish cruiser, or a two wheeled lazy boy tourer, which is all you can buy from Honda.

Bigpat - Bring back the NIghthawk September 28, 2009 07:49 AM
This is a waste of time and money. Underpowered,overweight,overpriced, a no win bike for sure. I love my 1992 CB750 Nighthawk--Idiotproof,rock solid dependable,simple maintennance and would destroy this bike in a heartbeat.Not the ideal touring bike, but classic Honda fun and value at its best. How about a new CB???

RJ - NT700V September 22, 2009 01:46 PM
I kind of dig the styling and the concept just not certain I'd drop the coin on this bike. At 6'2" the pegs on the ST even feel a bit close so I couldn't imagine throwing a leg over this bike. I also understand the old timers 'less is more' philosophy and see it in the many comparisons in the comments below where they can seem to accept the lesser CC's comparing to models from days gone past, however, as a rider in this decade I also feel if you cannot outpace modern highway traffic you are road kill or an accident waiting to happen. Blame it on getting used to the modern 'oversized' motorcycles or supercharged automotive boom but to consider a v-twin under 1K cc's I feel is life threatening but perhaps that is only regional to my state. A Lexus or Accord would run you down to get the kid to her dance lessons or pick up groceries and all you'd get is a pathetic apology, "sorry I ran your ass over and your kid no longer has a parent." Now if it was pushing a 4 cylinder power plant that would be another story but also not as cost efficient for maintenance costs so I get the reasoning behind it. Also as others have stated either more options like cruise control, heated seats and grips, or reduce the cost. This is another bike for smaller riders or newbies and the cost alone prohibits us bigger folks from considering it as a second bike for cost efficient commuting. Honda won't win me over on this one...

919Rider - NT700V September 21, 2009 07:21 AM
CBJ7748 gets it right. The exact bike I want at a price I won't pay. I spent 12 months trying to find a light-weight touring bike (in the mode of the old (1983) Honda Silverwing) finally gave up. Now Honda brings the bike I want to the states at $2000 too much. I guess I'll just continue to ride my 919 and wait until these hit the used market.

Looks like the exchange rate with Europe bites US again.

jeremy - Honda just cant please anyone September 21, 2009 06:09 AM
Holy crap! Honda cant do anything to please you guys. It's not the kind of bike I'm in the market for but I can plainly see the utility, practicality, ease of usability (low maintenance) aspect of this. It looks like dare I say a Honda CRV kinda bike. In markets where motorcycles tend to be practical everyday means of transportation (which as time goes by and most of the comments here express) the U.S market repeatedly displays that it is not the place for manufacturers to enlighten and experiment with, yet we'll constantly b!tch and gripe that we dont get enough choices here. And what's all the screaming for a V-4? Here's the fact, a V-4 is coming but listen out for the belly aching to follow (why not larger displacement to compete with "fill in the blank", and "where is my replacement for my beloved blackbird"). Have you considered the maintenance costs of a v-4 compared to a parallel twin for example? Belly ache long enough and maybe Honda will wise up and simply supply updated versions of the basic models we have here... Comments like these are why we will likely not see great bikes like the CB-1000r on these shores anytime soon.

cbj7748 - NT700V September 20, 2009 10:01 AM
Once again Honda comes out with a great bike, but due to pricing, it won't sell. Like the 599, it will only be available for a couple of years. After that, Honda will pull it from the American market due to poor sales. This will influence Honda's marketing strategy to "midsize bikes don't sell". However, the truth is OVERPIRCED midsized bikes don't sell. C'mon Honda, check out your competition. They are offering mid-sized bikes that the public are buying - and doing it for thousands less.

Eric - nahhh September 18, 2009 04:27 AM
Well I suppose it does not have to be pretty, since all it has to beat is the V-Strom and those butt ugly BMW's.

love at first sight - NT700V September 14, 2009 06:40 PM
I have been looking for a smaller sized ST1300 for three years. I guess it is now time to for me to take the class, buy a helmet, get my motorcycle endorsement, and make a dream a reality. Thank you Honda for building my first mootorcycle. Someday, I will sell it and buy a ST1300.

Jon Jon - Grow some balls Honda of America September 14, 2009 05:41 PM
And fire the current staff at American Honda. I work at a dealer and talk with the reps and can't believe how many from Honda do NOT ride a motorcycle so they have no clue of what American riders want. Stop making excuses about the economy and marketing. People bought out the Vmax. Ducati is selling well. BMW is selling all their GS and have now a waiting list for 2010 models. Hire some people who actually ride a motorcycle. All the other reps from manufacturers show up on their products. Honda reps show up in a rental car and don't even have a clue of license regulation of the state.

Bp - Very interested September 13, 2009 02:58 PM
I like this bike! A Goldwing and even an ST are just too big for my frame. This bike will fit me fine - I'll only have to add the trunk and heated grips and I'll be good to go. As for the price, I can live with $9999. From what I've read, it's a reliable, user friendly bike with overall low cost of ownership. The only question I have - are the valves self-adjusting?

Hard Spot - NT700V September 12, 2009 12:31 PM
I have been looking for a replacement for my GL500I (1982) for a long time. They finally made it. Nit picking, but I could use elec. cruise.

Matt - Nothing wrong with this bike! September 11, 2009 06:43 PM
This bike has it all from what I can see. Looks like a great all around street bike for city riding as well as touring. How is 65hp not enough? Should cruise all day long without a problem. I imagine the weight difference between this and the v-strom has a lot to do with the shaft drive system. Shaft drive is far better then screwin with a chain, I'd rather be riding. The bags being so integrated makes removing them unnecessary. I see nothing wrong with the looks, must be a small dingy that makes people dislike it. Maybe the spend too much time speeding with their 1300cc's to remember there are actual speed limits on most roads. The guy talking praises about a PC800... yeah a whole 45hp for a 585lb bike! How is that better then 65hp and 566lbs. I would really like to try this nt700v out for sure.

Matt - NV September 11, 2009 02:23 PM
I'm disappointed in Honda. This is a fine motorcycle no doubt. But, I had my fingers crossed for a bigger sport tourer, not fatter and slower. I know touring isn't about speed, but power is nice to have when you have someone sitting behind you. Too bad Honda didn't bring out the new VFR/ST like I heard they were supposed to. But, the economny being what it is, I'm not surprised they took an already existing model from Europe and got it legal for the U.S. Though, I can see the appeal of this bike for someone who doesn't ride two up that often.

Maybe Suzuki will step up and get a 1300ST Haybusa to compete with the Kawasaki ZX14 Concourse?

Deauville Rider - Chris - I OWN IT ~ I LOVE IT! September 10, 2009 01:17 PM
I am with the Navy in Italy and I ride a 2002 NT650V ~ the exact same bike with a slightly smaller powerplant. The bike is rock-solid, easy to drive, low maintenance, and easily cruises at 80+ on the Autostrada. It brings a smile to my face as I commute it on it every day, rain or shine. I was wishing I could bring it back with me to America and now I won't have to!

rbomb - new honda September 10, 2009 09:23 AM
I like it, it seems a bit overpriced though. I hope Honda brings more european models to U.S. I think there is a huge market for smaller and mid sized bikes in U.S.

Chris - A letdown September 9, 2009 04:41 PM
I think smaller/cheaper sport touring bikes are a great idea, just not this one, primarily because this bike is neither small (570 lbs) nor cheap ($10,000). My first bike was an sv650, which I loved, and while that bike has the same amount of power as this Honda, it weighs about 175 pounds less. I can't imagine riding this Honda 2-up, with luggage, up a hill with all of about 65 horsepower. So this is why I'll probably buy the Suzuki Bandit 1250s with luggage and still save money.

Sumanster - Good Effort September 9, 2009 02:27 PM
I like the styling and was kind of interested when I first saw the teaser in MC-USA's newsletter, but this bike seems about 100 lbs. overweight. My '86 Intruder 700 has shaft drive and an aftermarket flyscreen and hardbags (great for the many long trips I take on it), but only weighs about 450 lbs. with a GVWR of about 950 lbs., meaning it can carry 500 lbs. of rider/passenger/cargo. Riding solo, it's fairly agile and flickable (for a cruiser), which are traits that I suspect might not be as applicable to the NT700V. I am curious to see full tests and reviews of it though.

midnitelamp - nv700 September 8, 2009 10:42 PM
speaking of DN-01s has anybody ridden one?

my dealer says it stand for DoNot-Order1

Vern - NT700V September 8, 2009 06:35 PM
So Thats what Happens when a PC800 Rearends A TransAlp.
Yep the Versys is 10X better looking. Honda makes bikes that are too Girlie,,,, I really like MY ST1300, only for how well it works not because of its Curb appeal.

LAter Vern

WestSide - 5 speed? September 8, 2009 05:34 PM
What's with the 5 speed gearbox?

PdxRider - Nice Bike Honda September 8, 2009 05:32 PM
The bike looks good and should sell reasonably well. The posers won't buy it but everyday riders will give it serious consideration. If in fact the price is 10K that is a bit stiff-more units would be sold if the bike is priced closer to 8K or 8.5K w/ABS. Other than the alleged price-nice job Honda.

milwakee mike - NT700V September 8, 2009 08:54 AM
Let's get this straight; the DN-01, the Furby, and now the NT700V.
It sure seems that honda is trying very hard to get out of the motorcycle bussiness.

ShiSU - NT700V September 8, 2009 07:43 AM
Interesting to see them get into the standard/smaller ST class. I doubt it has the fun factor of the Versys, though. 10,000 miles on mine and no complaints: it keeps up easily with much bigger bikes on the highway, handles turns beautifully, passes a lot of gas stations, and that funky headlight lights up the road like a car. I don't get "ugly" vs "sexy" in bikes, though, especially in sport bikes and standards. Handsome is as handsome does, IMO, so to me the Versys is beautiful, while Honda has yet to prove the look of this bike. Not sure I care for the shaft drive, adds weight but not much else, and I don't get why Honda always seems to have one gear less than everybody else.

Instructorpilot - NT700 September 8, 2009 06:37 AM
Honda already makes a real touring bike, it's called a Gold Wing. I have owned all of the "Sport touring" bikes and they are good in their own right. This bike will have a following. That is who the marketing is directed at. Those of you that don't like it, well that's fine. Obvioulsy the marketing is not directed at you. But remember, even two up it will still out perform most cars and get better fuel milage. I like the way it looks and I intend on buying one when they are available. Just try to maintain am an open mind. Young engineers, new ideas, etc

STRider - Nt700v September 7, 2009 08:51 AM
Overweight and underpowered. Consider the BMW F800ST. It is a true sport touring bike and much better looking. A loaded ST can be bought used fully loaded for $9,000 to $10,000 and with low miles. The V-Storm 750 or 1000 would also be a much better choice. I think this bike is way overpriced when you consider the competition.

themountain - fuuugly September 7, 2009 08:16 AM
OOOH BOY...I miss my old Africa Twin!!

BloodSmear - Time for sanity September 7, 2009 07:08 AM
Not much for the styling, but it's very functional looking, and I've owned a 1982 GL500, a Yamaha 550 Vision and DL650 V-Strom along with my wilder bikes, so I'm used to odd looking bikes. However, for 2-up riding I think a 750+ size motor is essential for long rides unless both riders are lighter. My V-Strom 650 has the best small motor I've used, but 2-up it's strained, while 1-up, it's a brilliant. Though I prefer more sport in my sport-tourer, it's great to see full-fledged touring bikes getting smaller, rational engines -- good balance of performance and handling, weight and fuel-mileage. BMW's F800ST is much sexier (it's really a sport-tourer), but at 14k with all the options, Honda may come in well under that. I know Aprilia's also coming out with a sport-touring derivative of it's 750 Shiver, so competition is heating up if you included larger displacement SprintSTs, VFRs, FZ1s, even Bandit 1250s'. Now if Suzuki would just make an SV-750ST or SV-800ST sport-tourer with good ergos, because the V-Strom is feeling old and is too tall for most.

wingridermg - deauville September 7, 2009 06:00 AM
Finally,something to compare my GL650 to.

cbj7748 - Honda NT700V September 6, 2009 09:00 PM
This would be my perfect bike if it wasn't overpriced by about $2500. You can get a V-Strom 1000 or a Bandit 1250S for less. C'mon Honda, 680cc's for $10000 is crazy.

TJB - NT700V September 6, 2009 03:29 PM
I'm interested in this motorcycle. I'm 47 years old, got my first mc for Christmas in 1972, a honda CT70. I want something lighter, more economical, and more practical for every day use than a Goldwing. I owned a 1988 Goldwing and loved it for long trips but found I didn't ride it often due to bulk for every day use. But I want to be able to take that occaisional long multi day trip through country that the Goldwing excells at. I tried a V-Strom 650 and it was nice but thought I gave up a little to much in the long haul comfort and convenience areas.

I've been looking for a comfortable mc that is great around town, can hop over a curb if necessary, has good storage capacity and wind protection, and will cruise smoothely two up at 78 mph all day long. I also want low maintenance features like shaft drive, self adjusting or long intervals between adjustments on valves.

And the motorcycle needs to get around 60 miles per gallon. Economy is what brought many of us to motorcycling back in the 1970's and the fun factor kept us there. I'm willing to give up super acceleration and top speed. Acceleration times from 0 to 60 in eight seconds and top speeds around 100 mph are more than enough for me.

I don't know that the NT700V is what I'm looking for but I've been eyeing the Deauville on the internet in Europe for a few years and would like to check it out. I'm keeping hope alive for that one motorcyle that will do everything.

normalc - nt700vf September 6, 2009 08:38 AM
Add a 700cc or 800cc v-four, drop 50 pounds, keep the shaft drive and you'll have the perfect replacement for my '96 Magna

larrylarry75 - No Guts, No Glory from the Land of Little People September 6, 2009 08:16 AM
As one of those guys who's interested in a smaller shaft drive touring bike I'd hoped this puppy might be the one. Not! What we don't need is another bloated underpowered commuter; that's why they make scooters isn't it? C'mon manufacturers, wake up to the untapped market for small touring bikes.

vfrfan - bike eval September 6, 2009 03:23 AM
you are better off buying a used 800 series VFR. lighter weight, more power, better gas mileage, takes givi bags, handles better.

Switchback - Overweight Transalp? September 5, 2009 08:34 PM
Looks like a Transalp with extra bodywork and luggage. Keep this one Honda and give us the real thing.

Dave - NT700V / NT700VA ABS September 5, 2009 08:29 PM
I think its a nice looking bike! I been waiting for Honda to produce a bike like this. I ride a 98 ST1100. I hope to see this bike at the dealer. I will consider buying one. The PC800 was a very functional and well liked bike. I wish they would bring more bikes like this back to market at a price people can aford.

zipizap - nt700v September 5, 2009 04:10 PM
I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder... this bike looks great to me from any angle (especially in red.) As for the power, well, I think we've become so fascinated by power bikes, we've forgotten that for much of the world the motorcylce is practical everyday transport. I especially like the sleek integrated panniers, as I am a photographer and would love to be able to lock a good tripod and my gear out of sight, and out of the weather. I'm eager to try one of the 2010 models.

DbqFan - NT700V September 5, 2009 12:42 PM
Not very good looking and very under powered and whats with the 1 year warranty? Too heavy for a 700cc bike. And as usual, the japs claim it is a touring bike but where are the standard items one would want on a touring motorcycle such as cruise control, heated seat, decent windscreen etc. Maybe Honda will redo the ST1300 into a real "Touring Motorcycle".

PeeCeeRyder - Doughville September 5, 2009 10:12 AM
Rode one and it totally stinkkkks, so heavy most folks will drop it a few times. Lock was hard to get key in and turn, bag on my rental fell open. It's like an underpowered Pacific Coast which is around on the used market for 1/3 the price but twice the bike. If your in the marked for a VT700 then check out the PC800. A much much better bike that I see selling for around 3500. I have a PC and love it and it's going strong for over 20 years with zero issues or maintains needed. The Deauville IMHO su (c) K S , hope that got around censor programs save your money. If you want a new ride I guess the 750 Shadow is a choice if you wanna stay Honda. I say another amen to the 1200 VFR with shaft drive, yeah buddy, bring that to the showroom floor and I'm there.

Been there - done that - All good cruising September 5, 2009 07:58 AM
I have had the pleasure to ride this bike and it is amazing to say the least. The tires it come factory fitted are not as good as some,biggest problem is you really have to push the bike into the corners,but put a nice set of tires on and this bike is perfect. And cornering is so very comfortable with zero effort, weight and balance is great. Fuel economy is also a nice surprise. If you are a larger person and two up I recommend you think about the ST1300

V-Strom rider - NT700V September 5, 2009 07:16 AM
It looks like a great bike for its intended buyer.Shaft drive, good mileage and range, low maintenance, hard bags and even ABS if desired. If the 650 V-Strom didn't exist, I would strongly consider it. I wish I had shaft drive! Good job American Honda. Now please bring us the classically styled CB1100F and all is forgotten! (http://www.cexut.com/2009-honda-cb1100f)

Harry - NT700V September 5, 2009 04:50 AM
Great looking but seriously heavy and underpowered. My Trumpy weighs less than that and has a more powerful motor.

gh - Non-alcoholic September 4, 2009 09:59 PM
It has the right gear for sport touring, but it doesn't have a "kick" to it. It has about half the horsepower of the Honda 1300 and three quarters of the weight, not a good combination for two-up riding. European testers have commented on the lack of power. A mid-sized sport touring bike is the right concept, now I wish Honda would right size the horsepower.

Frank - GL500I September 4, 2009 08:58 PM
I love my 27 year old Silverwing Interstate but it is time for something new. This may be it for me. If this thing holds up as well as the GL500I , I'll be in my 80's be for it wears out! Me or the bike or both.

PC Rider - Bring It On!!! September 4, 2009 05:51 PM
I have had the experience of living in Europe for 6 years and the first thing I noticed (being a cyclist) was the difference in motorcycle riding. You don’t see the helmet-less boulevard cruiser, the bar parked chopper, or shirtless surfer dude sitting on his Hyabusa telling the chicks his bike can pull 200mph. What you do see are folks who “ride”. I have seen guys who have the older generation Honda Deauville who are approaching 300k miles with minimal maintenance (now THAT is a Honda)!

DJW - About Time! September 4, 2009 05:25 PM
If this thing hits the American market (which I doubt), I would buy one tomorrow! Finally… a sensible and practical mid-size motorcycle for those of us who own a bike for transportation instead of a statement.

nw - zzzzzzzzz September 4, 2009 05:09 PM
Welcome to 1989 Honda.

CX Turbo Rider - Finally, a light weight shaft driven V-twin. September 4, 2009 04:52 PM
As a CX series owner/rider, I generally prefer my shaft driven V-twins to be longitudinally mounted, but this bike is the right size, weight, and power to weight ratio to be a modern contender to a classic Honda series. It has nice lines, the curb weight is about the same as a 1983 GL650I Silverwing, but has modern suspension, tire sizes, and admittedly, this engine design gets the stator out of the oil bath, so its reliability should effortlessly be in the 100k mile range. It's about damned time.

chawar - nt700v September 4, 2009 03:09 PM
Come on Honda! Were is the 1200cc VFR. We don't need this under powered european junk.

wllrjstn - correction September 4, 2009 02:32 PM
IS UGLY not us ugly. That thing IS ugly.

wllrjstn - ugly September 4, 2009 02:30 PM
Man, that thing us just UGLY. I don't suppose Honda will be selling many of those things. A Versys looks down right sexy next to that Honda.

clb3 - NT700V September 4, 2009 01:49 PM
Finally! America gets the Deauville!

Superlight - NV September 4, 2009 12:28 PM
Boy, it looks like those saddlebags really are integrated, to the point where the bike would look like it had something missing without them. A great idea to take the integration to the next step by interconnecting them for larger items.

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