First Ride: 2012 Honda NC700S (09/06/2012)

[Gremlin]

so this is a standard transmission (six speed with wet clutch): not a CVT or DCG?

Around the world, both are available, NZ only gets the usual 6 speed manual layout.

I've been thinking about replacing my 10 year old f650cs with one of these - I know Honda see this as a "New Concept", but there seem to be a lot of similarities between the two - low revving economical engine, storage where the fuel tank should be, tank under the seat, aimed at commuters, LAMS approved etc.

LAMS approval isn't there yet, but it's something Honda are working on.

I've ridden an F650cs? I think a few times (loan bike when my BMW goes in), and I'd have to say I'd take the NC700S any day, but then it's a decade newer. The F650 definitely has that agricultural feel to it, but then the NC isn't a screamer either...

[carbonhed]

Most excellent review Gremlin.

[Vorno]

That was a good read mate. Don't suppose you'll be writing up a NC700X review next?!

[Gremlin]

That was a good read mate. Don't suppose you'll be writing up a NC700X review next?!

Hadn't planned to. Could probably borrow one as they're available now. I don't think they differ THAT much, and realistically, the "adv" style bikes aren't really adv bikes, they just look it.

If enough people want one a review, then sure...

Oh, there are some interesting differences. Lock for accessing storage and tank is on the top, bars are different etc.

[actungbaby]

Slap a fairing on it make it lams compliant and watch ninja/hyosung 250 sales stop dead.

Also does it wheelie?

I got to say having ridden a ninja 250 there awsome bikes did 120 kph two up easy crusing too mind you nc 700 is great bike too

[actungbaby]

Hi great review was well written and nice to hear things i havent read about this bike, and read all reviews on the net.

Just you saying what bike sounded like and was good pulling power from low revs, great, most other reviews bang on about the

Lower rev limit .

Sounds like my kind of bike esp lower gas usage means you can just go place and not worry which is good.

[nerrrd]

Article in Motorcycle Trader this month seems to have incorrect information about the "X" version - "Braking-wise, the C-ABS front-rear linking feels strong and safe and the ABS system is part of the standard package" is the caption on top of a pic of the bike's front wheel with no ABS sensor visible...repeats it in the body copy ("...the ABS system is part of the standard package rather than a cost extra"), meanwhile the lead-in pic of the bike does have the sensor...confusing.

[actungbaby]

Article in Motorcycle Trader this month seems to have incorrect information about the "X" version - "Braking-wise, the C-ABS front-rear linking feels strong and safe and the ABS system is part of the standard package" is the caption on top of a pic of the bike's front wheel with no ABS sensor visible...repeats it in the body copy ("...the ABS system is part of the standard package rather than a cost extra"), meanwhile the lead-in pic of the bike does have the sensor...confusing.

I think read where where not selling the abs version as to keep the cost down

[Vorno]

I think read where where not????

...Oh dear! :P

[Gremlin]

actungbaby is correct, I believe the ABS version is not available, and only the non-ABS version has been brought into NZ. This is at least correct for the S, most likely true for the X, as the price difference is small, the ABS option costs more. If writers are copying the overseas info, then yes, very likely it's standard elsewhere.

Apparently Blue Wing thought it would make the bike too expensive, but some market feedback I've had, is if you're spending that much on a quality commuter, you'd pay a bit more and get ABS. ABS is catching on, many looking at new bikes are now taking the opportunity to want it, rather than shrugging and accepting it came with/without it.

[nerrrd]

I'm sure you're both right, shame they couldn't have checked with the local importers before publishing.

One of the pluses for BMW I guess - they tend to include this sort of thing even on my oldish bike. Kind of makes me feel like I'd be trading down...

[BMWST?]

seems a bit odd really in my way of thinkin....a super commuter would be enhanced with abs

[davereid]

seems a bit odd really in my way of thinkin....a super commuter would be enhanced with abs

I feel the same way. I am really surprised that it does not have ABS, and disappointed too.

ABS adds stuff all to the cost of building a motorcycle, its just the NZ habit of seeing it as something we can charge heaps more for that causes the issue.

I hope that Honda can get LAMS approval - its very clearly a great choice for learners.

The NZTA were never able to explain why they put a cc limit in. (Western Australia for example do not.)

I asked why and was told that they didn't want bikes that were too large or heavy available on LAMs.

I pointed out that height and weight were good measures for large and heavy, and that cc's were not, but as usual, the NZTA did what they wanted.

Once decided on a path, the NZTA only do public consultation because the law says they must. They never actually listen to it.

[Gremlin]

I hope that Honda can get LAMS approval - its very clearly a great choice for learners.

Unfortunately, it looks like it won't.

It's 10cc too large, and as you pointed out, NZTA don't seem able to budge...

[actungbaby]

seems a bit odd really in my way of thinkin....a super commuter would be enhanced with abs

yes i was dispointed they made that choice but then agin i hope bike does well and they may bring it as a option

Or least bring both models next year , mind you i dont have income to buy a new bike anyway