I've had an NC700X for the past couple of months. I love it. It's a great bike for someone who's looking for something sensible, meaning great fuel economy, comfort and reliability. But it's not a racer. If you're into speed and power, look elsewhere. It has plenty of power for me, but I'm a rather conservative rider. What was said in the video about steering response is very true as well. I noticed that the first time I tried to counter steer with it. It wasn't as responsive as other bikes I've owned. But as I said, I'm a conservative rider, more interested in reliability, economy and comfort than dragging my knees on asphalt, so I don't really care too much. As far as the low redline, it hasn't bothered me at all. Every bike I've owned prior to this redlined around 10,500 rpms or so but I had no trouble adjusting to shifting sooner with this one. I think that's because it has enough torque to get you moving quicker at a lower rpm. The power band is much lower than other bikes. I test rode a Versys when I was looking for a bike and didn't like the feel of it at all. I felt every imperfection in the road, the faring vibrated and the controls were jerky. To be fair, that could well have been just that particular bike. But the NC just felt much smoother and more comfortable to me. The lower center of gravity of the NC was very noticeable as well. Slow-speed maneuvering seems easier than most other bikes I've owned.
@@matthew8505 Depends on the size of the helmet. I just bought a 2012 and my XL Scorpion 410 helmet will not fit. My small Shoei RF1200 fits and the large RF1200 just barely fits. At one point maybe starting with the NC750X they upgraded the storage size from 21L to 22L and I have heard it handles most helmets now.
I had a test ride on both bikes and bought the Honda NC and i love it,very practical does everything,even toured Scotland and i will be doing more on this bike,its brilliant !
ive just bought this honda and I love it, pull like a train, short shifter but its not a problem got the iXil exhaust and it sounds absolutely lovely!!
I think this review is right on and the advantages of the Honda 700x are clear. You get better millage, more of a feeling of stability on the highway and lower sticker price. Let's no forget the storage space on the Honda and that make it a great commuter. For me the NC700x is perfect since I am a new rider and is perfect for what I used it.
To all those who talk bad about the Honda and its low rpm caracteristics .... when your high rpm engines already need to be costly rebuilt I will add another 100.000 km on it with a smile...! Cheers !!!
Tienes mucha razón. La Honda está diseñada para tener un bajo mantenimiento. Ya hay videos en con mas de 200.000 km. Yo tengo una NC 700 X y es una excelente moto.
Belén Para decir algo interesante..... Y tuve una Z1000 y cambio por una Versys 650,2015 y tengo admitir que la Versys es también um buen moto ! Sin embargo todavía tengo la NC700S de 2013 con 66000 km y estoy disfrutando ambos por su características diferentes 🏍👍
@@timjohnson1199 Yes indeed it is. Actually I just completed 102.000 km. Still runs like day one. Also still.on first clutch plates, just saying. Most versatile bike I ever had. Safe rides 👍🏍
In 2020 I looked at nc750 first when I wanted to buy a new bike... Then, typical Honda, I saw the damn thing costs more than the versys 650( both being 2014 models plus I can buy 6 sets of Pirelli Scorpion tires with the money I save on the versys), it has 10HP LESS than the Versys, the Versys has dual disks upfront, the kawasaki parallel twins are SUPER reliable, they're stunning to look at and handle super nice. So I bought the Versys... No regrets Also, the Versys is my opinion might possibly nearly as feul efficient as the NC750... I got 23km per liter doing 140-150km/h highway. I also did a couple of 180km and 200km trips and it's super comfortable, I am not tired, not stiff or not sore Same basic thing happened when my dad looked at a CRF1000 Africa twin and a ktm1190. Hondas these days are just to expensive for what you get. I'll take the Versys ANY day. Done.
I had a vers and a nc700x..I kept the Nc700x and sold the versys. I don't regret it. Love that nc700x. Pulls like a tractor. Sure, it poops out at 6200 rpm...that's the type of engine it is...long stroke, small bore. Love the storage, shifts smoother that the versys did.
Last year I decided to trade in my Honda CBR 954 RR,02', for the NC 700X and I haven't looked back since. The 900 was a great bike, awesome handling, nice motor although lacked a bit of personality, but it also had a huge need for gas, and gas prices are high, and, when riding it I felt like i needed to ride all out or nothing at all, to really enjoy the machine, in the summer it was hel to ride, stopping at any red light would put the engines fan on and had my "nuts" roasting from engine heat.
One thing, or should i have said, one of the things you did not talk about is the suspension differences, on the 2 bikes with Kawasaki Versys, having a much better setup, that has more adjustability of parts, both up front & in the rear, this will help on the longer rides with no bumps, or larger bumps to contend with. Believe me, we all know this makes a big difference in commuting, or long range, or even lite touring duties. So do the braking systems, even if not ABS equipped. Something to think about, well I do ! Thats about 2 cents worth ?
You are making a case for many bikes from my venerable GS500 to my friend's 1986 V-Max. He has over 130,000 miles on it. It doesn't burn oil and has yet to be rebuilt. He bought it for himself for his 35th birthday. He is now over 60 and it still runs great with routine maintenance. I never rode one bike that long!
One thing they don't mention is that the reason car engines are big bore low RPM engines is because they are expected to run 80K miles+ without much fuss. Many people put 25K miles on their motorcycles that they rarely ride, and that's considered high mileage. Hondas in general tend to be pretty low maintenance, and with such a low RPM engine I would wager this will last for ages with little fuss. Should have gone shaft or belt drive though to further reduce maintenance.
For those interested, The Versys sports about a 55 MPG (US) average, for me anyways, and the lowest i've yet to get (and i'm an aggressive corner carver) is 48 mpg. I would have liked Honda to have put a real bike engine in it, and a bigger gas tank, but other than that, I would seriously have considered it before buying my Versys.
The thing is. The Honda engine is really based on a car engine (1400cc not sure which model) and it's first and foremost a commuter's bike. More focus on better fueleconomy than performance. I've read the interview with one of the engineers behind it.
The "Half a Honda Fit/Jazz engine" is a common misconception, as it was said jokingly in one review back in 2012 and people have been viewing it as absolute truth since. Also, I LOVE the low revving nature of this bike. I don't enjoy being on the highway and seeing 7-8K RPM, I much prefer to buzz along at 3-4K. I've had more fun on it that a CBR600RR, I kept saying "where's the torque?!"
Pretty good article, but just like so many other bike articles it calls these bikes, especially the Honda in this case, beginner bikes, which can be very misleading. A new 600+ cc motorcycle is going to have a lot of performance, unlike the same size engines of a generation or more ago. No, these are not the 160mph 600 cc bikes you can buy today, but they're still faster than your dad's old triumph, which wasn't a slow bike. See my point?
I have a 2015 NC700x and I absolutely adore it. For commuting it's the best bike i've ever owned. Amazing fuel economy, convenient storage and plenty of power and braking ability. I can ride to work, hook my helmet to the side and store my jacket and gloves in the compartment, boom completely unburdened.
Interesting comparison. I know a lot of riders, and not one of them rides because they have to, they all ride because they want to. With that said, I think the Honda is an interesting platform, but it's just not for an American market. I know there are of course commuter riders, but I think overall most riders in America do not fall into the commuter category. They ride because they love it. And when you ride for the love of it, practicality goes out the window.
Additionally, if you're thinking of home servicing, don't.. The engine is difficult to access unless you remove lots of plastics. All if which are secured with little plastic push rivets which have to be replaced. At £1.50 GBP each! The engine noise is reminiscent of a sowing machine, and it hates headwinds.
In my country we have to pay more for the nc700x than for the Versys. Does it worth the money? (Around 14500usd for the nc700x and 13000usd for the Versys) I know, it's very expensive, but those are common prices for this kind of bikes here :(
I commute 18 miles everyday on my Honda Nc700s. Half of it is duel carriageway and half country roads and a little city. It really is perfect for the commute. I think I average at 71mpg (uk) and I'm never left feeling that I need a whole lot more power. The low rev toque I gets up to speed quick enough, if you thrash it it's nicely responsive but does drink more. Overall I love it. Practically it's very useful indeed having a storage compartment to get some milk or bread for home. Great bike.
I may just end up buying the Versys. I was talking bad about the bike but now that I look at it, it'll be perfect for riding around town and even hit the highway with it here and there. My main reason for getting the Versys though is to learn how to do some stunts. I'd much rather drop that bike than my 2012 10r lol. It has that street fighter kind of look and it wont take much of a beating when you lay it down. Put frame protector on it and all that cool stuff
I don't think you'll be disappointed... I own a 2010 Versys and the thing has great power (not a supersport obviously) but where it's real talent is is in the corners, I've never gotten on a bike and been so at home so fast before.. It really is a great fun bike, but I can't understand who would buy the "black and mustard" paint scheme !
I have a 2012 NC700X Honda for sale. Runs like new, recent service, new tires/chain/battery. Has a windscreen. 18,000 miles. 65-70mpg. Listed for $3500. Obo.
Subbed... I have a blast on my NC. The NC cuts the corners with the best of them, it just doesn't out accelerate anyone. I commuted with it throughout the winter and I have done multiple 400-500 mile camping days on it. If the NC had 20hp more it would be nearly perfect. It is the best bang for the buck, it'll give you super low cost road adventures for sure.
I have a 2010 Versys and a CBR125R , I like your review style, it seems more real world experience than a cross referencing of numbers. I would get the Honda700 if i were a city commuter.
I've had the Versys. Travelled a lot of places on it - onroad, offroad etc. Suspension is not good, way too harsh over square edge bumps (front and rear, but mostly rear), brakes not that powerful and lack feel despite having two discs. It's more sporty and the engine has more HP, but that's about it. It's well build but all the low end components makes it feel cheap. NC 700 doesn't have that cheap feeling and beats the Versys in every aspect than HP and sportiness if u ask me. Had I tried the NC before I bought the Versys I would not have gotten it. Didn't keep the Versys for long because it lacked finesse which made it feel cheap and uninspiring to ride.
As someone pointed out, the Honda's current engine design will not only last much much longer, but the fuel economy and storage + price point, puts this bike in its own category. You failed to mention the optional Dual Clutch Transmission w/ ABS option. You also should have included the Suzuki V-Strom, but more expensive than the Kawi. NC700x (DCT) is my next purchase. Waiting for 2013 colors. I want the DCT-Automatic because of a previously injured clutch hand that always cramps. Yay Honda!
I don't have either bike but some of the things I read in reviews, praising the Honda have mentioned extremely low emissions, excellent MPG (barely mentioned in this video and coutnered with the "small tank" complaint), and reliability should be a LOT better than a typical motorcycle because it's such a low revving motor that was basically designed to go in a car. Personally I'd never buy a new bike, but if I see a used NC700X in a few years, I may well pick one up as a commuter.
Great quick video most question that I had where responded through the video ,Honda NC700X is a pretty strong option for me . My only concern is maintenance!, how easy or difficult is this bike to keep on a good shape ?.
I am 5'7 and the versys feels ok but as high as want to get. How is it compared to the nc700? I haven't had a bike in 12 years and I want something as a smooth ride/touring motorcycle.
The Honda NC700X was launched along with the new CB 500 (CB 500 f/x and Cbr 500r) series. They all have 48 bhp cause they were mainly developed for the new A2 european motorcycle class ... but I think they did a great job with them, I drove the Cb 500f and I liked it a lot
I am about the same height, but weight more. If your location is in the US or places where streets are not invaded by motorcycle like some countries in Asia, the Versys can serve you very well. Else, 'd better pick a thinner bike if you want that much power or pick a LOT smaller like the 250cc range. p/s: I ride a cbr250r 2011 single, it is narrow, decent power for people at our weight, very nice fuel economy, cheap and easy to ride. I really like the Versys 650 and saving for one soon. Cheers
I used to drive a 650 Yamaha. I doubt it had more than 50 hp. It had a vibration that would physically hurt you after 4 or 5 hours. It didnt rev real high. At the same time I had a 750 Suzuki 4 cylinder inline. Lots of power but it got that at high rpm. The old 650 would leave it behind at every corner until the rpms got up. Unless driving on the highway the 650 was much more fun and easier to flip around windy backroads. Loved both but it depended on the driving you were doing.
As a beginner, I find the 2012 Versys 650 to be a good commuter ride. Great corning, torque and comfort (an aftermarket leather seat would be better for longer rides). And yes, I love the mustard and black color!
Thanks for the comprehensive review! I am a new rider looking for a first bike and narrowed it down to them 2 bikes. I think I am going to go for the honda as a first bike second bike will be the Kawasaki Versys 900. Thanks a lot👍👍👍
Hondas will always be more smooth, but more blah. Those Versys REALLY handle the twisties well, and do good on the highway. Just wish they would lower it 2-3".
That Honda is one sexy looking bike. And it is a HONDA. :) I bought one last November. The fit and finish is excellent and I routinely get over 60 mpg without trying and over 70 mpg if I do try for milage.
For city commuting on the cheap you can't beat a GS500. Beef up the suspension which is cheap and you get a lot of bike that sips gas when you have to blast around town by yourself. Great courier bike, popular in England for that. Good performance and cheap to run.
If we talkin new than they are about even , Versys is better but 1K more , but if we talkin used and they are about the same price it's the Kawy all the way .
@@filoIII Not to argue because you may be right but there was a reliabilty segment released on motorcycles where Yamaha was actually ahead of Honda by a few percent as far as reliability went. That was a few years ago but it may still hold true today.
Nah. There are ways around it. I camp with my NC and I have a tent and sleeping mat tied to the back seat, I just loosen it up a tad and it's enough to open and fill up.
i just noticed something...the nc has for the european market a six piston front brake caliper..the nc on the video has a four piston brake caliper....?!
I'm considering the brand new Suzuki VStrom 1000 (not many reviews out yet) or the Kawi Versys 1000. I find that as long as my combined mileage is in the high 40s I'm happy, but I do care a lot about fuel range, and the Suzuki at least is supposed to get 16% better fuel economy and has a 5.3 gallon tank so about 260 mile average range which isn't bad. Means you should only have to tank up about once a week when commuting.
So, an ad blocker. Hm. An inappropriate ad, essentially charging watchers for freely available videos on a public venue, can be removed at additional charges. You guys at RUclips never cease to both amaze and disgust me.
a review which certainly aims to sell more Hondas, as they havent mentioned the mighty side of Versys. and the newbie riders who doesnt know what that 6500rpm limit means wil line up in front of honda showrooms. For those newbie riders, my advice is, you wil grow really fast and if u buy an under powered and timid motorcycle, u wil start to feel bored and hate the bike real quick. have the guts to buy a reasonabley powerful bike with personality and learn a lot of stuffs from it rather than wasting money on a scooter which pretends like its a motorcycle !
What an utter nonsense.....How can you claim to know if other bikers will hate an 'under powered ' bike fast ........ I am riding the NC700 now for 50000 km since July 2013 and never have I felt it 'under powered' !! Mind you that I had bikes between 100cc and 1400cc in my 19 years of riding bikes. By the way my most powerful bike was a Z1000. It depends a lot on your riding style and experience but you don't need 140 hp to overtake a car !!! And if you do need so much power I guess you lack skill !!!
Hondas small tank is a big negative for me. The mileage does not make up for the tank size. If Honda's a good commuter, do you want to fill up more often?
read this comments & I thought it was a bad review & sounds like Honda had bought it. The Kawasaki has better suspension, dual brakes, more power so how can you compare them? And they didn't show the bikes being ridden at all. This bikes are nothing a like. The Honda is a beginners bike period.
NC = New Concept? Doubtful... There's nothing "New" to the "Concept" of canting the cylinders forward... Yamaha did it with the FZR600 from '89-'99. Yep... Even moved the fuel tank rearward over the trans, and put the air-box forward over the cylinders. Only new thing Honda did was put storage in between them... What a concept!! Of course, you'd have to be older than hair highlighting to remember this stuff. With that said, the NC700X is a good "all-round" machine that doesn't excel in any particular area except fuel economy. You won't be disappointed until you want more of a particular element, be it power, handling, touring, or adventure. Then you'll need to conceptualize what your next bike will be.
so when i heard they were lauching this, i had a test drive and loved it. It's relaxig to drive, you can get around town almost with 1k revs and the bike doesnt get jumpy or start gasping for more. engine heat, non existent, great ergonomics although the handerbars are a bit wide for my taste and not good for traffic cutting. other than that it's highly fuel efficient, does some killer corners, and the one disk brake, is quite good, since it has a large radius stops quite well. Loving the NC
at the risk of asking a question that makes me sounding like Dorothy from wizard of Oz. how practical would that storage compartment be for a smallish dog?
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I've had an NC700X for the past couple of months. I love it. It's a great bike for someone who's looking for something sensible, meaning great fuel economy, comfort and reliability. But it's not a racer. If you're into speed and power, look elsewhere. It has plenty of power for me, but I'm a rather conservative rider. What was said in the video about steering response is very true as well. I noticed that the first time I tried to counter steer with it. It wasn't as responsive as other bikes I've owned. But as I said, I'm a conservative rider, more interested in reliability, economy and comfort than dragging my knees on asphalt, so I don't really care too much. As far as the low redline, it hasn't bothered me at all. Every bike I've owned prior to this redlined around 10,500 rpms or so but I had no trouble adjusting to shifting sooner with this one. I think that's because it has enough torque to get you moving quicker at a lower rpm. The power band is much lower than other bikes.
I test rode a Versys when I was looking for a bike and didn't like the feel of it at all. I felt every imperfection in the road, the faring vibrated and the controls were jerky. To be fair, that could well have been just that particular bike. But the NC just felt much smoother and more comfortable to me. The lower center of gravity of the NC was very noticeable as well. Slow-speed maneuvering seems easier than most other bikes I've owned.
+Jimmy Zelski thanks, nice contribution. I've heard the same from other people about versys
I sold my bike (versys 650) And now I'm looking for maxdi scooter (xmax300) or even this.
Does a full size helmet fit in the storage?
@@matthew8505 Depends on the size of the helmet. I just bought a 2012 and my XL Scorpion 410 helmet will not fit. My small Shoei RF1200 fits and the large RF1200 just barely fits. At one point maybe starting with the NC750X they upgraded the storage size from 21L to 22L and I have heard it handles most helmets now.
5:18
I had a test ride on both bikes and bought the Honda NC and i love it,very practical does everything,even toured Scotland and i will be doing more on this bike,its brilliant !
ive just bought this honda and I love it, pull like a train, short shifter but its not a problem got the iXil exhaust and it sounds absolutely lovely!!
I think this review is right on and the advantages of the Honda 700x are clear. You get better millage, more of a feeling of stability on the highway and lower sticker price. Let's no forget the storage space on the Honda and that make it a great commuter. For me the NC700x is perfect since I am a new rider and is perfect for what I used it.
Th NC700X is really starting to grow on me.
To all those who talk bad about the Honda and its low rpm caracteristics .... when your high rpm engines already need to be costly rebuilt I will add another 100.000 km on it with a smile...!
Cheers !!!
Tienes mucha razón. La Honda está diseñada para tener un bajo mantenimiento. Ya hay videos en con mas de 200.000 km. Yo tengo una NC 700 X y es una excelente moto.
Belén
Para decir algo interesante.....
Y tuve una Z1000 y cambio por una Versys 650,2015 y tengo admitir que la Versys es también um buen moto !
Sin embargo todavía tengo la NC700S de 2013 con 66000 km y estoy disfrutando ambos por su características diferentes 🏍👍
I have the NC700X. I find it's a great utility bike, and, no problem on the twisties.
@@timjohnson1199
Yes indeed it is. Actually I just completed 102.000 km. Still runs like day one. Also still.on first clutch plates, just saying.
Most versatile bike I ever had.
Safe rides 👍🏍
@@belenfraca
De hecho he completado 102.000 km recientemente. Todavía con el primer embrague. Un moto para toda la vida.
Saludos 👍🏍
In 2020 I looked at nc750 first when I wanted to buy a new bike... Then, typical Honda, I saw the damn thing costs more than the versys 650( both being 2014 models plus I can buy 6 sets of Pirelli Scorpion tires with the money I save on the versys), it has 10HP LESS than the Versys, the Versys has dual disks upfront, the kawasaki parallel twins are SUPER reliable, they're stunning to look at and handle super nice.
So I bought the Versys... No regrets
Also, the Versys is my opinion might possibly nearly as feul efficient as the NC750... I got 23km per liter doing 140-150km/h highway. I also did a couple of 180km and 200km trips and it's super comfortable, I am not tired, not stiff or not sore
Same basic thing happened when my dad looked at a CRF1000 Africa twin and a ktm1190. Hondas these days are just to expensive for what you get.
I'll take the Versys ANY day. Done.
I think Honda designed this bike for long-term reliability. Built like a tool. I like it.
I'm thinking of riding a motorcycle to school instead of driving a car. And the Honda NC700X seems like the type of motorcycle that I would get.
And? Did you?
We’ll never know...
I had a vers and a nc700x..I kept the Nc700x and sold the versys.
I don't regret it. Love that nc700x. Pulls like a tractor. Sure, it poops out at 6200 rpm...that's the type of engine it is...long stroke, small bore. Love the storage, shifts smoother that the versys did.
Last year I decided to trade in my Honda CBR 954 RR,02', for the NC 700X and I haven't looked back since. The 900 was a great bike, awesome handling, nice motor although lacked a bit of personality, but it also had a huge need for gas, and gas prices are high, and, when riding it I felt like i needed to ride all out or nothing at all, to really enjoy the machine, in the summer it was hel to ride, stopping at any red light would put the engines fan on and had my "nuts" roasting from engine heat.
This video made me very happy. I'm going to buy a big trail and was undecided until now. In Brazil, both costs about $15000.
The only thing keeping me from getting the NC700 is the fact that camping gear will have to be removed at every refuel
Thats a great point!
I've had a NC700x for a couple years now and I have no intentions of selling it ever. That compartment would be hard to not have now.
One thing, or should i have said, one of the things you did not talk about is the suspension differences, on the 2 bikes with Kawasaki Versys, having a much better setup, that has more adjustability of parts, both up front & in the rear, this will help on the longer rides with no bumps, or larger bumps to contend with. Believe me, we all know this makes a big difference in commuting, or long range, or even lite touring duties. So do the braking systems, even if not ABS equipped. Something to think about, well I do ! Thats about 2 cents worth ?
You are making a case for many bikes from my venerable GS500 to my friend's 1986 V-Max. He has over 130,000 miles on it. It doesn't burn oil and has yet to be rebuilt. He bought it for himself for his 35th birthday. He is now over 60 and it still runs great with routine maintenance. I never rode one bike that long!
One thing they don't mention is that the reason car engines are big bore low RPM engines is because they are expected to run 80K miles+ without much fuss.
Many people put 25K miles on their motorcycles that they rarely ride, and that's considered high mileage.
Hondas in general tend to be pretty low maintenance, and with such a low RPM engine I would wager this will last for ages with little fuss.
Should have gone shaft or belt drive though to further reduce maintenance.
For those interested, The Versys sports about a 55 MPG (US) average, for me anyways, and the lowest i've yet to get (and i'm an aggressive corner carver) is 48 mpg. I would have liked Honda to have put a real bike engine in it, and a bigger gas tank, but other than that, I would seriously have considered it before buying my Versys.
Glad Iggy Pop found some time to get out on the road.
😆🤣
Hahahaha
The thing is. The Honda engine is really based on a car engine (1400cc not sure which model) and it's first and foremost a commuter's bike. More focus on better fueleconomy than performance. I've read the interview with one of the engineers behind it.
The "Half a Honda Fit/Jazz engine" is a common misconception, as it was said jokingly in one review back in 2012 and people have been viewing it as absolute truth since. Also, I LOVE the low revving nature of this bike. I don't enjoy being on the highway and seeing 7-8K RPM, I much prefer to buzz along at 3-4K. I've had more fun on it that a CBR600RR, I kept saying "where's the torque?!"
Pretty good article, but just like so many other bike articles it calls these bikes, especially the Honda in this case, beginner bikes, which can be very misleading. A new 600+ cc motorcycle is going to have a lot of performance, unlike the same size engines of a generation or more ago. No, these are not the 160mph 600 cc bikes you can buy today, but they're still faster than your dad's old triumph, which wasn't a slow bike. See my point?
I have a 2015 NC700x and I absolutely adore it. For commuting it's the best bike i've ever owned. Amazing fuel economy, convenient storage and plenty of power and braking ability. I can ride to work, hook my helmet to the side and store my jacket and gloves in the compartment, boom completely unburdened.
There's nothing wrong with the low redline, gears are longer so you can still use the powerband like normal.
Interesting comparison. I know a lot of riders, and not one of them rides because they have to, they all ride because they want to. With that said, I think the Honda is an interesting platform, but it's just not for an American market. I know there are of course commuter riders, but I think overall most riders in America do not fall into the commuter category. They ride because they love it. And when you ride for the love of it, practicality goes out the window.
1:16 no it's not!! Look into it before spouting it 🤷🏻♂️
Additionally, if you're thinking of home servicing, don't.. The engine is difficult to access unless you remove lots of plastics. All if which are secured with little plastic push rivets which have to be replaced. At £1.50 GBP each! The engine noise is reminiscent of a sowing machine, and it hates headwinds.
I think 6 minute video is not enough time to properly review 2 motorcycles.
In my country we have to pay more for the nc700x than for the Versys. Does it worth the money? (Around 14500usd for the nc700x and 13000usd for the Versys) I know, it's very expensive, but those are common prices for this kind of bikes here :(
Takes a real man(Rider) to step down in CC and power like that, props, and enjoy the new bike!
I commute 18 miles everyday on my Honda Nc700s. Half of it is duel carriageway and half country roads and a little city. It really is perfect for the commute. I think I average at 71mpg (uk) and I'm never left feeling that I need a whole lot more power. The low rev toque I gets up to speed quick enough, if you thrash it it's nicely responsive but does drink more. Overall I love it. Practically it's very useful indeed having a storage compartment to get some milk or bread for home. Great bike.
I may just end up buying the Versys. I was talking bad about the bike but now that I look at it, it'll be perfect for riding around town and even hit the highway with it here and there. My main reason for getting the Versys though is to learn how to do some stunts. I'd much rather drop that bike than my 2012 10r lol. It has that street fighter kind of look and it wont take much of a beating when you lay it down. Put frame protector on it and all that cool stuff
I don't think you'll be disappointed... I own a 2010 Versys and the thing has great power (not a supersport obviously) but where it's real talent is is in the corners, I've never gotten on a bike and been so at home so fast before.. It really is a great fun bike, but I can't understand who would buy the "black and mustard" paint scheme !
I have a 2012 NC700X Honda for sale. Runs like new, recent service, new tires/chain/battery. Has a windscreen. 18,000 miles. 65-70mpg. Listed for $3500. Obo.
Subbed... I have a blast on my NC. The NC cuts the corners with the best of them, it just doesn't out accelerate anyone. I commuted with it throughout the winter and I have done multiple 400-500 mile camping days on it. If the NC had 20hp more it would be nearly perfect. It is the best bang for the buck, it'll give you super low cost road adventures for sure.
I have a 2010 Versys and a CBR125R , I like your review style, it seems more real world experience than a cross referencing of numbers. I would get the Honda700 if i were a city commuter.
I've had the Versys. Travelled a lot of places on it - onroad, offroad etc. Suspension is not good, way too harsh over square edge bumps (front and rear, but mostly rear), brakes not that powerful and lack feel despite having two discs. It's more sporty and the engine has more HP, but that's about it. It's well build but all the low end components makes it feel cheap. NC 700 doesn't have that cheap feeling and beats the Versys in every aspect than HP and sportiness if u ask me. Had I tried the NC before I bought the Versys I would not have gotten it. Didn't keep the Versys for long because it lacked finesse which made it feel cheap and uninspiring to ride.
As someone pointed out, the Honda's current engine design will not only last much much longer, but the fuel economy and storage + price point, puts this bike in its own category. You failed to mention the optional Dual Clutch Transmission w/ ABS option. You also should have included the Suzuki V-Strom, but more expensive than the Kawi. NC700x (DCT) is my next purchase. Waiting for 2013 colors. I want the DCT-Automatic because of a previously injured clutch hand that always cramps. Yay Honda!
I don't have either bike but some of the things I read in reviews, praising the Honda have mentioned extremely low emissions, excellent MPG (barely mentioned in this video and coutnered with the "small tank" complaint), and reliability should be a LOT better than a typical motorcycle because it's such a low revving motor that was basically designed to go in a car. Personally I'd never buy a new bike, but if I see a used NC700X in a few years, I may well pick one up as a commuter.
Great quick video most question that I had where responded through the video ,Honda NC700X is a pretty strong option for me .
My only concern is maintenance!, how easy or difficult is this bike to keep on a good shape ?.
It's a Honda
Great review, guys. Keep up the great work!
I am 5'7 and the versys feels ok but as high as want to get. How is it compared to the nc700? I haven't had a bike in 12 years and I want something as a smooth ride/touring motorcycle.
The Honda NC700X was launched along with the new CB 500 (CB 500 f/x and Cbr 500r) series. They all have 48 bhp cause they were mainly developed for the new A2 european motorcycle class ... but I think they did a great job with them, I drove the Cb 500f and I liked it a lot
I had a '15 CB500F, and now have an '09 Versys 650.
Cool, Paul Weller is (was) doing bike reviews
Looking forward to a 2019/2020 update video
I am about the same height, but weight more. If your location is in the US or places where streets are not invaded by motorcycle like some countries in Asia, the Versys can serve you very well. Else, 'd better pick a thinner bike if you want that much power or pick a LOT smaller like the 250cc range.
p/s: I ride a cbr250r 2011 single, it is narrow, decent power for people at our weight, very nice fuel economy, cheap and easy to ride. I really like the Versys 650 and saving for one soon. Cheers
I used to drive a 650 Yamaha. I doubt it had more than 50 hp. It had a vibration that would physically hurt you after 4 or 5 hours. It didnt rev real high. At the same time I had a 750 Suzuki 4 cylinder inline. Lots of power but it got that at high rpm. The old 650 would leave it behind at every corner until the rpms got up. Unless driving on the highway the 650 was much more fun and easier to flip around windy backroads. Loved both but it depended on the driving you were doing.
Useful information for potential buyers. Esp in 2020 when you can pick up a low miles used for @ $4k
Yep, you nailed it. The NC's seat feels high with my narrow hips. YMMV. Check out the full comparo on MO.
As a beginner, I find the 2012 Versys 650 to be a good commuter ride. Great corning, torque and comfort (an aftermarket leather seat would be better for longer rides). And yes, I love the mustard and black color!
Thanks for the comprehensive review! I am a new rider looking for a first bike and narrowed it down to them 2 bikes. I think I am going to go for the honda as a first bike second bike will be the Kawasaki Versys 900.
Thanks a lot👍👍👍
Hondas will always be more smooth, but more blah. Those Versys REALLY handle the twisties well, and do good on the highway. Just wish they would lower it 2-3".
shrimp !
@@joecamel6835 6'0"
That Honda is one sexy looking bike. And it is a HONDA. :) I bought one last November. The fit and finish is excellent and I routinely get over 60 mpg without trying and over 70 mpg if I do try for milage.
prefiro a NC700X mais economica e esse porta capacete é uma beleza
love mine! Honda really did their homework on this one
Very good review and helps me with the difficult task in buying a new bike. Thank you.
For city commuting on the cheap you can't beat a GS500. Beef up the suspension which is cheap and you get a lot of bike that sips gas when you have to blast around town by yourself. Great courier bike, popular in England for that. Good performance and cheap to run.
All Hondas are sewing machines - that's the appeal for many Honda riders. You totally left out ergonomic concerns.
The Suzuki VStrom is another good option when considering these types of bikes
That was my first choice but I got the NC700X "used" with 150miles on it for a good price.
That was my first choice but I got the NC700X "used" with 150miles on it for a good price.
tem um monte de comparativos para a NC700x.. porem, não tem nenhum para a Transalp ..
Where is this being filmed?
So touring with soft luggage or a tail pack strapped on the rear seat is not an option
Yeah, I'm a cager and one of the big lures to me about getting a bike is the insane 10k+ redlines haha
Agreed. It wouldn't take too long to get annoyed with a rev cap like that. Nice bike, but it is made for a very different rider than me,
Just the opposite. You get used to it and the torque is there at the low end.
Great explanation!! Nc is better for beginners and "all around town" bike! And what about the comfort? Thank you guys for that!!
My ass gets a little tired after 2-3 hours in the saddle.
The NC700 the bike no one asked for.
Bout time for a haircut there, champ.
+Keem Osabe lol okay, dad.
LOL that is cut - was a style (I think)
VERY good explanatory vid....thanks
the grey motorcycle is a nice bike I like
how's the brake performance differences? since nc700x only has one front brake whereas versey has two
It's enough to lock the front wheel if you ever wanted to do that, don't know why you'd want more.
If we talkin new than they are about even , Versys is better but 1K more , but if we talkin used and they are about the same price it's the Kawy all the way .
Low rpm torque.. like a diesel it should be a long life engine
best review of these bikes soo far
honda was always a way more reliable bike with better gas mileage, fit and finish is second to none
guy proulx Actually, Yamaha takes the cake in reliability. Honda gas mileage is awesome though.
@@HuangHangLo No WAY Yamaha is more reliable than Hondas.
@@filoIII Not to argue because you may be right but there was a reliabilty segment released on motorcycles where Yamaha was actually ahead of Honda by a few percent as far as reliability went. That was a few years ago but it may still hold true today.
Planning on doing a review of the Honda CBR500r/f/x?
So, if I have a bag strapped onto the rear seat on the Honda, I must remove the bag to fill it up with gas??
Yes.
Nah. There are ways around it. I camp with my NC and I have a tent and sleeping mat tied to the back seat, I just loosen it up a tad and it's enough to open and fill up.
i just noticed something...the nc has for the european market a six piston front brake caliper..the nc on the video has a four piston brake caliper....?!
Howdy? You Make Me Smile! record list !!!
Why there is no ABS version of Kawi Versys in US?
I'm considering the brand new Suzuki VStrom 1000 (not many reviews out yet) or the Kawi Versys 1000.
I find that as long as my combined mileage is in the high 40s I'm happy, but I do care a lot about fuel range, and the Suzuki at least is supposed to get 16% better fuel economy and has a 5.3 gallon tank so about 260 mile average range which isn't bad. Means you should only have to tank up about once a week when commuting.
That's about the range I get on my NC700X.
Anyone know what kind of riding jacket Kevin Duke is wearing?
I not sure why i like the Honda more than Kawasaki, maybe because i have a Honda CBF 125 ? it's a great bike Honda NC700X
That nc engine is incredibly uninspiring
The engine is not "half a Honda Fit" engine. Do your homework.
So, an ad blocker. Hm. An inappropriate ad, essentially charging watchers for freely available videos on a public venue, can be removed at additional charges. You guys at RUclips
never cease to both amaze and disgust me.
what city is are they riding in?
a review which certainly aims to sell more Hondas, as they havent mentioned the mighty side of Versys. and the newbie riders who doesnt know what that 6500rpm limit means wil line up in front of honda showrooms. For those newbie riders, my advice is, you wil grow really fast and if u buy an under powered and timid motorcycle, u wil start to feel bored and hate the bike real quick. have the guts to buy a reasonabley powerful bike with personality and learn a lot of stuffs from it rather than wasting money on a scooter which pretends like its a motorcycle !
What an utter nonsense.....How can you claim to know if other bikers will hate an 'under powered ' bike fast ........
I am riding the NC700 now for 50000 km since July 2013 and never have I felt it 'under powered' !!
Mind you that I had bikes between 100cc and 1400cc in my 19 years of riding bikes.
By the way my most powerful bike was a Z1000.
It depends a lot on your riding style and experience but you don't need 140 hp to overtake a car !!!
And if you do need so much power I guess you lack skill !!!
+andree hammerschmidt thanks for the enlightenment boss
+harikrishnan ampadi sasidharan
Anytime....hahahahahah
True that.
I watched youtube "top speed" videos. the same 190khm +/-. But why I should rotating engine at crazy 9k rpm, if I got same speed at 6500?
I will never understand why motorcycle manufacturers dont give fully adjustable daily motorcycle.
3.7 gal is RIDICULOUS for a "touring"-type bike. In '15, the Versys got a 5.5 gal tank.
not if it does 100 mpg
@@brocky78 Well, it ain't doin' 100 mpg/tank, soooooo......
Hondas small tank is a big negative for me. The mileage does not make up for the tank size. If Honda's a good commuter, do you want to fill up more often?
3.7 gal x 65 mpg vs. 5.5 gal x52 mpg.
read this comments & I thought it was a bad review & sounds like Honda had bought it. The Kawasaki has better suspension, dual brakes, more power so how can you compare them? And they didn't show the bikes being ridden at all. This bikes are nothing a like. The Honda is a beginners bike period.
Both great bikes. But for me, I'll go with the Honda.
Are these automatic bikes?
RezZ_Rishi_DGK The ones being tested are standard but Honda does offer an automatic version as well .
Good job Honda, you took the fun out of motorcycle riding.
NC = New Concept? Doubtful... There's nothing "New" to the "Concept" of canting the cylinders forward... Yamaha did it with the FZR600 from '89-'99. Yep... Even moved the fuel tank rearward over the trans, and put the air-box forward over the cylinders. Only new thing Honda did was put storage in between them... What a concept!! Of course, you'd have to be older than hair highlighting to remember this stuff.
With that said, the NC700X is a good "all-round" machine that doesn't excel in any particular area except fuel economy. You won't be disappointed until you want more of a particular element, be it power, handling, touring, or adventure. Then you'll need to conceptualize what your next bike will be.
which one gives the best wind protection on the highway?
+Ali Can Metan Thanks.
Please honda, make a turbo diesel version of the NC!
lol?
Everybody is doing that , for example ktm 390 is actually 375
so when i heard they were lauching this, i had a test drive and loved it. It's relaxig to drive, you can get around town almost with 1k revs and the bike doesnt get jumpy or start gasping for more. engine heat, non existent, great ergonomics although the handerbars are a bit wide for my taste and not good for traffic cutting. other than that it's highly fuel efficient, does some killer corners, and the one disk brake, is quite good, since it has a large radius stops quite well. Loving the NC
Thanks for the helpful review. I like the Honda best (though I shaft would make it way sweeter).
at the risk of asking a question that makes me sounding like Dorothy from wizard of Oz. how practical would that storage compartment be for a smallish dog?
There's no airflow and it gets hot.
Goober Robbins - PERFECT! Question: Is the dog alive?