Resurrecting an old thread as the NC is on my shopping list.

Anyone on here using one?

I'm 95% tarmac use and a short a***, so would probably go for the S model. Thinking all it would need for hotel touring would be a rack and full tank of fuel? When I write my ideal bike I almost want a big scooter with a manual gearbox. Am I looking in the right direction?

These journos like them

http://overlandmag.com/features/honda-nc700x/

Good bike or good buffet at the launch party?

Andy

I think you might want to rewrite that list. What you really need is a race spec 1200 single with a 500 mile service interval, 40" wheels running tractor rear tyre knobblies and two feet of suspension travel. Something with a 60" seat height (and a couple of built in steps as a short a*** concession to get you up there) and a coke tin exhaust (to help keep the weight down to 50kg max). To help with that a luggage system - based around something like the Tesco "bag for life", should be a factory fit option.

It should have a security system that'll only allow the engine to start if you're wearing the correct pattern special forces camouflage clothing and the onboard sat nav should only show dirt roads and deprived urban areas. The sat nav should also log where you've been on the bike and unlock extra power modes based on a combination of your choice of destination and how much you consume getting there. Finally, to reduce fatigue while on the bike, it should be fitted with an advanced noise cancellation system that automatically blocks comments like "w*nker", t*sser, etc from reaching the rider's ears.

Of course you "could" buy a super scoot but you'd always be looked down on. Anything that's not capable of flattening a small mountain or convincing border officials that you really don't need a visa is certainly going to be second best.

Sometimes it's hard to take advice but reflect on things for a while and you'll probably see the wisdom in my words.

I had a GS before. Fancy something different this time!

Andy

I've not ridden this bike but seems like good value and fun bike. Price is very good at round 5,850 UKP.

A bike I'm considering is the Yamaha Tracer (FJ-09 in USA). This 800cc Triple is a sublime ride. Great sport tourer, very sporty, a TON of power yet economical if you want it to be. Very easy to ride. Bit more money than the NC700 but so much lighter weight. 190 kgs. vs 218 kgs. (dry weights)

But the BEST thing about this bike for those of us getting a little older ... is how LIGHT WEIGHT it feels. From pushing it round the garage or petrol station to how light and easy it is out on the road. The Tracer is simply a joy. Fantastic brakes, great handling and balance and more power than you'll ever need.
Do test ride one if you can.

This Tracer (FJ-09) feels like a mini bike compared to my 1050 Tiger. As a short rider, I can get both feet down on the Tracer and never a chance of of tip over.
ME LIKE! I'm looking for a nice used one NOW.

But do some test rides ... see what you think!

Try and source the Ride magazine owners review of them, think it was earlier this year. One guy despatches his, 82000 miles, he changes the plugs and air filter at 32000. Someone else had done 50000 plus touring it all over the place My friend commutes on the older 700 cc version, he gets over 80 mpg regularly.
When I get bored with my fjr, it is on my list, mind you the oe tyres are apparently frightening in the wet.
I also think they don't look too bad either

The XSR700 and MT certainly looks interesting (and seem confusingly called some other jumble of letters else in the US). This is my current "fall back" choice as it has the same 14 litre tank but trades conventional motorcycle reviness for 10+ mpg.

I've hopefully got a test ride on Friday so will be able to report back if getting half a Honda Spazz car engine low enough creates a hybrid scooter bike with luggage space and easy to handle weight or a rev limited lardy pig with an annoying fuel filler!

Anyone who knows any deity may wish to offer up a prayer for the salesman. Things like " how easy is it to pick up, let's lean it over... " and "let's try changing a fuse" that other potential customers may not wish to try out tends to rather stress the poor chaps. It's Yorkshire, so at least price negotiation won't be round the houses. Still, no prisoners....

Andy

I put my money where my mouth is, manned up and told the wife am also now buying shoes and will be back to report in a week or two

I went for the 2016 S model. Not what you RTW types would pick, but fits my needs.

Had to buy one of those bog brushes and a can of chain squirty too.

Andy

I went back and read the full review in Overlander you linked to above.

I note the writer claimed 12K miles on original chain, not bad for the mid level O ring DID chain Honda supply. He then bought two more chains, one only lasting 5K miles. (probably a Chinese copy)

If the standard chain is a 520 size, I'd try to convert to a 525. (if you can find sprockets that fit) Much longer lived.

In either case, buy the best (read most expensive) DID X ring chain available. I'm betting it will go 20,000 miles if you swap out the front sprocket at 10K.
Never use thick, sticky, gooey lubes. Try Teflon based ones. No toilet brush required. A simple wipe down and quick re-lube once in a while.

The author also complained about the fuel access under the seat. A real PITA when loaded up traveling. But if two up, you won't be strapping anything there anyway, so no big deal. (maybe?)

I like the simple, old school elements on the bike. Should be a good one.

The experient begins and I even got an easy to remember number plate



Andy

The dealer must have given you some discount to take the AZZ plate off their hands.

__________________
Dave

" If you can't be famous, infamous will do " - Oscar Wilde ( or possibly Bart Simpson )



Andy

Bike looks nice - hope you enjoy

MY
16
AZZ
then.

__________________
Dave

Right-ho, bit of a review since Ive got time and have clocked up the first 1500 miles;

The performance is spot on. Low C of G and torque from 500 rpm makes the traffic light GP fun. The 6500 rev limit is a non-event unless you are used to 12000 prm superbikes and can't change habits. It'll do 90 mph all day (subject to the required payments to the authorities etc.). Fuel range is in excess of 200 miles because although the tank is small its averaging 75 to the gallon and when ridden for economy can get another 10.

The luggage space in the middle (there is a hideous Americanism to describe this I am refusing to use just because I can) is brilliant. Its like having a scooter that turns into a bike when you ride it. There is more space under the seat. The LED headlight is something every bike should have.

The LCD speedo is a bit of a non event. Lots of features, some useful like colours representing fuel economy, some like a second trip meter less so. The number of features but only two buttons make using it a bit like a 1980's Casio watch. Reflections can be annoying.

Would you believe the mirrors are **** and the mudguards about as much use as soap in a teenagers bedroom.

The fuel tank is a tad small and its location under the seat does make strapping things on less simple. I have a top box on order (total U-turn on that subject I know ) and I have made a strap set up that lets the load hinge with the seat. The mechanism is strong but you wouldn't strap your tent on this way.

Would I use the NC RTW? Probably not out of choice, but as a commuter and holidays bike I'm impressed and if given time and money and told to go I would just load and go.

Andy

It would be good to hear about your views on the suspension in due course.
In contrast to the Honda top-of-range sports bikes, they tend to fit cheap OEM suspension units to their cheaper products.

__________________
Dave