2010 Honda DN01 Classic Review - A Very Different Motorcycle! 4K

2010 Honda DN01 Classic Review - A Very Different Motorcycle! 4K ....Until a few days before I filmed this video I had never even heard of the Honda DN-01, and as a lover of things that dare to be different, I had to give this one a go...enjoy! Check out this bike and others like it at Superbike Factory tinyurl.com/nd... who made this video possible.
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[@Henryyy_XIV]

I cannot express how happy i am that this review now exists, theres barely any content about this bike on YT and it just so happens to be one of my all time favourites. Thank you TMF, your reviews are second to none.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow thank you!

[@TheKnightsShield]

I used to watch videos from RC62, he used to have a Honda DN-01. Last time he rode, he was riding on an Indian Scout.

[@sergentcolon1]

Morning Andy, I remember seeing these when they came out, the looks never did it for me, a bit like the massive handlebar fairings some Harley and some versions of BMW’s R18 have. The trouble with a lot of reviewers though is they expect everything to handle like a sports bike and decry bikes that don’t. They don’t seem to realise that not everyone wants to ride like they’re Valentino Rossi. Some of us just want to take it easy and enjoy the scenery a bit more. On secondhand bike prices though, I think dealers are extracting the urine at present. I’ve seen 3 year old bikes only a few hundred quid less than the list price of a new one with a two or three year warranty. I know some of this is down to a shortage of new models but at the same time the trade in offers they make are ridiculously low. Personally,I’d rather sell privately and wait for delivery of a new bike than pay the inflated prices they are asking for secondhand bikes. The trouble with buying a 12 year old bike sold for a short time in limited numbers could be in sourcing spares in future.

[@simonchilli2088]

I gave up reading the bike magazines like Bike for the fact that all bixe were treated as if they were sports bixe. Most people just want to ride at a steady safe pace. The US reporters attitude was to a more relaxed style of riding for pleasure. Not all of them were articles on big American twins either.

[@rodolfopinto4133]

Nice review about this unique bike! I have a Dino and love it, but as mentioned, available spare parts is just none. I had to change my fuel injectors and it took 7 months to get it repaired. Parts had a back order from Japan.

[@fourforaboy575]

This review couldn't have come at a more perfect time. I've been searching far and wide for a recent review on this bike and low and behold, you upload one. It's like you read my mind!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad to help!

[@nemesisrho2066]

Hi Andy! Thx for the great review. I´m lucky enough to have one of these bikes. I actually got it for free as a gift from my father in law who bought the first one ever sold in Sweden. I helped him to change the battery on his Dn-01 (witch is a pain inte a,, cause there is a bunch of the outer plastic cowls that has be removed to get to the battery) and when we where done he gave me the bike as a surprise for me. ❤ In Sweden we only have seven of these beauties sold and running on the roads so it really is a unique and uncommon bike. If anyone is reading this and are thinking of buying a DN-01 I can confirm that Andy is spot on with the review and I have another insight for you. If you don´t like attention, this is not the bike for you! If you do like attention this bike will serve you well!! In 9 times out of 10 when I stopp for gas someone is coming up to me admiring the bike. I drive in sport mode all the time and from a red light there still haven´t been anyone beating me who is driving a car. Still as Andy says, this is not a speed bike, this is a attention seeker and cruiser drivers wet dream.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good to hear - glad you agree with my summary!

[@simonbowen6653]

Nice to see a positive review on a DN-01. Price, auto box and futuristic looks put many off back on the day. I bought one in 2015. Loved the looks and the relaxed ride. Build quality was excellent. The footboards touched down very easily and it was very heavy to move around. They have become collectable, sold mine in 2019 for £2k more than I bought it for.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's what you call a good value bike!

[@willgarrod9907]

Wow what a strange but strangely nice bike. I bet owners love them. Interesting that it failed to sell but then a few years later Honda launched the X-ADV and that sold really well and is equally whacky! Shame that bike journalists 10 years ago were only interested in outright performance and missed the point of what things were about!! Great vid, keep em coming😉

[@markellott5620]

They haven't changed. Channels like this one will give you a more practical, real world feel for a bike than the usual magazine journalists.

[@johnsumser9743]

In the old days, when bike magazines were doing the reviews, everything was compared to the Yamaha R1 or the Honda CBRs then dismissed as "beginner bikes" if they were less than cutting edge. Moto-journalists killed lots of good motorcycles.

[@markellott5620]

@@johnsumser9743 I used to write for the long defunct Bikenet - an offshoot of Motorcycle Sport. I was at the launch of the Deauville along with several other 'proper' journalists. I was the only one to give it a positive review. They all thought it dull, slow and boring. I thought it an ideal bike for commuting, touring and ride outs, suitable for the every day rider. I liked it so much, I bought one.

[@SirOsisofLiver]

I tried one during a Honda demo ride event in 2009. It wasn't quick obviously, but I expected that. I had no complaints with the drivetrain beyond that, and rather liked the looks. Once on the highway though, the foot forward riding position and lack of wind protection had my back aching in no time, and I was trying to support myself with the handlebars by the end of the ride. I was quite happy to get back on my 2007 FZ6 for the ride home.

[@simonbowen6653]

I had one for a couple of years. Loved the looks plus brilliant build quality and shaft drive. Ultra low seat height was needed because it was so heavy to move around. Not many about because they were £14k when new. The foot boards touch down at very moderate lean angles. Have become collectable and going up in value.

[@steveball2307]

Have always had a soft spot for these and it's great to see a review from a "normal" rider rather than a knee scraping journalist. I'd love to see big manufacturers take more risks like this. I agree with you, love to have one if only my shed had room for more than two bikes! 😉

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes cool idea from Honda this isn’t it - thanks for watching!

[@bobfisher2163]

Great review, thanks for righting the wrongs of those who disliked the DN-01 when it came out. I bought mine 11 years ago, with the idea I'd own it for a year and then sell it. I've still got it and, at the moment, will definitely not sell. Yes, it's looks are Marmite - some hate it, but I love it - and Marmite too. I use the automatic mode round town, where's little that can beat it up to 30 at a green light, and manual on the country roads - it turns into a different bike when revved up to the redline changing manually. A K&N air filter adds a bit more ROAR to the fun!

[@Dranreb865]

Let me guess... You're selling it

[@robertmarsh3588]

Saw one of these at bike night in Paignton this week.. was totally amazed. It was utterly immaculate.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wild aren’t they!

[@charlottejet4338]

I remember when they were introduced to the market. The looks blew me away and still do! I did consider buying one earlier this year. However, it was the negative reviews that put me off. I suppose the lesson is to always try a bike out for yourself. We all want something different in a machine. I ended up buying another stunner, a 2010 low mileage black with gold wheels ZZR1400. I absolutely love it. Although I still like the DN-01...

[@rayjames433]

buying the ZZR better choice not as good as the 1200 but still a great bike

[@charlottejet4338]

@@rayjames433 I see where you're coming from there. The old 1200 has a much better riding position. I'm considering bar risers because I struggle with long distances. Many people have said this simple modification transformed their ride.

[@gdfggggg]

@@charlottejet4338 I’ve got bar risers on my zzr1100. Certainly makes a difference.

[@charlottejet4338]

@@gdfggggg I think that will be my only modification to this bike. It's absolutely box standard, and I want to keep it that way. Now they're no longer in production, they will, as the years pass, become collectable. It's a beautiful machine. When I turn up at biker events people always ask "is it yours?"

[@kevinpick194]

@@charlottejet4338 Different bike, I know, but I just put CNC-Moto (1.5inch) risers on my Ninja 1000SX (70-plate) and it has made an appreciable difference in getting the weight off my right wrist, and the slightly more upright riding position has made it way more comfortable.

[@loumencken9644]

Love these classic reviews. This bike has one characteristic of a future classic- rarity, since Honda sold very few. There was a rumor reported in US bike magazines at the time that Honda dealers were joking among themselves that DN-01 stood for "Do Not Order 1".

[@01timegone]

😂😂😂😂😂😂👍

[@JCintheBCC]

I can confirm that rumor. My father owned a dealership here in the US, and the "Do Not Order 1" joke was real. In fact, I saw this video pop up and I thought to myself "No way! He reviewed a Do Not Order 1!"

[@garyhope0103]

Thanks again TMF, for showing me an interesting bike that I, like you, didn't know existed. This is why I look forward to your 'classic' bike videos. I had a Deauville many years ago, which would be the closest I've seen to this. Keep 'em coming.

[@stephenpotts8170]

Hi Andy, I must say I love your classic bike reviews, and you are so right with this bike being before it's time, if it was updated it would probably sell today, I'm sure. Please keep these classics going they are so interesting and entertaining. Thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Stephen, I’m glad you like them!

[@jamesbloyce8947]

I once had a Honda Deauville and never knew they did this with the same engine. It's a world apart in styling. And shaft drive with CVT is interesting. Honda have never been afraid to try odd new things.

[@garethtemple6242]

Great to see a review of this bike. You have to admire Honda for coming up with it. I remember them coming out but I don't think I've ever seen one in the road. Maybe they were just a bit ahead of they're time. Shame Honda didn't do something as striking as this when they came up with the CNX 1100 Rebel.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn’t agree more Gareth, thanks for watching!

[@gcosmos960]

I loved this bike! I used to see her in Japan and admired their owner mods. Great surprise review TMF

[@russelllocke7180]

An interesting machine there TMF. Looks like something Sylvester Stallone in Judge Dredd may have ridden.

[@freddielyttle647]

Another brilliant review about a bike up untill 15 mins ago I'd never even heard of . I think it looks brilliant years ahead of it's time.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Me too!

[@flatcapcaferacer]

I bike twelve years old with a very short production would be difficult to own and live with spares being short supply. Never mind how hard it would be to find motorcycle technicians who would or could work on it. I guess if It's your cup up tea then it would be a good choice.

[@MrStew006]

I love these older bike reviews 😊 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad to hear it Stewart…

[@aujax1]

i just rode one of these today and i have to say i loved it! more power than i expected and super comfortable. i hate shifting and just want to enjoy the ride - this bike lets me do that. the bike kept stalling at stoplights, so the seller says hes gonna address that. but for the price i do think im gonna buy it. we shall see

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No shouldn't be stalling like that - I think best swerved!

[@stephenwright6969]

Hiya mate you hit the nail on the head with why it didn't sell, price and rubbish reviews. This came out when nearly all the media concentrated on how fast it'll go and how easy was it is to get your knee. down

[@AriesTheUmpteenth]

So glad you didn't drop this one on us before I switched over to Team Honda again 🤣 Truth be told, it certainly was a contender as for some strange reason Honda's quirky bikes have always tickled my fancy . Couldn't find one for a reasonable price that had the factory panniers pre-installed, though, and I do really worry about parts availability for these units... as I they really didn't sell well. Still, a stunning machine, certainly in that deep purple. Cheers as always for these vids, love seeing some hidden gems getting some love! PS give the CTX1300 (baby V4 goldwing-esque Pan European), and the 'new' F6CL (2010-15 I believe) a run if ye can find them🤔

[@ccooper8785]

Shaft drive... automatic..... looks horrendous.... I absolutely love it !!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes there is something about it isn’t it!

[@antonoat]

I personally like bikes that are different, well done Honda, it’s why I used to own a Honda Valkyrie f6c!👏👍😀

[@karlj1717]

Always loved the look of these crazy things, it’s possibly the only cruiser style motorbike I really like.

[@karlosh9286]

Fascinating 🙂I saw one of these in a Honda Dealers 2 to 3 years ago (and sat on it in the showroom) , it certainly looked distinctive . Looks like the type of bike Batman might ride ( if it had a lot more BHP ! )

[@loddude5706]

'Nimmo's Limmo'? - I can see Mr. Spock enjoying one of these : )

[@billcotton1551]

I can honestly say I never knew this bike existed. It does have a unique look.

[@yoonytek]

I saw one of those outside the local Honda dealer today. I liked it a a lot.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wild aren’t they….

[@scottsimmons6928]

Vfr1200f had bad reviews too but I've had two non dct vfr1200f's and think they are brilliant 170bhp low seat height, excellent build quality and an amazing shaft drive .See if you can take one out in future .MCN review said it hadn't got a gear selector indicator but it has you can't miss it I can only think they didn't ride it.Its got everything you need without all the bxxxxxxs.Love your channel 👍

[@willwye410]

For a firm with a reputation for conservative design Honda actually have an admirable track record for pushing at the boundaries with bikes like this DN01, or CTX1300, PC800 Pacific Coast, X-ADV, etc etc. The world would be a sadder greyer place without these leaps of faith (or momentary madness?) into weird & wacky design, sadly something few manufacturers are brave enough to do.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn’t agree more!

[@teneretraveller8980]

As I approache 60yrs that would probably suit me and the management perfectly. Never seen one on the road. Nice one Happy travels 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Me neither - interesting isn’t it!

[@davidfarrar1038]

Hi Andy, I bought a Honda CTX 700 which I believe was Honda’s attempt to make the DN 01 more affordable. The CTX has the 700cc parallel twin engine found in the NC 700, chain drive, manual transmission and single front disc, all to reduce the price. This model didn’t sell well either. I bought a 2013 model with the idea of it been a frugal commuter for my 70km round trip from home to Brisbane. I couldn’t get on with the forward controls as my muscle memory always had me trying to put my feet on the non existent pegs under my bum. I also found it ran out steam pretty quickly. Needless to say it was gone in 6 months and I bought myself a 2019 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Classic which I love, plenty of power and a hoot to ride. Great review as always, keep up the good work. All the best from an expat in Queensland.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That’s interesting, thanks for that David…

[@ronboe6325]

This review hammers home the reason I really appreciate your channel. On one hand, any bike you rave about the comfort on typically means I won't fit it. :^) But, unlike your sport bike reviewers, you ride 99% of your bikes the way they were designed to be ridden - in the real world by folks with reasonable skill sets. Some car magazine reviews chaff me because the gear head scribe will pan a good wagon or minivan because it has slow quarter mile times and handles like a jello-mold in an earthquake - entirely missing the point the vehicle was designed for! This bike came out when I decided to get back into riding after 25+ year hiatus. I do remember thinking that it was way over priced for the times and I seem to recall I did not care for the ergonomics. I think it was the pull back handle bars. In any event it did not fit my use case at the time (today - maybe.....). I thought the looks were very interesting; if not quite my cup of tea. Still do - I might have even warmed up to it a bit. Perhaps Honda needs to revisit this bike; with a bit of freshening up. If more folks like you had reviewed the bike maybe it would have faired better.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Ron, I appreciate your kind comments!

[@Saecocycle]

I was in Italy, south of Naples, in September this year and I saw at least three of those in use! I like the style and it fits nicely with the heat there.

[@RutgerSmets]

Now this one comes out of left field! A very interesting and enjoyable video, love some oddballs!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Me too!

[@loddude5706]

A sleek & rare flagship with oddball mechanics? Most worthy 'carpet monster' - just don't wear out any parts by riding it! Do have to say tho', absolutely love the colour - it's plum up my street . . . . (Apologies for that one are ethereal at best : )

[@clangerbasher]

Motor journalists push vehicles in a way most of us cannot. This sometimes, often, leads to undue criticism of vehicles which for the most part are perfectly adequate for everyday use. If they were scraping DN01 footboards they were pushing it far far too much.

[@clangerbasher]

@Bob Sacamano True. But they all do it. I am ancient I have read it in reviews from Bike to Car and most publications in between.

[@ian-c.01]

Bad press reports will kill motorbike sales every time ! If the press decide it's not for them then nobody else gets to ride it which is a shame really because if one guy who likes sports bikes gets something like that to ride he'll always slag it off ! The same thing happened with my current bike (CB900F Hornet), it was built by Honda out of popular demand, people were asking for the Fireblade engine in a road chassis and Honda chose to use the Hornet as it was popular at that time but they had to adapt the race bread engine for road use. With a few modifications they reduced the power but massively increased the torque output which is ideal for road use but the press wanted a fire breathing dragon with teeth and claws and were disappointed with the relatively tame beast that was produced ! One press report said "it's not so much a Fireblade engined hooligan but more of a fireplace and Val Doonican" and as a result sales were low so it was only produced for a few years ! I have to say that report caught my attention and made me very curious to try one and I wasn't disappointed in the least, I've had the bike for 5 years and done 40,000 miles on it without issues and am loving it more all the time ! Right now it's becoming highly sought after and very popular for it's bomb proof torquey motor, fun handling and proven reliability !

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Who knew? A Honda DN01. I suspect you could trick the motor a bit, if ya need more umph. I’m thoroughly enjoying your Super Bike Factory sponsor. Excellent fit for the channel.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Bradley and yes I think so too, thanks for watching as ever, all the best - Andy

[@Ashley.D]

What an interesting bike. From the thumbnail I assumed it was a hypersports bike then when I saw the bolt upright seating position and those big coach mirrors I was shocked. It does seem like it's having a bit of an identity crisis but it's a good looking machine, and what a beautiful colour. That's my favourite colour so I'd love to see more manufacturers giving us such unusual offerings.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So would I Ashley, thanks for watching and for stopping by!

[@jimonsax]

The classic reviews are great; can't wait for your Pacific NW tour!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Starts in the next video coming on Wednesday.

[@michaelb.42112]

That bike is absolute PERFECTION. It's 2024, I'm 55 years old who is not the same psycho sport bike rider I was in 1995 passing on double yellow lines on my Honda Interceptor 1000. Now, I cruise. I have a Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 1500, and a Honda Elite 250 scooter which gets 95% of my attention and this bike is SMACK in the middle ! It's Perfect to ME. I hope to find one.

[@ragerider6283]

Very interesting vid TMF. I remember this oddball being released. Tbh it's really not that bizarre these days I guess but it's looks were definitely controversial at the time & as you say expensive with average at best performance. I also don't think anyone could figure out where it fitted in & who it was for. It just never really fitted in anywhere as it was a cruiser that the cruiser crowd didn't want & neither did anyone else seemingly. Can't win 'em all I guess.

[@dennisbowskill3706]

Great classic Motorbike review I always enjoy watch these videos. I love classic motorbike. The 2010 Honda DN01 is very unusual motorbike with its front end, you think it would be aerodynamic and which go faster. However, we all go slower then we get older. Very nice seat height for all use small people. So thanks for the video review look forward to see more of these.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Stay tuned Denniss!

[@brankojerbic6040]

Really nice to see reviews on rare bikes and Honda have had some interesting models over the years. This one looks like showroom condition and that colour. Brilliant ! There was another head turning machine in the early 90's called the Pacific Coast or PC800. Mainly for the US market but i remember seeing a few over the years in the Uk.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ll keep a look out for one. Thanks for watching!

[@gearjammer3688]

I always thought the press failed to realise this was a cruiser / scooter hybrid. Only bike where a top box looks good. Blackbird mirrors too.

[@obiorah1]

Congratulations on 234k subscribers well deserved,

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you! A nice round number 😬

[@n3al666]

Great fast disclaimer at the beginning. Yes my pausing skills are impressive.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well done!

[@milolabrett6549]

I’ve never seen a third party review on this bike thank you. As you mentioned DN-01 was just a bit ahead of its time. I think a lot of people mistook them for scooters back in the day. Honda does some funky things at times like producing Honda Valkyrie GL1500CC 1997 -2003 which was basically a naked Gold Wing a great looking bike owners love them. Then they totally screwed the pooch and turned them into Valkyrie Runes and made them into big ugly impractical bikes.

[@randomg0at]

I read somewhere that the transmission of these used a swash plate, rather than the kind of CVT you see on scooters and the Aprilia Mana. That would make them very unusual and it might help to explain what Honda's strategy for it: They've got an unusual, expensive transmission that they want to test in market. They're not going to put it in a sports bike because it's an automatic. They can't just shove it in a Deauville, otherwise people will complain that it's just a very expensive Deauville. Instead, they put it in a small run of something unusual. People who have the money, and want something unusual, easy, and innovative are the target market. Honda probably weren't expecting to sell boatloads. They tried the swashplates, they tried DCT. DCT won. Regarding the poor reviews: Back in the 90s and early 00s, sports bikes were in fashion. In the mainstream bike mags, most things that weren't sports bikes or derived from a sports bike got mediocre reviews. Basically, if you didn't want a race replica then you'd be advised to get a CBR600f. If you couldn't afford that, then get a Bandit, Hornet, or Fazer - cheaper bikes with detuned race rep engines. It's wasn't like now, with all these popular adventure bikes and retros. This obviously didn't fit the mould and, on top of that, was expensive. It was never going to get good reviews.

[@randomg0at]

Although thinking back, after the success of the 916, there were some vtwins that were fashionable, like the sv650.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that seems to be the general consensus on this one - sport bike favouring magazine reviews killed it…

[@randomg0at]

@@TheMissendenFlyer, oh no, I was thinking bad reviews weren't why you didn't see many of these. =). I reckon Honda only ever planned to do a small number of dn01s. Just because they didn't sell many and there wasn't a follow-up doesn't mean they didn't achieve what Honda were trying to do. As I say, I was thinking Honda did a small number of these to try out their new tech in the wild. Around the same time they also put out their first DCT, in the VFR1200. My guess is that they were trying out both. They probably found that the DCT could be scaled better and worked fine, so that's why it's been trickled down to Honda's 700/750 and 1100 engines, in cheaper bikes. If the DCT hadn't worked out, maybe we'd be seeing the swash-plates instead. Well, not in the Africa Twin, maybe, but in all the rest. Also, I think anyone in the market for something like this would have known to ignore the reviews in the mainstream bike press.

[@robertakerson7186]

Mr. Flyer- These Classic Review segments are a lot of fun! This DN-01 was different enough that it did not sell well; the mechanical complexity of automatic transmission and linked brakes together with the "different" appearance of the machine may have been factors in this. The reviewers of the time said that the model number stood for "Do Not Own 1". Bob

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes, so I’m told!! No wonder it didn’t sell at the time!

[@fetJackal]

That top box lets the side down somewhat!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes - that would have to come off!

[@LickyDischarge]

With a few mods, I could see Batman riding it 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Me too James!

[@mrsmith697]

That and the Honda Rune and Honda Fury is, Because we can..like the Triumph Rocket no one needs them..but its nice bikes

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Must look those up!

[@splodge5714]

Hona Rune is the one I'd like. GoldWing engine in a superb cruiser bike. One for sale on ebay, £21,000!

[@shadowred1980]

I can remember them sitting unsold in dealerships, to expensive, to heavy, lacking power. When the cvt fails it writes the bike off as you cant get rebuild kits. Sorry to disagree TMF this bike won't be a future classic. From that era I would go for a low miles super blackbird, as a bet for a future classic. Great review as always.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No need to apologise!

[@stevebolton8471]

Well I am a fan of DCT engines and without the failure of this CVT based engine, Honda might not have had the incentive to develop the more fuel efficient fully automatic dual clutch gearbox. I very nearly bought a BMW 650 scooter before the NC750x but the bike had already had some fixes to the gearbox at 11.5K miles. The CVT belt has to be replaced on that every 12,000 miles and it is an expensive job. Plus it was comparitively slow when exiting built up areas to the national speed limit. The NC gearbox was utterly reliable. I only had to do the 'reset procedure' after putting a new chain on the bike at 8k miles. That allowed the software to adjust to the new chain and smoothed it out. The x-ring chain lasted until I sold the bike with 27K miles and the gearbox continued to work fine.

[@ironkcirb285]

And if you think that's a bit left field check out the later honda NM4

[@jaffamaddin]

Interesting bike....remember pics of it but then forgot about it!?!?

[@Envyon]

Wow I think it's the Machine Decader Thanks a for reviewing DN 01

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@TheKnightsShield]

I always loved that bike.

[@kevinair7648]

I've got 2011 trike version .lv it with the wife .we have it in sport mode .and the looks .are cool .not seen a trike version in UK yet .lv to know .Nice video .from council kev uk 🇬🇧

[@iallso1]

My local Honda dealership had one of these on the floor around 3 and a half years ago. It was low mileage (about 12000km) and reduced to $9000NZ or £4500. I didn't have my full licence at the time and I wasn't looking for a cruiser, but like you I found the look of the bike very appealing. I did see the bike out on the road, presumably on a test ride, and it stands out from all other bikes on the road.

[@DiscoFang]

And now 4 years later the prices have halved. NZ$5000 buys one with 29,000kms from a dealer.

[@kkiwi54]

There's one for sale right now in New Plymouth - $5995, done 29k 😱

[@S.p.a.c.e.C.o.w.b.o.y]

I had a small CVT car years ago and couldn't find a gearbox mechanic who would touch it. The colour is glorious, it's a shame modern bikes only have 2/3 colours to chose from. Great video TMF. :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Space Cowboy, it wasn’t a DAF by chance was it?

[@S.p.a.c.e.C.o.w.b.o.y]

@@TheMissendenFlyer It was a Nissan Micra. :)

[@Grahamvfr]

Human friendly transmission.. These Aliens think of everything. Yes nice to see something different reviewed with an open mind, although I remember the bike well, I'd forgot it had a cvt gearbox. Great review Andy.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers!

[@taebert]

Great review. I have an affectation for unusual bikes, and this fits the bill. I don’t think we got these in the US. If we did, I have never seen one. This would be a great addition to my shed next to my Honda Helix.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hadn’t seen one until I got this either!

[@JIMWSMITH]

Great looking bikes very clean looking uncluttered. Can you imagine if that transmission had a problem, it would be game over , but it is a honda i suppose.

[@veeken777]

Hi Andy. That's a funky bike 4 sure. Always enjoy spending Saturday with the Superfast Druid 😂 Please do more GoldWing adventures as I love that bike.

[@aujax1]

not sure why they didnt give this bike a bit more power. but the old negative reviews are far off. the bike is really fantastic

[@Alan_Anderson]

Good morning, thanks for another interesting video - like you, I had never heard of this machine before but have to admit it has perhaps an unexpected appeal! I have just celebrated six years since I passed my direct access, so have an even longer list of "classics" than you, so particularly enjoy this segment of your output. Just one question, I don't think you mentioned the sound it makes; is that because it just emits a low, CVT whine? Definitely a real classic of the future, I feel - tempting...!

[@glennmcgown5814]

Hi Andy. Great review. My Subaru Forester has a great CV Transmission. I use the manually selected ratios for long steep descents esp when towing. I assume the DN01 had CVT for the same reason (So as not to overheat the brakes) Cheers from down under

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Glenn!

[@georgemills2302]

I really fancied one of these when they came out. Gearbox was a proper torque converter I think rather than CVT? I was put off by the bad reviews, future classic I think though. Yet another great review (as always).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks George and yes I think you’re right, it’s not CVT like in a scooter but a different system.

[@bruceh8532]

Yes - logged in to make exactly this point. It's continuously variable but not a belt system. It's a fluid transmission torque converter as you say and it was/is used on Honda's quad bikes. So spares and technicians able to work on it should be available.

[@dtrex392]

Your positivity is surprising since it’s basically a Honda Dullsville…….with an automatic no less! 😂 I have a 2010 Dullsville (2nd generation Dullsville, ‘NT700V’ in the States, sold here only 2 years.). I’d love to see you review one. BTW, that engine goes back to the Hawk GT 650, which was my first motorcycle. Old skool reliable workhorse. I had a 2005 Suzuki Bergman 650, too, and loved it. I don’t mind shifting at all, but until you’ve ridden a well-sorted automatic, you don’t realize how it sort of ‘frees the mind.’

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes, I must get my hands on a Deauville at some point.

[@pipes9878]

Always like them a bit gutless but as you said it’s a cruiser. Always imagined this as a future classic slightly ahead of it’s time. With the reviews they got the wrong riders to write up about it because compared to racing bikes and adventure bikes it is a bit on the heavy slow side. Compared to the old 883 sportster, dragstars and shadows it’s pretty good. For me I looked at this as Honda tipping their toe into the water to judge the direction to go next with bike designs.

[@Banditmanuk]

A very unusual bike. I do remember them coming out but honestly I've never seen one on the road. It's a little like what happened to Yamaha's MT01, expensive at the time, comparatively underpowered with a big cruiser engine. Like these older bike tests, thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure as usual Richard

[@marcoluoma3770]

Thanks! I don’t think we got these in the US, and it’s unlike any other bike I think.

[@walttanner5813]

What followed the Honda DNO1 was the Honda NM4

[@duke7888]

Thanks for the Great review. I am looking to buy one as a second bike for two up riding. I think it will do the job. The missus is not a big fan of the Tuono pillion seat🤣

[@headrace4863]

How Honda, designing a solution to a problem that doesn’t exist. Again, before it’s time… ridden a few of these. Stunning build quality, hence the price.

[@kyotosal]

Wow! It looks like the horn is in the correct place. (when did Honda reverse the positions with the turn signals?). It looks like ground clearance may have caused some early riders to scrape. Thank you Sir for another good review......Sal : )

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes we’ll spotted!

[@willfriar5163]

Always been curious about these , look like a chopped or custom gold wing . To me ,

[@willfriar5163]

But then i loved the look of the Pacific Coast too

[@brulaapgaapmeester8052]

Very nice looking bike, shame they gave it a CVT... Though functionally 'm sure they are fine. DCT gearboxes are great for bikes I think, wonder why there aren't more of those around, but CVT has a bit of a scooter whiff about it. Wouldn't want one in a car either. I'm just being small minded probably... ;-)

[@leej9897]

I've just got one a few days ago. The bikes great I love it. I also ride a Triumph T-Bird Storm. If you don't like attention and a 101 questions don't get one!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoy!

[@Flyingscotsman3]

I do love quirky bikes, the one's that the bike press never quite got lol This mmmmmm.....maybe not for me but can see the appeal. If you ever get the chance Andy, have a go on a hd xr1200....great fun and definitely a modern classic. Safe rides mate....👍🏁

[@wilcovanhouten]

I fell in love with this bike but the goldwing stays my favorite

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes top bike the 'Wing!

[@robertharris5453]

Mr Flyer, I remember this bike with its quirky looks and auto transmission. If they had made it with pegs and straighter bars as a tourer it might have sold better. I think they should have chose a slightly more powerful engine as well, indeed with that above combination such a bike might do well today. A bit before its time, but with modern merit in its concept…tempus fugit.

[@akhyarrayhka4048]

the honda that inspires the smaller Honda Click or Honda Vario scooter with 110cc engine sold in 2010s (which i own)

[@thebikegeekandmore2448]

Andy, would like to see a review from the Batman bike. You know what bike I mean?

[@thebikegeekandmore2448]

The Vultus NM4 I think it is called.

[@debenhamdave4314]

Agree think this could be a future classic, Cheers Andy.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Dave - Always good to have you along!

[@kentishmale1969]

I do quite like it, it’s certainly different and would get you noticed at any bike meet - it just seems to have the wrong engine, a more powerful one rather than the gutless one it comes with would probably have helped shift a few more units a decade or so ago

[@ronprichard6145]

Had a ride on one way back when. Nothing wrong with it, but it wasn't my cuppa tea back then. At 78 even big scooters are starting to look good, and a DN01 would have appeal.

[@davidsandilands1285]

Interesting review, liked the bike when it cam out but not a bike for me. Keep’em coming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Will do David….

[@markbur1503]

You should of got your Batman outfit on. It's definitely an odd machine. Like you, I've never heard of it. It's not for me but it'll do for someone. Future Classic.. I'm not sure about that but who would of thought in 1980/81 that my RD250 & 350LC would be a classic now?

[@billthomas6873]

I like it, Think Vincent Black Prince or Honda Pacific ?.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

Likewise Andy ive never heard of this model and must say I think its pretty awesome. This particular example looks almost new and a bargain for £6k, agree its a future classic.

[@UncleWally3]

Very interesting review. My limited understanding is that Honda never used JATCO CVT’s, they developed and produced their own, some say much better, versions. So, I wonder what made them decide DCT’s were the way to go for the Goldwing?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Maybe it was reliability?

[@robertlindstrom540]

I´ve propably never even seen one of those, cool that you found one to show us. A little Yamaha Bulldog about it, meaning crossing a couple of genres in the same bike. Interesting one, but only to watch and not to buy.

[@aromaticsnail]

If you enjoyed the DN-01 , you should have a go on the Honda NM4 Vultus, aka the Akira bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I do fancy a go on one of those!

[@Fishing8136]

Love the mirrors smart.😎🇨🇦