Did I buy the dullest bike in existence? 2024 Honda NC750X DCT First Impressions real owner review

[@geecee4746]

One of the best bikes Honda ever made. It does what it was built for perfectly.

[@dustinchandler5575]

We just don't know what that is.😂

[@volt8684]

As the owner of 15 plus Hondas from the late 70s on I can safely say Hondas build quality is rubbish compared. My 99 vfr800fi is blemish free zero rot. I had one of these 21 plate dct. The suspension is awful. The swing arm is like mild box steel. Te,e the adjusters off and look inside. I had mine 3 months hated tthe ride but suspension mods would have cured that but rusty swingarm at a year old. Sold it. Sorry Honda but you are losing it

[@chunkybullmoto]

I had a 2014 NC700X. It didn’t have the DCT. Rode it for 10 years and traded it for the 2024 Honda Transalp. The NC700 was a great bike. I never had a single issue with it. I really miss that storage compartment. I never found it boring at all.

[@R8latte]

Exactly! On top of it’s reliability, personally I miss that extra storage at the front

[@gilberthoualla8542]

Thank you for this honest, no nonsense review. the NC 750 may not be the most exciting bike on the market, far from it. However, I would not go as far as label it 'boring'. In my unprofessional opinion, It is a reliable, solid, dependable, frugal, low maintenance with a 5 year warranty bike. That works for me.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Last year I bought a Kawasaki ZZR1400 and a Honda NC750X. By the end of the year I realised the Honda was my 'go-to' machine. Indeed I used the big Kawasaki so little I sold it. There isn't another bike out there I would rather have.

[@MrJkfamilyguy59]

I own a 2024 NC750x DCT and like many others I love mine. It's a all around workhorse for everyday commuting and longer trips. For me I just ride my own ride.

[@wayneknodel3347]

Great real owner review! As the owner of a 2017 DCT, I immediately paid attention when you highlighted the harshness of the suspension, as you are the ONLY review I've read that has ever mentioned it, something I noticed from the first day I bought the bike. Of course the 2017 has less rider modes, but it has equally needless/useless selectable colors/gears/rpm buried in a seriously complicated menu. I figured out the trip meters, but all the other crap I NEVER use. Other than those things, this bike has been the easiest to ride, efficient, reliable, and versatile bike out of close to 100 I've owned. I'm also a big fan of thd DCT, and typically ride using the paddle shifters for downshifts in the eco mode. When people realize they should ride bikes that impress themselves and not others, it stands out. And judging by the growing group of owners, many are. And the day I got 24 beer and a Costco chicken in the storage bin, it became my friend for life! Boring? Not a chance!

[@Bryan11210]

I had the suspension upgraded and now it needs nothing. I want to get an inline 4 tourer but I think I'll have this one a long time.

[@johnking8288]

@@Bryan11210 what did you do to upgrade the suspension? I've several posters that have changed theirs

[@MultiVogon]

Well now I realise I've wasted time keeping tools and first aid kits and things in the storage bin... Off to see if someone does a wine-rack for it 😁

[@adamrobson8318]

Anything with two wheels and an engine is good in my book! I had an NC750 loan bike from my insurance for most of a summer, and over time fell in love with the thing. Fast enough for twisty Scottish roads, amazing fuel economy, and that storage box is one of the best things in biking. Yes the suspension could do with a bit of work, and the OE Dunlops are rubbish, especially in the wet (several brown trouser moments as normal speeds), but give the bike time and you can appreciate it for what it is.

[@simonthomas5367]

I picked up the same model this year in June as a daily. Brilliant bike. Problems had - the handbrake calliper bolts came loose and I actually lost a bolt. I never use it so didn’t realise immediately. Extras that came with the bike - Honda heated grips and a Givi carrier. Extras I added - Givi hand guards, SW motech engine guards, usb port, Givi auxiliary lamps, oh, and a Leo Vince pipe just because that engine note was crying out to be released. And don’t give up on Dunlop!! I added Dunlop Mutants which are honestly some of the best tyres I’ve ever run on any bike. Give them a go!

[@MultiVogon]

Yep I'm probably going to fit Mutants next, they sound like an ideal tyre for the manky roads here in Wales.

[@rebel1969X2]

I bought a 2020 in August of 2021 and have put 40,000 miles on it in just over 3 years. I absolutely love mine. It is taller than yours, is manual and I put risers on it. I live in Texas where everything is bigger lol

[@Jodmart]

As a lot have people already said, “great review” couldn’t disagree with any of it. Bought my DCT in January 24 and have just clocked up 4000 miles, was a little unsure about the bike at first but it ultimately it has won me over. Completely useable in the real world on real roads but I have upgraded the front and rear suspension with Hyperpro front springs and a YSS rear shock, that has made a big improvement for a total of £800. It’s definitely not an Adventure bike, and it does have its flaws but for me it does everything I want from for a fairly reasonable outlay and the economy is great. Hope to see your follow on vids, just subscribed, I wish all KZbinrs could follow your lead. By the way you can get rid of annoying gear/rev light on dash completely if you want. Instructions in handbook, and you can also see how many miles you have travelled once the bike goes onto reserve fuel. Can be set through menu settings. All the best Martyn

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers, yes the hyperpro springs sound like a worthwhile upgrade. The rev-light was turned off immediately. I found the setting for the miles travelled since going onto reserve, but what I really want is the estimated range left! First world problems, eh? 😁

[@paulm9047]

Watched a lot of reviews on the NC750X the last few weeks and I think this review solidified my thinking and I'm now anxiously awaiting the arrival of the 2025 NC750X, subject to some long test rides. I'm a new, older rider and this would pair nicely w my Yamaha 250XT for longer rides on pavement to the twisties. Life is good, and I don't want mine to end mine in a MC wreck so "boring" is good!

[@MultiVogon]

I'll certainly be trying to have a go on a 2025 version next year so I can see if it's worth the upgrade. On paper it doesn't really look it, but if I was buying new right now, I'd probably wait too!

[@TheDervMan]

Defo not dull, loved mine and did loads of miles on it. I sold it because the DCT started playing up, turned out to be the ‘shifter motor’ but took my local main dealer over a month to diagnose. Went from the NC back to a GS but now on an X-ADV 750, which is a brilliant bike. The brakes and suspension are noticeably better than the NC. looking forward to seeing more videos from you about this great bike 😎👍🏻🎉 oh and Veridian sell a (proper) bolt on Crusie Control for the RBW NC’s 🔧

[@MultiVogon]

Yeah I'd read about the shift motor issue on forums somewhere I think - a cheap part to replace when you know what it is apparently. I'm surprised the dealers weren't all over that - car or bike, they just LOVE to replace parts instead of diagnosing problems 🙄 I've seen the CC option too - not sure I want to go that far just yet, we'll see!

[@davidalder6558]

Well done review with a dry sense of humour. I loved it. I drive a very practical 2006 Honda Silverwing 600 (scooter on steroids) and love it. The NC is on the top of my list to replace my Silverwing in 2 years when it turns 20. Other riders used to joke me about my bike until they could not keep up to me in twisties. Keep up the great work and who cares what others think in the long run. Dave from Nova Scotia, Canada

[@MultiVogon]

Silverwing! I remember when they were basically a CX500 with a load of Tupperware glued to it 😂 Bikes & scooters have come a long way in the last 30 years (and when I remember some of the sh!t heaps I used to ride that's a really good thing ;-)

[@paulbroughton-alleyne9271]

Brilliant review that for once sounds like it is done by somebody who thinks for themselves and knows the actual bike. Best real world review I think I have ever come across for any bike. Keep it up.

[@MultiVogon]

Hey, wow thanks for that. I try do do the sort of review that I wanted to find when I was looking for myself. Glad some people enjoy my waffle 😁

[@malcolmpatton9314]

If the new 2025 model finds its way to Australia I would definitely consider it.i have a 2019 model year purchased in 2020 cb500x Dunlop trail max done 14000 kms and still has 4mm tread left on both tyres low powered commuter and decent solo ride tourer.your review of this nc750 is very comprehensive well done sir.

[@peterwhalley6491]

I had an early one the 7OO and it became the MOST ENJOYABLE BIKE TO RIDE. I would add its not the best bike ever for me but I did keep the bike longer than most of my other bikes. It did teach me to ride slower and relaxed. So maybe its a bike for older more experienced riders who need a change. I did fit an after market exhaust which gave it a more retro feel. I would consider another in the future. Thanks for the video, well done.

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers, yes more relaxed is definitely the way I feel about it at the moment. Still picks its skirts up and runs on the open road too though if desired. A friend has had a 700S from new, with about 50K miles on it and she loves it & has had no real issues with it other than the usual consumables. I always intend to keep bikes long term, so it will be interesting to see if this one hangs around or if after a year or two I decide that I want a change again. I will be reporting back on my experiences with Honda vs Moto Guzzi dealers anyway :-D

[@mikeandmona6584]

Most practical, most reliable, you meet the nicest people on a Honda.

[@MultiVogon]

Here's hoping. If she could be rich and single too, that'd be a help 😂

[@mikedowning4603]

I very much enjoyed your review as with your previous ones. I have some experience of NCs as a rider rather than an owner as a blood bike rider in Powys and have to say that they are excellent ie all day comfortable with that relaxed power delivery but sufficient power to overtake when the opportunity arises and best feature? That storage compartment with plenty of room for the paperwork, waterproof over gloves etc and most importantly a flask of tea! Ideally I'd like the seat to be slightly higher in relation to foot peg height like in my CB500x. Interestingly the economy LED was tapped over in order to avoid rider irritation! One suggestion for you re the grips is maybe consider Grip Puppies - I put some on my CB to smooth at the vibes but they do thicken them up considerably. I was concerned that they'd make my heated grips less effective but I think it just lengthens the time it takes before the heat comes through. Cheers Mike

[@MultiVogon]

Hello fellow blood-y biker, who knows, we may have met for a relay handover once (I did meet up with someone on an NC from a different area!) Yep with you on the footpeg/seat distance, though I seem to have adapted to it without any major issues. Just bought and installed some grip puppies - (see latest video!) and so far they're doing ok. Not a fan of hugely thicc(tm) grips, but they're a definite improvement over the standard Honda ones so far. Yes I reckon I'm a setting higher on the heated grips than I'd usually be, but they do warm up eventually. Cheers!

[@mikedowning4603]

Thanks for your response fellow BBW biker. It's interesting that we may have actually met on a relay. Where are you based? We're largely based around the Llandrindod Wells area although some of our riders live much further afield and some have a 30 mile or more journey just to collect the blood bike. Like you, I find that I adapt ok to the slightly cramped riding position on the NC and I must admit, after I've returned it, I do enjoy the more relaxed position on my CB as well as the more frenetic engine which generally turns over about 2000rpm faster than the NC at comparable road speeds. I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the Grip Puppies but I'll keep them under review and ditto the Loobman chain oiler that I've recently fitted. Maybe see you in a relay in 2025😊

[@MultiVogon]

Well I don't want to doxx myself on here if I can avoid it, no doubt if I ever become a real youtuber someone will do that for me anyway 😂 30 miles to collect the bike, that sucks. I can almost see our garage from my house so I should not complain! Ah... I've got a LoobMan sitting in the shed for the last couple of months - it looked more fiddly than I expected to fit, I convinced myself I'd wait until the wheel was off for new tyres before playing around with it. Should just get my finger out and fit it really!

[@mikedowning4603]

I guess not wanting to "doxx" yourself means you don't want to identify yourself, so if we do meet in future on a relay we may well not know that we've communicated on here! Re the Loobman I delayed installing mine until I'd got my centre stand. Fitting wasn't too testing on the CB, I did loosen the back end of the chain guard and pushed up out of the way. The trickiest bit is to be able to get line of sight on the inside of the rear sprocket to see if the oil is getting to where it's meant to be.

[@Pihlalorjoone]

After the Cub, the best Honda ever! No if's, no but's, simply the 2nd best Honda ever

[@MultiVogon]

Now a C750 is something I'd like to have a go on. Still with a 3-speed heel-n-toe gear-change and drum brakes too of course 😂

[@kevinsmusings1615]

Love your style MV and so grateful that you don’t regale us with your legendary poetry 😉 Having owned a 2015 model NC750X I wholeheartedly agree with your summary. It’s not the bike for charging around like a loon scaring the locals but as a travel bike, i.e. somewhere to sit and enjoy the scenery with minimal fuss, it’s exemplary. Mine was a manual ,so none of the dct shenanigans, but fast A road overtakes were terrifying because I kept hitting the rev limiter at the worst possible moment. Presumably the dct fixes that. I’m currently on a Transalp which is great for faster rides but when the roads get slow and narrow I find myself wishing I was back on the NC. Hope you enjoy the bike.

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers. Yes I definitely think overtakes are where the DCT shines on this bike - although it does take away the fun of 'rev-limiter-roulette' 😲 Interesting, I thought the Transalp would be good on the narrow roads - I assume it has wider bars and a more upright riding position?

[@williambell12]

'18 manual owner here. Riding 50 years. You need to ride it for what it is, not what u want. Jeez!, people hitting the red line. You ride it in the torque zone, not power band. Its a long stroke, keep it in the "meat". With road based tyres it can certainly hustle along. Great production mate. Cheers from New Zealand

[@MultiVogon]

Yep my Ducati would've shaken itself to bits if I tried to use the same revs as the Honda. Well, to be fair it shook itself to bits regardless, but anyway 🤣

[@ONEly-uc4et]

Nice review - complements Good to see some positive reviews of this bike. In my mind this is one of the few UJM's in a hyper segmented market. Cheers

[@MultiVogon]

It really did make me think 'UJM' right away. And then I wondered where they'd all gone to as there were plenty about in the 90's. I guess it became a sports bike arms race. Then bikes like the original Multistrada began to usher in the era of the road focussed adventure bike 🤔

[@seansixfive]

I was feeling a strong pull towards the V85tt but videos like this keep fueling my doubts. Honda Transalp 750 coming right up! I will wait until the 2025 model becomes available in a few months. Enjoy your bike and forget about the dull bit. If its a pleasure to ride, then its a good bike.

[@MultiVogon]

Yeah I'd like a spin on a Transalp to see what they're like. I'm not worried about the dull label - it did give me a hook for the video though :-D

[@MrGottaRide]

Thanks for the video. I enjoyed it.

[@MultiVogon]

Nice one, thanks. Still can't quite believe people watch my ramblings, so thanks for that!

[@Tom-o9w]

Sold my GS 1200 a year ago and bought this very same bike even same colour and I love it. Thought it was slow but it is not. Did have the same issue with it lurching forwards when you man handle it so I always select N before pushing it. All in all a great bike.

[@MultiVogon]

Yes I always move it around in neutral. It was the slowing-to-a-stop-why-am-I-not-stopping experience I wasn't prepared for!

[@piotrbieda5912]

To flash your headlight just press the switch down and it will flash 😉. Great review 👍

[@stevellewellyn7192]

Entertaining and useful review. You get this bike. I'm finding it hard to decide what would come next after the shine of mine has worn off. It's soooo useful. The 2025 model doesn't move things on enough to tempt me to change but it's good to see Honda are adding small improvements. I'm waiting for the belt drive/ larger frontal bodywork version to arrive in my ideal future.

[@MultiVogon]

Thanks! Well this is the third 'I'm going to keep this forever now' bike I've had in a row. Not sure if that says more about the bikes or about me :-D I'll definitely be keeping it for the duration of the warranty at the very least. (don't quote me on that though!)

[@martingibbs1869]

Coming up 10 yrs on my Nc750x. It's my goto bike. If you're into DIY maintenance it's easy. Best tyres Mich pr5. Good luck.

[@oldgriff8559]

If you’re not intending to go off road , which many NC750 x owners won’t be, Michelin road 6’s are a fantastic option that transforms the ride to a much better experience…great vid..any bike is as dull as you want it to be..🏍️💨💨

[@MultiVogon]

Yep, it'll be those, or Angel GT's, or Dunlop Mutants next I think. Depends what I can get at the time.

Very nice review, I love the way you focus on details, I'm tempted to buy this bike, vids like yours makes me go for it right now, but I think big changes are comming on 2025 for this model. Maybe my biguest concern is no to find enough empaty with my sporty riding style. Hope you have a chance to make a vid of the CB650, the other in my wishlist.

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers, I try to make videos that are an alternative to all the 'real' channels that seem to just regurgitate the marketing information. I also try to wait a while so I've had a chance to try things in all conditions before commenting. Is the CB the one that has the e-clutch as an option? If you are a sporty rider the NC might not be the bike for you - at least not without spending some money on things like suspension upgrades... Having said that the 2025 bike has twin disks so might be more suited to a more spirited ride. I'll definitely try to test ride one. Cheers.

[@birchwoodbiker]

Great video absolutely honest, I'm on my 3rd it's a strange place where the NC sits in the Honda Range, I've had nobly tyres on mine stuck in the mud small jumps off road, and this model id definitely not for that, looking forward to some more vids👍👍✴ deserves a star

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers, I watched your videos when researching this bike 👍Yes, the reduced suspension travel on the newer bikes tells me they don't really expect people to take these off-road much, despite their marketing spiel. I was just checking my dash-cam footage for a recent video, and noticed something had been saved in the 'accident' folder - I guess somewhere on the road was a bump big enough to trigger the camera's G-sensor. Never had that happen on the V85TT 🤣

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

Bought one in 2018 and loved it. Very relaxing bike indeed. I ended up trading it for a Transalp, but I do miss it in a few ways. That frunk is extremely useful, and the bike is easy, reliable, comfortable and it can be ridden on dirt roads with ease with good clearance.

[@MultiVogon]

I think I'd be tempted by a transalp too, though I've not test ridden one. The engine would be good for off-roading I think, but probably not with a DCT.

[@davidingram792]

I have the 2017 model I call it my dementia bike as its the dct model. Your right about the suspension but you soon get use to the ride. I love the idea your never in the wrong gear, no faffing at traffic lights and alway able to scratch your nose with either hand whilst staying in 1st gear ready for when the lights change. The 2017 model has different drive modes to the later models it has Drive then sport 1,2 & 3. I find sport 2 the ideal choice for town and twisty roads as its not going up and down the box all the time and it feels like riding a conventional bike. It's really a Marmite bike you either love or hate them. For me it's the most practical alrounder you can hop on and go anywhere without fear of not being on the wrong bike in any situation.

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers. It will be interesting to see if the 2025 bike moves the game on again.

[@zorrotreps]

Great review. Thanks. Keep them coming. Glad I kept my v85…

[@zyghom]

what a torough review! thx

[@GarryShirreffs-cs2gb]

I’ve got the manual version, love it and think it’s amazing lol cheers

[@akiuliano]

I’m lucky, my Guzzi dealer is great and that adds to the awesomeness of that product. They are just different and certainly not boring.

[@MultiVogon]

Glad to hear it :-)

[@martinsims35]

Had DCT for 3 years, one of the best all round bikes I've ever owned, great tourer, regret selling it.

[@mikerider58]

I prefer to be in control of everything on my bike "triumph bonneville " l don't like rider aids TFT screens and a bike with no clutch is a scooter. Excellent review 👏 you very good, extremely audible, l enjoyed the honesty. Thank you.

[@MultiVogon]

I hear ya. I'm happy to have some rider aids though - would much rather have a bike with ABS and TC these days, and yes I've done my time on much simpler bikes back in the day. As long as you're enjoying riding, that's the main thing. 🤜

[@davidphillips7255]

Thanks for the detailed useful review. About six months ago I rode my 500F to the Honda dealer to buy a 750X DCT only to find the bike had been discontinued here in Canada. I loved the idea of the DCT and I was really disappointed. Now I don't feel so bad about winding up with a V85. Yeah it is Italian; but so far it's been pretty great, especially the suspension.

[@MultiVogon]

I thought the 750 was one of Honda's biggest selling bikes, maybe not in Canada? Enjoy the V85 - great bikes 👍

[@jimporter]

@@MultiVogonHonda US don’t really take this bike seemingly offering it only DCT and only one colour (black I think) and dealers hardly ever have the. Possibly think that if supplied properly in the US then it would be a success and they would actually have to improve it. They also don’t do the sibling machines the X-ADV or the Forza 750, strange when the X-ADV is a big seller on mainland Europe.

[@davidphillips7255]

@@MultiVogon Canada is a small market and getting smaller. Honda Canada cherry picks the handful of models they think will be most popular and that's it. When the Transalp came on the scene, that was the end for the 750X. What was interesting was that the 750X bikes gathering dust at dealers; instantly disappeared when word got out that the 750X was to be replaced with the more mainstream Transalp. There aren't even any used ones available. I looked.

[@chrispy865]

Couldn't agree more with a bang on review. It is a motorbike, a good one, and does not require pigeonholing. When I started bikes were just bikes and had to do everything from commuting to holidaying. My 23 with 5k miles suits me just fine, but I'm an old man with a buggered foot (hence the DCT) and like you, I think the biggest shame is the budget suspension, particularly the front forks. When I find the correct consensus of opinion on how to improve them, cheaply, I shall do so. I think I can live with the rear shock. I found that in Sport mode mine would change into top (6th) at an indicated 106 mph. Tyres were changed for Michelin Road 5's when I had a opportune puncture. I think the ECU unit "learns" how you ride and adjusts standard ride mode accordingly over time to better comply with throttle input. I found the riders footpegs to be too small and slippery in the wet and changed them for larger aftermarket ones, and the lack of screen adjustment and buffeting is cured by moving the screen forward to allow air behind it and mounted on adjustable rails. The single front disc is more than adequate and twin discs on the new version would not be enough to tempt me to change. The DCT alone means I shall keep this bike for as long as I'm able. Shall follow your future insights with interest, having now subscribed.

[@MultiVogon]

Hi thanks, glad you enjoyed my ramblings. Now there's pressure to actually make videos more often 😂 Hyperpro springs seem to be a common upgrade for the front forks, so I might look into that in the future. I've not had any issues with the footpegs so far - but they are quite small so I can see why some people change them. On my multistrada they were even smaller, with no rubber on them at all. Thanks, Italian sense-of-humour !!

[@jacobcoetzee3849]

Nice review. I suspect these bikes will just keep going, like an ST1100 or a BMW K75. The NC700/750 might be the perfect bike for my daily commute.

[@MultiVogon]

Once rode a K75RT - and I think it was one of the most comfy bikes I've ever ridden. Having a barn-door for a fairing didn't help with top speed, but definitely kept the weather at bay!! Cheers.

[@johnsparks211]

Good review

[@allanmason7544]

great vid fab bike

[@christianweller4288]

Thanks for a straight up honest review of the NC. Suspension appears to be a weak point and I hope that’s addressed in the new 2025 model. I’m still considering one in the future as the frunk is perfect for photographers and those requiring regular snacks.

[@blearyview2254]

Bought mine in 2019 (new) and just love the bike. You are spot on with the suspension and mine has the hard seat but other than that it my go to bike (I have a couple of others). My NT110 is DCT but the NC is manual so cannot comment how the DCT performs and have to say the NC has plenty real world power. I thought about changing to the 2025 model but Honda not been radical enough so the trusty 2019 is staying.

[@MultiVogon]

What's the NT1100 like with the DCT? I ride one fairly regularly (not owned by me) and am not a huge fan of it for many reasons - but the engine is nice and I reckon the DCT would be nicer than the manual to ride for sure.

[@blearyview2254]

@@MultiVogon I think the DCT works very well although I have heard folks complain they think it snatchy. Personally I find no issue but am sure if you are heavy handed on the throttle then they will have issues. I do love the NT, been all over Europe with it and it great value for money. The engine is indeed excellent. I have loads of vids on the NT if you interested.

[@timoakley277]

Yes it is dull. I had 2 dct models. Dull but so, so practical and easy to ride. I loved them to bits.

[@jerhughes500]

There’s a South Africans guy, frank something I think, and he’s done some nice mods to his NC. Chunky tyres, different suspension, looks a lot better imo. I’ve looked at these for a couple of years, tried the CBX 500 but it wasn’t great on the motorways. I’ve got a tiger 1050 at the moment but it’s not for me, too big and heavy. Real world power, the NC is more than enough. Good to see you back. 👍

[@MultiVogon]

I'll have to check it out, ta. The NC would be fine on the motorway as far as speed goes, but I think the lack of wind protection and no cruise control would make it tiring quite quickly. I also ride (not my bike) a new model Tiger (900? 950? not even sure lol) and it's a pretty nice bike to ride to be fair.

[@raptorpome2577]

I have one the dct is fantastic I travelled to France 🇫🇷 on it very close to the Swiss border.. ... I will only purchase a new version if it has cruise control...... I had to adjust the rear suspension and luckily the previous owner had fitted some preload adjusters to the front suspension so I adjusted that and it transformed the bike. .. I suggest you purchase some they look easy to fit

[@MultiVogon]

Thanks I may look into that. new [front] springs seem to be a reasonably cheap upgrade too.

[@jimbroen]

I have a manual version of the 2014 model that I purchased about a year ago. My favourite thing is the long stroke engine. It loves meandering around town at 2000 rpm. It has a pleasing relaxed sound. Your comments about the suspension and the original stock tires are bang on. This bike is built to a price and I'm OK with that. The budget suspension is something that bothered me when I first bought the machine but I changed my mind on the issue. The NC encourages a riding style that has no need for fancy suspension. I'll never get a speeding ticket on this bike and that's not because of impulse control. It puts me in a state of mind where the goal is to enjoy the ride and smell the coffee. It's not like riding around on a supermoto or sportbike where brain power has to be dedicated to following traffic rules. Honda does call this an adventure bike and I don't find that baffling. Everybody knows what a dual sport is and how it's used. Ditto for a retro bike. It's not so clear what an "adventure" bike is. People will bolt some accessories to a Honda CRF300 and they'll claim they've changed it into an adventure bike. Others will go to the BMW dealer and add every option under the sun to an R1300GS purchase and call the result an "adventure" bike. Those two examples aren't the same type of bike, not the same buyer and not the same use case. They're further apart than a retro is from a cruiser. "Adventure" is a pure marketing term and a confusing one at that.

[@233kosta]

I got a mostly stock (she wears a Brembo radial master with pride! Also double-jointed mirrors and wind deflectors. I touched nothing else.) CB650R in the DPRB. I also bought a less stock ER6n (she gots the sports suspension 😁) to tour around Bulgaria whenever I'm there. Whichever one I'm on while out having a bike adventure is an adventure bike. It's such a broad and vague category that at this point I don't see much sense in it, other than as a big bucket to dump anything with the slightest hint of off-road capability that doesn't fit any other label.

[@MultiVogon]

A friend has a 2014 too and loves it, she's put over 50,000 miles on it I think. I do wonder if the manual would actually be a bit nicer around town at slow speeds. I know I cannot be trusted, so I am happy that the NC is unlikely to get me in any trouble. I once looked after a friend's ZX6R for a while. Now THAT was a bike but I knew I could never own one without my license spontaneously combusting 😂 I think you've described what I feel when riding the bike quite well - yes you're not allocating so much brain power to the actual physical riding. It is a different state of mind I think. One that many won't understand but that's ok. My biggest adventure ride was on an overloaded GPZ500S - that was a 'boring commuter bike' too back in the day. Got me to the Nordkapp and back from the UK though!

[@233kosta]

@MultiVogon Mate of mine has a Ducati 916. Basically his pride and joy at this point. I swear there's a conspiracy though. They've got a satellite pointed at his garage, ready to issue the ticket as soon as the bike comes out!

[@jimbroen]

@@MultiVogon During the 1990s I owned a GSXR 750 which I rode like a scooter while being folded up like a pretzel. That bike soured my love of riding for many years. I'm just not someone who enjoys fast riding. I live on the Canadian Prairies where once I'm out of the city, the highways are straight, level, well maintained and free of traffic. In the city, the potholes will swallow a Grom whole. You talk about looking after a sportbike for a short time. I have a 690 supermoto that during the first couple of weeks of ownership I was a bit aggressive but I soon settled down. It's possible to appreciate the qualities of a supermoto while adopting a chill riding style. They're really good at dealing with potholes.

[@thestonegateroadrunner7305]

NC owners love their NCs. For good reasons. But we have to live with all those ignorant ones and their correspondingly ignorant comments. Imagine, there's one of the greatest bikes out there and most of the bikers don't know about it.

[@MultiVogon]

Yes people I know still roll their eyes and sigh when I say what I'm on right now. Their loss! Cheers.

[@kimhorton6109]

You can buy Grip Puppies for your grips to make it easier to hold them. They are foam covers for the part your hand sits on. They mute the effect of heated grips but that last setting was too hot anyway. I’ve had them on my last two ST1300s and my Current Goldwing. How is the wind protection on the M roads? I’m used to very good wind and rain protection and yes, I haven’t had a chain drive scoot since ‘79.

[@MultiVogon]

Yep I am aware of those, but figured they would hinder the grips. But maybe you're right & they'd be ok on the hottest level. Might try them out next year. There's no getting away from the fact that the NC doesn't have great weather protection as standard. There are loads of bigger screens available - I've just tried the Honda OEM taller screen so far. I think I'll probably get one of those top spoilers like I had on the Guzzi if I continue to ride it through this winter. I am not enjoying chain maintenance - must get around to fitting the chain oiler that's been in the shed for months...!

[@kimhorton6109]

@ I haven’t had any problem with Grip puppies and they really are better on my 77 year. Old hand when it’s cold or I’m out for more than a couple of hours. Honda grips are just hard.

[@richardjreidii]

Hippo hands brother. Combined with your heated grips, they will turn your grips into a little oven for your hands, allowing you to continue wearing summer weight gloves, which more easily enables you to feel your controls in addition to the benefit of keeping your hands, nice and toasty. I guess in this instance, it would also block that green light .

[@MultiVogon]

The light... the damn light..... 🤣 I looked them up - they look similar to the handlebar muffs I've used before. I remember they took some getting used to, but made a big difference. Cheers!

[@rob-fb5xs]

Funny you say that about the led on the grips. I have the same problem with the leds on my Oxford heated grips. It has crossed my mind to put tape over them at night but I was wondering if it was only me that was sensitive to this kind of thing. 🤣

[@MultiVogon]

Ha ha I thought I was the only one 🤣 Interesting, not had a bike with the oxfords, so can't compare. But every other bike I've ridden with heated grips hasn't felt the need to shine laser beams into my eyes at night (that's what modern LED headlights are for, apparently...! )

[@richardluys9282]

Vogon, good to see you're back with a 'new' bike! Shame you had to let the V85 go, but I understand you're reasons. I still have mine, including it's quirkiness (atm my blinker switch seems to misbehave: blinkers won't stay on sometimes, and other times they can't be switch off 😒). But, that's not a big enough issue for me to trade it in. I used to have a Tracer 700 which was/is a very nice bike. But too smooth to my liking. It does everything without complaints, easy and comfortable to ride. But, it get's "boring" after a while (I use boring for lack of a better word). Probably a bit similar to your Honda. But I agree with you: if you're bike is your primary means of transportation, you don't want stupid problems and stupid dealers. You want/need it to work, be dependable, etc. Nothing wrong with this Honda. It may lack the looks, it may lack the excitement, but if it fits your riding style, and won't let you down; who are we to judge? I wish you many 'boring' miles 😉!

[@MultiVogon]

Ha ha thanks. I've had my share of excitement over the years, but the roads these days are so crap that slowing it down and taking it a bit easier seems like the better option for me at least. I managed to get rid of my need-for-speed on the race track and off-road, don't feel like taking those risks on the roads for sure! I plan to keep the bike but I said that about the last two as well so... *shrugs* we'll see. Sadly I no longer have the space / money / time / inclination to have multiple bikes like I used to - hence having to find the best compromise I can right now. Oh I was always amused by the indicators on the V85 - you never quite knew what speed they were going to flash at ;-)

[@Mid-Knife-Crisis69]

Dull and beautifully reliable. I have a cb500x, and it's probably my favourite bike.

[@lomate1963]

It’s a nice colour and a very underrated bike mossy had his suspension upgraded and it transformed it have you seen the long term test ?

[@jpmalopes]

Do you think it makes sense to buy one of these without the optional DCT saving 1000EUR on the way?

[@MultiVogon]

Hmm, tricky. I think the DCT does suit this bike - for example overtaking you don't have to worry about the low rev-limit or narrow powerband - you can just pin it and let the DCT do it's thing whilst you concentrate on the road ahead. On the other hand it's not as smooth as I'd hoped around town / at lower speeds. So if you're in stop-start traffic it might get annoying. Finally I'd definitely go for a manual if I was going to do any sort of off-road riding - I'd want to be in complete control of the clutch then, for sure. It has good and bad points - I think the prices have dropped a lot at least here in the UK since the announcement of next year's model - so there are bargains to be had on 2024 bikes for sure. I'd try to test ride both DCT and manual if you can, good luck!

[@donaldbuchanan6654]

I'm a bit of a squirrel, I own everything, ride the crap out of all them. I have an early nc700x with the DCT. It took me about 2,000 mi to finally get the hang of what I wanted that gearbox to do. I learned you can't downshift too far and when you nail the throttle you're right in the torque curve and this thing will move right along. Not fast, mind you but definitely entertaining. And I LOVE the DCT gearbox. YMMV

[@MultiVogon]

Overall I'm a fan - it still has some annoyances though. It will be interesting to see how the 2025 bike makes improvements to it.

[@AnthonyMartin-cc5uy]

You've picked up on everything I found with my NC 750. I bought the comfort pack that includes a centre stand, larger screen and heated grips. Touring screen is useless as it is so noisy and directs the air straight to your helmet. This was solved by a £14 clamp-on extender that transformed the bike, enabling high speed cruising. Grip diameter is too small as you stated and I have arthritis in my fingers these days so didn't suit me. I found it a great bike for long distance and took several 200 mile plus rides with no issues. In the end though I'd had enough of the DCT and ironically bought a Moto Guzzi V7 special edition, mad.

[@MultiVogon]

Nothing wrong with being mad *twitch* *twitch* *wibble* 🤪 I may well go down the cheapo clamp-on-extendy-thing route, we'll see. It worked for the V85 for sure. Hope you're enjoying the V7. Mine was a III. Lovely bike, crippled my back after an hour though, sadly 😔

[@megaady36]

Had the same bike from new since 2021. If you change the trip to miles since fill then it swaps to count up miles when it goes into reserve. Tyres either Michelins or Bridgestones I've found good. Buy a cover for the rear shock otherwise it's constantly covered in crap. Try and keep the swing up clean as they rust really easily if neglected. Not an adventure bike but an easy going, go anywhere, do anything bike. Headlight is so so in the winter.

[@MultiVogon]

Yeah I was aware of that - miles-left-in-the-tank would be nice to have though. I've fitted a rear hugger already which seems to be keeping the worst of the crap off the rear shock. Headlight definitely could be better for sure - shame the OEM spotlights are so expensive as I reckon they'd help a lot. Not sure what tyres I'm going to get, but Dunlop Mutant, Michelin Pilot Road 4/5/6, and Pirelli Angel GT are the main contenders right now.

[@kevindarkstar]

Headlight is rubbish tbh and a definite poor call by honda 😮 how a company as big and with such a history can fail to fit a good headlight I don't know

[@colinbarber9324]

Hi, I came off Italian stallion bikes, Ducati and Aprilia, great ride quality, stunning looks, power all over the place……and crap electrics. Brand new bikes that cost a fortune and you were waiting for the next hiccup electronically. I watched Chris Moss do a revue of this bike, he is correct, it’s vastly underrated. I purchased a 2022 model new, added bar risers, put the hyper pro front springs in (the suspension is poor) and kept adding bits and pieces. I went with the manual model, I’ve had a VFR 1200 DCT , so I’m used to the system, but wanted to keep it light. I’ve gone with the Pyramid plastics crash bars, (better than the Honda ones) Givi spots and rear rack. I do trips with camping gear to the Dales, Lakes and Wales. The salesman at the dealership said I you sure you want to go from a Tuono to an NC, I said I have got fed up with the temperamental Italian mistresses, I’m going back to the wife (Honda) I would change the rear suspension, but it is liveable, the expense versus the improvement?

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers. Yes I may well change the front fork springs, the rear shock is ok for now though. Plenty of people can't understand why I defected from Italy back to Japan. I just want a quiet life for a while - you can have too much of a good thing 😂

[@mikaellundsrensen6108]

That's funny, I'm coming from exactly the same place, and I will support all your statements, I got mine as a reliable workhorse standing next to my Moto Guzzi V85TT, now my Moto Guzzi is standing in the living room and the NC is my preferred choice standing in the garage. I don't know what it is with this bike? It's built to a budget, on paper it's supposed to be dull and practical, but when I ride it I just simply feel relaxed and joyful ??? but alright, sometimes it's just about the perfect match, and I found it to fit perfectly to where I am in life now (still love my Moto Gucci and keeping it so far) greetings from DK

[@MultiVogon]

In many ways it is greater than the sum of its parts. But then sometimes you hit a bump in the road and remember how cheap the front forks are 😁 Relaxing is a word that keeps coming up and that's definitely the case for me. Maybe I'll get tired of that and want a bit more 'character' again, but right now I'm enjoying riding around with my feet up, and reading the paper with a nice cup of tea 😅

[@michaelj63]

I love my V85TT, but as I live very remote, I work on my own bikes, so the lack of a dealer network hasn't been an issue for me. The Guzzi is an easy bike to work on.

[@mikaellundsrensen6108]

Yes, she is easy to work on, I also do my own service, my biggest concern is waiting time for spare parts if something goes wrong, haven't yet 👍(22.000km euro 4 model)​@@michaelj63

[@MrBeracah]

Great review and although may sound picky, I think they are all good and valid points. Sorry for the diversion, but can you please advise which Moto guzzi you preferred? Ie v7 or 85 tt? Many thanks

[@MultiVogon]

Hi, tricky as they were completely different bikes. I'd have to say that the V7 attracted lots of admiring glances and comments from people,. but the V85 was MUCH more comfortable for long distance rides. If I had the money and space, I'd have kept both - V7 for Sunday posing, and V85 for everything else ;-)

[@cusi2307]

You’ve done some practical mods I’ll have it off you when you get bored / buy the NT😁

[@MultiVogon]

😂

[@Skiamakhos]

Sounds like a good sensible bike. A bike that doesn't get in your way, but presumably if you're a good rider you can make it go places. I wouldn't mind seeing what you think of this one vs the TransAlp, if you get the opportunity to ride one.

[@MultiVogon]

You can definitely out-ride the suspension on a bumpy road if you're not careful, that's for sure. I'd love to have a go on a Transalp at some point. I always liked the original V-twin one. If I was going to do any off-roading though, I would definitely go for a manual bike over a DCT I think - based on my experience from years of crashing into trees and ditches on rallies here in Wales ;-)

[@hughwilson-gm9bw]

I have a 2022 nc and it gives a range countdown and a fuel gauge readout.

[@bsimpson4076]

Never mild dull bike mate.. you drone on and on... 😂😂 (just kidding - interesting review

[@MultiVogon]

I really do 🤣

[@bsimpson4076]

@@MultiVogon 🤣🤣😂😂

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Rather be riding on it, than working on it. Good choice. If it suits you, who's to say otherwise. You might invest in some fork cartridges and a shock, maybe a pipe and an ECU tune to coax a little personality or character out, but otherwise, I'm sure it'll run longer than you want it to.

[@MultiVogon]

Indeed. If I keep it I might well look into some kind of upgrade for the front suspension - we'll see how it goes. I am really really hoping it has some of the famed Honda reliability.

[@TonyNicastri]

I think he hit the nail on the head that it’s got a boring image because so many mention the lack of horsepower, when in reality if you get to ride one you would feel quite differently about it I believe the reviews killed sales enough that Honda stopped selling the NC here in Australia back in 2020

[@MultiVogon]

Interesting, I thought it was one of their best selling bikes - maybe just in Europe? That's probably why they list it as an adventure bike even though every 'professional' reviewer only seems to consider it as a commuter bike.

[@ianlogan9415]

Bought a 2024 ex demo machine (DCT). Comfortable, frugal with fuel, reliable but oh so bland! That and the fact that i didn't like it deciding to change gears in the middle of a corner. Traded it back in after 2 months for a Transalp (which i love).

[@MultiVogon]

Yes it is not ideal, especially in sport mode when there's a fair bit of engine braking. It sounds like the 2025 bike might have an IMU, so maybe they'll fix that - will be interesting to test ride one for sure. Cheers!

[@theodavies8754]

Great straight up review. It's not for me. Good luck with the winter, that's not for me either. Wouldn't buy something I'm not confident I can fix,26 year old Harley would be pretty boring to pay someone else to work on. Happy days from previously sunny Devon.

[@MultiVogon]

Yeah I've done my time through many winters when I didn't own a car. These days I'll pick heating and podcasts instead most of the time. It's nice to get out on a fine dry day though, when they happen (not so nice to spend ages cleaning the frikkin salt off when you get home tho!).

[@davidmatthews3093]

I found your comment about the Dunlop OE tyres odd. My CB500X came with Dunlop Trailmax tyres. The OE rear managed 12000 hard kilometres and I replaced it with the same. The second one only managed to last about 10000km but I think the second one suffered from doing a lot of heavily laden kilometres in very hot conditions.

[@MultiVogon]

There's definitely some luck in what tyres you get, for sure. But these ones are almost trashed after less than 2500 miles. I didn't measure the tread when they were new, but I bet it was much less than on a retail tyre... the Michelin's on the V85 were still ok at 7000+ miles, that was with more weight and speed too. Cheers.

[@233kosta]

Check your throttle slack. Adding a tiny bit (if you have the margin) might alleviate the accelerate-whilst-braking issue. I run the 650 close to its upper limit.

[@MultiVogon]

Cheers I'll have a look. It's not a major issue - just something that's happened a couple of times. I think part of it is getting used to an auto bike after riding manual for so many years. You learn quickly not to blip the engine when it is in gear, that's for sure :-D

[@233kosta]

@@MultiVogon Oh man! Blipping in tunnels is not something I can see myself giving up 🤣 Wait, what if you click it into neutral?

[@flexywing]

Its the great bike< ihad one for 18 months a great bike, but you right, the suspension could do with some work. The new 2025 model looks good I had metzelers on mine and they were really good.

[@jaccar2020]

Had one not dct, it cornered superply fuel consumption fantastic touring screen cut the wind out it was nighon a perfect bike but it was so good it lacked thrill it could get upto a good speed but it felt slower.

[@MultiVogon]

An interesting point, it does kind of feel slower the faster you go - maybe lack of vibration, intake and exhaust noise contributes to that? 🤔 Now, back in the day when I had an RD350, it felt a lot faster than it actually was 😂

[@reldwob22]

Motorcycling is first about riding; not what you ride. (Although that is also part of the fun…)

[@MultiVogon]

We're lucky that there's something to suit everyone these days 👍

[@233kosta]

The "never gets past 5th" in sport mode kind of makes sense. 6th is an economg gear on a lot of these bikes ('tis on my 650R as well). As such, 5th gets you your top speed, and in 6th the engine usually isn't making enough power to counter drag so you end up slowing down.

[@williambell12]

Yes, sounds feasible. I spend a lot of time in 5th, just rolling the throttle on and off. Then into 6th on long straights. Fuel consumption never seems to deviate. 350-400kms a tank

[@MultiVogon]

Indeed, I am sure it does it to keep the revs up a bit to enable faster acceleration and more engine braking. Can't say I've ever had an issue with the bike not being able to pull 6th though, it's a pretty torque-y engine.

[@233kosta]

@@MultiVogon Oh yes, she's very torquey, no doubt able to pull pretty well, but if you're going for top speed, as in the actual top speed, then you need the engine at its peak power to reach it. That's when it's doing all it can just to battle the enormous amount of drag there is. At that point, even though 6th gear will technically let the rear wheel spin faster, if it's anything like it is on my 650R, when it's under this much drag, that peak power is simply out of reach. That said, at regular road speeds this engine should pull well in most gears. That's why they have it shifting "early" when there's next to no load. This power curve stuff only becomes relevant when you're going for the driving ban 😉

[@233kosta]

@@williambell12 The gearbox management system on these DCTs in standard mode usually has two goals - maximum achievable fuel efficiency and protecting drivetrain components. At this point they're probably going for fractions of a %. Even though to you and me the difference between 5th and 6th is basically imperceptible in the conditions you describe, I'm sure it makes sense to the engineering team that decided on the algorithm. Lots of people also have concerns about it shifting early when just plodding along. As long as there's no real load on the engine, that's fine. It only becomes a problem when you're going 25mph in 6th and you give 'er.

[@Geshmaal]

Honestly I wish Honda used this 750cc engine for more bikes rather than the new one in the Hornet and Transalp 750s. I love a torque-first, long-stroke low-revving engine! Combine that with the great economy and simple, infrequent maintenance and we have a winning combination. That said, I currently ride an ADV350!

[@MultiVogon]

A lot of people love the ADV350 - I only saw one for the first time on the day I picked my bike up from the dealer - didn't even know they existed before then. Yeah I think this engine would be good for the sort of off-roading that 'adventure' bikes do (gravel tracks etc) though I don't think I'd want the DCT for that, I'd want more manual control I think for sure.

[@johnharris7353]

I like it. I'd skip the DCT though.

[@MultiVogon]

It is not for everyone. I'm still not 100% sure on my view of it. It definitely is great in some conditions, and a bit of a pain in others. Overall I like it, but I've only done 2500 or so miles so far.

[@grodt88]

you could wait for 2025 model, it got a little upgrade like duble brake discs and colour dash

[@peterasmussen2933]

really useful review, thank you. I think its 20 kilos too heavy and poor suspension make for a not good bike. Then the rubbish tires make me think honda are a company I don't want anything to do with. What other measures have they taken to reduce the cost that we can't see? Clutches are great!

[@MultiVogon]

Yeah I get your point. These days this is considered a 'budget' bike I guess, so they cut costs to keep the price down. I hope it is as reliable as the earlier models have been. I like clutches so much I have two on this bike 😁 But more seriously, I'd DEFINITELY want a manual clutch if I was ever planning to ride it off-road, or on gravel etc. The DCT is fine on the tarmac though. Cheers.

[@nikkihayes5411]

Nice vid....I have the "BIG OLD MAN" 1200 2016 version and would love a dashboard notice for the heated grips.....I keep forgetting to turn them on after fuelling. I tried the 700 and 750 dct and the 750 was much smoother for gear changes while the 700 was as clunky as my Ct1200 is...apparently the newer ones are much better...the radiator is ugly compared to the cb500x and the handbrake is still shit and I wish theyd used the nt700 shaftdrive 🤬🏍️💨💨💨💨👍P.S. I used to have a 700 Deauville...now thats dull😸

[@MultiVogon]

I remember the original Deavuille - we did indeed refer to it as the dull-ville ;-) Yea a shaft drive would be nice. If your hands are cold, just put them in your pockets 🤔 what could possibly go wrong!!

[@crispinleslie]

If these TFT screens with rider modes are going to define the future of motorcycles - I am destined to live in the bargain/retro world of analog clocks and mechanical switchgear .

[@MultiVogon]

Looks like the new bike will be moving to a TFT screen as well next year. They CAN be good (BMW RT with integrated nav display was great) but you can't beat a nice pair of dual analogue clocks, I agree!

[@delwynhughes623]

Dunlop trailmax are the reson I didnt replace with dunlop 2300 miles ? not good enough Allso had similar experience with new cb500x and trailmax

[@MultiVogon]

Shocking, isn't it? Looks like Tourance Next was also an option for this bike - and apparently they are the proper tyres not cheap versions. Sadly I got the short straw dunlops, oh well!

[@stuarthammond1009]

Witty and informative insights as always. Definitely a bike I'd now look at having viewed this. Being a fellow v85tt owner I followed your previous videos with interest like you I have moved on to something different. Dealerships simply lie to your face and treat you like s$%t . My supplying dealership Arnold's motorcycles don't deserve customers. I'm in royal Enfield land now cheap, fun and home servicing. After an Italian i'm trying a Indian, pretty obvious there must be a Chinese down the line!

[@MultiVogon]

Well people derided the early Japanese bikes didn't they - and the British bike industry paid the price (but sir, an oil puddle under the bike means it definitely had oil in it at some point!) Suddenly I feel hungry...

[@stevetaylor8698]

I went for a longish test ride on one of these, it seemed to tick most boxes for me. I agree, its not an adventure bike. But I found the bike was just too cramped for my long legs and it hurt my hips. I'm 6'2" and getting/have got old.

[@MultiVogon]

Yes I can see that. I know you can get footpeg lowering kits, that would probably make it more comfy. But how far do you want to go really. My most comfy bikes from the last 10 or so years have been the original MultiStrada, and the V85TT - that riding position is definitely one of the best for me.

[@stevetaylor8698]

@@MultiVogon Think I'll stick with my 14 year old BMW.

[@233kosta]

My first bike was a CB125F which came with the same type of display (though a different layout). I set it up for night riding and just left it. During the day it was lit up pretty well by incident daylight. I've come to appreciate gauge clusters who don't require additional lighting to function during the day. Y'know - like every single one used to in the past! Never expected such an anti-feature on supposedly modern, supposedly improved vehicles ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@MultiVogon]

Mind you, I well remember taking speedos apart to replace the burned out bulbs back in the day ! Although once your speedo-cable snapped it didn't matter so much 😂

[@233kosta]

@MultiVogon Ah... The bad ol' days... Come to think of it, I remember tearing apart half the dash on the ol' Toyota to do the same 🤣🤣🤣 Say what you will about LEDs, they've fixed _that_ particular struggle. I just wish they'd stopped there. The newer (2006) Toyota's speedo _has_ to be lit up day and night, else you don't see a thing 😒 Cars peaked in the '90s 🤣

[@233kosta]

@MultiVogon "I don't know what you're talking about, officer - I was doing 29! Come, see for yourself! Says so right here!"

[@kevindarkstar]

On the lcd dash on this one, personally I prefer my reverse lcd dash on my 2018 nc750s 😊

[@MultiVogon]

That's the narrower one, with some colour in it, I think isn't it? I think the best dash I've experienced is the R1250RT with integrated navigation etc - that was nice. I am enjoying having fewer buttons to fiddle with right now though :-D

[@BatterseaBill]

There is a video online called Knox with a motorcycle journalist called Mos and he upgraded the suspension front and rear at a cost of £3000 and he couldn't believe the difference in handling. Night and day was the conclusion he came to.

[@jimporter]

Nowhere near £3000, the Hyperpro gear he got free but it costs around £1000 to do front and rear and that is with their top range rear shock. They also have cheaper one. Even if you used range topping Ohlins it would only be a bit more than that.

[@MultiVogon]

There comes a point where you just spend a few thousand more on the bike though, perhaps? I have no plans to upgrade the suspension at the moment. Although having said that on a previous bike I did fit progressive springs which helped a lot - but that was 'back in the day' not sure if that sort of thing is still an option.

[@kevirle5451]

I wish we could get NC750 in Australia

[@williammoore1750]

Bought a Forza 300 in 2015, hardly a rocket ship but the rear Dunlop only lasted 2,200 miles. I've never felt happy on dunlops anyway.

[@MultiVogon]

Tyres are so subjective too - I feel much more confident on tyres I "know" are good. To be honest I think most modern tyres are pretty good these days. Haven't decided what to get yet - really depends what I can actually get hold of locally.

[@jkro30a]

It's only boring if you ride it that way. I hang with a sport-touring group with no problems in high speed twisties and sweepers. The bike is plenty fast enough and handles curves like a champ. But yeah, it also rides along with no drama on the highway, where 85 mph is a real sweet spot for my manual 2012. It's a great bike and greatly overlooked.

[@MultiVogon]

Yep, as long as the road is smooth... if it isn't, well it can get very exciting very quickly 😂

[@davecarrera]

Dull? No not really but my experience with my 2024 model was a very uncomfortable seat & not the best handling by a long shot so after 2000 miles upgrade, after a couple of test drives, to my 2024 Transalp which is comfortable and handles like a dream.

[@MultiVogon]

I'd definitely like to try a modern transalp for sure. Interesting, I thought most of the seat-issues were pre-2021. I've not had any noticeable problems with mine so far in that area at least. Cheers!

[@davecarrera]

@@MultiVogon see if you can get a test ride on the TA. You might end up trading in your NC for won like I did. Wishing you well and safe journeys

[@skyecooleyartwork]

Can't be as dull my CB500X. Seems "CB" translates to "No Punch". I've always secretly liked the design goals of the NC.

[@MultiVogon]

Many years ago I had a Kawasaki GPZ500S (EX500 in the USA) which had similar power but was quite a fun bike for it's size (probably a lot lighter though!). I've not tried the modern CB500X's I have heard others say they're slow. I think the NC punches above its weight, it doesn't feel slow under normal use. If you always want to be overtaking everything then it might start to feel a bit limited though.

[@SubTerraAlly]

It is a great commuter bike, but that's all it's great at. For everything else, it is just ok.

[@bullanguero82]

Does anyone know if I'd reach the floor fine on this bike with my 1.75 mts?

[@MultiVogon]

It depends, do your legs go all the way down to the ground, or is there a gap....? ;-) I'm around that height and have no problems at all with this bike. You'd have to sit on one to see really. People do lower them with different suspension linkages, and fitting a cut-down side stand so that could be an option too.

[@bullanguero82]

@@MultiVogon Haha!! Thanks, man!! I've been watching so many videos about this one, and I'm slowly falling in love.

[@andrerijkee9893]

I would like to have the bike for the dct and the engine but I dont like the looks. He is not ugly but even the new 2025 model there is something wrong with it for me.

[@MultiVogon]

I have to agree - I am not a huge fan of the looks either - it has somewhat odd proportions. Looks narrow and pointy when you're looking at it, but seems wide when you're riding it. And the fact you have to remove approx 75,000 pieces of plastic to do any work on it is a chore, too! Cheers.

[@garryburns2061]

Think you should of kept your v85 by the sounds of it😂

[@MultiVogon]

The jury is still out on that 😂

[@kevkfz5226]

Chopped in one of the most agricultural (Sorry characterfull) bikes for one of the dullest. Respect. Not sure its for me.

[@MultiVogon]

Ha ha the Guzzi definitely had the gearbox out of a Lamborghini (Trattori) I'm enjoying the NC so far, but it is definitely a big change. I may well decide to purchase another piece of Italian farming equipment one day ;-)