Instead of reusing or modifying an existing motorcycle engine, Honda took the unusual step of basing the design of the NC series engine on the architecture of the engine powering its Fit subcompact vehicle. The final product is a high-revving, torquey engine that performs very well and uses very little gasoline. A roomy trunk, a comfortable seat at a low height, and a low center of mass contribute to the engine’s other desirable characteristics. After debuting in 2012 with three variants, the 670cc engine expanded to 745cc in 2014. (The adventure-touring crossover NC700X, the more commuter-focused NC700S, and the Integra maxi-scooter).
An upgraded windscreen, LED lights, an LCD gauge cluster, revised software for the DCT automatic gearbox, a brand-new exhaust system, and a Showa Dual Bending Valve fork were just some of the 2016 upgrades.
Additional significant upgrades were completed in the year 2021. Starting with the diamond-shaped tubular steel frame, Honda carefully redesigned (using various tube thicknesses) the chassis to decrease weight by 2.6 pounds compared to the previous iteration, as well as increase storage capacity by relocating the battery and revamping the air box. The bike’s curb weight was reduced by 13.2 pounds and the suspension travel was concentrated to give it a more commuter/tourist appeal. The 31.5-inch height of the seat is now 1.2 inches lower.
Additionally notable in 2021 was the engine. More power and a flatter torque curve over 5,000 rpm became possible with new technologies like throttle by wire and an enhanced exhaust system. The timing of the valves was adjusted (timing varies between the two cylinders). The engine redline has been increased to 7,000 rpm, and it’s now 2.6 pounds lighter.
For manual and DCT transmissions, lower ratios were designed for the first three gears to improve standing start and roll-on acceleration through those speeds. In comparison, higher ratios were designed for the fourth, fifth, and sixth gears to increase fuel efficiency. A slipper clutch was installed to lighten the lever load by 20% in 2021.
2022 Honda NC750X Adventure Bike – Features and Specs
Updates for 2022
There are no revisions for the 2022 Honda NC750X, and the only available color is Grand Prix Red.
Pricing and Variants
The six-speed manual transmission 2022 Honda NC750X retails for $8,699. Including its DCT automatic transmission, the 2022 NC750X has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $9,299.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The crankshaft of this liquid-cooled OHC parallel-twin engine is at a 270-degree angle, while the cylinders are canted forward at an inclination of 55 degrees. Because it was modeled after the engine used in the Fit and Jazz subcompact cars, it is more fuel-efficient and produces less noise at low revs. Therefore, not only does it provide sufficient torque, but it also consumes less fuel than would a standard motorcycle engine operating at incredible speeds. Honda states that the engine produces 57.8 hp at 6,750 rpm and 50.91 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm.
According to Cycle World’s Ride Review of the 2021 NC750X DCT, “with its quick-revving nature and a flat torque curve that starts barely off idle, whacking the throttle open from a stoplight is rewarded with speedy and shockingly strong acceleration that can easily hole shot any traffic.” The DCT automatic transmission can detect when you are speeding into turns instead of just driving, and it downshifts just before the bend is entered.
Handling
The NC750X is surprisingly agile and easily handles twisty roads despite its 60-inch wheelbase, nonadjustable suspension (except spring preload on the rear shock), and 472-pound wet weight (493-pound weight for the DCT version). Due to the low chassis pitch and the high quality of the factory Metzeler Tourance Next tires, there is a great deal of space before the foot peg tips touch the floor. Light and neutral in the turns, the chassis remains remarkably steady at any speed.
Brakes
Compared to the 320mm front disc and twin-piston slide-pin caliper with two-channel ABS, the 240mm rear disc brake’s stopping power is much better.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The NC750X managed 52.4 mpg when put through its paces for Bikes Catalog’s First Ride Review.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The NC750X’s ergonomics are standard for motorcycles, with an upright riding position that offers the rider plenty of leverage over the bike’s wide handlebar. Those above 5’8″ in height may find the current seat height inconvenient due to the proximity of the foot pegs. The 1.2-inch decrease in seat height in 2021 has been shown to have positive and negative effects.
Because practical aspects are just as crucial as a lean, athletic appearance, the NC750X’s front storage box is situated where the fuel tank would typically be. It even can hold 23 liters of your stuff, including groceries, books, and more, plus it includes a special compartment for your helmet. The top contains rails for mounting a tank bag and inside, there are four hooks for using rubber straps, which may help with luggage organization.
Electronics
The electronics of the NC750X were upgraded significantly in 2021. Because throttle-by-wire currently determines the personality and performance of the engine, Honda designed three riding modes. Modes are selected using the LCD screen and the monitors on the left side of the device. Honda’s Selectable Torque Management (HSTC), standard on both the manual and automatic NC750X, is designed to mitigate the harshness of TBW by allowing for more nuanced throttle modulation while maintaining rear-wheel torque control.
A two-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) is used on both the front and back wheels. To highlight Honda’s focus on affordability, the dashboard uses an LCD instead of the more common TFT display, and the interior is lit exclusively by LEDs.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The NC750X comes with Honda’s standard 1-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty, which may be transferred to the next owner. If you purchase the Honda Protection Plan, you’ll have five more years of protection.
Quality
Despite the NC750X’s economical design, Honda is unabashed about the quality of its products. Honda’s usual standards for fit and finish have been met: Excellent.
2022 Honda NC750X Adventure Bike – Technical Specifications
MSRP: | $8,699/$9,299 (DCT) |
Engine: | 745cc, OHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 8 valves |
Bore x Stroke: | 77.0 x 80.0mm |
Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed manual/6-speed automatic dual-clutch (DCT)/chain |
Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 36mm throttle body |
Clutch: | Wet, multiple discs; cable operation |
Engine Management/Ignition: | Ride-by-wire/TCI |
Frame: | Tubular steel chassis |
Front Suspension: | 41mm Showa SDBV fork, nonadjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
Rear Suspension: | Showa shock, spring preload adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
Front Brake: | 2-piston slide-pin caliper, 320mm disc w/ ABS |
Rear Brake: | 1-piston slide-pin caliper, 240mm disc w/ ABS |
Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum; 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 4.50 in. |
Tires, Front/Rear: | 120/70ZR-17 / 160/60ZR-17 |
Rake/Trail: | 27.0°/4.3 in. |
Wheelbase: | 60.1 in. |
Ground Clearance: | 5.6 in. |
Seat Height: | 31.6 in. |
Fuel Capacity: | 3.8 gal. |
Wet Weight: | 472 lb./493 lb. (DCT) |