2012 Honda NC700X Preview

American Honda has finally relented and decided to import its most recent all-new model, first seen at last fall’s EICMA show in Milan. Unveiled today at the New York International Motorcycle Show, the NC700X is a multi-purpose, versatile machine with a big emphasis on utility, perfectly timed for today’s tight economic climate.

Most impressive is the NC700X’s price, starting at an incredibly low $6999! For perspective, consider the NC-X’s most obvious competitor: Kawasaki’s Versys. It retails for an extra $900.

Like the Versys, NC700X wears an adventurish costume that hints at off-road capability but doesn’t quite fulfill it. Both share a similar powerplant, a parallel-Twin engine.

In the case of the Honda, it’s an all-new mill displacing 670cc and slanted forward radically (62 degrees) to free up storage space under the NC’s faux gas tank.

The standard NC carries a conventional 6-speed manual transmission transmitting power via a chain final drive. However, Honda is offering a second-generation dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission as an optional upgrade. Like the DCT first seen on the ambitious 2010 VFR1200, the NC700 uses two hydraulically controlled clutches to automatically pull away from a stop and to seamlessly deliver gear shifts, but this one is lighter and more compact. A rider has a choice of three modes: D for regular use; S for sport riding; and MT for full manual gearshift control via bar-mounted toggles.

The NC’s powertrain is also the core for two other 2012 Hondas, the Integra scooter/motorcycle hybrid and the standard-styled NC700S, but neither of those will be making the trip from Japan to our shores. All share a 270-degree firing interval that mimics a V-Twin feel and use a biaxial counterbalancer to quell vibes inherent from a parallel-Twin. Four valves per cylinder are activated by a single camshaft, and fuel is delivered by EFI through just one 36mm downdraft throttle body.

The architecture of the parallel-Twin engine is key to the layout of the NC700X.

The engine’s long-stroke, undersquare (73 x 80mm bore/stroke) design and mild tuning emphasize efficiency rather than high performance. Honda claims a peak of 51 hp at a modest 6250 rpm rated at the crankshaft, which will likely translate into about 45 horses at its 160/60-17 rear tire. The Versys cranks out a relatively whopping 60 fillies. The NC’s torque rating of 45.7 ft-lb. at a low 4750 rpm is more impressive, promising a broad and linear powerband. Honda claims the NC700X gets a remarkable 63.5 mpg, which may translate into a range of up to 235 miles from its 3.7-gallon fuel cell.