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Honda's NC750X in SA

Honda has revived one of its most popular bikes with a model range update in the form of the 75cc bigger units, the NC750X and NC750X DCT.

The bikemaker says the new machine has more power and torque, two balance shafts, new exhaust muffler and taller gearing – plus a host of detail upgrades, and revised software for the optional DCT gearbox.

It also says the addition i"mproves one of the most cost-effective and all-round useful motorcycles available".

The NC700X was launched in 2012 as a brand new model, part of a three-bike platform that became one of the best-selling commute motorcycles in South Africa. Its purpose was to be a “Fun Crossover Commuter concept” with convenient details such as helmet storage space where the fuel tank would normally be.

The new model, says Honda, is designed to offer more of what every rider liked about the original, and nothing less.

The gearing is 6% taller, but acceleration and top speed are up; two balance shafts and new exhaust muffler ensure a smooth, characterful engine.

Other new goodies include a span-adjustable brake lever, two-channel anti-lock brakes (only available on with six-speed dual clutch transmission –DCT model), revised seat material and off-road pattern tyres. The DCT also received software updates.

ENGINE

Honda says 75cc has been added to the liquid-cooled, SOHC eight-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine thanks to a bore increased 4mm to 77mm. Stroke remains at 80mm, as does compression ratio of 10.7:1. Still made in Japan, power is boosted to 40.3kW at 6250rpm with 68Nm at 4750rpm.

The bikemaker says: “Our engineers have added an extra balance shaft to inject the engine with just the right amount of ‘good’ vibration. The effect of the twin balancers is to counteract vibration from higher rpm inertia, making the engine feel more refined, yet still with the distinct ‘throb’ delivered by its 270° firing order. “

Parts are kept to a minimum and the engine weighs 62.4kg and 69.2kg in DCT form. Fuel consumption is rated at about 3.5 litres/100km so extracts 400km range from the 14.1-litre underseat fuel tank.

Seat height is 830mm and the seat itself features a new cover for improved grip. The clear and easy-to-read instrument display features a digital speedometer, digital bar-type tachometer, clock, bar-type fuel meter and two trip meters. A gear position indicator and ‘instant’ and ‘average’ fuel consumption readings are new.

ELECTRONIC INTER-LOCK

Honda also says the NC750X features the Honda Ignition Security System (HISS), an effective anti-theft set-up. If the ID chip embedded in the motorcycle’s key and the ID in the engine control unit do not match, the engine will not start.

This means the electronic inter-lock system only allows the engine to fire up when one a key with the correct ID chip is used. Also, even if attempts are made to hot-wire the engine or substitute the ignition switch module because it’s the ECU that’s in control, the engine will not start.

The NC750X will be available in four colours: silver metallic, black, white and red.

As with all Honda bikes, a range of dedicated genuine accessories are available for customisation. Some options include a 35L top box, Pannier kit decoration panel, a top 35L/45L inner bag, DCT footshift gear lever, a higher windscreen, leg or foot deflector kits, accessory pipe, alarm and U-lock to name a few.

PRICES                   
NC750X - R74 990
NC750X DCT  - R84 990
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