Honda NC750X 2018

Contents:
1 Introduction
2 Model overview
3 Key features
4 Technical specifications
 
1. Introduction
 
Since its introduction in 2012* the #nc750x has enjoyed consistent popularity throughout Europe, making it a permanent fixture in the ranks of Europe’s top ten best selling motorcycles.
 
Reasons for its success are several: its ground-breaking, torque-laden twin-cylinder engine, which sips fuel while punching the bike forward in the low-to-mid rpm ranges, the relaxed, roomy riding position, wide handlebars and comfortable seat and riding position, the compliant, long-travel suspension and distinctive adventure styling all play their part.
 
The storage compartment (where the fuel tank would normally be) is capable of holding a full-face helmet and Honda’s unique DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) that over a third of customers choose are further features that set the #nc750x apart.
 
As a total package, the NC750X’s qualities combine to create a motorcycle which functions superbly. For all types of riding – commuting, touring and simply riding for pleasure – it is a motorcycle with compelling all-round appeal.
 
*As the NC700X.
 
2. Model Overview
 
The #nc750x has an adventure-oriented edge, with comfort for rider and pillion. A large windscreen gives great wind protection and there’s plenty of room in the storage compartment positioned where the fuel tank is normally situated, which also has a utility rail built onto its lid. The LED headlight and taillight add class and the instruments – with variable colour display – can be personalised and present a premium image to the rider.
 
The rear shock absorber features a spring preload adjustment system while Showa Dual Bending Valves (SDBV) front forks are fitted up front.
 
The NC750X’s 745cc twin cylinder engine puts out strong low-to-mid range torque, delivering strong acceleration from very low rpm. It returns 28.6km/l (WMTC mode) and now features 2 Level #honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which can also be turned off.
 
The NC750X’s DCT features a natural ‘feathered’ clutch feel around an on/off throttle. In addition to the most fuel efficient automatic D Mode, for sportier riding there are 3 levels of S mode.  
 
Also available for 2018 is a 35kW version allowing A2 licence holders to enjoy the #nc750x. This new version can easily be converted to a full power version at the appropriate time at a #honda dealer.
 
3. Key Features
 
3.1 Styling & Equipment
 

• Adventure styling provides comfort for rider and pillion
• 22L storage area will take a full-face helmet
• Negative LCD instrument display can be personalised
• LED headlight and taillight
• Wave key with #honda Ignition Security System (HISS)

 
A lot of the experience of riding a motorcycle comes down to feeling, and guiding the NC750X’s design is the phrase ‘Sensual Performance.’ From the front the machine has a bold, adventurous identity with an LED headlight and running lights forming a unique impression.
 
The tall screen guides airflow around the rider’s upper body and a central duct equalises pressure. Slits on the upper left and right side reduce wind noise. The side cowls and side covers create muscular lines; the svelte seat unit and clear-smoke LED taillight are underlined in a minimal manner by the exhaust muffler, further emphasising the mass-forward stance.
 
The storage area has a 22L volume and the lid exterior features rugged external rails – useful for mounting a tank bag. The lid’s interior has four hooks to allow rubber straps to assist in organising luggage and make best use of all of the space.
 
Attractive instruments use a negative LCD display. Information includes odometer, trip meter, gear position, fuel efficiency and consumption gauges, (optional) heated grip temperature plus 3-stage S mode for the DCT model.
 
The colour of the rev-counter bar display can also be changed by the rider; a total of 9 options are available. It is also possible to have colours change according to gear selected, rpm range or (for the DCT version) riding mode.
 
ECO and SHIFT mode are further options when riding with the display set to a single colour or (on the DCT machine) the mode-dependent setting. ECO mode turns the display to light blue if riding with good fuel efficiency, and green if riding even more economically. SHIFT mode sees the colour change to orange if engine rpm exceeds a level pre-set by the rider.
 
A ‘wave’ key features the #honda Ignition Security System (HISS). If the ID chip embedded in the key and the ID in the Engine Control Unit (ECU) do not match, the engine will not start.
 
The #nc750x is available in 5 colour options:
Matt Pearl Glare White
Candy Chromosphere Red
Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic
Glint Wave Blue Metallic
 
The range of genuine #honda Accessories include a specifically-designed new rear rack and knuckle guards to add integrated function and tough adventure style; 35L and 45L top boxes; 29L panniers; inner bags; centre stand; fog lights and fairing bars; 5-stage heated grips; U-lock and AC charging socket.
 
3.2 Engine
 

• 40.3kW peak power/68Nm torque
• 35kW A2 licence version available
• 2 Level H onda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) now standard
• HSTC can also be turned OFF
• Rpm cut raised by 900rpm to 7,500rpm
• 400km range possible from the 14.1L fuel tank

 
The design of the NC750X’s liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine ensures punchy performance in the low-to-mid range. Its relatively long-stroke architecture and specially shaped combustion chambers combine with the high-inertial mass crankshaft to produce large amounts of effortless torque from very low rpm. Its forward-leaning position brings the centre of gravity down for optimum stability. Peak power is 40.3kW @ 6,250rpm with maximum torque of 68Nm @ 4,750rpm. For 2018, the rpm limit has been raised to 7,500rpm to allow natural use of the engine performance into a higher rpm range.
 
For A2 licence holders a 35kW version is now available, which can be easily converted to the full power version by a #honda dealer at the appropriate time. Equally, it will be possible to restrict the full power version to 35kW by a #honda dealer replacing the standard throttle body and remapping the ECU. In most riding situations the restriction of peak power is not noticeable and the 0-100m acceleration time is identical to the full power version.
 
Another addition to the #nc750x for 2018 (both manual and DCT option) is #honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). It features 2 levels; Level 1 allows some rear wheel spin – on gravel or dirt for instance – while Level 2 provides confidence-inspiring traction on slippery roads. Level 2 is the default from ‘ignition on’, and a push of the button on the left handlebar changes the setting to Level 1. Pushing and holding the button turns HSTC off.
 
Twin balancers counteract vibration from higher rpm inertia, refining the engine yet still allowing the distinct ‘throb’ delivered by its 270° firing order. Bore and stroke is set at 80 x 77mm. By keeping the number of parts to a minimum, the engine is kept light, efficient and reliable and where possible components are made to do more than one job; the camshaft drives the water pump, while one of the balancer shafts drives the oil pump.
 
A lightweight pentagon-shaped muffler uses two chambers joined by a hole-punched link pipe, which works with a final resonator chamber to create a deeply distinctive sound and exhaust pulse. The built-in catalyser has a two-layer structure for cleaner emissions.
 
The NC750X’s engine is EURO4 compliant with CO2 emissions of 81g/km; fuel consumption of 28.6km/l (WMTC mode) provides a 400km plus range from the 14.1-litre underseat fuel tank.
 
3.3 Dual Clutch Transmission
 

• Adaptive Clutch Capability Control  gives natural feel
• 3 levels of sporty S mode

 
Honda’s DCT technology is now in its eighth year of production and gaining popularity year on year on all of the machines that feature it as an option. DCT uses two clutches: one for start-up and 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th gears: the other for 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th, with the mainshaft for each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging. Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit.
 
The DCT system features two automatic plus the MT mode for manual gear changes. The standard automatic D mode is for general or highway riding and maximum fuel economy. S mode – which shifts up and down at higher rpm than D mode for a sportier ride – gives three levels of sports performance.
 
Some riders prefer to ride higher gears, some lower and the three modes make it possible to tailor gearbox response to riding style. The selected level is stored, and acts as the default S Mode for subsequent rides. It is also displayed on the dash.
 
The DCT used by the #nc750x features “Adaptive Clutch Capability Control” that manages the amount of clutch torque transmitted. This adds a natural ‘feathered’ clutch feel when opening or shutting off the throttle for a smoother ride. Further refinements include fast operation of the N-D switch on turning on the ignition and a control system in AT mode for gauging the angle of ascent or descent and adapting shift pattern accordingly.