Honda’s ultimate commuting motorcycle wears a tough, adventure look and features a torque-laden parallel twin engine, long travel suspension, internal storage compartment, LED lighting and LCD instruments with personalised colour options. Two Level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is fitted as standard. A 35kW version is available for A2 licence holders, and two new colours are available for 2020

1. Introduction

Since its introduction in 2012* the NC750X has enjoyed consistent popularity throughout Europe. 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 half 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 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 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
• New Graphite Black and Pearl Glare White colour schemes
• 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 4 colour options:

Pearl Glare White (NEW for 2020)

Candy Chromosphere Red

Graphite Black (NEW for 2020)

Glint Wave Blue Metallic

The range of genuine Honda Accessories include a specifically-designed 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 Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
• HSTC can also be turned OFF
• 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. In 2018, the rpm limit was 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 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.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is available on both manual and DCT NC750Xs. 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 sips fuel, with a measured consumption of 28.6km/l (WMTC mode) providing 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 tenth year of production and gaining popularity year on year. 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.

3.4 Chassis

• Rugged steel diamond frame
• Long travel 41mm Showa Dual Bending Valve front fork
• Pro-Link rear suspension with preload adjustable shock absorber
• 320mm front disc and two-piston caliper/240mm single-piston rear

The NC750X’s rugged steel diamond frame delivers the high levels of rigidity required for agile, responsive handling in a variety of conditions. It’s also ideal where space is at a premium, since it takes up very little volume but offers superb riding dynamics.

Rake is set at 27° with trail of 110mm, wheelbase of 1,535mm and front/rear weight distribution of 48/52. Kerb weight is 220kg (230kg DCT). Seat height is 830mm

The riding position is upright and neutral, with a higher viewpoint for enhanced hazard perception.

Another advantage of this adventure-style riding position is great low-speed control – combined with the low centre of gravity and generous steering lock, the result is exceptional low-speed handling and balance.

41mm telescopic forks feature 153.5mm travel and use Showa Dual Bending Valves, with ratios optimised for both compression and rebound damping. This allows the generation of damping force in precise proportion to piston speed – from the low speed range – improving ride quality and comfort. Increased compression damping provides more progressive firmer suspension response and helps reduce dive under heavy braking. Grey Alumite caps add a finishing touch.

The rear monoshock features a spring preload adjuster system and has 150mm travel. It operates through Pro-Link that offers an optimised balance of a soft initial stroke, for dealing with low-speed bumps, together with excellent control.

Up front the 320mm wavy disc and two-piston brake caliper deliver plenty of easy-to-modulate stopping power, complemented by the rear 240mm wavy disc and single-piston caliper. Lightweight two-channel ABS provides powerful and confident braking even on slippery or wet road surfaces.

Cast aluminium front and rear wheels – sizes 17 x 3.50-inch and 17 x 4.50-inch – wear 120/70 ZR17 and 160/60 ZR17 tyres. Forged aluminium L-shaped rim valves make checking and adjusting air pressure easier.

4. Technical Specifications

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.