It's just my size!! (Honda NT700)

[R6Chick]

Anyone have experience with one of these?  http://powersports.honda.com/2010/nt700v.aspx

I think I want one.

[still kickin]

Be sure you throw a leg over one. The seat height is good for riders with a 32" inseam and better. The salesman said" Honda really made a mistake making the seat height so tall" I have always wanted one. I saw one in France on 2002. Very practical. But I am 5'8" and to damn old to use one foot for stops. Later

[Cablebandit]

Be sure to ride before you buy.  I test rode one and hated it.  The engine makes no power at all.  Even the dealer I was talking too said they really screwed up by putting such a weak engine in that bike.

[spd2918]

Be sure to ride before you buy.  I test rode one and hated it.  The engine makes no power at all.  Even the dealer I was talking too said they really screwed up by putting such a weak engine in that bike.

   None?  Really?

I have not ridden one yet but I totally support a light, upright touring style bike.  If you think you need 120 HP to enjoy your ride I feel sorry for you.  Small bikes are very rewarding.


The NT appears to be a modern Pacific Coast.  They had a V-twin, too, and where a lot of fun to throw around.  I would buy a new PC if they could be had with shaft drive and ABS.  The NT may well replace my ST when it's time.

[Cablebandit]

Um...I ride a Vstrom 650.  I think on a good day it might make 66 horsepower at the crank.  The NT feels like it makes a quarter of that at best.

[MK96xj]

I like the NT

I sat on one and could touch just fine with a 29-30" inseam. I would certainly try to get a test ride regardless.

Only the European market has the larger side case cover at this time. If I had one I would go out of my way to get them.

[McRider]

I seriously thought about replacing my Kawi 650R with one of those.  As a smaller, lighter rider not addicted to horsepower, it had a lot of appeal.  Ultimately, though, the high price, and high weight put me off.  So I added Givi hard luggage to my Ninja and a custom seat and still came out a few thousand dollars better.  

[falconati]

Great!  You can be the first person on your block to have one!  

[custodian]

This is one of the three bikes that I am reading about for purchase next season (in addition to the Vstrom 650 & the F800ST) . The auto loan on our Colorado is paid off this time next year... so I am doing research now... will visit dealerships over the winter... & make a final decision next spring.

The NT700V looks the closest to a "traditional" touring bike... the Vstrom & BMW are more sport oriented IMO.

All look like good, mid-displacement, "lightweight" rides... exactly what I am looking for coming off 3 seasons on my Buell. The Honda & BMW are a little pricey... again IMO.

[Cablebandit]

Money no object...the Beemer.  That being said The V-strom is the best bang for the buck out there (i'm biased).  If you ride two up a lot definitely take the pillion with you.  It has hauled my ass and a weeks worth of camping gear half way across the country at a very spirited pace.

[JimNtexas]

I was in the market for a new bike last winter, and was reall excited about seeing one at the Dallas IMS.  

I was pretty disappointed, it's taller than an ST1300 ( I rented an ST that same weekend) , about the same as an FJR, and the NT is pretty heavy.  I don't want or need a whole lot of power, but I wanted to step up at least a bit from my Ninja 250.

When I found a left over 2008 FJR for less than an NT700 with abs it was a no brainer to get the FJR.  

Put that NT on a diet, lower it an inch or more, and I'm there.

[still kickin]

R6 not trying to steal your thread. Custodian I just bought a used F800St with 1200 miles on it . A 08 for $7900. It has the factory lowered suspension. It is the best bike I have ever owned. Fits me and runs like the devil. R6 you may think about this model for the future. Good luck

[vguy]

Honda spent so many years trying to copy Ducati, they missed the boat by not making their own "SV650." They had one with their 650 Hawk that they let go because of poor sales. Then Suzuki came out with the SV650 in '99 and have sold a gazillion of them. Since old man Honda passed away the motorcycle division seems to be run by a bunch of executive idiots. IMO.

This new NT looks like something they slapped together just to get something "different" out there.

My local Honda dealer (been here since 1959) will be shutting down within the year because of the economy and the fact that Honda doesn't have anything to sell besides Wings and CBRs. Their quads, dirt bikes, and watercraft can't compete with the others according to my Store owner. Not to mention the big VFR (in name only) disappointment.

[Gaw]

I think this motorbike is great for commuting. I like that saddlebags have a pass-through area for wider things, It's very useful

By the way, I didn't see in the US Honda Web the recent Honda naked model, CB1000R, is it no selling in the US? I'm very surprised because I think it's a really spectacular motorbike

[xdavemanx]

Like most of you, I came away even more unimpressed with the bike in person than I did in print.

I don't like the way it looks.  It seems superficial to say that, but something about the integrated hard bags looks tacked on, and the exhaust pipe is really out of place.  If there ever was a bike that was in need of a chin fairing, this is it.  It looks incomplete.

Also, the dealers place it next to the Goldwing, which makes it look pitiful and poorly made in comparison.

[Blunder]

By the way, I didn't see in the US Honda Web the recent Honda naked model, CB1000R, is it not selling in the US? I'm very surprised because I think it's a really spectacular motorbike

No, Honda doesn't sell any interesting bikes in the US.

[Rabidsnipe]

Wow!  Tons of negative press here.  I have test ridden an NT and came away very impressed with the overall package you can get out the door.  This bike would appear to be a spec sheet loser but in the flesh I think it works very well together.  Although I agree the fit and finish isn't up to Goldwing standards, you also are saving $15000 with ABS (NT700VA = $10999, Goldwing ABS = $26599).  Because of all the features, there isn't a real clear-cut competitor to this bike; V-Strom 650 & F800ST seem to be the most obvious choices.  Both of those models can be found on the used market so you can obviously save some coin there.  But don't use the fact that it is a brand new model to criticize the bike; there will be used ones eventually.  And shop around for good prices.  It wouldn't appear these are selling very well and I've gotten quotes as low as $9299 + tax for an ABS OTD.  I can't find any V-Strom ABS models near me.

But be sure to ride one for yourself before you believe what we say.

And seriously Jeff?  I guess Honda is the new Harley.

[R6Chick]

R6 not trying to steal your thread. Custodian I just bought a used F800St with 1200 miles on it . A 08 for $7900. It has the factory lowered suspension. It is the best bike I have ever owned. Fits me and runs like the devil. R6 you may think about this model for the future. Good luck

Not considered thread jacking by me! these are the kind of opinions I am looking for.

What is your inseam and arm length? My inseam is 30 inches and my reach is 25 inches.

Do you find the F800ST to be good for daily commute as well as distance riding? I only put 2000 miles a year on the cage while my bike gets between 20k and 30k a year. My current daily rider is an 08 GSXR750 and the old R6 has 125k miles on it. I guess I am getting older because I know I want hard luggage on my next bike.

I borrowed an FJR for a trip to Oregon once and love it as long as I am on the move. But if I am not on the move it is just a big pain in the ass for me to man handle about. Borrowed another friends ST1300 and pretty much found the same issue. I certainly like the FJR more than the ST but not enough to buy either. The Concourse is just a giant elephant of a bike and I did not like riding that at all. I took a VFR on a trip and while it was a good machine with a full set of givi luggage, it did not make me smile. We have had a Triumph in the stable and that has made me not want the Sprint because parts, maintenance, and reliability as a daily machine were not up to snuff. I have not considered the BMW's too much. Usually when I spot one it is priced well over other bikes in the same class as well as being made for people over 6 feet tall. I have not ruled them out though.

[Rabidsnipe]

Your gripe about handling the FJR at a standstill might be an issue for you on the NT.  I noticed the bike felt heavy when moving around the dealership and parking lot.  Once underway the weight seems to disappear.

Also, something else to consider about the bikes you're looking at is the NT requires 8000 mile valve checks whereas the Strom is 15k (I think??).  I don't know what the F800 requires.  But if you're putting 20k-30k on a year it might matter to you how many times you're pulling plastic off to check the valves.  Although someone, like you, with multiple bikes might not care about such things.

PS - You're my hero...

... I only put 2000 miles a year on the cage while my bike gets between 20k and 30k a year. My current daily rider is an 08 GSXR750 and the old R6 has 125k miles on it. ...

[McRider]

I rented an F800ST last February and rode it about 600 miles.  In the end I didn't think it was that much better than my Ninja 650.  Fit and finish was definitely better but power was about the same and it was a little heavier and harder to manage in a parking lot.  I have put some more forward-lean handlebars on my 650 and it has almost identical ergonomics as the ST, but a little lower seat.  The best thing about the ST was the suspension.......definitely a cut above the stock Kawi, but with Race Tech Gold valves in the forks, I'm getting there.  The ST had heated grips, ABS, and hard bags which made it about a $13,000 motorcycle.  I put heated grips on my 650 for $40 and Givi bags for about $900 and still have less than $8K in it.  I don't know why people don't take the Ninja 650 seriously.....maybe its the stupid name or the way it is promoted as a beginner bike, but I have 54,000 miles on mine and it has been completely trouble free.  It's a perfect sport tourer for my 5' 5" 145 lb 69 year old body.  

Another bike to consider if you like four cylinders is the Yamaha FZ 6.  It is in the same class as the Ninja 650 and the SV650 in that it has a low seat height, torquey engine and more upright ergos......perfect to make a sport touring bike for a smaller rider.  

[still kickin]

R6 our size is the same. I think the 800ST is the best all-around model I have owned. To give you an idea I bought and sold 7 bikes in the last 2 years. I have noticed that about every 2 months a used ST(lowered suspension) will hit the market. By watching the BMW websites, you will be able to locate one if you decide.

I really relate to your opinion on the heavier sporttouring models like the FJR. Finding a good bike with hard luggage under 500 pounds is a challenge. Good luck.

[R6Chick]

I really relate to your opinion on the heavier sport touring models like the FJR. Finding a good bike with hard luggage under 500 pounds is a challenge. Good luck.

If they could just balance them a tad better and set the center of gravity lower the heavier bikes would not be so horrible. The biggest thing I noticed on the bikes I have ridden when I wasn't moving was how really top heavy they are.

[volleykinginnc]

One thing is certain...you won't be picking up any chicks on it.

[R6Chick]

One thing is certain...you won't be picking up any chicks on it.

My husband will be happy to hear that.

[sammyseaman]

R6 our size is the same. I think the 800ST is the best all-around model I have owned. To give you an idea I bought and sold 7 bikes in the last 2 years. I have noticed that about every 2 months a used ST(lowered suspension) will hit the market. By watching the BMW websites, you will be able to locate one if you decide.

I really relate to your opinion on the heavier sporttouring models like the FJR. Finding a good bike with hard luggage under 500 pounds is a challenge. Good luck.

The key is to find a bike you really like and put aftermarket bags on it. They usually aren't as nice looking as a bike with integrated luggage but what the hell. You don't need a big bike to tour.

[coho]

One thing is certain...you won't be picking up any chicks on it.

My husband will be happy to hear that.

At least he'll say he is...  




 

[R6Chick]

At least he'll say he is...  

 

Since I am the one riding it I think he would be... wait...  

[R6Chick]

The key is to find a bike you really like and put aftermarket bags on it. They usually aren't as nice looking as a bike with integrated luggage but what the hell. You don't need a big bike to tour.

I don't need it to be pretty as much as I need it to be functional. I keep looking at my GSXR and figuring out how to mount some Givi bags on it. They don't make the mounting hardware for sport bikes so I would have to engineer and fabricate that on my own. I need to find a friend who welds and has a machine shop and is better at design than I am.  Any volunteers?

[Phodius]

Anyone have experience with one of these?  http://powersports.honda.com/2010/nt700v.aspx

I think I want one.

You might also want to take a look at the V-Strom DL650.

[volleykinginnc]

At least he'll say he is...  




 

haha....errrrr....naughty thoughts abrewing!

[Giaka]

I don't need it to be pretty as much as I need it to be functional. I keep looking at my GSXR and figuring out how to mount some Givi bags on it.

I put hard bags on my CBR, wish I would have just tossed one of these on instead.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productview/919/181/

[Jason F.]

love it when people gripe about tall seat height. Anything short of a dirt bike with a supermoto wheel setup is too short for me and a fair number of my riding friends. Most of us are constantly lamenting the ridiculously low seat heights found on so many current models. I am sick of being cramped up on bikes with too little room between the seat and pegs. I just do not get it since it is much easier to offer a lower seat contour, a lower seat mounting position, or a suspension lowering dog bone kit than it is to somehow raise the same bike for average or slightly above height male. I am not some yetti height human either at just barely 6' 2". All you short guys quit your bitching and leave one for the rest of us.

[R6Chick]

love it when people gripe about tall seat height. Anything short of a dirt bike with a supermoto wheel setup is too short for me and a fair number of my riding friends. Most of us are constantly lamenting the ridiculously low seat heights found on so many current models. I am sick of being cramped up on bikes with too little room between the seat and pegs. I just do not get it since it is much easier to offer a lower seat contour, a lower seat mounting position, or a suspension lowering dog bone kit than it is to somehow raise the same bike for average or slightly above height male. I am not some yetti height human either at just barely 6' 2". All you short guys quit your bitching and leave one for the rest of us.

Dude, who pissed in your wheaties? My husband is well over six foot tall and one of our friends is taller than he is. They have a much easier time finding a good ergonomic fit than the smaller people. Tall seat height and long reach is an issue for me and short seat height with short reach is an issue for them. Just because us short folk we complain about ergonomic issues for us does not take away your jolly green giant issues. You are welcome to piss and moan with the rest of us.

 

[Jeff]

I don't need it to be pretty as much as I need it to be functional. I keep looking at my GSXR and figuring out how to mount some Givi bags on it. They don't make the mounting hardware for sport bikes so I would have to engineer and fabricate that on my own. I need to find a friend who welds and has a machine shop and is better at design than I am.  Any volunteers?

Paging JustCallMeChris

[Giaka]

 I am not some yetti height human either at just barely 6' 2". All you short guys quit your bitching and leave one for the rest of us.

Because you are as tall as you are you have no limitations other than comfort so its you that needs to stop bitching. Trying being a bike enthusiast and only being 4'11".

[Jason F.]

Because you are as tall as you are you have no limitations other than comfort so its you that needs to stop bitching. Trying being a bike enthusiast and only being 4'11".

You miss my point. I can think of numerous current offerings that offer very low seat heights. More and more manufacturers are offering multi position saddle mounting points, lower saddle options, and lowering kit options as extremely easy and cheap/free changes to fit shorter riders and women with traditionally shorter inseams. BMW in particular is even doing it on many of their traditionally taller Adventure style bikes. What the manufacturers are not getting done is often addressed in the aftermarket for reasonable costs.

There are little to no options to increase leg room on most bikes. Commonly available rear set components raise and move rearward the foot control locations. If you want to drop pegs for more leg room you are looking at custom built or modified components. Like wise many common touring seat companies such as Corbin frequently loose set thickness/height when they make a saddle for a bike. The Corbin on my Bandit lost nearly an inch and a half of seat height so I went back to the stock seat. A raised seat would be a custom order in almost all cases and adds significantly to the cost.

Bars are easy to change and adjust but seat height and frame dimensions are not easy to stretch for longer legs. I applaud Honda for making the bike a bit taller and proportioned to fit average to slightly taller folks. I work with 20 people, 18 of them male 16 of which are over 5' 10". 12 are over 6' and 4 are over 6'2". I do not have a single riding partner that is under 5' 10" save for one female rider. Heck my wife is 5' 9" and finds most current bikes too short in seat height and too cramped in leg room to do any serious long distance days.

While some stats may show the average male height to be 5'9" or whatever it is currently listed as but that is not the experience I have. Maybe we grow them taller in my area but I have meet very very few short people. Try being an average height and a small displacement bike enthusiast. I just do not feel like folding myself in half to fit on bikes that appeal to me in terms of price/features/fuel mileage/ect.

[falconati]

Maybe you should be shorter then, hmm?  Ever think about becoming shorter?

[R6Chick]

Maybe you should be shorter then, hmm?  Ever think about becoming shorter?

I totally pictured Stewie from Family Guy saying this.  

[Robert_C]

I went and looked at one today. I hadn't intended to; but, I was looking at a V-Strom 650 and decided to stop and look at the Honda dealers offerings. The, "local," dealers are over a hundred miles away.

At 5'6" one of my concerns was the hight of the Strom. The salesman was quick to say that they could lower it before delivery. They didn't have an ABS one; however, for just looking it was not that important. If I got to the point of placing an order I am sure they can get an ABS model in.

I looked at the NT700v second and I was impressed by the sense of quality as compared to the Strom; of course, for $3000 I expect some difference. It seemed a bit lower than the Strom. I am basically looking at commuting (thus the ABS) and solo-travel (visiting my kids and the like). Living in Northern California (Yreka) I also have the opportunity to hit several twisty roads on a regular basis.

The only thing that keeps me thinking Strom is that I like to hit dirt roads. I do not do any serious off-roading (I have a Honda trail 90 for that), just forest service and logging roads. I have about six months to decide (one semester left for my MBA).

[cyclopathic]

I rented an F800ST last February and rode it about 600 miles.  In the end I didn't think it was that much better than my Ninja 650.  Fit and finish was definitely better but power was about the same and it was a little heavier and harder to manage in a parking lot.  I have put some more forward-lean handlebars on my 650 and it has almost identical ergonomics as the ST, but a little lower seat.  The best thing about the ST was the suspension.......definitely a cut above the stock Kawi, but with Race Tech Gold valves in the forks, I'm getting there.  The ST had heated grips, ABS, and hard bags which made it about a $13,000 motorcycle.  I put heated grips on my 650 for $40 and Givi bags for about $900 and still have less than $8K in it.  I don't know why people don't take the Ninja 650 seriously.....maybe its the stupid name or the way it is promoted as a beginner bike, but I have 54,000 miles on mine and it has been completely trouble free.  It's a perfect sport tourer for my 5' 5" 145 lb 69 year old body.

I just rode my '06 (the same silver as you have) C-2-C.. 17 states, 9.5K in 22days, 2up with 85lbs load.. IMHO while there were no issues in HP dept going over high passes  there are a few areas in which 650r is lacking to be a good tourer. One is the limited range; while MPG stayed over 50, there are parts of country where you don't have gas station for 100mi+. Second it doesn't handle too well if you put a pillion and load Givis. 650r short wheelbase puts too much weight behind rear axle, lifts front and creates really unbalanced feel. F800ST may not feel as quick in parking lot but those 2 extra inches they moved rear wheel back makes huge difference when you load bike.

[R6Chick]

I went and looked at the BMW F800ST last week and really liked it. It is a good size and ergonomically fits me well. It feels like it would be equally good for the daily commute, errands, a bit of twisty riding, and the long trips. I have sport bikes in the garage so a really powerful motor/fast bike is not what I am looking for. I got a whole stable of powerful bikes. The F800 or NT would be an addition to the stable.  

I have not had the chance to swing by a dealer that has the NT700 on the floor to look at yet but am looking forward to checking one out still.

[custodian]

After checking out the BMW... do you feel that it would be worth the extra $ over the Honda after the addition of the side cases?

[R6Chick]

After checking out the BMW... do you feel that it would be worth the extra $ over the Honda after the addition of the side cases?

That is something I an still weighing in my mind. The F800ST realistically is in the $13,000 range. They are gonna nail you for another $900 for the side case and $500 for the trunk. So roughly $15,000 for the BMW. The NT700 will likely be only $2000 or $3000 less.

Honda's and BMW's are both pretty much bullet proof. Maintenance intervals are comparable. BMW parts may sometimes take a while to get but I think parts for the NT700 will be about the same because they are not a high volume sales bike for Honda in the USA.

So I am not sure if the BMW is worth the extra bucks yet or not.

[cyclopathic]

After checking out the BMW... do you feel that it would be worth the extra $ over the Honda after the addition of the side cases?

it is up to you.. for me would be hard to justify buying F800 (or NT700 for that matter) over Versys.. add all furkles (cases, touring windshield, heated grips, etc) and you are still 1/2 the F800 price and about 3K less then honda.

[R6Chick]

it is up to you.. for me would be hard to justify buying F800 (or NT700 for that matter) over Versys.. add all furkles (cases, touring windshield, heated grips, etc) and you are still 1/2 the F800 price and about 3K less then honda.

The Versys is not the style of bike I am looking for and the ergo's simply do not fit. To tall and the reach is uncomfortable. Not only am I short legged but I am short armed. I am no mood to work my ass off to make a bike fit.  I have ridden some friends and I a did not enjoy it. Just getting on the bike and  off the kick stand is effort. With luggage on an loaded up it would be a pain in the ass to man handle that thing around when I was not moving at speed. It may not be as heavy as the FJR or ST but it will still be about as much man handling for me.

[custodian]

So I am not sure if the BMW is worth the extra bucks yet or not.

Despite the perceived quality of the BMW... I am leaning toward the Honda also.

For me... the distance to a BMW dealer vs. the proliferation of Honda dealerships closeby is going to be a factor also.

I am jonesing to trade in the Buell... newcycleitis has infected my soul... despite the Buell running better & better as the miles accumulate.

I have 10 more payments on the loan for our Colorado... I figure that I will not visit dealerships to kick tires until mid-winter and see what units are left over in the spring for my purchase.

[atadaskew]

So I am not sure if the BMW is worth the extra bucks yet or not.

Don't forget the BMW gives you better suspension and 30 more hp.  There's a reason it costs more.

[still kickin]

R6- I just talked with the owner of RKA. He said he is finishing a set of soft bags made for sportbikes. You might send them a email. Secondly is a used like new 800ST out of the picture? It just kills me to pay sticker. Later

[R6Chick]

R6- I just talked with the owner of RKA. He said he is finishing a set of soft bags made for sportbikes. You might send them a email. Secondly is a used like new 800ST out of the picture? It just kills me to pay sticker. Later

I used to race with Richard in the AFM 250p class long ago. I have a set of his luggage for my R6 and use them currently on my GSXR. I am sick of soft luggage that is tedious to put on/take off, takes extra effort to make water proof, and cannot be locked. This is one of the main reasons I am looking for hard luggage. I love my RKA bags but I am tired of the extra effort to use them. I am getting old and lazy.

Bank will not finance used bikes plus I have had just about enough off buying other people's headaches. I out a lot of miles on my bikes and buying used means I will be getting a new bike a couple years before I intended. Besides, I have never paid sticker for a bike yet!

[still kickin]

You go Girl. It is definitely a buyers market right now. Good luck.

[R6Chick]

I got the chance to look at the NT700 today. After getting to sit on both the BMW F800ST and the Honda NT700 I would have to say your bang for the buck buy is with the Honda. Maintenance intervals and effort for each is comparable but parts availability appears better with the Honda. Ergonomically both machines fit very well and I can easily move both onto the center stand on my own. On the ground handling is also comparable. The BMW has a couple of extra features that or too small to make a difference and certainly not worth the significantly higher price tag.

 

[R6Chick]

MSRP

Honda NT700 Base price incl ABS & side luggage & center stand as standard $10,999
Loaded $11,899

2010 NT700V ABS2010 NT700V
Accessories Selected:
Heated Grips   08T50-MEW-100   $189.95
Heated Grips Attachment   08T49-MEW-100   $109.95
Rear Trunk (Silver)   08L55-EWL-170G   $392.95
Rear Trunk Base   08L42-EWL-800   $162.95
Rear Trunk Bracket   08Z51-MEW-100   $43.95

We can assume approx same cost as BMW for lowering $250 and $495 in destination handling fee's.

Total base cost before tax, licensing, haggling, etc

$12,644  (120 bucks less than the F800 standard package)

==============================================

BMW F800ST

Base MSRP with no luggage, no center stand, no ABS, no heated grips: $10,905

Standard Package: $12,525
* Heated Grips
* ABS
* On Board Computer
* Center Stand

Options
* Low Suspension including Low Seat (29.9 inches): $250
* Heated Grips: $250
* ABS: $900
* Center Stand: $175
*Actual price determined by dealer. Price excludes taxes, license, options and $495 in destination/handling charges. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice.

*** I could not find pricing on the online BMW site for saddlebags and trunk. When I was at the dealer I was quoted $600 just for the trunk and IIRC $900 for the saddlebags****


Total base cost before tax, licensing, haggling, etc

$16,095

===========================================

So list price for the bikes works out to a $3451 difference.

Is a BMW worth the extra money? I am still not sure. Of course there is more to a bike than its purchase price but it is a good place to start when making comparisons.

[atadaskew]

Can you take them for a test ride?

[custodian]

Looks like you are coming up with the same conclusions about these 2 mid-size tourers that I am finding... a little more money for the prestige of the BMW roundel.

Remember... the dealership you purchase at or the one you use for warranty/service/parts can make or break the relationship.

Check out this dealer's accessory pages...

http://www.ascycles.com/detail.aspx?ID=44628

[R6Chick]

Can you take them for a test ride?

I can take an F800GS for a test ride. It is the same engine but different ergo's and everything else. The BMW places around here do not have an ST available for test ride.

The Honda I am unable to test ride as there are no Honda dealers here that offer test rides.

**When I say around 'here' I mean anything within 60 miles.**

[atadaskew]

That's too bad because that 30hp difference and quality of suspension may change the way you feel after a ride.

Hey, offering up other peep's bikes  ,  aren't you friends with Bluepoof?  She has a BMW 800... that bike would feel closer to the St than the 800gs.

Anyway, I agree with you that the $16K for the 800St is too much.  If it was me I'd find a nice used one, but I see the attraction of a warranty.

[R6Chick]

That's too bad because that 30hp difference and quality of suspension may change the way you feel after a ride.

Hey, offering up other peep's bikes  ,  aren't you friends with Bluepoof?  She has a BMW 800... that bike would feel closer to the St than the 800gs.

Anyway, I agree with you that the $16K for the 800St is too much.  If it was me I'd find a nice used one, but I see the attraction of a warranty.

The 30HP difference and suspension differences do weigh on my mind. It is one of the things that is keeping me waffling between the two. Used is not off the list of possibilities but it is lower on the list.

I do not know Bluepoof personally but I know people who do. I figure I will meet her eventually. The Bay Area bike scene is large but also very small. I doubt there is more than two or three degree's of separation between anyone around here who rides.

[sammyseaman]

Anyway, I agree with you that the $16K for the 800St is too much.  If it was me I'd find a nice used one, but I see the attraction of a warranty.

  and $12,000+ is crazy for that 700. Man, there has to be more reasonable options out there  

[atadaskew]

  and $12,000+ is crazy for that 700. Man, there has to be more reasonable options out there  

No kidding.  As a comparison, you could get a new Harley Sportster 1200 with factory hard luggage for less than that.  1200cc near maintenance free motor (just oil/plug changes), belt drive, way more torque.  Doesn't the Honda require valve adjusts every 8K miles?

I'm not saying to get the Harley because that's a completely different type of ride (cruisers like the Kawi 900s are about $8K with similar features), but just showing how crazy expensive that 700cc Honda is. It's not like it has leading edge techno anywhere on it.  And yeah, that BMW, like I mentioned before, is nutty $ for new too.

Another tangent... how's about the Yam Tmax super scooter?  More fun to ride than the Honda 700.  Faster, handles better, better suspension, better brakes, lots of inboard storage (plus available top case), much much cheaper... ($8K)
Or the Piaggio MP3 500..

[sammyseaman]

No kidding.  As a comparison, you could get a new Harley Sportster 1200 with factory hard luggage for less than that.  1200cc near maintenance free motor (just oil/plug changes), belt drive, way more torque.  Doesn't the Honda require valve adjusts every 8K miles?

I'm not saying to get the Harley because that's a completely different type of ride (cruisers like the Kawi 900s are about $8K with similar features), but just showing how crazy expensive that 700cc Honda is. It's not like it has leading edge techno anywhere on it.  And yeah, that BMW, like I mentioned before, is nutty $ for new too.

Another tangent... how's about the Yam Tmax super scooter?  More fun to ride than the Honda 700.  Faster, handles better, better suspension, better brakes, lots of inboard storage (plus available top case), much much cheaper... ($8K)
Or the Piaggio MP3 500..

With options like that I have no idea how Honda plans on selling very many Dullvilles. They must know that "Honda Guys" (and gals) will buy anything they put out. And at any price  

[gritsngravy]

With options like that I have no idea how Harley plans on selling very many antiques. They must know that "Harley Guys" (and gals) will buy anything they put out. And at any price  

Correct!

[sammyseaman]

Correct!

Did I hit a nerve? Honda and Harley guys...... and BMW guys. Sheesh, they're as bad a Chevy guys.

[R6Chick]

  and $12,000+ is crazy for that 700. Man, there has to be more reasonable options out there  

There is more to each bike than just the power pack. The luggage and other accessories must also be considered.

[xdavemanx]

When you can still get holdover VFRs for less than 8k, and add a set of Givi bags for less than 1k, the NT700 is a ridiculous proposition at 12k IMHO.

[gritsngravy]

Did I hit a nerve? Honda and Harley guys...... and BMW guys. Sheesh, they're as bad a Chevy guys.

Not nearly as bad as those " I bought a Triumph because everything else sucks"  kinda guys.      

[sammyseaman]

Not nearly as bad as those " I bought a Triumph because everything else sucks"  kinda guys.      

 

There is more to each bike than just the power pack. The luggage and other accessories must also be considered.

I totally agree. I just think there are better, cheaper options out there and seeing as you own a Gixxer I think the nice, smooth, laid back character of the NT is gonna get very mundane in a short period of time. But I've been wrong before...... a lot  

[R6Chick]

So after some more thought I have decided a VFR800 is also a good tool for the job and have thrown it into the mix of bikes I am considering. I have taken one of those on a couple of multi-day road trips and think I should put it in my pool of consideration.

I really am a picky snot. I takes months to decide on what I am going to buy and spend endless amounts of time comparing and contrasting.

[atadaskew]

FYI Eaglerider rents Piaggio MP3 400s in their San Fran location (only Harleys in their San Jose location).
Rent one for a day, see how you like it.  It's that 3 wheeled leaning scoot (2 up front, one back).
It would give you an idea as to how the 500 would feel, plus it's fun to rent bikes anyway.

if you are thinking about super scooters (and why not if you're looking at the NT700?)....

[R6Chick]

FYI Eaglerider rents Piaggio MP3 400s in their San Fran location (only Harleys in their San Jose location).
Rent one for a day, see how you like it.  It's that 3 wheeled leaning scoot (2 up front, one back).
It would give you an idea as to how the 500 would feel, plus it's fun to rent bikes anyway.

if you are thinking about super scooters (and why not if you're looking at the NT700?)....

I had not really considered super scoots but you make a good point.

[gritsngravy]

So after some more thought I have decided a VFR800 is also a good tool for the job and have thrown it into the mix of bikes I am considering. I have taken one of those on a couple of multi-day road trips and think I should put it in my pool of consideration.

I really am a picky snot. I takes months to decide on what I am going to buy and spend endless amounts of time comparing and contrasting.

Good call on the VFR  .     Available hard luggage and trunks for days/weeks on the road but maybe not the bike for your needs?    If you are intending to keep one or both of your current sport bikes I think you should go for the NT700V for it's size,  comfort and utility.      Sometimes it's nice to have a comfortable bike you can put miles on.    

Most important thing for you is to take your time.  There are always deals on bikes and YOU need to decide what's best for YOU.    Trying to get the most bang for your buck is nice but remember the fastest most inexpensive bike on earth is no use to you if you're not REALLY liking it.    Be true to your self and everything will be OK.  

[R6Chick]

Good call on the VFR  .     Available hard luggage and trunks for days/weeks on the road but maybe not the bike for your needs?    If you are intending to keep one or both of your current sport bikes I think you should go for the NT700V for it's size,  comfort and utility.      Sometimes it's nice to have a comfortable bike you can put miles on.    

Most important thing for you is to take your time.  There are always deals on bikes and YOU need to decide what's best for YOU.    Trying to get the most bang for your buck is nice but remember the fastest most inexpensive bike on earth is no use to you if you're not REALLY liking it.    Be true to your self and everything will be OK.  

The R6, GSXR750, 2008 CBR1000RR, & 2005 CBR1000RR will all be remaining in the stable. Well, maybe not the R6. Needs an engine rebuild (125,000 miles on that bike - 74,552 on 1st motor) and I am not sure it is worth the effort. I had originally eliminated the VFR based on its more aggressive riding position and such but decided to put it back in the running.

No worries about me taking my sweet time making the final decision.    I can drive a sales guy nuts coming by to kick the tires over and over again.

[gritsngravy]

Whoa, you are the definition of the sporting life.   Looks like any touring oriented bike will be a BIG change for you.  Whatever you end up with I'm sure you'll be able to make it fly just fine.   Enjoy the shopping.  

[Bryan217]

So after some more thought I have decided a VFR800 is also a good tool for the job and have thrown it into the mix of bikes I am considering. I have taken one of those on a couple of multi-day road trips and think I should put it in my pool of consideration.

I really am a picky snot. I takes months to decide on what I am going to buy and spend endless amounts of time comparing and contrasting.

As decent as the NT700 may be (I kinda like it), it's a lot of money. For a whole lot less you could prob find a leftover VFR, get the hard bags, and still have money left over, even with ABS. I paid $7k for mine (w/ABS) and another $1k for the factory luggage.

[Jeff]

I saw the Dullville at the local dealer today. They had it in both purple and silver.

I'm sorry, but it looked positively boring. I don't know how that much boredom can be put in a motorcycle. And to price it that high - it just doesn't make any sense whatsoever.

Jeff

[HipGnosis]

FYI Eaglerider rents Piaggio MP3 400s in their San Fran location.
Rent one for a day, see how you like it.  It's that 3 wheeled leaning scoot (2 up front, one back).
It would give you an idea as to how the 500 would feel, plus it's fun to rent bikes anyway

I've read that the 500 isn't worth the extra cost.

[atadaskew]

I've read that the 500 isn't worth the extra cost.

It's meant to be a touch quicker, but it weighs quite a bit more than the 400 so the extra motor is offset.  Plus the 400 has more concealed luggage capacity due to a more practical design.
Peeps tend to buy the 500 due to its styling.  I think it looks cool.

[DrD]

Dot is considering one of there (NT700V).  Any further comments on this bike?

[gritsngravy]

I like the bike.   I'd love to have one in the garage just because it's one of those rare truly useful bikes that you just don't see much of anymore.    This bike is what it is, no pretense or image being projected.   Will most likely never be as popular in the US as it is overseas since it's designed for folks that actually use their bikes as transport instead of butt ornaments.  

[R6Chick]

The more I think about it the more I lean towards the NT700. Better bang for the buck, Honda bullet proof, functionality, ergo's, it's all there.

[ConPilot1]

Psssssssssst....over here check it out 14k    $3500    

http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=75463.msg421999#msg421999


beautiful.....

[fsr402]

Hate waking up a two year old thread but did you ever get an NT700?
An older man down the street (father of a few friends of mine) has one (sold the ST1300 for it after hip replacement) and LOVES this bike. I talked with him about it last night because I'm looking to upgrade my wife's bike. She's on a little Hyosung 250 cruiser. Bike works great for her but we are getting into doing bike tours and I think this would be a better option. I want her on a bike with a good wind screen, fuel injection (she just does not get the hang of the temperamental choke on hers) and shaft drive. I'm fine with loading down my C14 with all the gear so the bags only matter when she rides alone and commutes.  
Don't want to put her on anything to powerful or twitchy handling. She's only got about 1200 miles under her with 700 of those this past weekend (4 day trip). So to go from a 26 hp low slung cruiser to higher power and tall bike is going to be a big change for her.

What are your thoughts on the NT700? Dealer has a 2010 with only 1200 miles on it and offered it to me for $6499.  

[R6Chick]

I ended up buying Nevin's 2002 VFR800A. It offered me a lot more flexibility and was easier to deal with in parking lots. The VFR is also easier when it is time to do oil changes.

[Chuck 500]

Hope I can help a little here.  I currently ride (a lot) on an NT700V.  I've had mine a little over two years and I am coming up to 40,000 miles soon.  For perspective, I am 5'6", 150 lb, 29" inseam and 32" arms.  Others on THIS forum convinces me not to let the inability to flat foot at stops prevent me from getting a bike I might like.

The NT700V has mild, linear performance characteristics.  However it can, and does eat miles very well.  I routinely do 1,000 mile weekends.  Regular day rides can be 300 or more.  (Have 600+ one coming up next wekend).  I also recently completed a Saddle Sore 1000 on the bike.

Major farkles include a Russell seat and JC Whitney top case.  I also put on Bar Backs from Twisted Throttle.

Overall this is great second bike and I fully expect to reach 100,000+ miles on it.  Check out the NT Owners forum (www.Nt-owners.org).

Enjoy,

Chuck

[jackgermain]

Hi,  I have a 2010 NT 700 that I bought brand new in May of 2012.  I love this bike !!  Does nothing great but everything very well. I like the way it handles and the comfort of it too.
To bad it did not catch on here in the USA.  It is a big seller elsewhere.