Some motorcycles impress during a brief test ride, but their compromises become apparent only after everyday ownership begins. Others may never dominate spec-sheet comparisons, yet they quietly make everyday riding easier. These are machines that stand the test of time. Instead of chasing lofty headlines, they earn loyal fans by giving riders exactly what they need, day after day and mile after mile. For decades, Japanese manufacturers have perfected this philosophy. Among them, a Honda motorcycle has come to the fore in recent times by proving that common sense and actual riding pleasure can go hand in hand.
Updated: 2026/07/28
This article has been updated with more information about the bike’s optional accessories.
Why do some motorcycles deserve more recognition than they get?
Modern motorcycling has increasingly become obsessed with extremes. Flagship adventure bikes now produce over 100 horsepower and touring machines are packed with enough tech to rival luxury cars. While these advancements are impressive, they’ve left many riders looking for something simple.
For most people, the ideal motorcycle is not the fastest or most technologically advanced, but rather one that combines performance, comfort, reliability and affordability in a package that gets the job done every day. These are motorcycles that turn every ride into a truly enjoyable experience, and that’s why they deserve far more recognition than they usually get.
The best motorcycles are often the ones that fit real life
Every motorcyclist eventually becomes aware of what truly makes riding enjoyable. In the honeymoon phase of ownership, peak performance can easily outweigh everyday compromises. But as the miles pile up, the realities of ownership start to matter more.
The best motorcycle is rarely the one that provides the biggest adrenaline rush on paper. Instead, it’s one that fits seamlessly into your daily routine, has a low cost of living, and still puts a smile on your face whenever the road opens. Honda has long understood this formula better than most, and few motorcycles embody that philosophy better than this adventure tourer, whose enduring appeal comes from getting the basics exactly right.
Honda NC750X Proves Intelligent Packaging Is Its Greatest Strength
MSRP: $9,499
The motorcycle in reference is the Honda NC750X. Offered in a single, fully equipped trim with a starting MSRP of $9,499 (not including destination charge), this is a motorcycle that will become more impressive the longer you live with it. The NC750X was never designed to dominate spec-sheet comparisons. Instead, Honda focused on creating a motorcycle that excels where it matters most – providing everyday practicality, comfort, efficiency and versatility without sacrificing riding enjoyment.
Honda’s vision for this platform dates back to 2012, when it introduced the ‘New Concept’ (NC) family with the NC700X, taking a bold step away from traditional design principles. Two years later, in 2014, the company evolved the formula with the introduction of the NC750X, replacing the original engine with a larger and more capable 745cc parallel-twin. More than a decade later, the concept remains just as relevant, proving that a beginner-friendly adventure tourer can be remarkably versatile, practical, and truly desirable for all types of riders.
A torque-focused parallel-twin that smoothes the ride
Powering the Honda NC750X is a 745cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces 57.8 horsepower at 6,750 RPM and 50.9 pound-feet of torque at 4,750 RPM. While these numbers may seem modest compared to some competitors, they only tell part of the story. The NC750X was never designed to win the numbers game; Instead, Honda engineered this engine to deliver its performance exactly where riders use it most. With strong low- and mid-range torque, the NC750X is responsive without worry in city traffic, comfortable on the highway, and capable on winding roads without demanding frequent downshifts.
A long-stroke engine layout gives the NC750X broad, accessible power delivery, while the 270-degree crankshaft adds a distinctive V-twin-like pulse that offers plenty of character in every ride. Complementing the motor is Honda’s acclaimed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which can automatically handle gear changes, adapt its behavior through selectable riding modes, or allow riders to shift manually via handlebar-mounted paddles. Plus, thanks to its advanced throttle-by-wire system, you can seamlessly toggle between two fully customizable user modes as well as three preset electronic riding modes – Sport, Standard and Rain.
Practical features that make life better on and off the motorcycle
This is where the NC750X earns its reputation as a smart buy. The real genius of this adventure tourer’s design lies in its clever packaging. It gets an integrated 23-litre storage compartment, big enough to swallow a full-sized helmet, in the place where a fuel tank would normally sit, while the actual fuel tank is located low under the seat to optimize weight distribution.
In terms of features, it gets a 5.0-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, which allows riders to access navigation, calls and music through a compatible headset. Other key features include an all-LED lighting system, a USB-C charging port, and an adjustable windscreen. Meanwhile, the NC750X’s generously claimed fuel efficiency of 67.2 MPG and 3.8-gallon fuel tank translate into impressive real-world range.
Thoughtful engineering that owners appreciate every day
What makes the NC750X special is the way it thinks about the whole package. This shows that clever engineering often matters more in real-world use. Its steel diamond frame prioritizes durability and handling, while the Showa suspension setup provides enough travel (4.7 inches to be exact) to comfortably absorb broken pavement without compromising stability.
The 17-inch rear and 19-inch front wheel combination provides confidence in varying road conditions. Braking duties are performed by dual 296 mm discs at the front and single 240 mm disc at the rear along with dual-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as a safety net. Additionally, the NC750X’s comfortable ergonomics as well as the upright seating position and manageable 31.6-inch seat height minimize fatigue during long rides.
Optional accessories help tailor the bike to your lifestyle
By design, motorcycles are developed to suit different types of riders, but one size does not fit all. Luckily, Honda knows this, allowing you to choose from a raft of optional genuine accessories that can make the bike better suited to your lifestyle, riding style or preferences. For starters, Honda offers a pair of comfortable seats for both rider and passenger for $139.95 each. This will help make the bike feel more comfortable for long rides.
For long-distance comfort, Honda offers an adjustable windscreen for $403.95, as well as a lower wind deflector for $94.95, both of which should improve wind protection on the highway. There are also heated grips available that can make your ride a little more bearable in cold weather. Honda also offers a total of 13 cargo accessories, including a top case, panniers, rear carrier, and more. Finally, there’s a center stand for $128.48 and a USB charger for $35.66, as well as hand guards for $122.95 and an upper fairing guard for $342.95. Tick the right option boxes, and you’ll have an NC750X DCT that won’t leave you wanting more.
The Honda NC750X is still one of the smartest motorcycles money can buy
In a middle-weight segment full of great competitors, the NC750X continues to occupy a class of its own. Honda has designed this adventure tourer with real-world practicality as its top priority, and that’s what sets it apart from competitors like the Yamaha Tracer 7, Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650.
The Yamaha offers a livelier, more playful ride, the Kawasaki offers a balanced all-round touring experience, and the Suzuki remains a benchmark for comfort and reliability. However, the Honda stands out as the motorcycle best suited for everyday ownership rather than the occasional adventure. It’s easier to live with, more economical to run, and better equipped for the conditions most riders face every day – making it one of the most sensible motorcycles you can buy.
Source: Honda
