Duel NC700X Vs Honda Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom: Culture Shock
These are definitely two clashing philosophies through these two road trails. Pragmatism reasonable NC700X Honda will prevail there on the versatility of the fun Suzuki V-Strom 650? Bipolar test duel …
The austerity … motorcycle!
Austerity is unfortunately a concept by topical these days and it does not seem ready to change … Honda has therefore put in tune with the unveiling last fall its new range of economic and sober motorcycle: the triptych NC700.
The trail NC700X, the roadster NC700S and “motor scooter” and Integra share the same chassis and the same twin line of 47.6 hp (version 35 kW) or 51.8 hp ( version 38 kW ) which distinguished by its appetite bird: 3.58 l/100 km by world leader!
Both bikes are available with either a manual gearbox “classic” or with the dual-clutch transmission Dual Clutch Transmission, but the Integra is proposed with the DCT: a logical choice for this hybrid halfway between a motorcycle (engine and chassis) and a Maxiscooter ( Position and trim ).
But for this new dual-Moto Net.Com, this is version “gearbox” that the small Crossover NC700X (read our test of the MNC November 29, 2011) challenges the homogeneous Suzuki V-Strom (read our test of six MNC Duel in July 2011 and our V-Strom Vs MNC Versys 650 of 14 September 2011).
Honda has worked to create the bike as economically as possible, without compromising on quality too. The result is a machine successful lines and equipment simple but well made.
We find for example a single disc brake up front, but its shape and its petals generously sized ( 320 mm ) reassuring. In addition, the NC700X comes as standard with the C-ABS, excellent braking system combined “back before” expensive Honda.
The design evokes quite dynamic over a roadster a bit leggy a utility trail, while the white color will certainly please (black and gray metal are more sober).
DL 650 V-Strom: an old acquaintance … rejuvenated!
Faced with the Honda, the new version of the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom is undeniably opulent. Virtually unchanged since 2004, trail Suzuki suffered a beneficial makeover in 2011 to continue to meet bikers roll-always impressed by its versatility.
The DL 650 V-Strom is now ( slightly ) more sexy and is just as playful with her twin inherited from the SV650 fire. The latter take this opportunity to win two horses ( 69 hp at 8,500 r / min ). It’s not a revolution, but it is always better than nothing!
Our test bike was initially Travel Edition version, but it was “désaccessoirisée” by Suzuki France for the purposes of our comparison. He still, however, some facilities that are not original as the handguards, the bubble and the huge high protection bars (see the “Business Information” in our data sheet in the following pages).
Next to the 650 V-Strom, the NC700X seems very slender. Yet the Honda weighs 4 kg more (218 kg fully fueled against 214) and almost 25 cubic cc more than the Suzuki (669.6 against 645 cc)!
Tight lines – even sharp – the NC700X shell and rear edge distorts perspective, especially next to the curves of the V-Strom and his impressive luggage rack.
In terms of perceived quality, globally there is equality between the side very “plastic” of the Honda and the few apparent son still on the Suzuki. However, the latter made an effort. Just to be convinced to watch the rubber pads attached to the frame to protect it from the friction of boots: a delicate attention which would not have been too much to preserve the decks of the Honda …
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