Is the 2010 Honda NT700V a Good Ride?

When considering a vehicle, it's crucial to get the basics right. So, let's clarify from the outset: the 2010 Honda NT700V isn't a car; it's a motorcycle, and a rather exceptional one at that. Often dubbed the 'Deauville' in Europe, this machine has quietly built a reputation for its unwavering reliability and remarkable versatility, making it a compelling choice for riders seeking a no-nonsense, highly competent touring companion. If you're pondering whether this two-wheeled marvel is a good fit for your needs, you've come to the right place. We'll delve into what makes the NT700V a standout performer in its class, from its humble origins to its sophisticated engineering.

For years, European riders have championed the Honda Deauville, a name derived from the picturesque French seaside resort, underscoring its touring pedigree. While it only made its official debut in the United States in 2010, the NT700V's lineage stretches back much further. It first emerged in 1998 as the NT650V, a mid-range touring motorcycle designed to offer a balanced blend of comfort, practicality, and manageable performance. Its enduring popularity across the continent is a testament to its fundamental design philosophy: provide a motorcycle that simply works, day in and day out, without fuss or drama. The 2010 iteration, specifically the NT700V Deauville ABS, represents the culmination of years of refinement, bringing with it an enhanced safety feature that further cements its status as a sensible and dependable choice.

The Evolution of a Touring Stalwart

The Honda Deauville, known by its various designations including NT650V and NT700V, enjoyed a long production run from 1998 until 2013. Its journey saw significant revisions, particularly in 2006, when it evolved into the NT700V. This update brought a host of improvements that significantly enhanced its capabilities and appeal. Key among these was the adoption of a programmed fuel injection system (PGM-FI), ensuring smoother power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. The ignition system was upgraded to a digital transistorised unit with electronic advance, contributing to its refined performance. Honda also retained and refined its virtually maintenance-free shaft drive, a highly desirable feature for touring motorcycles, eliminating the need for chain lubrication and adjustment. A smooth five-speed transmission and a cable-operated clutch further contributed to its user-friendly nature.

Beyond the powertrain, the 2006 revision also saw the integration of practical features that touring riders crave. These included standard centre and side stands, making parking and maintenance a breeze. The bike rolled on stylish three-spoke alloy wheels, and critically, offered an optional Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Rider comfort was improved with a five-way adjustable windscreen, allowing riders to tailor wind protection to their preference. Practicality was boosted with twin trip odometers and twin dash-mounted storage compartments, perfect for stashing small essentials like gloves or a mobile phone. These thoughtful additions collectively transformed the Deauville into an even more capable and accommodating touring machine, setting the stage for the 2010 model's arrival.

Performance and Engine: Tried and True

At the heart of the 2010 Honda NT700V Deauville ABS lies a robust 680cc four-stroke, liquid-cooled V-twin engine. This powerplant, a descendant of a long line of reliable Honda V-twins, is not about raw, blistering speed, but rather dependable, linear power delivery. It produces a healthy 65 horsepower, peaking at 8,000 rpm, and a solid 66 Nm (49 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm. While these figures might not set the world alight for sportbike enthusiasts, they are perfectly suited to the NT700V's intended purpose: comfortable, effortless touring and daily commuting.

The engine's configuration, a 52-degree V-twin, contributes to its narrow profile, which, combined with the integrated saddlebags, keeps the bike slender and easy to manoeuvre through traffic or tight spaces. The programmed fuel injection system, featuring dual 40mm throttle bodies with 12-hole injectors, ensures crisp throttle response and excellent fuel atomisation, leading to smooth operation with no hesitation. This engine is a true workhorse, renowned for its longevity and low maintenance requirements, embodying Honda's commitment to reliability. Valve clearances, for instance, only need checking every 8,000 miles, coinciding conveniently with oil changes and spark plug replacements.

Despite its modest displacement, the NT700V pulls adequately, even when riding two-up with luggage. While overtaking on motorways or climbing steep gradients might occasionally call for a downshift, the feather-light clutch action and precise five-speed transmission make gear changes a genuine pleasure. Fuel economy is another strong suit, with the 5.2-gallon (approximately 23.6-litre) tank providing an impressive range. Official EPA estimates hovered around 50 mpg, with real-world averages typically in the low 40s, offering hundreds of miles between petrol stops. This makes the NT700V an economical choice for both long tours and daily commutes, further enhancing its value proposition.

Comfort and Practicality: A Rider's Best Friend

The NT700V excels in providing a satisfying level of touring comfort. The wide, flat saddle offers an agreeable, upright seating position for both rider and passenger, making long hours in the saddle genuinely enjoyable. The fairing and adjustable windscreen work in tandem to provide excellent protection from the elements, a boon for riders in the UK's often unpredictable weather. The windscreen can be manually adjusted over a 6.3-inch range with five locking positions, requiring no tools – a simple firm yank up or down is all it takes to tailor the airflow.

Integrated, watertight, and locking saddlebags are a hallmark of the Deauville's design. The left bag offers 27.4 litres of storage, while the right, slightly smaller at 26.6 litres due to the exhaust pipe, still provides ample space. Each is rated for up to 11 pounds of gear. A particularly clever feature is the saddlebag pass-through, a convenient space perfect for stashing tools or a tyre repair kit. Additionally, two fairing pockets offer quick access to smaller items like extra gloves, a wallet, or a mobile phone. Passengers will appreciate the large grab handles, providing a sense of security, and both rider and passenger benefit from the rubber footpeg covers, which help insulate against road buzz.

Chassis, Handling, and Braking: Confident Control

The NT700V's foundation is a robust steel twin-spar frame paired with a steel swingarm, providing a solid and predictable platform. Power is smoothly transmitted to the rear wheel via a shaft drive, a low-maintenance solution that contributes to the bike's overall competence and ease of ownership. The front suspension consists of a 41mm male-slider fork with 4.5 inches of travel. While it lacks adjustability, it features progressive damping that effectively soaks up road imperfections. The rear shock offers 4.8 inches of travel and comes with a convenient remote preload adjustment knob, providing a wide 40-click range and indicator lines to easily set up for solo or two-up riding.

Braking performance is confident and controlled, especially on models equipped with Honda's Combined Braking System (CBS) and ABS. The CBS system minimally links the rear brake to the front, providing balanced stopping power. The front features dual 296mm discs gripped by three-piston calipers, while a single 276mm rear disc is managed by a two-piston caliper. When the front brake lever is squeezed, all three pistons in the right-front caliper and two pistons in the front-left caliper are actuated. Pressing the rear brake pedal actuates the rear caliper and one piston of the front-left brake caliper, with a proportional control valve ensuring even distribution of braking force. The ABS engages smoothly, providing an added layer of safety in challenging conditions.

Riding the NT700V is an effortless experience. Its well-balanced nature, neutral and predictable handling, and user-friendly controls make it immediately intuitive, even for less experienced riders. Shod with capable sport-touring radial tyres and featuring steering geometry that strikes a fine balance between stability and manoeuvrability, the NT700V occupies a sweet spot that makes motorcycling fun and carefree. It's a bike you can simply get on and ride, confident in its capabilities.

Minor Considerations

While the NT700V is overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points are worth noting. Some riders might find the plasticky rear end or the non-functional vents on the fairing less aesthetically pleasing, but this is a matter of personal taste. More practically, the fairing panels at the front of the petrol tank can complicate the use of certain magnetic tankbags. A common observation is the lack of a low-fuel warning light; instead, the fuel gauge simply drops into the 'E' (empty) zone, indicating approximately 0.9 gallons (around 4 litres) of fuel remaining. Vigilance is key here.

Another point to consider is the limited load capacity, typically around 399-403 pounds (181-183 kg). While this is common for many touring bikes, it can be easily surpassed by a rider and passenger with riding gear, let alone additional accessories and full saddlebags. While manufacturers often provide conservative figures for liability reasons, it's something to be mindful of if you plan to carry heavy loads regularly.

Specifications: 2010 Honda NT700V ABS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2010 Honda NT700V good for long-distance touring?

Absolutely. Its comfortable ergonomics, adjustable windscreen, integrated luggage, and reliable shaft drive make it an excellent choice for long journeys. While not a powerhouse, its engine provides ample power for cruising, even two-up.

Is the NT700V easy to ride for beginners?

Yes, its user-friendly nature, balanced handling, and predictable power delivery make it very approachable. The light clutch and smooth gearbox further contribute to its ease of operation, making it suitable for riders transitioning to larger bikes or those seeking a less intimidating touring machine.

What's the fuel economy like on the NT700V?

The NT700V offers commendable fuel economy for a touring bike. Real-world averages typically hover around 40-45 mpg (14-16 km/l), giving it a substantial range of over 200 miles (320 km) on its 5.2-gallon tank, depending on riding style.

Does the 2010 NT700V come with ABS?

The 2010 Honda NT700V was available in two versions: a standard model and an ABS model. If enhanced braking safety is a priority, ensure you look for the ABS-equipped version.

What are the main drawbacks of the NT700V?

Minor drawbacks include the absence of a low-fuel warning light (relying solely on the fuel gauge), potentially limited load capacity for very heavy touring, and some riders might find its styling a bit conservative. However, these are generally outweighed by its many positives.

In conclusion, the 2010 Honda NT700V is not just a good motorcycle; it's an incredibly versatile and sensible choice for a wide array of riders. It may not be the flashiest or most powerful machine on the road, but its unwavering competence, impressive reliability, and thoughtful design make it a standout. For those who prioritise effortless touring, comfortable commuting, and a truly dependable ride that won't demand constant attention, the NT700V represents excellent value. It's the kind of motorcycle you can bond with, a faithful companion that simply gets the job done, mile after mile, with a quiet confidence that is increasingly rare in today's specialised market. If you're seeking a motorcycle that embodies practicality, comfort, and enduring quality, the 2010 Honda NT700V is undoubtedly worth your serious consideration.

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