Honda NT700V Deauville Review: Features, Specs & Riding Experience
Honda NT700V Deauville Review: Features, Specs & Riding Experience
Blog Article
The Honda NT700V Deauville is a mid-weight touring motorcycle that combines comfort, practicality, and legendary Honda reliability. Designed for riders who seek a balanced blend of touring capability and urban agility, the Deauville has carved a niche for itself in the sport-touring segment. This review delves into its key features, performance specifications, and overall riding experience to help you understand why the Honda NT700V Deauville continues to attract a loyal fan base.
Overview of the Honda NT700V Deauville
First introduced in the late 1990s and later updated for the international market, the Honda NT700V Deauville is a sport-touring motorcycle that emphasizes ease of use and practicality. With integrated saddlebags, a comfortable upright riding posture, and a reliable V-twin engine, it is well-suited for commuters, long-distance riders, and even new touring enthusiasts.
Design and Styling
The Deauville boasts a mature and functional design that prioritizes rider comfort and storage. Its fairing provides good wind protection, while the integrated panniers enhance its touring credentials.
The bike’s overall aesthetic is clean and conservative, aimed at riders who prefer substance over flash.
Its analog-digital instrument panel provides essential riding data in an easy-to-read layout.
Ergonomics are tuned for long-distance comfort, featuring a plush seat and natural handlebar positioning.
Although not aggressive or flashy in design, the Honda NT700V Deauville wins points for practical beauty and a professional appearance that appeals to serious riders.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda NT700V Deauville is a 680cc liquid-cooled, 52-degree V-twin engine that delivers reliable performance with a smooth power curve. This engine is derived from the Honda Transalp, ensuring proven durability and capability.
Horsepower: Approximately 65 hp at 8,000 rpm
Torque: Around 66 Nm at 6,500 rpm
Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox with shaft drive
The V-twin configuration provides a broad power band, making the bike well-suited for both city commuting and open highway cruising. Acceleration is smooth, if not thrilling, and the power delivery is predictable, contributing to the Deauville’s reputation as a dependable tourer.
Chassis and Handling
The Honda NT700V Deauville is built on a tubular steel frame, offering a good balance of rigidity and comfort. The bike weighs around 560 lbs (255 kg) fully fueled, which is on the heavier side for a mid-size tourer, but the weight is well-distributed.
Front Suspension: 41mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension: Single shock with adjustable preload
Brakes: Dual 296mm front discs and a single 276mm rear disc, often equipped with ABS
Tires: 120/70 ZR17 (front), 150/70 ZR17 (rear)
Thanks to its low center of gravity and neutral steering, the NT700V handles with surprising agility. It offers a stable and predictable ride, especially at highway speeds, and can confidently handle twisty roads.
Touring Features
One of the standout elements of the Honda NT700V Deauville is its touring-focused equipment. Honda designed this motorcycle to be as functional as possible for riders spending long hours on the road.
Integrated Luggage System
The Deauville comes with factory-fitted hard panniers that are integrated into the bike’s bodywork. These are lockable and weather-resistant, with a total capacity of approximately 54 liters.
Easy access for daily commuting
Expandable lids available for added space
Optional top box for even greater storage
Wind Protection and Ergonomics
Touring comfort is further enhanced by a large windscreen that offers adjustable height. While not electrically adjustable, it still provides ample protection from wind fatigue.
Wide seat suitable for both rider and passenger
Upright seating posture reduces back and wrist strain
Heated grips and handguards available as accessories
These features make the Honda NT700V Deauville a genuinely practical machine for both long-distance tours and everyday riding.
Technology and Safety
Though not packed with modern tech like newer models, the Deauville includes several practical features that contribute to rider safety and ease of use.
Combined Braking System (CBS): Distributes braking force between front and rear for safer stops.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Available on later models, improving control during emergency braking.
Shaft Drive: Low maintenance and clean operation compared to chain-driven bikes.
These systems are particularly attractive for riders seeking low-maintenance and stress-free ownership.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
Fuel efficiency is one of the Honda NT700V Deauville’s key strengths. Riders report an average fuel consumption of 50–60 mpg (US), which gives the bike excellent range from its 5.2-gallon fuel tank.
Maintenance is also simplified by:
Shaft drive system: No chain lubrication or adjustment
Valve intervals: Widely spaced for less frequent servicing
Honda’s legendary reliability: Fewer unexpected repairs
For riders who want a “get on and go” machine, the Deauville’s fuel economy and minimal upkeep are highly appealing.
Ideal Rider Profile
The Honda NT700V Deauville suits a variety of rider types, particularly:
Commuters who need luggage space and fuel efficiency
Weekend tourers looking for comfort without overwhelming power
Newer riders wanting to step into the touring world confidently
Mature riders who value comfort, practicality, and quality over performance
Its friendly nature and balanced features make it ideal for those who prefer enjoying the ride rather than chasing top speed.
Conclusion
The Honda NT700V Deauville is a well-rounded sport-touring motorcycle that shines in real-world riding scenarios. While it doesn’t offer cutting-edge technology or high-performance thrills, it compensates with comfort, practicality, and reliability. Whether you're tackling a cross-country ride or navigating city streets, the Deauville delivers a smooth, dependable experience.
With built-in luggage, fuel-efficient performance, and a comfortable riding setup, the Honda NT700V Deauville is a top choice for riders who value function over flair. It's a motorcycle designed not just to be ridden—but to be lived with, day in and day out.
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