News 18 Nov 2015

Revamped Honda middleweights launched at EICMA

Mixture of 2016 models highlight Milan presentation.

Source: Supplied.

Source: Supplied.

Honda has used the 2016 EICMA show in Milan, Italy, to unveil an updated 500cc and 750cc range of motorcycles. The show also saw the first public unveiling of the much anticipated CRF1000L Africa Twin, as well as a funky City Adventure Concept in the spirit of the new adventure twin.

All three of Honda’s 500cc models – the naked CB500F, sporty CBR500R and crossover-styled CB500X – have their punchy performance complemented by several rider-focussed revisions. Upgrades include LED head and taillights, adjustable pre-load on the front suspension, adjustable brake levers, larger fuel tanks with new hinged fuel cap and wave-style ignition keys.

In addition, the CB500F naked bike is given a hard-edged visual makeover thanks to a new stripped-down, muscular look complemented by a range of six vibrant colour options.

The sporty CBR500R has a complete new kind of CBR style with sharp and edgy character lines flowing from its new front face through to the upswept tail. Both F and R have new shorter exhaust mufflers with internal structure tuned for a satisfying low, crisp exhaust note.

The CB500X’s revisions include a 100mm taller, adjustable windscreen and distinctive new graphics and colours; the larger tank brings range to over 500km. The CBR500X is due in dealerships in February 2016, while the 500R and 500F are set to arrive mid-year.

Of the three model NC750 range, the NC750X is the only model available in Australia for 2016. Honda’s 750cc NC750X is now Euro4 compliant and receives new DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) functionality including three levels of S Mode.

The DCT used by the 750X now features Adaptive Clutch Capability Control that manages the amount of clutch torque transmitted. This adds a natural feathered clutch feel when opening or shutting off the throttle for a smoother ride.

Further refinements include faster operation of the N-D switch on turning on the ignition and a control system in AT mode for gauging the angle of ascent or descent and adapting shift pattern accordingly. Additionally, the manual six-speed gearbox option on the X has a lighter clutch feel and dog leg lever.

Source: Supplied.

Source: Supplied.

A new muffler lends a deeper tone to the parallel twin’s distinctive engine note while the front forks benefit from Showa’s Dual-Bending Valves for improved damping and more linear suspension performance. The NC750X also gets spring preload adjustment on the rear shock absorber. The NC750X is due in dealerships in the first quarter of 2016.

One year after showing its True Adventure prototype at EICMA in November 2014, Honda revealed for the first time in Europe the all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin. The CRF1000L Africa Twin adds a range of the most modern motorcycle technologies to the original Africa Twin’s combination of all-round performance for touring comfort, commuting agility and genuine off-road capability, with an all-new 998cc new parallel twin engine – mounted in a frame built equally for toughness and flexibility – delivering instant response throughout the rev range.

In addition to the standard model with LED headlight and taillight, two further versions of the Africa Twin will be available – the ABS version which also has LED indicators, ABS (switchable at the rear wheel for off-road riding), multi-mode Honda Selectable Torque Control, knuckle guards and sump guard. In addition to these features, the Dual Clutch Transmission version brings further functionality to Honda’s unique DCT technology with three levels of sporty S mode riding, a new G switch for off-road performance, and the ability to adapt shift patterns when ascending and descending hills.

Complementing Honda’s returning icon, the City Adventure concept offers a totally new interpretation of the idea of motorcycling adventure. It brings that spirit of adventure to the heart of the city and underlines Honda’s commitment to researching new ways of creating unique technology to enhance and enrich its customers’ lifestyles.

In addition to these new and upgraded models, several of Honda’s most popular models have had smaller updates. The VFR1200X Crosstourer has a new two-tone red Special Edition, an easily-adjustable windscreen, new DCT functionality including three levels of S Mode, and EURO4 compliance. While the CBR300R, CB650F and CBR650F have new colour schemes.

Pricing, colour options and Australian availability are yet to be announced and we will bring you that information when it does. In the meantime, keep an eye on Honda’s website at motorcycles.honda.com.au for more details.

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