The New Touring Era 21.10.2021

Yeah, I don’t know if it’s sporty enough to be a “sport” tourer, but we’ll see how it performs once it’s out. I’m interested to see if it will go into turns as easily as ST.
On the plus side — weight reduction, and looks like it could handle unpaved roads better…
 
I like it... it's not an ST1300 replacement, it's an NT700 replacement... so you have to look at it from that point of view.

Chain vs Shaft.. yeah, would be great if it were shaft but it isn't.. and having a couple modern day bikes w/chains, I prefer to not limit my options to shaft only bikes, that's an expensive and narrow list of bikes to choose from.

Let's look at all the positives, TFT dash but also looks like a lower LCD dash. Has lots of options that may include software updates. That's great IMO.

High mirrors and traditional handle bars - similar to the previous NT model.

Wind protection - no, it's not a wing but it has more than a lot of other sport touring bikes, definitely more that the tracer.

Engine - The parallel twin is a great configuration and has some character without having too much character or lack of it, your mind may vary.

Luggage - it's not integrated like the previous NT model but that's a good thing because it gives you the ability to switch to luggage you may like better. That's what I did with the Tracer, I hate side-loading bags, much prefer top-loading.

Cruise Control and DCT - carry over from the Africa Twin - along w/dash and engine - can't argue with any of that.

Is it simply an Africa Twin with a different frame/faring? Maybe, but that's a good thing, because that seems to be a popular Honda MC.... so any leverage on other models that makes sense for Honda and gives us more options is a good thing.

The AT now has a model w/larger gas tank... what if this had a 6 or 7 gallon tank? One NT video states 400km / 248mile range...

And, if Honda is willing to revive this NT model... maybe, they'll also revive the ST at some point... it's good to know they are at least trying.

If this were out when I was looking for another bike that is lighter and in the sport touring segment... I'd probably have it. I bet it handles great given the power and weight. The price is something that will also be a true deal killer or maker.
 
Sport tourer? Chain drive? No weather protection? No passenger comfort? Optional luggage?

I need to buy a new dictionary with the new fangled sport tourer definition. :biggrin:


Not sure where Honda is going these days with the Goldwing either.
The word is always something like "...to appeal to the younger rider..."
Personally I appreciate the tech in it, but don't much care for the DCT or the styling.
 
From 2 short videos, I like it. It checks most of the boxes. I'm guessing it will be priced slightly higher than the Kawasaki Versys 1000 LT SE. ($18,399 MSRP).
 
I like it... it's not an ST1300 replacement, it's an NT700 replacement... so you have to look at it from that point of view.

Chain vs Shaft.. yeah, would be great if it were shaft but it isn't.. and having a couple modern day bikes w/chains, I prefer to not limit my options to shaft only bikes, that's an expensive and narrow list of bikes to choose from.

Let's look at all the positives, TFT dash but also looks like a lower LCD dash. Has lots of options that may include software updates. That's great IMO.

High mirrors and traditional handle bars - similar to the previous NT model.

Wind protection - no, it's not a wing but it has more than a lot of other sport touring bikes, definitely more that the tracer.

Engine - The parallel twin is a great configuration and has some character without having too much character or lack of it, your mind may vary.

Luggage - it's not integrated like the previous NT model but that's a good thing because it gives you the ability to switch to luggage you may like better. That's what I did with the Tracer, I hate side-loading bags, much prefer top-loading.

Cruise Control and DCT - carry over from the Africa Twin - along w/dash and engine - can't argue with any of that.

Is it simply an Africa Twin with a different frame/faring? Maybe, but that's a good thing, because that seems to be a popular Honda MC.... so any leverage on other models that makes sense for Honda and gives us more options is a good thing.

The AT now has a model w/larger gas tank... what if this had a 6 or 7 gallon tank? One NT video states 400km / 248mile range...

And, if Honda is willing to revive this NT model... maybe, they'll also revive the ST at some point... it's good to know they are at least trying.

If this were out when I was looking for another bike that is lighter and in the sport touring segment... I'd probably have it. I bet it handles great given the power and weight. The price is something that will also be a true deal killer or maker.

Pretty much lookin at this the same way. I like it so far. Cautiously optimistic. Seems a little low on power, but it is much lighter, so it may be a non-issue. Wondering if the top box is easily removable in a moments notice. Not fancy on the panniers, but they could grow on me. Not worried about a chain... chain tech has come a long way and maintenance should be minimal.
 
Pretty much lookin at this the same way. I like it so far. Cautiously optimistic. Seems a little low on power, but it is much lighter, so it may be a non-issue. Wondering if the top box is easily removable in a moments notice. Not fancy on the panniers, but they could grow on me. Not worried about a chain... chain tech has come a long way and maintenance should be minimal.
I would imagine it's being shown with all accessories... so top box is probably something you can choose from a different vendor. Not sure if the Saddlebags are going to be included or an accessory... aux lights more than likely an accessory.

Also, it's rolled out to the UK... curious if we will ever even see it here in North America....

 
Looks interesting, wish they had made it shaft drive though, also wish they'd do a cast wheel option for the Africa Twin.
Looks a bit a like crossbreed between a Versys 1000 and a Suzuki Burgman:)
 
I would imagine it's being shown with all accessories... so top box is probably something you can choose from a different vendor. Not sure if the Saddlebags are going to be included or an accessory... aux lights more than likely an accessory.

Side bags included in all packs, other additional OEM accessories:
There are a range of accessories tailor made ready for the NT1100, including quickshifter with autoblipper function, and aluminium cosmetic panels for the luggage. To make it easy for an owner to get their NT1100 the way they want it, 3 packs are also available (all items can also be purchased separately):

URBAN PACK
50L top box with inner bag, comfort back rest, 4.5L tank bag.

TOURING PACK
Rider/pillion comfort seats, comfort pillion footpegs and fog lights.

VOYAGE PACK
50L top box with inner bag, comfort back rest, 4.5L tank bag, rider/pillion comfort seats, comfort pillion footpegs and fog lights.

 
Interesting to note from the press release that saddlebag volume is 33 liters left, 32 right.

Does anyone know what the comparable volume figures are for the ST 1100 and ST 1300?

Michael
 
Interesting to note from the press release that saddlebag volume is 33 liters left, 32 right.

Does anyone know what the comparable volume figures are for the ST 1100 and ST 1300?

Michael
35L for both ST1100 and ST1300 unless someone corrects me.

But, most want the dimmensions to allow a full face helmet, so the volume might be close but the shape may not work for that. I personally only ever used the top box for a helmet but not everyone wants a top box.
 
I think it's a pretty nice package. Comes standard with cruise control, heated grips, saddlebags, a centerstand, and an adjustable windscreen, (and a TFT with Applecar play for those interested in that kind of stuff, but that would have navigation in it)

It's priced cheaper than the Yamaha 900 Triple tourer, it's new age competition, and it has more features.

It's not going to compete with a true big tourer like a Goldwing, BMW RT or FJR, but it's a lot less weight (and the FJR is no longer being made), and a lot less money. And of course the ST 1300 hasn't been made in a decade now.

The new Suzuki 1000 sport tourer (also chain drive) and the Kawasaki 1000 sport tourer (also chain drive) may have more power but they also have less features., and you probably have to buy the saddlebags (not sure on that one)

I still think it should have shaft drive, but some people actually prefer chains (I'm not one of them). It's still a little heavy for me, especially the DCT version and for me the seat height is a little high, but I'm an older munchkin
 
The new Suzuki 1000 sport tourer (also chain drive) and the Kawasaki 1000 sport tourer (also chain drive) may have more power but they also have less features., and you probably have to buy the saddlebags (not sure on that one)
The kawasaki Versys 1000 has almost identical features, includes saddlebags, and has been here on the road in this format since 2019. They even look very much alike...
 
I may be the only one, but the Africe Twin motor does not move me. It has an irritating pocka-pocka-pocka sound similar to it's little brother the NC700. I remember sitting in a customs queue at the Canadian border on my NC behind a pair of Yamaha FJR's. Every time the line would advance there would be two whirs and my unrefined cacophony of exhaust and mechanical noises. I felt like I was back on my KLR. An Africa Twin sidled up beside me at a traffic light in Waynesboro last year (me on the ST11) and I just wished he would run the red light and be gone.

So, not the new touring era for me. A pig in a prom dress. Most likely my new touring era will be a Vespa 350 or a Kymco AK550 if my TMax ever dies). But if I was shopping a mid-sized touring spec chain drive bike I'd put this a mile or two behind the Yamaha Tracer or the upcoming Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. The Suzy is particularly interesting with 50 more horses and a few less pounds than the pocka-pocka bike.

I'll go back to sleep now.
 
The Tracer still works quite well for me... I do wish it had a little more fairing for the cold days and the displays from the Triumph 900s or BMW 850 GS bikes.. and the tank size of the BMW 850GS. If the Tracer had just 1 more gallon of gas it would get into the 230 mile range easily... that would be perfect. In TX, it's around 180-200 depending on temp/altitude/etc... in CO-WY I was getting 54mpg indicated which was awesome, just wish it was like that all the time.

The Yamaha tripple engine alone is something I don't know if I'll ever be able to give up...
 
Too bad they couldn’t have massaged the deauville v-twin to an 850-950 & put it into the new NT.Honda saving money.
 
Looks pretty good to me. I like the sound of the Africa Twin engine, and 100hp realistically should be plenty. According to Vison Down the price is 11,999 pounds for manual, 12,999 for DCT. Converting that at current exchange rate, it puts it between 16,500 and 17,900. That sounds a bit steep compared to the Suzuki GSXS1000GT which gives you 50 more HP, but fewer features.
 

I think the big sport-tourers like FJR, Coni, GTL... are going to be things of the passed replaces by semi-adv semi-touring lighter bikes.
This bike is underpowered (100 bhp) as usual thing for Honda bikes.

Power to weight ratio:

ST1300 - 125HP and 730 lbs = .171 hp/lb

NT1100 - 103 HP and 525 lbs = .196 hp/lb

This bike will be quicker/faster than our beloved ST1300.
 
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