Page 26 - Riding On Autumn 2023

2023

Honda

NT1100

Thank you to Horizon Motorcycles for the opportunity to ride
this machine.
The NT1100 is available in two versions. Manual 6 speed
transmission and Dual Clutch 6 speed transmission (DCT). The
gunmetal black version I rode was the manual transmission
version. The standard transmission model is also available
in iridium grey. Those opting for the DCT will be limited to
gunmetal black and their bike will weigh slightly more. 238kg
for the standard, 248kg for the DCT.
For those familiar with Honda, you will recognise the 1084cc
parallel twin engine as the same as used in the Africa Twin.

This bike was very low in kilometres so it was a little tight and
will free up as more kilometres are covered.
engine has an excellent mid-range which is where it will spend
Electronics wise, Honda has not been sparing. Apple CarPlay, most of its life. There is more than adequate top end if you
Android Auto, cruise control, Honda Selectable torque Control, need to use it.
multiple riding modes including 2 which are user configurable.
Hook up your smartphone and Bluetooth headset and you will Suspension is preload adjustable both ends, I rode it as factory
have everything at your disposal. configured, finding it nearly ideal but tweaking the preload is a
simple exercise and may make it close to perfect.
Touring wise the bike is fitted with heated grips and an
adjustable screen and the fairing is set with upper deflectors Handling wise at low speeds it is easy to control. At touring
and lower leg deflectors, coupled with cruise control this bike speeds it was fine.
could do it comfortably. There are multiple options for panniers
and top boxes which are designed to suit your budget and give Honda backup their product with a 2 year warranty. Like all
you the ability to comfortably carry your stuff. manufacturers make sure you understand how the warranty
works. I am surprised that motorcycles have not followed cars
Ergonomics were excellent with everything falling into place in warranty terms but who knows, that may yet come. One
comfortably. A seat height of 820mm means it is easy to get a manufacturer is now supporting their product for 5 years.
foot, or if you must, both feet to the ground (test rider height is
178cm). You really get the impression that you are sitting in the Without options, the standard transmission bike is under $24k
bike rather than on it. The adjustable screen allows you to pick and the DCT under $25k. I suspect that not too many will be
a set-up that suits you. The bike felt light and easily managed. sold without some options though.
There are optional comfort seats available.
Engine wise it sounds enjoyable and the transmission was https://motorcycles.honda.com.au/models/onroad/touring/
typical Honda ‘snicking’ through the gears. I found low speed nt1100
revs to be a little disconcerting. A bit of hunting seemed to
occur at low revs but this disappeared once revs were over “Safe Riding Doesn’t Happen by Accident”
3,000. The engine lets you know it is there but real motorcycle
engines should anyway. Never would it get uncomfortable. The Terry McCarthy #40625

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