Honda is exploring new and more efficient ways to deal with urban traffic. At EICMA, it showed the Integra, NC700S, NC700X and a production version of the Crosstourer concept unveiled last year at Intermot. Three of the four machines are powered by a 670cc parallel-Twin; the Crosstourer uses the 1237cc V-Four from the VFR1200F.
Honda says the Integra’s midsize Twin makes 51 horsepower and 46 foot-pounds of torque. A dual-clutch six-speed transmission is fitted, and fuel economy is rated at an attractive 79 miles per gallon. Bodywork has both motorcycle and scooter overtones.
Engine, steel trellis frame and rolling gear are carried over to the naked NC700S and adventure-touring NC700X. Like the Integra, the S has a 31.1-inch seat height, a 60.0-in. wheelbase, relaxed steering geometry (27 degrees of rake, 4.3 in. of trail) and 120/70-17 and 160/60-17 tires. The S weighs 500 lb. compared to 525 for the fully faired Integra.
The NC700X weighs the same as the S but stands a little taller on longer-travel suspension. Seat height is up to 32.6 in. and wheelbase spans 60.6 in. The rest of the bike—including an Integra-derived storage compartment in the false gas tank—is identical.
Back to the Crosstourer: In “adventure-sport-touring” trim, the VFR’s big V-Four makes 127 hp at 7750 rpm, with a flat torque curve reaching 93 ft.-lb. at 6500 rpm. Long-travel suspension is used here, as well: a 43mm inverted fork and a link-type shock. Consequently, seat height is a rather tall 33.5 in. In DCT trim, the Crosstourer tips the scales at 628 lb. Wheelbase is 62.8 in. Steering geometry combines a very relaxed 28 degrees of rake with a more conventional 4.2 in. of trail. Wire-spoke wheels wear multi-purpose tires in 110/80-19 and 150/70-17 sizes. Braking is accomplished with dual 310mm front discs pinched by four-piston calipers. ABS is standard.
