Motorcycle specifications HondaNM4 750 VULTUS 2014 The draft of Akira

Honda never stops surprising us. 2014 will see the arrival of surprising machines such as the CTX 1300, the Valkyrie F6C and glamorous machines like the CBR 1000 SP and the new-generation VFR 800. Spring brings an even more surprising machine: the NM4 750 Vultus.

Unmistakable in today's motorcycle galaxy, this strange machine stands out and provokes. It's a far cry from the rational, the politically correct and the all-purpose machine. With its impressive, angular shoulders, unmeasured silhouette and assertive experimental edge, the Vultus seems to combine the worlds of Batman and Akira. Roadster? Absolutely not. It's more like a custom scooter. The on-board universe follows a logic of surprise. The seat is low, 650 mm from the ground; the boots rest far forward on footboards anchored just before the wheel; the dashboard takes the rider into the air of digital manga: it changes lighting mood according to the transmission mode selected: from the white of the Neutral position (neutral), the backlighting turns blue (mode D), pink (mode S) and finally red for mode MT (manual selection). However, depending on the mood of the day, the rider can also choose from 5 other color ranges, for a total of 25 hues.

Beneath this impressive appearance, the chassis and powertrain are more conventional... almost disappointing for such a visually striking motorcycle. If we let our imaginations run wild, homo motardus modernus would soon be fantasizing about an enriched magnesium frame and fuel cell propulsion. That's for the next century. The Vultus features a Diamond-type steel frame, a standard 43 mm fork, a monoshock and a single front brake disc. Technical solutions adapted to modest riding and performance.
And yes, there's no need to look for sport with the NM4. The engine is taken from the NC range. A 745 cm3 twin-cylinder, with a maximum output of 55 hp and 7 mkg, takes care of the cavalry. For a scooter, that's copious power - for Robocop's bike, it's frustrating. Note that the Vultus is semi-automated on the transmission side. Honda's standard DCT robotized gearbox features dual clutches and multi-mode electronic management.

This is not Honda's first foray into this kind of avant-garde motorcycle. The NM4 Vultus can claim to be a descendant of the DN-01. It should go on sale before the end of the summer, at a price that befits its curiosity.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos