Motorcycle specifications HondaCTX 700 2015 Mini Goldwing

transforming the NC 700 into a bagger may seem an incongruous idea. And yet, this is the niche of the new CTX 700. Add a pair of optional suitcases, painted in body color and perfectly integrated into the lines, and you have a veritable F6B in miniature.

a touring variant of the CTX concept, this custom bike borrows its chassis and mechanics from the NC 700 S / X duo. A 41 mm fork, one brake disc per wheel, optional ABS, a simple but efficient chassis, and an economical parallel twin - these are the essentials. The tubular steel frame is only partially reworked to match the silhouette and pretensions of this strange-looking machine. There's a touch of DN-01 in this pencil stroke, and a hint of Goldwing to refine the line. The CTX 700 is distinguished from its N version brother by a massive fork head providing protection and poise, and a pair of passenger grips. One for touring, the other for cruising.

with its large windshield, small passenger backrest and luggage compartments, this CTX becomes a true small-displacement tourer. Power is modest, with the 670 cm3 twin delivering just 50 hp. Not a thunderbolt, of course, but that's generally the level of watts found in mid-size custom bikes. The powertrain relies on some very specific assets. Very low fuel consumption, a high cylinder inclination and a positioning that favors a very low center of gravity, and the option of a DCT robotized gearbox. A custom bike with a semi-automatic dual-clutch gearbox is exceptional. It's a pity that the transmission is chain-driven; a belt is customary in this category.

with an ultra-low seat height, a cool riding position and a trunk instead of a fuel tank, the CTX 700 proudly defends its slogan and justifies its name: Comfort Technology eXperience. This new idea of the custom bike is sure to arouse suspicion. Honda has chosen to market this intriguing custom only as a DCT version. Pricing in France is nowhere near as affordable as on the other side of the Atlantic. Granted, part of the difference is tax... The CTX 700 here is equipped with a robotized gearbox and suitcases... But at almost 9,000 euros, it's a real turn-off.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos