2016 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles – Model Lineup Review (USA & Overseas Models)

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– Automatic Motorcycles | Model Lineup Review – 

2015 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycle Review of Controls - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

Honda is back at it again for 2016 and expanding their automatic motorcycle lineup. You can check out my previous post covering the 2015 automatic motorcycle lineup review here. For 2016, Honda has added an all-new automatic DCT Motorcycle to the lineup – the Africa Twin CRF1000L. The VFR1200X DCT is another new model for the USA but it has been in production overseas as the CrossTourer for a few years. I’ll be touching base on these models as well as the carryover morels from 2015 as well.

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Looking for an Automatic Motorcycle? Don’t want a scooter? You’re not alone… Still to this day the term scooter is frowned upon in the motorcycle community. It’s truly an image thing though as scooters these days aren’t slow like they used to be and some can exceed 100 MPH all day long and outrun many motorcycles in a 0-60 competition or 1/4 mile drag race etc.


→ 2018 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup Review – Click Here

→ 2017 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup Review – Click Here

→ 2016 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup Review – Click Here

2015 Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup Review – Click Here

How does the Automatoc DCT Motorcycle work? How do you ride it? Click Here


To help with this problem and bring even more potential customers into the wonderful world of 2-wheels Honda has brought back Automatic Motorcycles. The last time this venture was explored dates back a few decades and to put it shortly – was a flop. Honda has decided to give it one more try and seems to be hitting the nail on the head this go-around. So much so that Honda not only makes one Automatic DCT Motorcycle but quite a few models.

Review - 2016 Honda Automatic Motorcycle Model Lineup / Bike / Motorbike

2009 Honda DN-01

The first model into this market segment this century dates back to 2009 with the Honda DN-01. The DN-01 start off on the right track at first though because of its off-the-wall styling and we also can’t forget that price with an MSRP of a whopping $15,599. That was a rather difficult pill to swallow for most… Especially considering a lot of the Automatic Motorcycle market was aimed at attracting first-time buyers that may have been scared by learning how to ride with a true manual transmission and operating a clutch. With it coming in at a price at what most people would pay for an automatic Civic the sales for the DN-01 were lacking. To put it nicely, us dealers referred to DN-01 as “Do Not – Order 1” haha. They were great bikes, just a little pricey at the time. If you can snatch up a used DN-01 for a bargain – they are hard to beat!

This resulted in Honda putting large rebates on them and helping us clear out our inventory while they went back to the drawing board. In 2010 Honda also experimented with the all new VFR1200 and made an automatic DCT version of it. It was rather expensive though as the standard model had an MSRP / Price of $15,999 and the DCT model of the VFR came in at the tune of $17,499. History again repeated itself with the VFR1200 DCT model similar to the DN-01 and Honda had to put large rebates to help clean out dealer inventory.

Fast forward a couple of years. Now we have multiple Automatic DCT Motorcycle models with pricing starting as low as $7,599 – which is less than half of what the original automatic DN-01 retailed at!

2016 Honda DCT / ABS Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission

DCT Motorcycle Models come standard with ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes)

Before we get started. All DCT Automatic Motorcycles from Honda for 2016 also have an added safety feature of ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes). Typically ABS alone adds anywhere from $500-$1000 to a motorcycle in Honda’s model lineup. This shows how much bang for the buck you get when you see how small the added cost is to go with the DCT over a manual clutch and transmission model.

2016 brings you quite a few different Automatic DCT Motorcycle models to choose from. You have more automatic motorcycles for 2016 to choose from than you did in 2015 with the addition of a few new models like the VFR1200X DCT (known as CrossTourer overseas for the last couple years) and Africa Twin DCT.

2016 Automatic Motorcycles / Model Lineup from Honda:

2016 Honda CTX700 Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

2016 Honda CTX700 DCT / ABS

The CTX700 DCT model is classified under Touring models by Honda. This is due to the fact that it has a windshield / upper-fairing that it’s sibling CTX700N does not have. The detailed model ID from Honda refers to the CTX700 DCT as CTX700D and then you add an F at the end which designates it as a 2015 model (CTX700DF). The 2016 CTX700 DCT / ABS model has an MSRP / Price coming in at $8,099. If you opt for the manual clutch and transmission model it drops the MSRP / Price down to $7,599.

2016 Honda CTX700N DCT - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

2016 Honda CTX700N DCT / ABS

The CTX700N DCT model is lumped into the Cruiser category by Honda. This is because it does not have a fairing similar to the CTX700 above. Everything else is identical between the (2) CTX 700 models from their frame, engine, seating position etc. Since this model is missing the windshield it comes in with a slightly lower price tag. The MSRP / Price on the 2016 CTX700N DCT / ABS drops down to $7,599. The manual clutch and transmission version of the CTX700N comes in slightly slower with its MSRP / Price at $6,999.

2016 Honda NC700X Review / Specs - Adventure Motorcycle / Bike - NC 700X DCT ABS Automatic Option

2016 Honda NC700X DCT / ABS

2016 Honda NC750X DCT Adventure Motorcycle

2016 Honda NC750X DCT / ABS

Next we have the newly redesigned and changed-up 2016 NC700X DCT & NC750X (overseas) cousin that comes in with a completely different frame and model class while sharing the same engine / transmission as the CTX models above. The Honda NC700X is an Adventure style motorcycle that offers exceptional ground clearance and added suspension travel when compared to the other models available with Honda’s DCT transmission. You also swap out that “cruiser” seating position for more of a standard motorcycle seating position. Due to this change your feet are moved back quite a bit and are directly beneath you instead of stretched out forward like most cruisers. Which is better? Neither. It all boils down to personal preference and which is more comfortable to you. Personally I prefer my feet below or behind me as I feel like I’m more in control with how the bike maneuvers but some would say otherwise. The 2015 NC700X DCT has an MSRP / Price of $8,099 which is only $600 more than the standard NC700X at $7,499. The 2016 NC750X is the exact same model as the NC700X here in the USA except for the slightly larger engine which results in a slight horsepower & torque bump compared to its smaller cc displacement cousin here in the USA. We’ve been hoping for years that Honda would bring the NC750X to the USA but as 2016 has shown us, it won’t be this year.

Check out the 2015 vs 2016 NC700X & NC750X changes here.

2016 Honda NM4 - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

2016 Honda NM4 / Vultus DCT

Next up is probably the craziest and most wild bike, design wise, that Honda had ever brought to market. This is the all new 2016 Honda NM4 and referred to as Vultus in other parts of the world. The NM4 was a newcomer to the model lineup for 2015 and thankfully is returning for 2016 to the automatic motorcycle model lineup.

2016 Honda NM4 - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

What is the Honda NM4? It’s basically a bike that Honda wanted to build and not something they “had to”. It’s substantially more expensive than the other models mentioned above even though they share the same DCT / Dual-Clutch Transmission and engine. Why is the NM4 more expensive than the CTX 700 model lineup? It brings quite a few different features to the table. The NM4 has added storage via saddlebags not only in the rear but also up-front too which isn’t something you see every day. You also get a passenger seat that folds up and acts as a driver backrest with three different positions. Also with the added comfort of a rider backrest you also get floorboards instead of the typical foot-peg to rest your feet on while you click through the miles.

Among other small features and differences that set them apart you also have the custom additions like a 200 mm fat rear tire on the NM4. Why so big? No reason other than to make it look cool and set it apart from others. You also have 20+ different color options for the gauges that you can flip between. The gauge cluster also has a different look to it than the CTX models and all of those little things add up cost wise. That is why the 2016 NM4 comes in with an MSRP / Price of $10,999. One more thing to note, the NM4 (NC700JD) also know as the Vultus (NC750JD) does get a larger 750 engine in other countries around the world whereas we get the 700 class engine here in the USA similar to what Honda has done with its cousin the NC700X / NC750X.

Is it worth the added price over the other DCT 700 motorcycles? Only you can answer that… I will say we have had problems keeping the NM4 in stock due to Honda keeping them as a limited release model for both 2015 & 2016. I think it hits a sweet spot with the child inside all of us. We want something that looks wild and gets attention while we roll down the road or pull in at the local bike spot.

2016 Honda NM4 - Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

2015 Honda Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

2015 Honda Automatic DCT Motorcycle Model Lineup Review - Dual-Clutch Transmission Bikes / Motorbike - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

Next up we have the 2016 NC750S from Honda that is a mixture of a couple bikes. It mixes a little bit of cruiser style with some sporty’ness mixed in there too. Its parallel twin-cylinder engine packs the low-to-midrange with effortless torque; capacious storage space where the fuel tank normally sits and the option of Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission set it apart from the crowd of mid-sized naked machines. When combined with a compact form, confidence-inspiring chassis and exceptional fuel economy, the result is a uniquely accessible and practical motorcycle. The 2016 NC750S still isn’t available in the USA, hopefully Honda will give it a try in our market soon.

2016 Honda NC750S DCT Automatic Motorcycle Review

2016 Honda NC750S DCT

The Integra – launched in 2012 as one of three models in Honda’s New Concept (NC) platform – takes its name from the fact that it integrates the comfort and style of a scooter with the dynamic performance of a motorcycle. Equipped as standard with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), for 2014 its torque, fuel-efficient twin-cylinder engine was increased in capacity to 745cc. Sharper styling, improved ergonomics and handling complemented the extra power and performance. This next stage in its development sees the 2016 Integra receive upgrades that boost its looks, practicality and riding experience, further polishing one of the most individual two-wheeled machines in the Honda range. The 2016 Integra is another model that is not available in the USA. Do you think Honda should give it a shot in our market?

2016 Honda Integra DCT Review / Specs - Automatic Motorcycle / Bike

2016 Honda Integra DCT

Next up in the model lineup of automatic DCT motorcycles for 2016 is the All New Africa Twin / CRF1000L DCT. If you want the latest in Honda’s adventure bike technology – the Africa Twin is the bike for you! There is so much to cover on the new CRF 1000L Africa Twin that I don’t have enough room to put it all here so make sure to check out my Africa Twin reviews here.

2016 Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L DCT Review / Adventure Motorcycle

2016 Honda Africa Twin DCT / ABS

Now, we’re to one of the new motorcycles for 2016 for the USA – The Honda VFR1200X. It has been in Honda’s adventure motorcycle lineup for the last few years overseas (as the CrossTourer) but this will be our first go with it in the USA for 2016. What’s so special about the 2016 VFR1200X? If you want an adventure motorcycle that doesn’t skimp on on-road creature comforts and being able to put mile after mile on the odometer without a hiccup then this is the bike for you. If you want something that is more off-road orientated then maybe the new 2016 Africa Twin will be more to your likings. The super smooth V4 engine in the VFR1200X makes it the largest displacement engine adventure motorcycle in the model lineup. As you’ll see below in the overview of features and specs this VFR1200X shares the engine from the VFR1200F which is an absolute beast and puts our some killer horsepower and torque figures. Of course there’s even more, it takes quite some time to go over all of those details so I have created a special VFR1200X Review page here.

2016 Honda VFR1200X Review / Specs - CrossTourer - Adventure Motorcycle / Bike Price, Horsepower, MPG

2016 Honda VFR1200X DCT / ABS

How easy is it to ride one of the DCT / Dual Clutch Transmission Automatic Honda motorcycles? Very easy! You have essentially (3) drive modes. You can put it in D which stands for Drive and just roll on the throttle to go. You also have a Sport mode shown below with the S. It shortens up the gear ratio inside the transmission and shifts quicker etc while still keeping it fully automatic. Want to change gears manually? Click it over into Manual mode shown above by MT and then you can click through the gears on the left side of the handlebar pictured below.

Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycle Controls - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

Honda DCT Automatic Motorcycle Controls - CTX700 / CTX700N / NC700X / NM4 / Vultus

We do still have some that look down on automatic motorcycles considering them as nothing but a glorified scooter so-to-say. More and more are giving them a chance though and I can say that everyone who has taken one for a demo ride is surprised by how much they enjoyed it. I have more and more people who have ridden for many years decide to go with an automatic model as their next motorcycle and to date haven’t had a single one regret their purchase. It’s amazing how much more you pay attention to other things around you can what all you can take in when you aren’t thinking about changing gears etc. They aren’t for everyone of course but I think this segment of the market will continue to grow over the years.

What’s your opinion on Automatic Motorcycles? 

Which DCT Automatic Motorcycle is your favorite in the 2016 model lineup?


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8 Comments on this post

  1. Kevin, I’m told by my local Honda Dealer that I cannot order a 2016 vfr1200x because there were two days in February when all the orders for the entire year were taken and that Honda will not allot any more units! Is this true? How can I buy one?

    Matt Whritenour /
    • Matt,

      You may want to speak to someone else at that dealership as that’s not 100% accurate. The 2016 VFR1200X is available to order during April and May of 2016.

      – VFR1200X April order = June delivery
      – VFR1200X May order = July delivery

      What state do you live in?

      • I live in New York. I had contacted the Troy City Garage dealership, but I’m in the Syracuse area.
        Matt

        Matt Whritenour / (in reply to HondaPro Kevin)
        • I’d try another dealer if I were you to see if you can find someone that knows what’s going on. Sadly, some will tell you just about anything… If you were closer to TN, I was going to mention I could help you out but NY is quite the drive.

          • I enjoy your website, thank you, I’m reaching out to new dealers. If I score, I’ll send a pic from the Daks, our mountains in upstate New York. ?

            Matt Whritenour / (in reply to HondaPro Kevin)
  2. will there be a new VFR1200f DCT?

    mojomoto /
  3. The Integra is an awesome bike and if it were available here I would jump on it. Common Honda, do it!!

    PeterLT /
  4. Hi Matt ,
    I live in Knoxville Tennessee and would love to look and probably purchase
    Honda NM4
    but the two dealerships here don’t really seem to know what the hell I’m talking about . They just tell me that’s not something they can sell so they don’t have any. Any ideas of where I might be able to go and look at one and maybe test drive one ? Greg

    Greg Blankenship /

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