2025 Honda NT1100 DCT Review: The Underrated Sport-Touring Sleeper

Introduction to the 2025 Honda NT1100 DCT

• 🏍️ The 2025 Honda NT1100 DCT is being introduced to the US market after being a bestseller in Europe for three years.
• 🎯 It aims to fill the sport-touring gap between the NC750X and the Gold Wing in Honda's lineup.
• 📍 The bike was tested in Southern California, covering highways, twisty roads, and desert conditions.

Engine and Performance

• ⚙️ The NT1100 features the 1084cc parallel twin engine from the Africa Twin and Rebel 1100, producing around 100 horsepower.
• 📈 This engine has been retuned for improved mid-range and low-end torque and power, enhancing its versatility.
• 🏁 While not a track-focused engine, it offers solid performance and dependability suitable for its touring purpose.

Technology and Features

• 🚦 The bike is equipped with Showa suspension (5.9 inches of travel front and rear) and Nissin four-piston calipers with 310mm discs up front.
• 🛣️ Features include cruise control, five rider modes (Rain, Urban, Tour, with two custom options), and throttle-by-wire.
• 🕹️ A key feature is the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), now in its 15th year, which uses two clutches for seamless gear changes, enhancing ease of use, especially in automatic modes.

Rider Experience and Comfort

• 💨 The DCT is highly praised for its refinement and ability to keep the bike in the optimal gear, making it approachable for riders of all skill levels.
• ✋ A unique feature is the handbrake for parking on slopes, eliminating the need to use first gear.
• 📱 The left-hand controls have a learning curve due to the number of functions, including heated grips and audio controls.
• ⛽ The 5.4-gallon fuel tank, combined with the engine's efficiency, offers an estimated range of over 250 miles.

Refinements and Value

• ✨ The US model is the second generation, incorporating refinements like a wider, more comfortable seat and an easily adjustable windscreen with five positions.
• 💨 Additional wind protection is provided by deflectors around the body and legs.
• 💰 Priced at $11,899, the NT1100 offers significant value with its electronics package, including cruise control and heated grips.
• ⚠️ While side cases are an optional extra, the overall package is considered a strong offering from Honda, effectively bridging their touring lineup gap.