TRAVERSE Issue 32 - October 2022 | Page 133

TRAVERSE 133

Honda ' s Adventurous Commuter

It ’ s not often in the world of motorcycling that a fresh line of thinking emerges to create a new breed of machine . But Honda specializes in innovation and in 16YM unveiled a completely new concept , straight out of left field – the X-ADV . The thought processes that led to its birth ? Consider the attributes of the average adventurestyle motorcycle – tough go-anywhere appeal , an upright riding position giving superb visibility and remarkable all-round usefulness , work or play . Then take a look at the typical commuter ; it might be a scooter or motorcycle , but in either case it will be easy to manage , nimble and loaded with convenience , efficiency and useful storage space . Honda ’ s forward-thinking engineers combined the two together , and something special happened .
The machine they created had a rugged , stylish SUV image fully at home navigating the urban sprawl . And while it was loaded with all of the premium features that enable easy life in the big city , it also had the looks , engine power and chassis ability to inject every ride with the promise of adventure . The X-ADV captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in an exciting new form and garnered the attention of an army of riders around the World , eager for something new , and has proven itself a genuine sales success . And , proving its off-road credentials , in the hands of seasoned Italian racer Renato Zocchi a lightly modified version took overall Class 2 victory in the gruelling 7,000km 2019 Gibraltar Rally .
And it has not stood still . In 21YM Honda upped the X-ADV ’ s engine performance , trimmed weight , enhanced style and added even more usefulness .
In 2021 the X-ADV was Honda ’ s second-best selling motorcycle over 350cc , only out-sold by the equally dynamic CB650R .
With the introduction of a sporty new colour option for 23YM , the X-ADV continues to cement its position as one of the coolest and most desirable two-wheelers available today .
The parallel twin-cylinder engine blends strong low-to mid-range performance with easy manners and excellent fuel efficiency . Peak power is set at 43.1kW with an impressive 69Nm torque . Throttle By Wire ( TBW ) serves 4 default rider modes plus a custom USER choice , while Honda Selectable Torque Control ( HSTC ) features refined input over 3 levels . The Dual Clutch Transmission ( DCT ) has Automatic shifting schedules that integrate with the riding modes , as well as USER input .
A tough chassis comprises of a tubular steel frame , 41mm USD front forks , rear monoshock ( with Pro-Link ) and aluminium swingarm . A 17-inch front wheel is matched to a 15-inch rear with dual , radial-mount fourpiston calipers braking up front .
The bodywork has a sharp , aggressive edge ; dual LED headlights also feature Daytime Running Lights ( DRL ), as used by the CRF1100L Africa Twin , improving visibility to other road users . For easy ground reach the seat is carefully contoured at the shoulders . The under-seat storage has a 22L volume and also houses a USB charging point ; there ’ s also a useful glovebox . The TFT instrument display features Honda Smartphone Voice Control system .
The 23YM X-ADV will be available in the following colour options :
• Shasta White with Graphite Black Trim
• Mat Ballistic Black Metallic with new Graphite Black trim
• Mat Iridium Gray Metallic with new Graphite Black trim
• Pearl Deep Mud Gray with new Graphite Black trim
See your local Honda dealer for more details of the 23YM X-ADV .
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