The Honda NT700V, known as the Deauville in many markets, has built a solid reputation as a practical sport-touring motorcycle. While generally reliable and favored for its comfort and shaft drive, the NT700V is not without its faults. Owners often encounter a handful of recurring issues, some minor and others more significant. Understanding these problems can help riders make informed decisions about maintenance, repairs, and what to expect from this mid-sized touring bike.
Sticking or Notchy Gearbox
One of the most discussed issues among Honda NT700V owners is a gearbox that can feel notchy, especially when shifting between first and second gear. Riders report difficulty finding neutral at stoplights, along with a generally clunky feeling in lower gears. This is not usually a sign of transmission failure but can affect riding confidence and comfort, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
The culprit often comes down to the clutch adjustment, the quality of the oil used, or even the rider's shifting technique. The NT700V uses a cable-actuated clutch, which can stretch over time and lead to improper disengagement. Regularly adjusting the clutch cable and ensuring it operates smoothly provides some relief. Switching to a high-quality motorcycle-specific synthetic oil can also improve shift feel. If these fixes don’t help, inspect the shift linkage and consider replacing worn parts.
Excessive Engine Heat
The NT700V’s V-twin engine is partially concealed by fairings and integral panniers, which can trap heat. Many riders complain about excessive warmth reaching their legs, especially in slow-moving traffic or during summer rides. While the bike’s cooling system is generally robust, the heat buildup can make longer journeys uncomfortable.
To reduce the impact, some owners install aftermarket heat shields or adjust the fairing vents to direct heat away from the rider. Others recommend wearing proper riding gear with good ventilation and planning routes to avoid prolonged idling. It's also wise to check the condition of the radiator and ensure the cooling fan activates as it should. Dirty or obstructed radiators can worsen the problem, so regular cleaning is essential.
Electrical System Quirks
Electrical gremlins are not uncommon on the NT700V, especially as the bike ages or sees regular all-weather use. The most frequent complaints center on intermittent faults with the ABS warning light, dashboard illumination, and occasionally, the fuel gauge. Flickering or non-functioning dash lights can sometimes be traced to corroded connectors under the fairing or behind the headlight.
To address these issues, start by inspecting and cleaning all visible connectors with electrical contact cleaner. Pay close attention to the fuse box and any accessory wiring added by previous owners. Moisture ingress is a known problem, particularly in bikes used year-round. Applying dielectric grease after cleaning can help prevent future corrosion. If problems persist, a multimeter check of the affected circuits will pinpoint bad grounds or failing relays.
Clutch and Final Drive Wear
The NT700V’s shaft drive is a major selling point, requiring less routine maintenance than a chain. However, some riders encounter premature clutch wear, especially if the bike is used for heavy touring or frequent two-up riding. A slipping clutch or difficulty engaging gears can signal a worn clutch pack or stretched cable.
Final drive reliability is generally strong, but leaks from the final drive housing have been noted. These are typically due to old or damaged seals. Look for oil weeps or drips around the rear wheel hub. Replacing the shaft drive oil at recommended intervals (or sooner, if riding in harsh conditions) helps prolong its life. For the clutch, be proactive with cable adjustments and inspect for frayed or stretched cables every few thousand miles.
Brakes: Pulsation and Warped Discs
Many NT700V riders have experienced front brake pulsing, typically attributed to slightly warped discs. This can be felt as a rhythmic feedback through the lever during gentle braking. While the NT700V’s linked braking system provides good stopping power, the discs on some models are more susceptible to warping from repeated heavy use or improper torquing of wheel bolts.
If you notice brake judder, inspect the discs for runout and thickness variation. Sometimes a professional cleaning and deglazing of the disc and pads remedies the issue, but often the only long-term solution is disc replacement. Always use a torque wrench when reinstalling wheels to prevent uneven stresses that can warp the rotors. Upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket discs has resolved the problem for some owners.
Fuel Injection and Idle Issues
Although the NT700V switched from carburetors to fuel injection, some owners report hard starting or uneven idle, particularly after the bike has sat for a while. The most common cause is dirty or partially clogged injectors, often resulting from infrequent use or stale fuel.
Running a high-quality fuel system cleaner through a couple of tanks can improve starting and idle stability. If the problem persists, the idle air control valve or throttle position sensor may require cleaning or replacement. It's also important to keep the battery in good shape, as weak voltage can affect the fuel injection system's operation. Periodic riding, especially during winter, helps avoid issues linked to fuel degradation.
Suspension Limitations and Handling
The NT700V’s suspension is built for comfort rather than aggressive performance. Riders who push the bike on twisty roads sometimes complain about wallowing or vague feedback from the front forks, particularly when loaded with luggage. The rear shock is adjustable for preload but lacks fine-tuning for rebound or compression, which can make the ride feel soft or underdamped.
Regularly check and adjust tire pressures, as underinflation exacerbates handling problems. For those who tour with a passenger or full panniers, upgrading to progressive fork springs and an aftermarket rear shock makes a noticeable improvement. Some owners also report premature fork seal weeping, which can be prevented by cleaning fork stanchions and using seal savers.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Honda NT700V reliable for long-distance touring?
Yes, the NT700V is considered reliable, especially if maintained well. Most issues are minor and manageable with regular care.
How often does the final drive oil need to be changed?
Honda recommends changing the final drive oil every 12,000 miles or 2 years, but many owners do it annually for added peace of mind.
What are common signs of clutch wear on the NT700V?
Look for slipping under load, difficulty shifting, or needing excessive lever travel. Check cable adjustment and inspect for frayed cables.
Can heat from the engine be reduced on the NT700V?
Somewhat. Aftermarket heat shields and cleaning the radiator help, but some heat, especially in slow traffic, is part of the design.