In the adventure-scooter category, there is precisely one model in the motorcycle industry: the Honda X-ADV. It is an oddity of an oddity, and for the 2021 model year, the Honda X-ADV is getting a pretty sizable update.
First off, we can see that the 2021 Honda X-ADV is sporting a new design, which is rather…sporty.
Honda says that the X-ADV frame has been redesigned, while the motor has gotten tweaks for Euro5 homologation. As such, the 745cc engine make (58hp / 43.1 kW), which should sound familiar to anyone who has read our story on the 2021 Honda NC750X.
Since those two bikes share a power plant, we are not too surprised to also learn that the 2021 Honda X-ADV also sees its gearbox revised, using shorter ratios for first, second, and third gear, while the fourth, fifth and sixth ratios are taller to allow for a higher cruising speed and better fuel economy.
Honda has also stepped up its game on the electronics front, offering four riding modes as default, along with a traction control system that has three levels of intervention. There is of course too, a dual-clutch transmission.
Twin LED headlights help light the way and upgrade the look of the Honda X-ADV, and there is a new 5″ TFT dash that uses the new Honda Smartphone Voice Control (though, you’ll need a headset to use it).
Other niceties include a larger storage compartment, a USB charger, and a new glovebox as well. Of course, the bodywork is very different, and Honda says that the seat has been contoured to make it easier for a rider to reach the ground.
With 6.5 inches (165mm) of ground clearance, the Honda X-ADV is more than suitable for tackling some gravel roads when the pavement ends. Its 520 lbs curb weight though might make the scooter a bit of a handful, when the going gets tough.
There is no word yet if the 2021 Honda X-ADV will make it across the pond, but we kind of hope it does. It’s weird and cool.
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