One of Honda's most comfortable and user-friendly motorcycles, the NC750X has recently received an update which has made what was already a pretty decent bike to ride even better. We fell in love with the previous-gen NC and its easy-to-use DCT transmission back in 2022 and were happy when Honda announced the updated model.
Related: Honda NC750 DCT (2022) Review
We loaded up our long-term Ford van with all our camping gear and the bike and made our way South for a weekend at a local rally. This is what we found while adventuring at the dam.
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Styling
The 2026 Honda NC750X maintains its reputation as the SUV of the motorcycle world, focusing on a mass-forward stance that blends adventure aesthetics with commuter practicality. Following a more significant tech refresh in 2025, which added dual front disc brakes and a TFT display, the 2026 model focuses on refined aesthetics and a major push toward sustainability. The most significant styling update is the increased use of Durabio, a bio-based polycarbonate resin. Unlike traditional painted plastics, Durabio uses in-mould colouring, which provides a high-gloss finish that is more scratch- and UV-resistant, without the need for a separate paint coat.
The NC750X continues with the sharp, creased fairing design introduced recently, with the headlight featuring a robust LED signature that gives the bike a more aggressive, predatory look compared to older, softer iterations. The fairings use sharp creases and detail lines to create a tough identity that mimics larger adventure bikes like the Africa Twin. The windscreen is designed to be slim and rally-inspired, though a height-adjustable version is available as an optional accessory for those wanting a more touring-focused look.
Tech and Features
The 2026 Honda NC750X builds on the major tech overhaul from the previous year, focusing on digital connectivity, refined rider aids, and improved mechanical hardware. It remains a standout for its utility-first engineering. While the 6-speed DCT has been a staple, the 2026 model benefits from "Next Generation" logic updates, such as low-speed smoothness and adaptive shifting.
A signature NC750X element is the 23-litre storage compartment where a traditional fuel tank would be. It is shaped to accommodate an adventure-style helmet. A built-in USB-C socket is standard inside the storage compartment for charging devices on the go. The 2026 model features revised seat-cover stitching and a premium 5-inch full-colour TFT screen that uses optical bonding to reduce glare, replacing the older LCD units. Because the tank area is storage, the actual fuel filler is located under the pillion seat, contributing to the bike's unique, clean tail section.
New 17-inch cast-aluminium wheels feature a more intricate 8-spoke design that is slightly lighter, reducing unsprung weight for better handling. The bike now features dual 296mm discs with two-piston callipers, replacing the old single-disc setup, providing a much more big-bike braking feel.
Engine and Drivetrain
The NC750X continues to use its unique low-revving, high-torque engine philosophy, which feels more like a small car engine than a traditional high-strung sportbike. The mechanical focus is on refining the power delivery and smoothing out the famous Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). The engine remains a 745cc SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin, but the DCT transmission has received significant software updates for better rideability. The DCT now uses data from the Throttle-by-Wire system to better determine whether you are on an incline or a decline, hold gears longer during climbs, and provide more engine braking on descents.
Let's Ride
We took the NC750 on a weekend rally down in the Vaal area. The bike was loaded into our long-term van, and once we set up camp, it became our primary mode of transport over the weekend. We took several rides around the Vaal Dam, doing some sightseeing. The ease of use lets you take in the scenery, and long distances are covered in relative comfort. The entire weekend we only used a 3/4 tank of fuel and thoroughly enjoyed our time on board. Passenger comfort is at an all-time high, thanks to a comfy rear seat and a relaxed riding position.
Model and Pricing
| Honda NC750X | R 153 899 |
| Honda NC750 XD (DCT) | R 165 999 |
Pros and Cons
Pros
The "Frunk": The 23L weatherproof storage compartment where the gas tank usually sits remains the bike's greatest "party trick." It can fit a full-face adventure helmet, groceries, or a laptop bag, making it more practical than almost any other non-scooter on the road.
Upgraded Braking: The shift to dual 296mm front discs finally fixed the wooden feel of the old single-disc setup, giving the bike much-needed stopping power and confidence when fully loaded.
Fuel Economy King: Consistently delivering 3.5L/100km, the NC750X is arguably the most cost-effective mid-sized commuter on the market. With its 14.1L tank, you can comfortably clear 400km between fill-ups.
Refined DCT: The latest 2026 transmission logic has smoothed out the low-speed jerkiness that plagued older models. It is now much more intuitive for filtering through heavy traffic or creeping along in parking lots.
Modern Tech: The new 5-inch bonded TFT display is a massive leap forward from the old LCD. It’s vibrant, easy to read in direct sunlight, and includes full smartphone integration via Honda RoadSync.
Cons
The Boring Factor: The engine is designed like a car’s; it has a very low redline (around 7,000 rpm). If you enjoy the scream of a high-revving engine or the "rush" of a sportier triple or twin, the NC750X will feel a bit clinical and unexciting.
Limited Suspension Travel: Despite its "Adventure" styling, this is primarily a road bike. With only minimal travel, it can feel harsh over big potholes, and the suspension isn't adjustable beyond rear preload, which can be a letdown for heavier riders.
The Seat Issue: It is relatively thin and sloped forward, which can lead to monkey butt on rides longer than 90 minutes. Many owners immediately swap this for the optional Comfort Seat or an aftermarket unit.
Fuelling Ergonomics: Because the fuel filler is under the pillion (rear) seat, you have to unstrap any luggage you’ve tied to the back seat every time you want to fill up. This is a significant annoyance for long-distance tourers.
Verdict
The 2026 Honda NC750X has finally evolved from a sensible compromise into a truly refined, aspirational machine. While it hasn't lost its core identity as the ultimate commuter, the 2026 updates have polished away the rough edges that once made it feel like a budget-oriented utility bike. If you want a bike that makes your life easier, there is no better choice. If you want a bike that scares you a little bit or makes your heart race every time you twist the throttle, you’ll likely find the NC750X a bit too pedestrian.
