Honda DreamTech Roadshow - Brockenhurst 26 April 2025

 

Get ready to take Honda’s latest technology for a spin! The Honda DreamTech Roadshow is hitting the road for four weekends, starting at the end of April, bringing you the chance to test ride some of Honda’s most advanced motorcycles. Whether you're curious about the seamless E-Clutch system or the smooth performance of DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), this is your opportunity to experience the next generation of riding firsthand.

I was really pleased to attend the Honda DreamTech Roadshow session at the stunning Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst on 26th April. Honestly - what a setting, in the heart of the beautiful New Forest! Honda had provided a number of demonstration bikes, including: NC750X, Africa Twin, NT1100, CB650R, CBR650R - the day was provided to experience their revolutionary gear shift technologies.

After a warm welcome, I spent the morning session riding a NT1100 DCT with Electronic Suspension. I've ridden a similar bike a year or two ago - and didn't gel with it, can't remember why though. This time - I loved it! Physically, quite a large motorbike (it has been referred to as a "baby Gold Wing"). However, as always, the weight disappears as soon as you start moving. Honda's latest generation of DCT makes for silky smooth gearshifts. I kept the bike in sport mode - which holds lower gears, and allows the bike to rev out somewhat. There's "paddles" to manually select gears too - on the admittedly fairly complex switch cluster. A really comfy ride, with a relaxed riding position. The parallel twin engine made a great sound, and had plenty of torque - picked up really well! I really liked this bike & believe it would make a fantastic sports tourer for Kim & me.

After a very tasty lunch (thanks Honda 👍) I took out the CB650R with E-Clutch. This bike is the little brother of my CB1000R - so I was looking forward to going for a spin! The E-Clutch allows you to ride this sporty naked motorcycle (sort of) like a twist'n'go moped - but with a manual gearbox! The E-Clutch handles up & down shifts sweetly - on or off the gas. I really liked the bike, but found the E-Clutch a bit confusing - my fault as I kept going for the clutch lever - which seemed to put the system back in manual gear shift mode. If I left the clutch lever alone, the E-Clutch worked really well. It's sort of like the quick shifter on my bike - but at a cracking price of £100 over the manual gearbox - honestly, why wouldn't you?

Thanks Honda - what a great day. The CB650R was fun, but the NT1100 was viable... Might have to make some room in the garage!

Click here to see some photos from this great day