Honda NT 650 V Deauville [2002-2005]: The Understated Tourer That Gets It Right

Introduction

The Honda NT 650 V Deauville is one of those motorcycles that quietly nails the fundamentals of practical touring. Produced between 2002 and 2005, this V-twin-powered machine was designed for riders who prioritize reliability over flashiness and comfort over adrenaline spikes. While it never dominated headlines, the Deauville built a loyal following among commuters and light tourers who appreciated its "no-nonsense" approach to two-wheeled transportation. Let’s explore why this bike deserves a second look – even decades after its discontinuation.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Flair

The Deauville’s styling won’t make your pulse race, but its purposeful design grows on you. The semi-faired bodywork (with a hint of early-2000s angularity) does an admirable job deflecting wind, while the 19-liter fuel tank integrates neatly into a stepped seat setup. The 814 mm (32-inch) seat height feels accessible for riders around 170 cm (5’7”), though taller riders might wish for more legroom during long hauls.

Honda nailed the ergonomic sweet spot here:
- Handlebars: Wide enough for control without forcing a full upright stance
- Footpegs: Mid-mounted and vibration-free, ideal for 300-400 km days
- Windshield: Fixed design that directs airflow over an average-height rider’s helmet

The 2215 mm (87.2-inch) wheelbase and 223 kg (492 lbs) dry weight give it a planted feel at speed, though low-speed maneuvers require some muscle. Storage is a highlight – the integrated side cases swallow a full-face helmet each, a rarity in this class.

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Engine Performance: Smooth Operator

At its heart lies a 647cc 90-degree V-twin – the same basic architecture as Honda’s iconic Africa Twin but tuned for civility. Liquid cooling keeps temps in check during summer traffic, while the 5-speed transmission pairs with a shaft drive system that’s practically bulletproof.

Key numbers:
- 56 HP @ 7,750 RPM (41 kW)
- 55 Nm torque @ 6,250 RPM (40.6 lb-ft)
- Fuel consumption: Real-world average of 5.2 L/100km (45 mpg)

The power delivery is textbook Honda – linear and predictable. While it won’t threaten modern 650cc parallel twins in a drag race, the V-twin’s character shines through in two scenarios:
1. Highway cruising: Effortlessly maintains 120-130 km/h (75-80 mph) with minimal vibration
2. Mountain roads: Torque-rich midrange pulls strongly from 3,500 RPM

The shaft drive deserves special praise. Unlike chain-driven competitors requiring constant adjustment, this system lets you focus on riding. Just check the 150 ml of SAE 80 GL-5 gear oil during services, and it’ll likely outlast the bike itself.

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Riding Experience: Zen and the Art of Mile Munching

Swing a leg over the Deauville, and its mission becomes clear within the first kilometer. This isn’t a bike that begs you to find its limits – it’s a machine engineered to disappear beneath you, becoming an extension of your touring intentions.

Highway notes:
- Wind protection remains effective up to ~140 km/h (87 mph)
- The 19-liter tank provides 350-400 km (217-248 mi) between fill-ups
- Seat foam maintains comfort for ~2 hours before suggesting a stretch

Urban maneuverability:
- Narrow 780 mm (30.7-inch) width slips through traffic
- Shaft drive eliminates chain lube concerns in wet weather
- Heated grips (a common aftermarket add-on) transform cold commutes

The suspension setup leans toward plushness. The 41 mm telescopic fork holds its own on broken pavement, though enthusiastic riders might crave more damping control. Braking performance from the dual front discs and single rear disc is adequate but not thrilling – a common trait in this era’s Hondas.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

The Deauville existed in a space between sport-tourers and pure commuters. Let’s see how it measured against contemporaries:

1. Suzuki SV650S (2002-2005)

• Pros: 25% more power, sharper handling
• Cons: Chain drive, no storage, harsher ride
• Verdict: Better for weekend fun, worse for daily practicality

2. Kawasaki ER-6n (2004+)

• Pros: Lighter (204 kg / 450 lbs), fresher design
• Cons: Lack of weather protection, vibration at RPM
• Verdict: The ER-6n appeals to newer riders; the Deauville serves seasoned commuters

3. BMW F650CS (2002-2007)

• Pros: ABS option, lower seat height
• Cons: Single-cylinder vibration, smaller fuel tank
• Verdict: BMW’s tech vs Honda’s reliability – choose your priority

The Deauville’s ace card was (and still is) its all-rounder capability. It’s not the best at anything but remains surprisingly competent at everything.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Faith

As MOTOPARTS.store’s in-house journalist, I’ve seen countless Deauvilles clock 100,000+ km with basic care. Here’s your ownership cheat sheet:

Critical Service Intervals

• Valve clearance: Every 24,000 km (15,000 mi)
• Intake: 0.13-0.17 mm (0.005-0.0067 in)
• Exhaust: 0.18-0.22 mm (0.007-0.0087 in)
• Engine oil: 2.6L with filter / 2.4L without (SAE 10W-40)
• Coolant: 2L – Replace every 2 years regardless of mileage

Common Upgrades

1. Brake pads: Stock units fade during aggressive use. Swap to sintered pads (we carry EBC FA179/180).
2. Suspension: Progressive fork springs transform front-end feel.
3. Lighting: LED auxiliary lights improve visibility in the Deauville’s weak low-beam output.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Cold start issues: Clean the carburetor pilot circuits (air screw setting: 1.25 turns out)
• Electrical gremlins: Check the regulator-rectifier connections – a known weak spot
• Final drive whine: Change gear oil promptly every 12,000 km (7,500 mi)

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Conclusion: The Sensible Choice

The Honda NT 650 V Deauville won’t dazzle you with speed or styling. What it delivers is something more valuable for daily riders – trust. This is a motorcycle that starts in pouring rain, hauls groceries without complaint, and devours highway miles with the mechanical sympathy of a Swiss watch.

Two decades on, its virtues feel almost radical in their simplicity. While modern bikes chase horsepower figures and electronic gimmicks, the Deauville reminds us that sometimes, getting the basics right is enough. For riders who view motorcycles as tools for living rather than garage jewelry, this Honda remains a compelling proposition – especially when paired with MOTOPARTS.store’s extensive support for keeping these machines on the road indefinitely.

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Specifications sheet

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