Model update: The X-ADV has set a new milestone with its unique blend of adventure motorcycle capability and the utility and practicality of a large scooter. Its rich specification includes throttle-by-wire control, 4 preset riding modes, and 3 levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control. The 22-liter under-seat storage compartment includes a USB-C charger, while a glove compartment adds more convenience. The twin LED headlights feature daytime running lights, and a 5-inch TFT screen allows smartphone connectivity via the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System.
For the 24YM model, two new Special Editions lead the X-ADV line, accompanied by a new color, ensuring that the X-ADV will continue to turn heads throughout Europe.
Contents:
1 Introduction
2 Model Overview
3 Key Features
4 Technical Specifications
Introduction
It is not common in the motorcycle world for a new line of thinking to emerge to create a new class of machine. But Honda specializes in innovation, and in the 16YM model, it presented a completely new, totally innovative concept: the X-ADV.
What were the thought processes that led to its creation? Let’s consider the characteristics of the average adventure-style motorcycle: a robust appeal for riding anywhere, an upright riding position that provides excellent visibility, and surprising overall utility, whether for work or entertainment. Then let’s take a look at the typical urban motorcyclist: it could be a scooter or a motorcycle, but in any case, it will be easy to handle, agile, and loaded with convenience, efficiency, and useful storage space. Honda engineers, always ahead in their thinking, combined both elements, and something special happened.
The machine they created had a tough and stylish SUV image, completely comfortable for navigating the urban jungle. And although it was loaded with all the premium features that make life easier in the big city, it also had the appearance, engine power, and chassis capability to inject every journey with the promise of adventure.
The X-ADV captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in an exciting way and attracted the attention of an army of motorcyclists throughout Europe, eager for something new, and has proven to be a genuine sales success. And, demonstrating its off-road credentials, in the hands of experienced Italian racer Renato Zocchi, a slightly modified version achieved victory in Class 2 in the grueling 2019 Gibraltar Rally, with a 7,000 km course.
And it hasn’t stagnated. In the 21YM model, Honda improved the X-ADV’s engine performance, reduced weight, improved styling, and added even more utility.
In 2022, the X-ADV was Honda’s third best-selling motorcycle above 350cc, and since its introduction to the range, nearly 60,000 units have been sold throughout Europe.
With the introduction of two Special Editions and a new color option for the 24YM model, the X-ADV continues to consolidate its position as one of the coolest and most desired two-wheeled motorcycles available in Europe today.
Model Overview
The parallel twin-cylinder engine combines strong performance in the low and mid-range with smooth behavior and excellent fuel efficiency. Maximum power is set at 43.1 kW with an impressive 69 Nm of torque. Throttle By Wire (TBW) offers 4 preset riding modes and a custom USER option, while Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) offers refined input in 3 levels. The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) has automatic shift programs that integrate with the riding modes, as well as USER input.
A rugged chassis is composed of a tubular steel frame, 41mm USD front forks, a monoshock rear damper (with Pro-Link), and an aluminum swingarm. A 17-inch front wheel is combined with a 15-inch rear wheel with radial-mount four-piston calipers.
The bodywork has a sharp and aggressive design; the twin LED headlights also feature daytime running lights (DRL), like those used on the CRF1100L Africa Twin, improving visibility for other road users. For easy ground reach, the seat is carefully contoured at the shoulders. The under-seat storage space has a volume of 22 liters and also houses a USB-C charging point; there is also a useful glove compartment. In addition to the driving mode information, the TFT instrument display is also the interface for information related to the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System.
The X-ADV 24YM will be available in the following color options:
NEW Iridium Gray Metallic Special Edition with graphite black details and yellow highlights
NEW Grand Prix Red Special Edition with graphite black details
NEW Puco Blue with graphite black details
Ballistic Black Metallic with graphite black details
Key Features
3.1 Engine
Throttle By Wire; maximum power of 43.1 kW with 69 Nm torque Fuel efficiency of 6 l/100 km 35 kW A2 license version available The design of the X-ADV’s liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine ensures energetic performance in the low and mid-range. Its relatively long-stroke architecture and specially shaped combustion chambers, along with the high-inertia crankshaft, produce large amounts of effortless torque from the lowest rpm. A forward tilt lowers the center of gravity for optimal stability.
Maximum power is set at 43.1 kW at 6,750 rpm, with a maximum torque of 69 Nm at 4,750 rpm. From 30 km/h, the X-ADV will travel 20 meters in 1.7 seconds, 50 meters in 3.2 seconds, while at 60 km/h, the high-torque engine spins at just 2,500 rpm.
For A2 license holders, a 35 kW version is available, which can be easily converted to the full power version by a Honda dealer at the appropriate time. Similarly, it is possible to limit the full power version to 35 kW by remapping the ECU by a Honda dealer.
The two balancers counteract the vibration generated by inertia at higher rpm without affecting the distinctive “pulse” provided by the engine’s irregular firing order and 270° phase crankshaft. The cylinder dimensions are 77 x 80 mm. If possible, components are manufactured to perform more than one function: the camshaft drives the water pump, while one of the balance shafts drives the oil pump.
By keeping the number of parts to a minimum in this way, the engine is made light, efficient and reliable.
The X-ADV engine is also fuel-efficient, with a measured consumption of 27.8 km/l (WMTC mode), providing a potential range of 366 km with the 13.2-liter fuel tank.
3.2 Engine Electronics
Throttle By Wire offers 4 preset riding modes, plus customization by the USER Honda Selectable Torque Control features 3 levels of intervention With the TBW managing engine performance and response, there are 4 modes for the rider to choose from, covering all riding conditions. Mode selection is managed via the left handlebar switch.
STANDARD mode offers a balanced midpoint between engine power delivery, engine braking and HSTC intervention, with the highest level of ABS intervention.
SPORT mode provides more aggressive engine power delivery and engine braking, with low HSTC intervention and high ABS.
RAIN mode transmits low engine power delivery and engine braking, with high HSTC and ABS input.
GRAVEL mode employs high power and engine braking with low HSTC and ABS.
USER mode offers customized low/medium/high options between engine power delivery and engine braking, and low/medium/high/off for HSTC.
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) offers refined control, as it uses the TBW to manage torque delivered to the rear wheel, with 3 levels of intervention:
Level 1 allows minimal intervention for some rear wheel slippage, such as on gravel or dirt, and its level of intervention is reduced compared to the previous design.
Level 2 is the default setting and provides traction that inspires confidence in general driving conditions.
Level 3 provides maximum control on slippery roads.
HSTC can also be turned off.
3.3 Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
Different shift programs are linked to the riding modes USER mode allows a choice of 4 settings, from smooth to aggressive Honda’s DCT technology is already 14 years in production and more than 230,000 units of Honda two-wheeled motorcycles equipped with DCT have been sold in Europe since 2010. It offers consistent and smooth gear changes up or down and quickly becomes second nature in use. It uses two clutches: one for starting and 1st, 3rd and 5th gears, and another for 2nd, 4th and 6th gears, with the main shaft of each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging.
Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear using the clutch that is not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged at the same time as the second clutch is engaged.
The result is a consistent, fast and smooth gear change. Furthermore, since the two clutches transfer power from one gear to the next with minimal interruption in traction to the rear wheel, any jerking in the gear change and sinking of the motorcycle is minimized, making the change feel direct and smooth. Additional benefits include durability (as gears cannot be damaged by skipping a gear), the impossibility of stalling the engine, low-stress urban driving, reduced driver fatigue, and additional mental space to focus on purely driving aspects, such as the driving line, curves, braking and acceleration points.
The DCT system offers two distinct driving approaches: automatic settings, with pre-programmed shift patterns that constantly read vehicle speed, selected gear and engine rpm to decide when a shift should occur, and the Manual Transmission setting for gear changes using the paddle-type triggers on the left handlebar.
Through TBW control, 5 automatic shift programs are available. Level 1 is the most relaxed, with upshifts and downshifts at relatively lower rpm; it is linked to RAIN driving mode. Level 4, at the other extreme, shifts at higher rpm and also shifts down earlier for greater engine braking effect; it is linked to SPORT mode. Level 2 is linked to STANDARD driving mode, and Level 3 is between STANDARD and SPORT.
For GRAVEL driving mode, the X-ADV uses the relatively sporty ‘G’ shift pattern; this has the additional functionality of a decreased level of ‘slippage’ as the clutches operate from a fully open or fully closed throttle, giving the driver a more direct feel of traction on the rear wheel and the ability to perform controlled skids off-road. While this functionality was previously activated by the separate G switch, it is now integrated into the new DCT ‘G’ shift pattern.
The USER mode functionality allows the driver to select any of the DCT shift patterns with the preferred combinations of other parameters, such as power delivery, engine braking, ABS and HSTC.
3.4 Design and Equipment
Sharp, slim and aggressive SUV style Honda Smartphone Voice Control System offers smartphone link via the 5-inch TFT screen Dual LED headlights include daytime running lights Ample 22L storage space includes a glove compartment and houses a USB-C charger The unique and striking style of the X-ADV (conceived and developed by the Honda R team in Italy) evolved for the 21YM to become slimmer and sharper; the silhouette is deliberately upright, with each body panel perfected with strong intention.
The dual LED headlights feature daytime running lights (DRL) that automatically adjust to the intensity of the ambient light and provide a bright and highly visible light that improves safety. All lighting systems are LED.
In terms of ergonomics, the seat height of 820 mm (shaped to facilitate ground reach) and the wide handlebar set at 910 mm ensure a high vantage point, providing excellent visibility. For daily driving or long journeys, the X-ADV’s screen adjusts without tools through 5 positions from low to high to maximize or minimize airflow. The total height difference is 139 mm, with an inclination of 11° between the highest and lowest points.
Incorporated into the X-ADV’s driver interface and visualized through the 5-inch TFT screen is the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), which connects the driver to their smartphone while on the go and allows voice management of phone calls, email, music and navigation. A helmet-mounted headset is required, and the smartphone connects to the dashboard via Bluetooth; system management is also possible via the buttons on the left handlebar switch.
The sturdy plastic hand guards deflect wind and rain, while adding protection for hands and levers against stones when driving off-road. A 2.5 mm thick shot-blasted aluminum crash plate protects the underside.
The 22L under-seat storage space can accommodate a full-face helmet and is illuminated with an integral LED, whose textured surface provides uniform lighting without glare. A USB-C charging plug is located at the rear of the compartment. A center stand, with tilt sensor, is installed as standard and allows the X-ADV to be parked on a slope without fear of tipping over.
For added convenience, the X-ADV uses a Smart Key, which is stored in the driver’s pocket and eliminates the need to use a key for the ignition, fuel filler cap and seat. With the Smart Key present, a press of the main knob-type switch turns it on and allows it to be turned, giving the driver control over the ignition/steering lock and, via two rocker switches, the fuel filler cap and seat. It also has a ‘response’ function, which causes the turn signals to flash for remote identification, and locks and unlocks the optional Smart Top Case. A clutch mechanism in the main switch prevents the handlebar from being unlocked by force.
The X-ADV’s rear turn signals also have a self-canceling Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function. If a negative acceleration of 6.0 m/s² is detected at a minimum speed of 53 km/h with either brake in operation, the hazard lights flash to warn other road users that heavy braking is in progress. At the same speed, the threshold is reduced if ABS is activated to a negative acceleration of a minimum of 2.5 m/s².
The turn signals also cancel automatically. Instead of using a simple timer, the system compares the speed difference between the front and rear wheels and calculates when to cancel the signal based on the situation.
3.5 Chassis
Lightweight diamond-shaped steel tube structure 41 mm USD front fork and Pro-Link swingarm Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers, 296 mm discs and ABS 120/70 R17 front and 160/60 R15 rear tires The X-ADV’s diamond-shaped steel tube chassis is lightweight and strong, and its rigidity has been designed to allow lateral flex for an intuitive handling feel and longitudinal rigidity to handle vertical loads and withstand the demands of changing direction.
A 41 mm USD front fork (which, along with the swingarm, uses rubber joints instead of bearings for smoother performance and more progressive suspension) provides 153.5 mm of travel. The Pro-Link monoshock rear damper has 150 mm of travel and connects to a cast aluminum swingarm that is 575 g lighter than the previous design.
The front suspension is firmer compared to the previous model and has a high-speed compression function to improve handling on bumpy roads.
The braking system uses a dual-channel ABS braking system and two 296 mm floating discs at the front, bitten by four-piston radial brake calipers; at the rear there is a 240 mm disc bitten by a single-piston caliper.
ABS is part of the braking system and works with a sensor on each wheel, and is also linked to Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) at the rear for precise intervention management and to ensure that ABS works through all three levels of HSTC intervention. When stopped, the system allows the ABS on the rear wheel to be more sensitive to HSTC intervention, so the rider benefits from straight-line braking even when on a slippery slope. If the rider runs out of braking pressure at the front or rear, the ABS asymmetric braking is activated and provides straight-line braking. The ABS soft start function also helps control sudden braking. For riders who want to disable ABS on the rear wheel while stationary or in motion, it is possible to do so with the left handlebar switch.
The front tire has a 120/70 R17 section, with the rear wheel featuring a 160/60 R15 section.
3.6 Storage compartment and seat
22L storage space to accommodate a full-face helmet Additional storage compartment USB-C charger in the storage space The X-ADV’s seat has been designed to provide solid support and is wide enough to accommodate two people comfortably. Its carefully contoured shape at the shoulders also allows the rider to reach the ground with ease.
The X-ADV has a 22-liter storage space under the seat, which can accommodate a full-face helmet; it is illuminated with an integral LED, whose textured surface provides uniform lighting without glare. A USB-C charging plug is located at the rear of the compartment.
An additional storage compartment is located to the left under the seat and is perfect for storing smaller items. It is large enough to accommodate a smartphone or wallet.
3.7 Wheels
Adventure tires that perform equally well on and off road 120/70 R17 front tire and 160/60 R15 rear tire The X-ADV’s tires are designed to provide equal performance on and off road, thanks to their adventure tread design and robust construction. The front tire has a 120/70 R17 section, while the rear tire has a 160/60 R15 section.
These adventure tires provide a combination of durability and grip on various surfaces, which is especially suitable for the versatility of the X-ADV, which can face a variety of driving conditions, including urban roads, winding roads and off-road paths.