Honda Deauville 650

In some ways the Deauville is reminiscent of the super-clean image the corporation attempted with the PC800 (USA only) of the 1980s - then regarded as a cross between a scooter and a tourer. But more unkindly likened to an icecream truck.

Even now, the Deauville gets the odd snigger from some overseas road testers, but I'm convinced they're wrong. Albeit with the briefest of road rides on a one-off evaluation bike during a track launch of much more hairy-chested models from the range.

Essentially the Deauville uses a version of the long-developed mid-range V-twins from the range. That has included things such as Transalp, Revere and all sorts of variants. It has slick looks, with luggage integrated into the overall styling package.

Okay, here's what I like. It has respectable performance (over 160kmh in easy reach), feels ultra stable and gives every indication of being able to go from Brisbane to Perth tomorrow without fuss. Steering is very slow, while braking is predictable. Here's a bonus - it's shaft driven, which is important to touring folk. Fuel capacity is 19.5 litres - on the low side, though I suspect it will get to 20km/lt, which makes the range respectable.

At the time of writing (July 2002) Honda Australia is likely to import it, which might fill a gap in the product range that will appeal to Ulysses folk and medium to shorter riders who want the luxury or comfort of a light tourer without suffering a weight penalty. No price yet, but the bike itself deserves a chance on the local market.

Story: Guy Allen