Honda NC700S review - Telegraph The X's more upright stance improves your view and visibility in traffic and is more comfortable at lower speeds, but you feel marginally more windblown on the motorway. It's also the better looking. The S, however, offers more precision and feel from the front end and better control during rapid changes of direction. The suspension isn't great on either, being harsh and choppy on poor surfaces. This doesn't help with comfort, because the seat is small and too firm. There are few other clues that this is a sub-£6,000 machine, though - the build quality is to Honda's usual very high standards, and that engine is likely to run and run. There's a capacious, lockable storage bin where you'd expect the fuel tank to be. It's big enough for a full-face helmet, although the downside is that you need to lift the pillion seat to refuel. A legacy of the multi-use platform design is weight: the NC700S is a touch heavy at 474lb. It's the same as the V-Strom but the Suzuki has more substance in its big, comfy seat and protective fairing, and it has almost 50 per cent more power. But the Honda steers very well and the seat is low, helping with low-speed manoeuvring, so only the larger than average turning circle affects filtering through traffic. You really have to try hard to get near Honda's 78.8mpg claim: I achieved 76mpg at a steady 70mph on the NC700X, while on the S in mixed riding I was getting 65mpg, which is likely to be replicated by most owners. These figures are very good, although the V-Strom and other middleweight rivals are only about 10 per cent worse while giving you a lot more power and excitement. Honda NC700S Price/on sale: £5,850/now Power/torque: 47bhp @ 6,250rpm/44lb ft @ 4,750rpm Top speed: 115mph Fuel tank/range: 3.1 gallons/200 miles Verdict: As a utility motorcycle for saving fuel costs and traffic time it's outstanding, but you sacrifice some of the fun of a conventional bike Telegraph rating: Four out of five stars Suzuki Gladius Street ABS, £6,099 Economy is shy of the Honda's but it's not far off, although build quality isn't as good. The suspension and comfort are better, while the V-twin engine is more satisfying. Pricier than the Honda when you specify ABS (standard on the NC), power is comparable but it's delivered in a more exciting way, while comfort is better and it's lighter, too. Kawasaki ER-6n, £6,199 With the £400 optional ABS, the ER-6 is the most expensive but it's capable and enjoyable. Economy won't trouble the Honda and it's small size doesn't suit taller riders.