Scooter – Honda Integra test: the scooter for bikers? – Maxi-scooter Integra: Honda scrambles the cards

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Honda Integra test: the scooter for bikers ?

Scooter - Honda Integra test: the scooter for bikers? - Maxi-scooter Integra: Honda scrambles the cards

Technically identical to the NC700X trail and the NC700S roadster, the Integra is however radically different. And for good reason: despite its engine and motorcycle frame, this new Honda product is actually a scooter designed to appeal to bikers…. Test.

Maxi-scooter Integra: Honda scrambles the cards

During urban or peri-urban journeys, which biker has never envied – even for a short time – the fate of a scooter rider? Who has never railed against the spartan comfort of a roadster, the exclusivity of a sports car or the high maintenance costs – not to mention the purchase price – of a road motorcycle ?

Of course, from there to turning your cuti and going to the "dark side of the force" of the two-wheeler, there is a step that many are not ready to take: it is a question of principle! But for those who are sensitive to the practical aspects of the maxi-scooter without renouncing the pleasures of the motorcycle, Honda offers an interesting alternative: the Integra.

According to the world’s leading manufacturer, this 2012 novelty “integrates” – hence its name!) – the practical aspects and comfort of a scooter and the dynamism of a motorcycle. How? ‘Or’ What ? By welcoming the motorization and the cycle part common to the NC700S and NC700X under its scooter wrapping (read in particular our). Either a double steel cradle frame, suspensions only adjustable in preload at the rear and a vertical twin of 669.6 cc.

Integra: already heard

Some of our readers have undoubtedly already noted it: this is not the first time that Honda has used the name "Integra", whether in its motorcycle or car range. Appeared for the first time in 1982 on the fairings of the CBX400F Integra, CB750F Integra and CBX550F Integra, then on those of the VT250F Integra, MBX80 Integra and VF400F Integra in 1984, the surname "Integra" was also attached to the name of certain automobiles (Quint Integra in 1985) before being used alone on the 1984, 1993, 2001 and 2004 models of the Honda Integra.

In fact, the changes mainly affect ergonomics and aesthetics. Although on this specific point, this is especially true on the front: certainly more enveloping, the rear part of the scooter is visually quite close to those of the NC700S roadster or the NC700X trail..

Surrounded by large and accessible handles – under which are fixed the lashing hooks – the Integra adopts the same passenger footrest plates and the same optics originally detached from the hull.

The long exhaust in the low position is also identical – with the exception of the small black cover placed on the silencer outlet of the Integra -, as is the banal swingarm with square section..

The 570mm long arm surrounds a 160mm wide (120 front) and 17 inch high "Y" spoke rim (same at the front). The Integra is therefore the first Honda scooter to adopt wheels of this size, the same as on the NC700 X and NC700S.

Completely covered, its sides stand out more clearly from its two cousins. Elegant chrome plastic covers even give the illusion that the Integra has an XXL perimeter aluminum frame, while an enveloping belly pan completes the camouflage of the engine..

Rather qualitative to the touch and assembled with care, this fairing almost completely conceals the mechanics and only the generous crankcases betray the presence of the twin set at 270 °: first forged at 180 °, the crankshaft is then hot twisted by 90 ° additional to obtain this timing.

The front panel also incorporates the stylistic codes specific to scooters: integral with the lower body, the trim accommodates a large windshield, pretty (and effective) mirrors and a "V" optic with multi-reflectors, including the upper part ends with tapered turn signals.

Bulky – a feature common to all maxi-scooters – this point-cut fairing gives off a flattering impression of quality, notably with the absence of fixing screws on the sides. Perched on a central stand that is easy to handle despite its 238 kg fully loaded, the Integra undoubtedly has a certain class.

Finally, the wide and thick saddle completes this "transformation": the rider will appreciate its softness and the small reinforcement offered to the lumbar region thanks to its two-stage format. He will also like its opening assisted by a cylinder, and especially its volume of 15 liters capable of accommodating rain gear, a bomb to lubricate the chain and even a respectable size lock..

Anyone used to scooters will consider storage space more critically. He will first criticize the fact that its opening is not controlled from the Neiman but by a lock located on the left side, then will roll his eyes in front of the storage volume for the least restricted of the Integra, despite the generous dimensions. of the machine…

While the NC700X and NC700S can receive a full-face helmet in the space fitted out in their false fuel tanks, a visorless semi-jet struggles to enter that of the Integra … This misstep is explained by the different shape of the scooter and its driving position: the rider’s legs are placed behind the apron, and not around the tank as on motorcycles.

In terms of unfortunate details, let us also mention the questionable placement of the 12V socket: at the bottom of the trunk! Unless you take the risk of letting the power supply run along the body while driving, recharging and using your GPS (or other) at the same time is therefore excluded….

Likewise, the low carrying capacity of the storage compartment placed on the apron risks frustrating more than one, as does the fragile aspect of its locking mechanism without a lock..

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