2009 Honda DN-01 Review

SPECIFICATIONS

 

Engine and Transmission

Displacement: 680cc
Engine Type: liquid-cooled 52 degree V-Twin
Bore and Stroke: 81 x 66mm
Compression ratio: 10.0:1
Valve Train: SOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, 40mm throttle bodies and 12-hole injectors
Ignition: Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission: HFT continuously variable, hydromechanical two-mode automatic with six-speed manual mode.
Final Drive: Shaft

Chassis and Dimensions

 

Suspension: Front: 41mm telescopic fork with 4.2 inches travel
Rear: Pro Arm single-side swingarm with single shock, seven-position spring preload adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Brakes: Front: Combined ABS with dual full-floating 296mm discs and three-piston calipers
Rear: Combined ABS with single 276mm disc and three-piston caliper
Tires: Front: 130/70 ZR17 radial
Rear: 190/50 ZR17 radial
Wheelbase: 63.2 inches
Rake (Caster angle): 28.5o
Trail: 114mm (4.5 inches)
Seat Height: 27.2 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gallons, including 0.8-gallon reserve
Curb Weight: 595 pounds

Features & Benefits

 

Colors include Candy Dark Red and Black.

Unique Features

 

Powerful 4-valve, 680cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine.

HFT transmission is a continuously variable, hydromechanical design that automatically and seamlessly changes drive ratios to produce strong, smooth acceleration. Unlike conventional belt-drive designs, HFT is compact, quiet, no scheduled maintenance, and features two automatic modes and a six-speed manual mode with push-button shifting.

Low 27.2-inch seat height assures flat-footed confidence when stopped.

Large-diameter 41mm front fork and single-shock Pro Arm® Rear Suspension (see Technology Section) provide a sporting ride on low-profile Z-rated radial tires.

Combined ABS (LBS-ABS, see Technology Section) triple-disc brake system for sure-footed braking in varying conditions.

 o Combined Braking System (CBS) provides excellent braking power for added confidence in a wide range of operating conditions. CBS applies front braking force whenever the rear brake is operated. On the DN-01, equipped with dual front disc brakes with three-piston calipers and a twin-piston rear caliper, rider application of the front-brake lever activates all six brake pistons in the front calipers. Application of the rear-brake pedal activates the dual pistons of the rear caliper and the center piston of the front-left caliper.

 o Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS w/CBS) utilizes modulators- one each on the front and rear wheels- driven directly by specially developed electric motors. In operation, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) monitors wheel and vehicle speed. If one of both of the wheels approach a locking condition, the modulators, via a signal from the ECU, lower hydraulic pressure by acting directly on the brake piston(s). As wheel speed re-approaches motorcycle speed, the hydraulic pressure is increased. This entire process is repeated numerous times in just one second, resulting in optimal braking pressure and enhanced rider control.

Beautiful aerodynamic design provides protection from the elements.

Engine/Drivetrain

 

Compact 680cc, liquid-cooled SOHC 52-degree V-Twin provides substantial torque and power for everyday commuting and spirited backroad riding.

Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI, see Technology Section) with twin 40mm throttle bodies and high-performance 12-hole injectors provide excellent throttle response and fuel economy while contributing to low emissions.

Auto enrichment system is integrated into PGM-FI to optimize the air/fuel mixture on cold starts and eliminates the need for a choke.

ECU-controlled, closed-loop emission control system with oxygen sensor manage the air/fuel mixture and reduce exhaust emissions.

Front-mounted radiator receives ducted air from fairing shroud to maximize cooling.

2-into-1 stainless steel exhaust system with chrome-plated triangular shaped tailpipe is designed to centralize mass for improved handling.

HFT offers two fully automatic, infinitely variable transmission modes - ’D’ (Drive) mode for ordinary riding, and ’S’ (Sport) mode for sharper acceleration. In addition, a push-button-selectable, six-speed manual mode allows the rider to upshift/downshift with the simple operation of left thumb-activated buttons.

The ECU-controlled HFT automatically ’downshifts’ when climbing steep grades to maintain optimum power.

HFT provides ’lock-up’ in cruising mode for maximum fuel economy.

HFT features button-activated mechanical neutral, permitting engine revving when stopped. Mechanical neutral is automatically engaged whenever the engine is turned off, allowing easy maneuverability.

Chassis/Suspension

 

Sturdy double-cradle steel tube frame provides exceptional strength and bolt-on seat rail simplifies servicing.

Stout 41mm front fork with 4.2 inches of supple travel and progressive damping.

Relaxed 28.5-degree rake and 4.5 inches of trail contribute to comfortable, stretched-out riding position and provide excellent straight-line handling.

Single shock, Pro Arm Rear Suspension (see Technology Section).

Combined ABS (LBS-ABS, see Technology Section) with two lightweight 296mm floating front rotors and a single 276mm rear rotor.

Handsome, lightweight 17-inch 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels with Z-rated 130/70 ZR17 (front) and 190/50 ZR17 (rear) radial tires offer sport-touring traction and comfort in wet and dry riding conditions.

Additional Features

 

The DN-01’s sleek, aerodynamic bodywork is functional and beautiful.

Low, polycarbonate windshield allows some air into the cockpit at lower speeds.

Low 27.2-inch seat height with wide passenger seat provides all-day riding comfort and allows rider to put both feet down at stops or when parking motorcycle.

Well-placed mirrors provide an excellent rear view.

Spacious rider footboards enhance riding comfort without compromising cornering performance.

Handy one-touch, cable-actuated parking brake.

White LED-backlit, LCD instrument panel provides multi-segment tachometer and large digital speedometer displays with dual-trip calculator, clock, six-segment fuel gauge, plus large turn signal and ’neutral’ indicators.

Mass-centralized 4.0-gallon dual-compartment fuel tank with .8-gallon reserve.

Dual-element headlights provide right-side low beam operation- just like Honda CBRs- while both beams illuminate in high-beam mode. A brilliant multi-segment LED taillight is integrated into the rear cowl.

Widely spaced turn indicators are mounted on rearview mirrors for style and function.

Detachable seat provides storage for a U-lock. (Lock not included.)

Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda USA- certified unit by an individual retail user in the United States qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Riders Club of America® (HRCA®).

Honda Genuine Accessories

 

A custom-styled backrest for extra passenger comfort.

Rugged, full-coverage body cover.

Test Ride