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When it comes to motorcycles, one of the most common questions riders have is, "How fast can it go?" If you're considering a 700cc motorcycle, you're probably curious about the speed and performance you can expect.
But before diving into that, it’s worth noting that motorcycles come in all shapes and sizes, catering to different needs.
For instance, if you're thinking about starting young riders on their journey, a mini bike for kids might be on your shopping list. These smaller, easy-to-handle bikes are perfect for helping kids learn the basics in a safe and controlled manner.
As for those looking for a bit more power, let’s dive into everything you need to know about the speed of a 700cc bike, from what affects it to how it compares with other engine sizes.
Introduction
Selecting the ideal motorcycle requires considering its engine capacity or "cc." Many riders find a 700cc engine offers optimal balance.
Beginners might find it intimidating, yet its additional speed and power make it ideal.
Imagine a 700cc motorcycle similar to a mid-sized car: ideal for city commutes but capable of providing an exciting highway experience.
But what exactly does "700cc" refer to? The acronym CC stands for cubic centimetres, which measures an engine's capacity—specifically, how much air and fuel mix in each cylinder to create power.
Typically, larger engines produce more power, which translates to faster speed.
| Engine Size (cc) | Power Level | Typical Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50cc | Very Low | Urban commuting, scooters | Extremely lightweight, easy to handle, very fuel-efficient | Very limited speed, not suitable for highways |
| 125cc | Low | Short-distance commuting, beginners | Affordable, easy to ride, ideal for new riders | Limited power and speed, not ideal for long trips |
| 250cc | Low to Moderate | City commuting, occasional touring | More power than 125cc, still lightweight, manageable for new riders | May struggle on highways, less torque |
| 500cc | Moderate | City and light touring | Good balance of power and control, versatile | May feel underpowered for experienced riders |
| 700cc | High | City, touring, and sport | Versatile, strong performance, balanced speed | Can be intimidating for absolute beginners |
| 900cc | Very High | Sport, touring, high-speed | Excellent acceleration, great for highways | Heavier, more expensive, more demanding to ride |
| 1000cc | Very High | High-speed touring, racing | Extremely powerful, top speeds, great for experienced riders | Heaviest, hardest to handle for less experienced riders |
Factors That Affect the Speed of a 700cc Motorcycle
To accurately understand how a 700cc motorcycle operates in terms of speed, multiple factors must be considered beyond engine size alone. Many factors contribute to its ability and overall comfort.
Engine Power and Performance
At the core of every motorcycle lies its engine. A 700cc engine often provides an optimal mix of power and control.
Depending on your make and model of car, top speeds typically range between 110 and 140 miles per hour (225-275 kilometers per hour).
This range offers plenty of speed for most riders, whether cruising along a highway or on twisty roads.
Weight and Aerodynamics
Both the weight of a motorcycle and its aerodynamic design are also key considerations when selecting an appropriate ride. Heavy bikes provide greater stability at high speeds. However, they may take longer to accelerate when starting from stationary positions.
Lighter bikes accelerate more quickly but may feel less secure at higher speeds.
The bike's design also plays an integral part in its performance. More aerodynamic motorcycles cut through the air more efficiently, thus reducing drag and enabling higher speeds.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Your bike's transmission and drivetrain have an immense effect on its speed. A properly calibrated transmission ensures power flows from the engine to the wheels with no interference from frictional losses or overshoot.
Some motorcycles feature gear ratios optimized to facilitate quick acceleration, while others may feature higher top speeds.
Tires and Grip
Your motorcycle's tyres play a pivotal role in handling at various speeds. High-performance tyres with an improved grip can enhance acceleration and cornering capabilities, increasing your motorcycle's speed.
However, these tyres might wear down more quickly due to being constructed of softer compounds.
The Rider’s Role
Finally, the rider's weight, riding position, and handling skills all play an integral part in determining their bike's speed. Adopting an aerodynamic posture (such as tucking in on straightaways) may help boost speed even further.
On the other hand, an upright riding position could provide greater comfort but could create additional wind resistance - potentially decreasing speed slightly.
Popular 700cc Motorcycles
To give you an idea of the types of 700cc bikes currently on the market, let's examine some popular 700cc motorcycles and their features.
Honda NC750X
The Honda NC750X is one of the most well-rounded 700cc motorcycles on the market. Renowned for its practicality and versatility, it is an excellent choice for city commuting and weekend adventures.
With its top speed of approximately 125 mph (200 km/h), the NC750X provides an attractive balance between power and efficiency. Furthermore, this motorcycle offers a comfortable riding position, ample storage space, and outstanding fuel economy, making it a suitable option for riders seeking a reliable yet easy-to-ride motorcycle.
Yamaha MT-07
The Yamaha MT-07 is an appealing choice for riders seeking an accessible bike that's both fun and funky. Its 689cc engine packs plenty of punch, reaching top speeds of 130 mph (210 km/h).
The Yamaha MT-07 is a light and agile bike designed for city riding or twisty roads. Its torquey engine and precise handling have proven popular with new riders and experienced veterans alike.
If you're looking for a bike that offers an exhilarating ride without being overpowering, the MT-07 could be an ideal choice.
Kawasaki Z650
The Kawasaki Z650 is an outstanding 700cc motorcycle that combines performance with everyday usability. It is equipped with a 649cc parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth power for top speeds of approximately 120mph (193km/h).
The Z650 is known for its manoeuvrable handling and ergonomic comfort, making it an excellent option for various riding situations.
No matter if it is used for city traffic or enjoying a leisurely weekend ride, the Z650 was made for performance.
Suzuki V-Strom 650
If adventure touring is your passion, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is an outstanding option in the 700cc class. It is specifically engineered to handle on and off-road environments with comfort, power, and versatility in mind.
The V-Strom 650 boasts a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h). Its V-twin engine delivers smooth and responsive power delivery.
This bike features adjustable suspension and a comfortable seat, making it the perfect option for long-distance rides.
| Motorcycle Model | Top Speed | Engine | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda NC750X | 125 mph (200 km/h) | 745cc Parallel-Twin | Comfortable riding position, ample storage, excellent fuel economy | Versatile for city and weekend adventures |
| Yamaha MT-07 | 130 mph (210 km/h) | 689cc Parallel-Twin | Lightweight, agile, torquey engine, sharp handling | Fun and accessible for both new and experienced riders |
| Kawasaki Z650 | 120 mph (193 km/h) | 649cc Parallel-Twin | Nimble handling, smooth power delivery, comfortable ergonomics | Everyday usability, city commuting, spirited rides |
| Suzuki V-Strom 650 | 120 mph (193 km/h) | 645cc V-Twin | Adjustable suspension, versatile for on-road and off-road, comfortable seat | Adventure touring and long-distance rides |
Read more: Understanding CC in Motorcycles: What Does It Mean?
Real-World Performance of 700cc Motorcycles
In real-world riding conditions, the speed of a 700cc bike will depend on numerous factors, including where and how it is being driven.
City Riding
When riding through urban traffic, agility and acceleration are more essential than speed. A 700cc motorcycle offers ample power for manoeuvring through traffic quickly while being agile enough to accelerate quickly from stoplights - making it a practical option for urban commuting.
Highway Riding
700cc motorcycles truly shine on the open highway. Capable of reaching high speeds comfortably, they make for great long-distance rides.
Many riders appreciate the stability at higher speeds, which enables them to ride comfortably without feeling like they're pushing the bike beyond its capacity.
Mountain and Twisty Roads
When riding through twisty mountain roads, speed is measured by how quickly one can travel in a straight line and by how well your motorcycle handles curves.
A 700cc bike provides enough power to accelerate out of corners while remaining manageable and responsive - perfect for windy roads!
Comparing 700cc to Other Engine Sizes
How does a 700cc motorcycle compare with bikes of other engine sizes?
Versus 500cc Motorcycles
A 700cc bike provides more power and speed than its 500cc counterpart, especially during acceleration and higher speeds. This difference becomes particularly obvious during these situations.
An engine with a capacity of 700cc typically provides a more comfortable and satisfying riding experience, especially for long rides or highway cruising.
Versus 1000cc Motorcycles
On the other hand, when you compare a 700cc bike to a 1000cc motorcycle, the differences are significant. A 1000cc bike will almost always be faster, with more raw power.
However, with that extra power comes added weight and complexity, making 1000cc bikes more challenging to handle, particularly for less experienced riders.
For many, the 700cc offers a more balanced ride—powerful enough to be exciting, yet still manageable.
Modifying Your 700cc Motorcycle for Speed
If you’re looking to get even more speed out of your 700cc motorcycle, there are several modifications you can consider.
Upgraded exhaust systems are an increasingly popular mod that can reduce weight and increase engine efficiency—potentially speeding up your bike!
Swapping out your air filter with one that provides greater performance can also help your engine breathe easier, improving acceleration.
Tuning your bike's Engine Control Unit (ECU) is another option for maximizing power. This can improve fuel delivery and ignition timing for maximum performance.
Adjusting the suspension or opting for performance tyres can also improve handling at high speeds, giving you greater confidence to ride faster with greater speed.
Safety Considerations and Legal Limits
With speed comes responsibility, so it is essential to remember that riding at high speeds involves excitement and risks.
Be mindful of speed limits in your area and ride within them to protect yourself and others. This will not only keep tickets away but also ensure safety.
A high-quality helmet, protective jacket, gloves, and boots are essential safety gear when pushing your bike hard —they will ensure maximum protection during any adventure!
Remember, arriving safely is better than risking injury by travelling too quickly.
Conclusion
A 700cc motorcycle offers an ideal balance of power, speed and versatility. Perfect for urban commutes, highway travel or traversing mountain roads, this bike provides an exhilarating yet manageable ride.
Fast enough to keep things engaging but practical for everyday use.
Popular models in this class, including the Honda NC750X, Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Suzuki V-Strom 650, demonstrate the wide array of options suitable for riders of various riding styles and preferences.
Finding a 700cc motorcycle that strikes just the right balance is all about striking that perfect balance - with enough speed to satisfy your desire for adventure but practicality and control that make daily riding enjoyable.
A 700cc motorcycle may be just the ticket for riders seeking an all-purpose bike.
FAQs
How fast can a 700cc motorcycle go?
A 700cc motorcycle typically reaches speeds between 110 to 140 mph, depending on the model and conditions.
Is a 700cc motorcycle good for beginners?
Yes, a 700cc motorcycle offers a balanced mix of power and control, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
What are some popular 700cc motorcycle models?
Popular models include the Honda NC750X, Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Suzuki V-Strom 650, each offering unique features and performance.
