Honda X-ADV 2025 Review - Tested and Proven

I took it for a spin on the Supermoto track, grabbed some sandwiches, weaved through city traffic, and tackled gravel paths with my enduro buddies. And I kept asking myself: What exactly are you, Honda X-ADV? The answer is as clear as it is surprising: You're a completely unique vehicle concept that fits into no category—and that's precisely your charm.

The Honda X-ADV 2025 is what you get when you task engineers with combining a practical everyday vehicle with the DNA of an adventurer. Eight years after its debut, it remains an anomaly in the world of two-wheelers. You sit like you're on a scooter, but you ride like you're on a motorcycle. The new model year brings noticeable upgrades for frequent riders: a cruise control is now standard, along with a significantly improved seat that considerably enhances long-distance comfort.

At the heart of the X-ADV is still the 745cc parallel-twin engine, delivering about 59 horsepower and 69 Nm of torque. But power alone isn't its trump card. It's the sense of playful ease with which the engine unfolds. The dual-clutch transmission (DCT) has been further refined and now even better anticipates the rider's needs. Especially at low speeds—like in city traffic or tight turns—it shifts smoothly and intuitively. Handlebar button inputs are hardly needed anymore, as the software now seems almost clairvoyant.

With a fully fueled weight exceeding 230 kilos, the X-ADV is no lightweight. Maneuvering can be cumbersome—especially since the bike is relatively wide. This means you lack a stable footing and can't fully leverage your leg strength. The wide front, significant standover, and bulky appearance suggest sluggishness—but in corners, it's quite the opposite. Even on the Supermoto track, the X-ADV proved agile, predictable, and with a touch of playfulness. The upside-down fork and central shock offer a comfortable yet firm setup. In everyday use, on country roads, or even on gravel, the Honda remains composed.

Heated grips with five settings, LED lighting, a clear cockpit with easily accessible controls, and finally, cruise control: the electronics are thoughtfully designed and user-friendly. The riding modes "Rain," "Sport," "Standard," and "Gravel" work in seamless harmony with traction control and the DCT. Especially in "Gravel" mode, the X-ADV showcases a robustness reminiscent of large adventure bikes. Everything is managed via a control unit on the left handlebar, which operates intuitively after a brief familiarization period.

Anyone who thinks the X-ADV is a better TMAX is mistaken. It's something entirely different. The Yamaha TMAX 560 leans more towards being a sports scooter, the Honda Forza 750 is a tourer with scooter DNA. The X-ADV, however, is the pragmatic all-rounder. It's more robust than a BMW C 400 X, more accessible than an Africa Twin, yet still equipped with motorcycle chassis. If you're looking for a jack-of-all-trades, this is it.

Those who embark on an Alpine tour once a year but spend the other 360 days commuting, running errands, or chauffeuring kids will love the X-ADV. It has storage space for a full-face helmet, the windscreen can be adjusted with one hand, and the comfort on long journeys is surprisingly high. Only shorter riders might struggle with the wide seat and high step-over. Maneuvering also requires a bit of practice.

The Honda X-ADV 2025 is powered by a liquid-cooled 745cc twin-cylinder engine, delivering around 59 hp and 69 Nm of torque. The dual-clutch transmission shifts gears lightning-fast and has been noticeably optimized for 2025. The chassis features an upside-down fork and a central shock with a Pro-Link system. The front wheel measures 17 inches, while the rear is 15 inches. The weight is 236 kg fully fueled, and the seat height is approximately 820 mm.

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During the X-ADV test, the Bowtex Elite Series was used—a protective gear that impressively proves that maximum safety and high wearing comfort don't have to be mutually exclusive. The CE AAA-certified combination of shirt and leggings served as an invisible armor under my regular clothing. Particularly on long stages, the Dyneema material impressed with its cooling feel, snug yet pressure-free fit, and excellent freedom of movement. Despite intensive use, the fit remained stable and the feel on the skin pleasant—a perfect companion for long test days with a hectic schedule. This motorcycle gear approach is entirely different: you wear it as underwear—with regular clothing on top. This is no "half measure," however. It's highly abrasion-resistant, with protectors and top-notch temperature regulation. Expensive—but highly recommended!

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The test machine was equipped with an SW-MOTECH DUSC L Top Case, which proved to be an uncompromisingly functional companion. With its 41-liter capacity, it safely and dryly transported our camera equipment, rain gear, and travel provisions through all weather conditions. Particularly noteworthy is the solid locking mechanism, which consistently secured even after repeated use. The STREET-RACK luggage carrier provided a solid foundation that seamlessly integrated into the vehicle's lines. Ergonomics, ease of installation, and practicality made the system a perfect complement to the versatile character of the X-ADV.