MalcolmReynolds
Site Supporter
I would say try to get a test ride of the NC and see if you click with it's unique low rpm easy going character. Specs, reviews, and all of the research that goes into a bike is great, but it is putting your behind in the saddle and seeing how you and the bike like each other is where things change or gel. For many people who have ridden high RPM bikes they may or may not like the NC's mannerisms. For some it just works and is a delight.
I had the same hang up when I was looking at the NC about the lack of ABS on the manual. At the time I wasn't sure I trusted the DCT for the same reasons stated. Complicated gizmo's are questionable in my mind over the long haul. However some time has passed and the DCT does seem to be holding up pretty well for most people that I have seen talk about their bikes. If I had it to do over again I would not rule out the DCT on a motorcycle. I did rule it out when I bought my NC and decided to live with the fact it does not have ABS on the manual just to avoid the possible hassles over time of DCT issues. Not a problem at all as I really enjoy this bike and have had nothing but good experiences so far with it other than the farkling to get the bike the way I want it for my own comfort. Everyone is different and one size does not fit all. So I would say as part of any investigation to go out and see if you can get a ride on these bikes you are interested in to ensure they are really in your short list for real. I don't think I would rule out the DCT however. Give it a try and see what you think. The DCT is in a variety of machines now and appears to be very nice and I would consider one on my next bike. The NC is a different kind of bike in my mind due to it's low rev power plant and it just clicks with me personally. YMMV
I had the same hang up when I was looking at the NC about the lack of ABS on the manual. At the time I wasn't sure I trusted the DCT for the same reasons stated. Complicated gizmo's are questionable in my mind over the long haul. However some time has passed and the DCT does seem to be holding up pretty well for most people that I have seen talk about their bikes. If I had it to do over again I would not rule out the DCT on a motorcycle. I did rule it out when I bought my NC and decided to live with the fact it does not have ABS on the manual just to avoid the possible hassles over time of DCT issues. Not a problem at all as I really enjoy this bike and have had nothing but good experiences so far with it other than the farkling to get the bike the way I want it for my own comfort. Everyone is different and one size does not fit all. So I would say as part of any investigation to go out and see if you can get a ride on these bikes you are interested in to ensure they are really in your short list for real. I don't think I would rule out the DCT however. Give it a try and see what you think. The DCT is in a variety of machines now and appears to be very nice and I would consider one on my next bike. The NC is a different kind of bike in my mind due to it's low rev power plant and it just clicks with me personally. YMMV