Honda announce host of tech based updates for their funky X-ADV adventure scooter for 2025

Honda have announced a host of updates for their long-standing X-ADV, making the adventure scooter even more comfortable, convenient and capable. 

First introduced in 2017, the funky overgrown urban explorer has developed a huge fanbase on the continent (especially along the Mediterranean), with Honda selling 76,000 units throughout the bike’s seven-year existence in Europe alone.  

Whilst maxi scooters have never quite struck a chord with UK audiences in the same way, the X-ADV represents a hugely significant market player for the big ‘H’, with only their Hornet 750 managing to pip the 745cc scooter in terms of sales. 

Practical additions

In typical Honda style, the changes kick off with several practical touches making the bike easier to live with. Cruise control is now equipped as standard, as is four-way backlit switchgear and a windscreen that can now be adjusted tool-free and on the move between three positions. 

The useful changes don’t stop there either. The seat has undergone a reshape to increase stand-over ease but despite this, has gained 10% more foam to simultaneously improve comfort.  

The seat pan opening function has also been tweaked for smoother operation and access to the 22-litre, USB charger equipped storage compartment too – there’s also a glove box upfront for even more handy storage space. 

DCT refreshed

The X-ADV is available only with Honda’s automatic DCT transmission (which can be operated manually via handlebar mounted gearshift buttons). For the new model, the system has undergone an evolution, now allowing owners to select a favourite shift pattern in the user set-up.  

The DCT ‘box now offers a smoother low-speed response, and features five user settings for shifting aggression and has gear-change schedules that are suited specifically to the riding mode selected.  

Speaking of which, there are four modes to choose from: Standard, Sport, Gravel and Rain. Owners can tweak specific settings within these too.  

New look

Accompanying the mechanical changes, is a fresh bodywork redesign which Honda say gives “an almost origami-like aspect” to the big scooter’s front end.

The recycled plastics and rubber used throughout are largely reprocessed from scrap and defective materials and to an extent not seen on any previous Honda model. 

The X-ADV’s 745cc parallel twin motor retains the same performance as before, with a claimed 57.8bhp on tap – there’s also a 47bhp version for A2 licence holders. The chassis too goes without revision and the X-ADV continues to roll on a 17/15-inch wheel combo.

Let there be light 

Incorporated within the new fairing set up is a new dual LED headlight. This incorporates the indicators and, for the first time, daytime running lights. 

Oodles of accessories 

There are five curated packs to choose from for customers who want to deck out their X-ADVs. Among the list is a rough and ready Adventure Pack, which specs front fog lights, crash bars, black (non-rigid) handguard and rider footpegs.

There’s also a Travel Pack which provides a further 59-litres of storage via side panniers, a Comfort Pack, and, for those wanting an executive look, there is a Style Pack which adds a smattering of aluminium and stainless-steel parts.  

Keyless go 

The X-ADV uses a contactless ‘Smart Key’ which operates the ignition, fuel cap and seat. With the ‘Smart Key’ present, one push of the main switch powers the bike up, giving the rider steering and ignition control.

It also has an ‘answer back’ function, which makes the indicators flash for easy identification from a distance, and locks and unlocks the optional ‘Smart Top Box’. A clutch mechanism in the main switch prevents the handlebars unlocking by force for added security. 

Information abundance 

A new five-inch TFT dash features new menu structures and is said to be improved for use in bright sunlight. It features smartphone connectivity and is managed by a new left-hand toggle switch – allowing the rider to flick between functions without removing their hands from the handlebars.