[Talking Heads]

The NC is a simply brilliant design.... in terms of what it was designed for.

To get the most out of it DCT option is best imo.
DCT is very weird at first but you get used to it very quickly.
Its a more versatile system than you first realise, there's a few different ways you can use it.

The 211kg S variant isn't much heavier than an SV at 198kg.
The X weighs the same as a V-strom 650, 220kg.
The quoted 13.4 standing quarter is on a par with a 1980s Yamaha LC350, a bike never accused of being slow.

If you want a sensible bike for medium to long range commuting, or touring, the NC is well worth consideration.
Horses for courses.