Honda Adv 350 Problems

The Honda ADV 350 is a fantastic scooter, blending adventure styling with urban practicality. However, like any machine, it's not without its quirks and potential issues. Knowing about these beforehand can save you time, money, and frustration, whether you're considering buying one or already own one. Let’s delve into some of the common areas where ADV 350 owners have reported problems, and explore possible solutions.

Is the ADV 350 Really Adventure-Ready? The Suspension Question

One of the biggest talking points, and a potential source of problems, revolves around the ADV 350's suspension. While the styling screams "adventure," the reality is somewhat more nuanced.

Stiffness on Rough Roads: Many riders find the stock suspension to be quite stiff, particularly the rear shock. This can translate into a jarring ride on anything other than smooth pavement. While it handles well on-road, the stiffness becomes apparent on gravel roads or poorly maintained surfaces. This isn’t necessarily a problem per se, but more of a mismatch between expectations and reality.
Limited Adjustability: The rear shock typically only offers preload adjustment. This allows you to fine-tune the suspension for different loads (rider only vs. rider and passenger), but it doesn't address the underlying stiffness. This limited adjustability is a common complaint, as it prevents riders from dialing in the suspension to their preferred settings for varying terrain.
Bottoming Out: In more extreme off-road situations, some riders have reported bottoming out the suspension, particularly the rear. This can be both uncomfortable and potentially damaging to the scooter.

So, what can you do?

Consider Aftermarket Upgrades: This is the most common solution. Several aftermarket companies offer replacement shocks and fork springs designed to improve ride quality and increase travel. Brands like Ohlins, YSS, and others offer options specifically for the ADV 350. This is a significant investment, but it can dramatically improve the scooter's performance on rougher surfaces.
Experiment with Tire Pressures: Lowering the tire pressure slightly (within the manufacturer's recommended range) can help absorb some of the bumps and vibrations. However, be careful not to lower the pressure too much, as this can negatively impact handling and increase the risk of a flat tire.
Adjust Preload Carefully: Make sure you've properly adjusted the rear shock preload to match your weight and the load you're carrying. Incorrect preload can exacerbate the stiffness and increase the likelihood of bottoming out.
Manage Expectations: The ADV 350 is not a true off-road machine. It's best suited for light gravel roads and well-maintained dirt trails. If you're planning on tackling more challenging terrain, you'll likely need to invest in suspension upgrades.

That Annoying Vibration: Where is it Coming From?

Another common complaint among ADV 350 owners is vibration. This can manifest in different ways and at different speeds.

Engine Vibration: Like many single-cylinder engines, the ADV 350's engine can produce noticeable vibration, particularly at certain RPM ranges. This is more pronounced than in multi-cylinder machines and is a characteristic of its design.
Handlebar Vibration: Vibration can be felt through the handlebars, especially at higher speeds. This can lead to hand fatigue on longer rides.
Panel Vibration: Some owners have reported rattling or buzzing noises coming from the body panels, particularly around the front fairing and instrument cluster. This is often caused by loose fasteners or panels rubbing against each other.

How to Dampen the Vibes:

Check Engine Mounts: Ensure that the engine mounts are properly tightened. Loose engine mounts can amplify vibration.
Balance Your Tires: An unbalanced tire can cause significant vibration, especially at higher speeds. Have your tires professionally balanced.
Handlebar Weights: Adding heavier handlebar weights can help dampen vibration felt through the handlebars.
Isolate Vibrating Panels: Carefully inspect the body panels for any loose fasteners or areas where panels are rubbing against each other. Use foam padding or rubber washers to isolate the panels and prevent them from vibrating.
Accept It (to a Point): It's important to acknowledge that some vibration is inherent to the ADV 350's design. However, excessive vibration should be investigated and addressed.

The Fuel Gauge Follies: Is it Lying to Me?

The ADV 350's fuel gauge has been known to be somewhat inaccurate.

Inconsistent Readings: The fuel gauge may fluctuate wildly, even on level ground. It might show full for a long time, then suddenly drop rapidly.
Empty When It's Not: Some riders have reported the fuel gauge showing empty even when there's still a significant amount of fuel in the tank.
Low Fuel Warning Light Issues: The low fuel warning light may come on prematurely or not at all.

What's the Solution?

Track Your Mileage: The most reliable way to determine how much fuel you have left is to track your mileage. Knowing your average fuel consumption allows you to estimate your range accurately.
Reset the Trip Meter: Resetting the trip meter after each fill-up will help you keep track of your mileage.
Don't Rely Solely on the Gauge: Use the fuel gauge as a general indicator, but don't rely on it completely. Always err on the side of caution and fill up before you think you need to.
Check the Fuel Level Sensor: In some cases, the fuel level sensor itself may be faulty. If you suspect this is the case, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic.

That Pesky Side Stand Switch

The side stand switch is a safety feature that prevents the engine from starting or running when the side stand is down. However, it can also be a source of problems.

False Positives: The switch may sometimes falsely indicate that the side stand is down, even when it's fully retracted. This can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to stall unexpectedly.
Corrosion: The switch is exposed to the elements and can be susceptible to corrosion, which can lead to malfunctions.
Damage: The switch can be damaged by impacts or debris.

Troubleshooting the Side Stand Switch:

Clean the Switch: Clean the switch and its surrounding area with a contact cleaner to remove any dirt or corrosion.
Inspect the Wiring: Check the wiring and connectors for any damage or loose connections.
Adjust the Switch: In some cases, the switch may need to be adjusted to ensure that it's properly aligned.
Bypass (Temporarily): As a temporary measure ONLY, some riders choose to bypass the side stand switch. This is NOT recommended for safety reasons. It's far better to replace or repair the switch. If you do bypass it, be extremely careful to always ensure the side stand is fully retracted before riding. This should only be considered if you're stranded and need to get home.

Cold Starting Blues

Some ADV 350 owners have reported difficulty starting the scooter in cold weather.

Hard Starting: The engine may take several attempts to start, especially in cold temperatures.
Rough Idle: The engine may idle roughly after starting.
Stalling: The engine may stall shortly after starting.

Cold Weather Starting Tips:

Ensure Battery Health: A weak battery can exacerbate cold starting problems. Make sure your battery is fully charged and in good condition.
Use the Correct Oil: Using the correct viscosity oil for your climate can improve cold starting performance. Consult your owner's manual for recommendations.
Let it Warm Up: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes before riding. This will help ensure smooth operation and prevent stalling.
Check the Spark Plug: A fouled or worn spark plug can make cold starting more difficult. Inspect and replace the spark plug as needed.

The Dreaded CVT Belt Issues

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) belt is a critical component of the ADV 350's drivetrain.

Premature Wear: Some owners have reported premature wear of the CVT belt, particularly if the scooter is ridden aggressively or in demanding conditions.
Slippage: A worn or damaged CVT belt can slip, resulting in reduced performance and poor acceleration.
Breakage: In extreme cases, the CVT belt can break, leaving you stranded.

CVT Belt Maintenance:

Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the CVT belt for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, fraying, or missing teeth.
Follow Maintenance Schedule: Replace the CVT belt according to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.
Avoid Aggressive Riding: Avoid excessive acceleration and high speeds, as this can put extra strain on the CVT belt.
Clean the CVT System: Periodically clean the CVT system to remove dust and debris, which can contribute to belt wear.

Is the Seat Comfortable Enough?

Comfort is subjective, but many riders find the stock ADV 350 seat to be lacking, especially on longer rides.

Too Firm: The seat can be quite firm, leading to discomfort after a few hours in the saddle.
Limited Support: The seat may not provide adequate support for the rider's back and legs.

Comfort Enhancements:

Aftermarket Seat: Consider purchasing an aftermarket seat designed for improved comfort.
Seat Pad: Adding a gel or foam seat pad can help cushion the ride and reduce pressure points.
Riding Shorts: Wearing padded riding shorts can provide extra cushioning and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ADV 350 reliable? Generally, yes. Most owners report good reliability, but like any vehicle, regular maintenance is key to preventing problems.
What's the fuel economy like? Expect around 65-75 mpg, depending on riding style and conditions.
Is it good for long distances? It can be, but the suspension and seat comfort might need addressing for optimal long-distance comfort.
Can I take it off-road? Light gravel and dirt trails are manageable, but it's not designed for serious off-roading.
How often should I service it? Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.

Conclusion

The Honda ADV 350 is a capable and versatile scooter, but being aware of potential issues allows you to address them proactively. By understanding the common problems and implementing preventative maintenance, you can enjoy many miles of worry-free riding. Consider upgrading the suspension if you plan on doing a lot of riding on rough roads.