Check out Quad Lock's motorcycle phone mount options for the KTM 790 Adventure, Honda Transalp 750, or any other motorcycle you might ride: bit.ly/3Mt2O6F Clarification 1: The Transalp is easier to do oil changes on in stock form, but I assume most people will be putting a skidplate on it, which makes the process a lot more complicated.
The reason why I watch your videos and get ur take is because you are a large person and if a bike performs for you it is going to perform for at least 60% of the riders. That alone makes your analysis so valuable. Keep up the great work!!!
The skid plate from TRex Racing has a front panel cutout removable with two screws. Makes it super easy to get to the filter. You'll still need to redirect the oil coming out of the drain into your pan, or you'll have a big mess. Ask me how I know...
I watched this video just to see if Ben would say the words “reliability” and touch on the cam shaft issues and I am pleasantly surprised he did. Love that Ben isn’t afraid of stepping on KTMs toes. Way too many TH-camrs and the big motorcycle journalists and publications won’t even say the word “reliability” let alone point out a design flaw on a European bike because they don’t want to lose their press bike privileges from KTM, Ducati and BMW. Bravo Ben, good on you for being genuine and giving a straight shooting review
@@timsalabimbombassa Yeah the independent TH-camrs are NOW but Historically none of the big moto publications like Revzilla, Fortnine, MCM News, motorcyclist magazine etc etc would never touch on reliability issues or even bring that word up during a shootout or review
I got my Transalp the day after Dork did, so mid Octoberish, and have about 7k miles on it. Its been nothing but a blast. Coming from the Himalayan and Cb500x it's just a world above. Faster than my buddies T7 and MT-07. Can't believe how good it corners for a 21 inch front. I have big respect for KTM bikes. Off road performance is what they do. I have a 99 200 EXC and love it on the trails but i recently did a full ground up tear down and rebuild. I could've bought a way newer japanese bike in good shape for what it costed me. If you plan to own a KTM long term make sure you're prepared to spend a lot on it. You could have a dealer change the Transalp filter every time and you won't get close to the maintenance costs of the KTM. Great video. I completely agree. As a 90-10 on off road rider I know I made the right choice!
14000 miles on my transalp, including Utah bdr, western half of the tat, sm500 & 1000, and cross country on pavement. Zero issues! I did add the cruise control...using your link. Thanks for that. This bike never ceases to amaze me.Thanks for all the work you do to help people make informed decisions.
Have had the 790 for 4000 km; so far, so good. Kept my T7 initially because of the reliabilty concerns but after riding the KTM offroad, it is so much more fun and confidence inspiring offroad for 5'8" me than the T7 was, even after lowering and doing every mod to try to make it "mine". The lower center of gravity and the rear brake of the KTM alone were worth the price of admission! (the T7 rear brake, even with "the fix" from Camel ADV, is a joke compared to the KTM's) I have already done things on the 790 I would never have thought of attemping on the T7. Things that I only would try on my Beta 390 I now do with the KTM. If the damn thing blows up due to a cam failure, so be it; the warranty is 4 years.
Makes me second guess buying the T7. Although I love it so far, with the stock tires it doesn't really "inspire confidence" off-road. I did the Switzerland trail in CO 2x with my RE Himalayan 411 stock with no problems. Tried it on the T7, admittedly I was tired, 2 years older and my legs hurt a bit from the gym, but bailed on it as the rocks felt jarring and the bike felt a bit squirrely with the stock tires. Sat on the 790, it felt nice, but went with the T7.
When he has the bikes facing each other at the beginning, just look at the differences. The Honda looks SO much bigger and taller. And that visual reflects how they FEEL in comparison. I went with the KTM.
I’m not a Honda Fanboy, in my garage right now I have 2 Hondas 2 Kawasakis 2 Suzukis and 2 KTM s. I just returned from a SoCal to Alaska ride 8000 plus mile round trip. I took my Africa Twin. When you are that alone in the Yukon or the Dalton where a tow can be 5 to 6 grand reliability IS the most important thing in my mind. Of all my bikes my KTM 300xc broke sitting in my garage, clutch master failed luckily I caught it loading it up. Ended the ride before it started. KTM makes amazing stuff but the reliability issues are real. I won’t be buying more KTMs tell they solve it.
FYI… My KTM dealership has told me that ANY camshaft issues with my 2023 890 R are fully covered. It is out of warranty, has 6000 miles on it, I have added the Dirt Triccks cam tensioner and I was told by the dealership and others to use the Red Line oil additive with zinc. My bike runs like a beast mostly off road. I will continue to post this until there is acknowledgment of this. I seem to be the only owner of the 890 on the entire internet that has a good KTM dealer. Or maybe there is a LOT of social media bs going on. My dealer has been fantastic
We also have a great ktm dealer here in Austin, TX, but unfortunately, the problem was not the dealer since they were very supportive. My problem was with Ktm, who denied honoring the warranty on my 690, but at least the dealer their best, and I appreciate that.
@@atticushexcel9567 Japanese bike owners have always acted like chodes about Euro bikes. I’ve got a Ducati with 18,000 miles on it and a Triumph with 27,000 miles on it, both have had ZERO things go wrong, just normal maintenance. Jap bikes owners hate this one simple trick.
I MADE THE DECISION BETWEEN THEM: In case there's someone on the fence here, this is my experience. I'm a mid-skilled ADV rider. Been doing it for about 4 years. Had a CRF250L and an '05 GS in my stable. 250L is perfect for iffy routes where I wanted something small and light to get through potentially difficult stuff. But as a 6'2"/200lb rider, any kind of distance on the road (or even long gravel tracks) was sub-optimal in the comfort and performance realm. LOVED my GS...I called it the Toyota Land Cruiser of motorcycles. Comfort combined with very good off-road performance in skilled hands (watch Tkacs take it on Lockhart Basin!!)...Was involved on the editorial side of the moto industry for a couple years so had the opportunity to go on a press weekend with the new Transalp. I fell in love with it ...-ish...Bottom line I truly realized how much advantage there is to a mid-displacement ADV bike. So was thinking very seriously of grabbing the Transalp. But after considering it for a while, I couldn't get past the "meh" factor of it. Trans is a solid bike, agree with the peace of mind of reliability (my CRF250 starts every time and keeps going and going), and it's got enough whistles and bells to be "modern." But I decided I wasn't ready to lock my skills in at the current level, so I found a '20 790 ADV-R used and never looked back. HoleeCrap! that bike is amazing. And as a mid-skilled ADV rider, I feel SO much confidence with it. I could tell from my first ride off-road that that thing can do WAY more than I can. I felt invincible...almost at the level of my 250L where there's very little that'd make me want to turn around. I call the 790 ADV-R a "magic carpet"...It just glides over obstacles...Yes I'm nervous about the reliability side of it. Yes I'm a little more intimidated to work on it than I was the GS or the 250L. But dude, come on...that bike is sick as sh&t. On the fence? Don't buy new, but 100% go for the 790ADV or R...you'll have SO much more fun with it and you will probably never reach its limits. (my $.02)
On the Transalp when left in USER mode it keeps the abs switched off in the rear so you only have to tick over to traction control to switch it off when you start the bike, and you don’t have to stop the bike you can switch it off on the fly, I’m surprised you didn’t know that, super simple. Awesome review Ben!
Maybe but I'm talking about when you go from the street to the dirt. I want the ABS on on the street. Regardless it's a thousand times more complicated than the KTM.
My 2019 KTM 790 Adventure S experience : 23,000 km without a hiccup, then had the cams checked, and yes, they were starting to go. KTM covered parts and Labour - we’ll see if these have the same problem in another 25’000 km. The bike was pretty amazing off road out of the box, and now, with a full replacement suspension (Andreani / Nitron) it is simply in another class. The lower center of gravity and off road focused electronics make a massive difference. I do wonder about reliability going forward… but I’m not willing to trade down in terms of performance.
Plus minus $800 for new cams and followers IF you are one of the unlucky affected ones. I’m not excusing KTM issues here - just wondering if this will be such a massive deal for the majority of people that won’t keep that bike for longer than 3 - 5 years anyway. You will lose more on that if you are trading in a Honda for a Honda etc Meanwhile you have the best onroad / offroad combination with all the doodads and tubeless tyres if you take the KTM. Whilst many of the real competitors are a lot more expensive. I mean yeah it’s going to suck when it takes a dump far far from civilization.However, from the sounds of it this issue makes itself known quite some time before so you will know it’s coming. All bikes have issues. May as well enjoy it and not worry about it until it happens. IF it happens. Ride the bike. Don’t worry be happy.
Big difference is KTM willl breakdown repeatedly and the Honda may out live many owners. I do oil and filter changes on my 2024 Transalp with a Hepco & Becker skidplate without removing the skidplate. Use tinfoil on the skidplate to catch and drain the oil rearward and reach the drain bolt with a 3/8" ratchet, socket and longer extension. I put a piece of wood under the front tire to tilt the bike down rearward. I use a cup type filter cap tool with a very short extension in the tool which I inserted from the left side & across the motor to the right side. Once on the filter I use a wrench from the right side on the short, stubby extension (that has a hex outside) in the cap tool. Then remove the tool and remove the filter out via the left side. Repeat in reverse order to install the new filter. Regarding the air filter which took me over 1 hour to access the 1st time I can now do in 10 minutes and less. I do wish the Transalp had better suspension. Maybe next year I will upgrade the front and rear suspension. I weigh 165 with riding gear on and have a 32 " inseam. I installed "SW-Motech Honda XL750 Transalp - EVO footrest kit, 15 mm lower" (1/2" lower foot pegs) to help my bad hips but I do not like that the pegs overall are about approx. 3/4" wider so I have to swing a leg farther out to get around the peg when say at a stop light with my feet down. Especially when I am wearing Alpinestar Toucan boots (which are so comfy I want to sleep in them at night). LOL. Not cheap boots though but are waterproof and offer good protection for offroad and are super easy to put on / off.
The lack of cruise control is what made me ditch the idea of buying the Transalp. I honestly have no idea what were they thinking, also Suzuki with the V-Strom.
It would help if KTM would announce that they have redesigned the heads for the 790/890 to ensure adequate oil flow to the cams, but they continue to act as if there is no problem.
Good summarization: If you let the "what if" control your life, then don't buy the more fun bike. For me, I buy a bike to have fun. If something happens I'll deal with it.
@@sled9263 I 100% Agree we are all grown ass men! I have a made more than one purchase made on passion alone. Knew going in. But I seriously had no clue how freaking far out there you are in BC and Alaska. Just amazing. You’re lucky to have that in your backyard.
KTM is a 50/50 brand based on who you talk to. You either love them or hate them. And most of the hate is from people who have never owned one. Which I really don't understand. I love that you bought one hoping to confirm your hatred for it. And I also love that your initial opinion is changing. That being said, I'd like to see how your perceived reliability issue in justified. Not in what the internet says, but in your own personal experience.
Low fender is fine on an ADV bike, IF they provide enough clearance for mud. My T7 has NEVER packed in the front tire in mud, even with Wyoming clay. It also makes it much more pleasant on the highway over a high fender.
CHEWIE!!! Great comparison. To me it really comes down to how comfortable someone is riding a KTM with regards to reliability and in this case where it’s manufactured. My 890 ownership was short but eventful. Amazing engine, suspension and brakes, loved the low fuel tanks and handling. When it would start, that is. Dealer was no help and it was traded a few months after buying it new. Maybe the 790 is more reliable, I wouldn’t be surprised if CFMoto does a better job building that bike than KTM does. For my money I’d be buying a Transalp, adding cruise, skid plate and crashbars. The feeling of dread when my 890 would act up, especially when I was way out in the woods miles from anything, made me not want to to ride, which is a big deal when considering that I ride 20-30k miles a year. My adventure bike while I waited for the GS I ordered to come in was my TW200. Much slower, but never any concerns about reliability.
5000 miles on my Transalp and I couldn't be happier. Yes there are some things that Honda missed but for the money It does everything i want it to do. My Honda dealer is 15 minutes away and provides excellent service. Nearest KTM dealer is an hour and half away. I think I'll keep my Transalp!!!
The TA is a great bike. So easy to ride and approachable. I already got rid of mine for a base AT. It's not night and day difference but the AT is way better. The TA is most certainly a watered down AT, having owned both.
Hey, Dork! I just wanted to let you know I bought a 2022 KLR 650 Adventure today because I found your channel, and you helped me make the decision to finally pull the trigger on one.
I have been waiting for this one for a while! Have been doing research on both bikes, have to tip the hat to KTM for including all the electronics but with the huge question marks on the reliability, I’m going with the Transalp.
Hi there, having had both, the 790AdvS & the 890AdvR, I decided selling them and got a Transalp 750. Can confirm almost all points you mentioned, except for the "Made in Japan" reg. the Transalp. As to my knowledge, it is made in Tailand (engine made in Japan!) and compared to the Africa Twin (which is definitely made in Japan) , you can still notice the difference in haptics and finish. As you pointed out, the Transalp is more of a "gravelroad capable" tourer whereas the KTM is able to do both. If KTM would have learned from its mistakes and would have improved QM inhouse, I´d go for the KTM. Unfortunately, their work ethics, company policy or whatever is not that of a Japanese company´s understanding to give the customer the most possible quality at a certain price tag. Yes, it has no cruise control and the electronics, especially the gravel mode and the "leaning angle" (which informs you of the angle of the accelerator grip!!!) are absolute useless! On the other hand, I do know that this bike will not let me down, nor will it have any engine issues. As to the maintenance issues I agree, the rediculous air filter accessibility is unbelievable but on the other side, most riders won´t have to change anything, coz the bike will run anyway. Honda says, filter change at 24.000kms which I will do in two years and I probably will do it myself, also in order to get to know my "buddy" better;-). Cheers and ride safe!
@@jfro5867 Hi there. You are right! However, it´s not the "J" in the beginning which would suggest Japan. The JH2 is only saying that the bike is a HONDA (coz Honda is from Japan). As for the location of production (digit no. 11) I have a "K", which stands for the city of Kumamoto in Kyushu/Japan. Thanks for the hint and ride safe!
@@anchinkan no problem glad it’s put your mind at rest. I’m in the UK. My VIN is the same (K). I did look into this before I got my TA just to see exactly where it was built and knew it was Japan, I just couldn’t quite remember all the details though, but it’s as you’ve written Kumamoto. 👌
Something I've learned is I personally like at minimum 9 inches of ground clearance for anything that does offroad. At 8 inches the transalp light be sliding that skid plate alot of anything chunky offroad. But I see it as a more road oriented bike. I sat on one and loved how comfortable it was.
Love my 790. 5000km so far and no issues yet. Probably keep it for two more seasons after this one and then change it out. I’m not looking for a forever bike at this point.
KTM - A blast to ride....when they work. Camshaft issues and how they are dealing with it is enough to stay away from the 790/890 engines (and CFMoto/Kove variants) until more time has passed. If 2024 KTMs are able to make it to the first cam check without chewing up the cams, maybe they fixed it. Do think the 790/890s are some of the best bikes in their class....I almost got one before the cam issues really came up and now I peacefully watch those cam issues while I RIDE my Japanese bike.
Re Transalp suspension, I put valves in the front forks and stiffer springs (75) as well as a stiffer spring on the rear (114N) , it's a game changer. Total cost about $1k USD, all done by a suspension specialist shop. I weigh 210 lbs. I spent less than $2k in Mods for the Transalp (including suspension) and usb port, tall windscreen, bash plate, Handguards, rear rack for top box. I don't ride hard off-road because I like to ride alone, occasionally in very remote locations. For the same reason I wont be adding any more weight to the TA with any more mods.
Just a quick note on the Transalp - it is a really outstanding adventure bike and not only as a first adventure bike - maybe a good TH-cam video to confirm how the Transalp handles some of the harshest environments - have a look at Footpeg Diaries and their recent Botswana Kgalagadi trip - the suspension has been upgraded, with a few other mods - but still a Transalp. I feel it depends on the rider capabilities most of the time as to how functional an adv is off-road - tracks and sand. But thanks for a great video as always.
Thanks for the great review and breakdown! This is exactly what I've been waiting for. As a long time street rider/racer with limited off-road experience I've been wanting to dip my toe into the ADV world, and these are two of the bikes at the top of my list!
Thanks for the comparison - I would have never thought the Transalp would be anywhere close to the 790 but you bring up some good points. Personally I would swing more into the 'fun factor' vs pure reliability because it's a toy so 790 for me
I've been looking at the Transalp for slightly better offroad capability than my current suspension-modified VStrom 650. I've had 3 KTM group bikes, and none have had any issues. The 790/890/901 platform fits me very well. And I just can't handle the perceived reliability issue. I really, really wish I could. I might be able to let go of my 701 along with the VStrom--but the anxiety would always be there. In other news, Saturday I ended up in a situation I would never have knowingly taken the VStrom into, and it did AMAZINGLY well. I may have to hold off on buying another bike for a while, and maybe KTM can convince me.
Ktm can ad so much fancy features they want. It will not fix their reliability. My TA has 19k km. Zero anything. And has zero indicating coming issues from usage. Feels like new. I have tubeless converted it 9k kms ago. Also at same time i added is mccruise cruisecontrol. Helped me to and from Croatia from Norway. Have done suspension upgrade witch made it better at those typical west coast shit roads we have here in Norway. I considered AT. But did not want the extra 30kgs. So i rather modded a TA. For me that have to ride a little distance towards any trail riding. Changing the modes is really not a hassle. If you live right next to trails etc. You dont buy a big adventure bike period.
I like the look and capabilities of the ktm 790. I may be looking to add it to my garage soon. As a Pan America owner and taking it off road more now. I get my peace of mind knowing that I have road side assistance. As well as I’m good with the guys in the service department who hook me up. Because I’m not a jerk to them.
I’m in the uk I have a 890 adventure s and have just put 6000 miles on it it’s the 2022 model and it’s been fine, I’ve had a lot of bikes in my lifetime but the 890 is one of the most exciting to ride, yes I do have this cam issue lurking in the back of my mind but if it happens then ill deal with it, fingers crossed.
My biggest frustration with the transalp is that I live in Japan and we can ONLY the bike in white. No black or gray... yes,they are painted here too... I'm designing a quick switch to keep the rear abs and tc off, so not losing sleep there.
I was totally confident that one or both of those bikes would be confidence inspiring. Great review Ben. I hope your KTM rocks out that next BDR. It’s a fine looking dirt bike, for sure. Thanks for another great video.
Thanks for the vid! I’m upgrading from a bigger/heavier ADV bike to something a little lighter and more capable for off-pavement riding. Honda, does keep coming out on top for me in my personal comparisons.
Great comparative review Ben! As a Transalp owner, the only thing I might disagree with is your comments on the difficulty of installing the Veridian cruise control. Yes you have to tear off a bunch of plastic to get to the connector you need, but you're talking 7 panels (fairing shrouds, rear side panels, inner fairing shrouds and the inner fairing trim) and 4 bolts on the tank. A little time consuming to figure out where all the bolts and pins are that secure them in place, but once you know where everything is it's actually pretty quick to get back in there. Veridian's new 3 button switch will also eliminate the need remove the right switch box and throttle to install it as it's a hinged design. On another note, is that a Saddleman seat I spied on the Transalp? Don't recall seeing your review on that so I'll have to go back and see if I missed it. A different seat and LSK's off-road dongle are two of the last things I plan to do to mine over the winter - well, that and maybe a set of VMX tubeless wheels if Uncle Sam is feeling generous with my tax return in the spring. Last but not least, if you're on the fence about trying the DynoJet Power Vision 3 I can tell you it makes a very noticeable difference on the Transalp. Much more pull in the 4-6k range, throttle is noticeably less twitch when lugging it around at lower RPM, and it pulls noticeably harder north of 8500rpm. Only downside is that it requires running 91 octane fuel.
Can’t disagree with your assessment. Long time KTM fan that lost a bit of confidence in the brand and hoping they up their game; particularly the 790/890 platform.
bought a 2024 Transalp in Jan. never loved it, traded it for an Africa Twin last month. Things Dork left out: 1) The suspension is soft and totally under sprung, and bottoms out easily (I'm 225lbs in gear) off road. Pot holes my Africa Twin soaks up, bottom out the forks on the 750. 2) The power cuts out at around 8500 RPM. It feels like traction control, but it is the CPU. Very annoying. 3) the engine has to rev high to produce power, so I found myself cruising at 6000 + RPM. The engine will tractor off road, but you can't just roll on the throttle on the hwy to pass. 4) This bike is FUGLY, no denying it, it is not an attractive bike, and the front end in particular, as Dork mentions, is hideously dated and stolen from the 500. In the 7 months I owned it not one person came up to me and said what a nice looking bike. Not one. Zero, nada, zip. 5) the skid plate requires crash bars to mount and these are really expensive. And you MUST get a skid plate if you off road at all.
I know you don’t daily ride these bikes for commuting, but if you are buying these bikes with value in mind, the Transalp takes regular gas and the 790 needs premium. Also to note 2 wheel dyno has announced their tune for the TA that gains 20hp
9:04 Great job, I have a couple things based on personal experience with the transalp. 1. You can turn traction control off in user mode with relative ease on the fly after a little practice and 2. There is a charging port for your phone on the transalp as well. Unfortunately, they put it on the wrong end of the bike, it's more for charging accessories in my opinion. I had a 390 adv and loved it but couldn't get past the reliability issue of the 790/890. Transalp fits me perfectly but agreed it's not for everyone.
Brilliant review, really enjoyed watching this! Real world review by a real world down to earth guy! I’ve ridden the 790, but not the transalp as yet…. I guess the newer 890 is prob worth looking at too. With dealer warranty, maybe, just maybe the KTM edges it, but you pay for the privilege of The 50/50 on/off road capability.
KTM has just anounced huge price cuts on most KTM models. The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure R is out in Thailand with the Tech pack included it is 348000 Thai baht which is $10308 at todays exchnge rate.
I guess looks are subjective because I think the Transalp is a really good looking motorcycle. I am considering purchasing a 700-800 cc adventure motorcycle and have researched all of them. I've ridden a Transalp 750 and really like it. I have knocked the Tenere 700 (want something a little more road friendly) and the 790 Adventure (cam issue) off of my list. I still haven't ridden the Vstrom 800DE. A friend bought a Transalp 750 for $10,250 OTD, so that's very appealing to me. If I were to like the Suzuki as well as the Honda, it would come down to price. I'd like to know your opinion of another motorcycle. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. It's not as big and powerful as the previously mentioned motorcycles, but the price makes it a heck of a deal. From what I'm seeing and reading, it looks like the Himalayan might be better off road than the Transalp and almost as good on road. I'm thinking it might be better to save $4000 for the RE for a guy who doesn't need the power and wants a bike that does many things well.
@@ezvue I'm not saying it isn't road friendly. It's a more trail/offroad bike compared to the other's in the class. I'd rather have something like the Transalp.
Fwiw Ben, on the TA you can change into user mode and disable TC and rear abs while on the move. Just shut the throttle and it activates your chosen settings.
Great review as currently looking at both these bikes to be the more road oriented model to with my 690 enduro. A long term KTM owner the 790/890 appeals to me from a riding perspective, but due to the camshaft issues it will be a Honda for me.
I doubt this'll get any attention but the perfect 3rd wheel to this comparison would be the Aprilia Tuareg 660. I'm toying with the idea of another middleweight bike and that's one of the contenders. A few motovloggers have chosen the Tuareg over these 2 bikes and the Yamaha T7. I've ruled out the T7 due to the high center of gravity. I know Dork's had one and loved it. Thoughts? (In my stable: 2023 1250 GS Rallye, Honda CRF300L, Yam WR250R)
The wireless charging + the vibration dampener is great, but only charges about half the time. Good enough, but seeing the charging overlay popping up over and over is a bit distracting.
Great comparison Ben. I think you are down playing the $1,000 price difference. You can add a bunch of things for that money and let’s not forget about the extra for the cruise,quick shifter and I think the heated grips. You get what you pay for. I’m a Honda fan boy but if there weren’t all the rumblings about KTM reliability I might have bought the 790. To me it’s like what the realtors say location location location. But in this case it’s reliability x3
If you’re in the user mode on the Transalp and you’re wheels are turning (either pushing it or riding) when you hold down the mode button to change the settings it goes straight to TC and then ABS is next I don’t think it’s as big of a deal that people make it out to be cuz you can do it on the fly. I haven’t dug in to my air filter yet but supposedly you can cut some tabs on the fairings when you do it the first time and then every time after that you don’t have to take out all the dash just the sides and tilt the tank up but I can’t confirm that yet
You could have just stopped at “The Trans Alp is a slightly better street bike”. LOL I got rid of my Africa Twin because of the silly electronics. It’s like Honda is compelled to babysit us. Hondas are great though, I’ve been a fanboy for a while because of the reliability. Having said that I haven’t had a Honda in the garage for three years now.
Your 790 is made by cfmoto, they don’t have the camshaft issue like the KTM made previous models and 800MT doesn’t have the issue as well so it’s not a Chinese made problem only a KTM problem. I know of 2 people who had their earlier model 790’s who have had their bikes fixed under warranty by KTM.
great job Ben on the comps, Just got back from a weekend trip to the LL Stub Stewart park, stayed in the cabins, great trip on the backroads, love my TA. WHO did your seat on the TransAlp?
One bike is inheritably unreliable. The other is, simply HALF BAKED. What should be done : engine from Honda >>> KTM ! Then it is going to be a great bike !
You say there are no negative reliability reports about the Honda Transalp but plenty about the KTM 790 and keep on rambling about lack of piece of mind and camshafts made of chocolate and so on. Sorry to have to say it, but you are misrepresenting the situation. Mind that: 1. the KTM 790 adventure you are showing is a new updated model from 2023 (with no reported issues) and that the camshaft issues you are rambling on about are all about earlier model years 2. The reported camshaft problems (with regard to the earlier models) represent 0.2% of the sold motorcycles with that engine So there are no known reliabilty issues with the new Honda nor with the new KTM ( with a 4 year warranty period which is even further extendable, at least here in Europe). There is no KTM 790 adventure model 2023 group about camshafts. Sure there is one about older models (as previously mentioned represents 0.2%). There is off course no group about problems with previous Honda Transalp model: it’s model year 2008…an era when people still survived without mass BS internet platforms). I own the KTM and so far (ok, only 9000 km) it’s been fantastic ! I also disagree with the no beginner bike comment: it’s absolutely perfect for beginners as well as for experienced riders. The motorcycle is extremely controllable and luxurious.
Hey Dork, love your content. Sorry for the weird question, but cudnt find anything anywhere else on the internet. Have you experienced disconnection issues with the quad lock weatherproof wireless charging head? My phone goes from charging to not every 2 seconds literally.
It would have been nice to cover the mileage on a tank of gas. I've done rides in Death Valley where you need a 200 mile range or your carrying extra gas. Cheers
Japanese motorcycle manufacturers - where is your version of the Ibex 450!? If CF Moto can do it, why can't you guys! An Ibex 450 clone, that weighs 400 lbs wet, is my unicorn bike now. I thought for sure that my next bike was going to be a Transalp, but the more off pavement riding I do the more I realize that I really just want a lighter, more off pavement capable bike than my CB500X. I can't wait for Ian or Ben to review the Ibex 450, I just wish it was 40 lbs lighter.
I sold my Africa Twin last year. It was great but too much bike for me (tall and heavy). Have you ever tried the AT? I would be curious as to what I can expect going on a Transalp. I do not do crazy off-road, mostly gravel and easy trails. The Transalp would cover my needs I think. Any thought?
CF Moto, KTM, Loncin (BMW with chain) are good choices for 2nd bike, for small adventures. Here in the great Canadian territories, only tourists have Chinese motorcycles.. and MEN finds a garage that will fix it.
![เขามัทรี - เอ็กซ์ ศุภกฤต - จอนนี่มิวสิค [ Official MV ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/AS9ufKuQIVs/mqdefault.jpg)
Check out Quad Lock's motorcycle phone mount options for the KTM 790 Adventure, Honda Transalp 750, or any other motorcycle you might ride: bit.ly/3Mt2O6F
Clarification 1: The Transalp is easier to do oil changes on in stock form, but I assume most people will be putting a skidplate on it, which makes the process a lot more complicated.
Going through the SW when its 115 degrees is ALL Honda! My AT killed it through those conditions. I wouldn't trust that KTM if it was only 90 degrees!
The reason why I watch your videos and get ur take is because you are a large person and if a bike performs for you it is going to perform for at least 60% of the riders. That alone makes your analysis so valuable. Keep up the great work!!!
@@jammcguire1276 As long as the fans are working the KTM will be fine. It was developed in the deserts of California after all.
The skid plate from TRex Racing has a front panel cutout removable with two screws. Makes it super easy to get to the filter. You'll still need to redirect the oil coming out of the drain into your pan, or you'll have a big mess. Ask me how I know...
I watched this video just to see if Ben would say the words “reliability” and touch on the cam shaft issues and I am pleasantly surprised he did. Love that Ben isn’t afraid of stepping on KTMs toes. Way too many TH-camrs and the big motorcycle journalists and publications won’t even say the word “reliability” let alone point out a design flaw on a European bike because they don’t want to lose their press bike privileges from KTM, Ducati and BMW. Bravo Ben, good on you for being genuine and giving a straight shooting review
What do you mean? Everybody is mentioning it everywhere all the time. And the comments about cheese cams are getting old.
@@timsalabimbombassa They do now. Because they are jumping on the bandwagon. Ben has always been critical towards KTM.
@@timsalabimbombassa Yeah the independent TH-camrs are NOW but Historically none of the big moto publications like Revzilla, Fortnine, MCM News, motorcyclist magazine etc etc would never touch on reliability issues or even bring that word up during a shootout or review
I got my Transalp the day after Dork did, so mid Octoberish, and have about 7k miles on it. Its been nothing but a blast. Coming from the Himalayan and Cb500x it's just a world above. Faster than my buddies T7 and MT-07. Can't believe how good it corners for a 21 inch front. I have big respect for KTM bikes. Off road performance is what they do. I have a 99 200 EXC and love it on the trails but i recently did a full ground up tear down and rebuild. I could've bought a way newer japanese bike in good shape for what it costed me. If you plan to own a KTM long term make sure you're prepared to spend a lot on it. You could have a dealer change the Transalp filter every time and you won't get close to the maintenance costs of the KTM. Great video. I completely agree. As a 90-10 on off road rider I know I made the right choice!
what are your thoughts when comparing transalp 750 with tracer 7?
@@hammerhead28 good question for road users. I would take the t7 if is lighter.
14000 miles on my transalp, including Utah bdr, western half of the tat, sm500 & 1000, and cross country on pavement. Zero issues! I did add the cruise control...using your link. Thanks for that. This bike never ceases to amaze me.Thanks for all the work you do to help people make informed decisions.
Have had the 790 for 4000 km; so far, so good. Kept my T7 initially because of the reliabilty concerns but after riding the KTM offroad, it is so much more fun and confidence inspiring offroad for 5'8" me than the T7 was, even after lowering and doing every mod to try to make it "mine". The lower center of gravity and the rear brake of the KTM alone were worth the price of admission! (the T7 rear brake, even with "the fix" from Camel ADV, is a joke compared to the KTM's) I have already done things on the 790 I would never have thought of attemping on the T7. Things that I only would try on my Beta 390 I now do with the KTM. If the damn thing blows up due to a cam failure, so be it; the warranty is 4 years.
Makes me second guess buying the T7. Although I love it so far, with the stock tires it doesn't really "inspire confidence" off-road. I did the Switzerland trail in CO 2x with my RE Himalayan 411 stock with no problems. Tried it on the T7, admittedly I was tired, 2 years older and my legs hurt a bit from the gym, but bailed on it as the rocks felt jarring and the bike felt a bit squirrely with the stock tires. Sat on the 790, it felt nice, but went with the T7.
When he has the bikes facing each other at the beginning, just look at the differences. The Honda looks SO much bigger and taller. And that visual reflects how they FEEL in comparison. I went with the KTM.
You're not "some Random guy on the Internet", You're THE DORK IN THE ROAD! My internet riding buddy!
Crazy hot girl at the bar vs. the mild-mannered, cute girl next door.
I’m not a Honda Fanboy, in my garage right now I have 2 Hondas 2 Kawasakis 2 Suzukis and 2 KTM s. I just returned from a SoCal to Alaska ride 8000 plus mile round trip. I took my Africa Twin. When you are that alone in the Yukon or the Dalton where a tow can be 5 to 6 grand reliability IS the most important thing in my mind. Of all my bikes my KTM 300xc broke sitting in my garage, clutch master failed luckily I caught it loading it up. Ended the ride before it started. KTM makes amazing stuff but the reliability issues are real. I won’t be buying more KTMs tell they solve it.
FYI… My KTM dealership has told me that ANY camshaft issues with my 2023 890 R are fully covered. It is out of warranty, has 6000 miles on it, I have added the Dirt Triccks cam tensioner and I was told by the dealership and others to use the Red Line oil additive with zinc.
My bike runs like a beast mostly off road. I will continue to post this until there is acknowledgment of this.
I seem to be the only owner of the 890 on the entire internet that has a good KTM dealer. Or maybe there is a LOT of social media bs going on. My dealer has been fantastic
What’s the purpose of the Red line oil additive? I have 2023 901 and want to prevent any damage
We also have a great ktm dealer here in Austin, TX, but unfortunately, the problem was not the dealer since they were very supportive. My problem was with Ktm, who denied honoring the warranty on my 690, but at least the dealer their best, and I appreciate that.
@@atticushexcel9567 Japanese bike owners have always acted like chodes about Euro bikes. I’ve got a Ducati with 18,000 miles on it and a Triumph with 27,000 miles on it, both have had ZERO things go wrong, just normal maintenance. Jap bikes owners hate this one simple trick.
I MADE THE DECISION BETWEEN THEM: In case there's someone on the fence here, this is my experience. I'm a mid-skilled ADV rider. Been doing it for about 4 years. Had a CRF250L and an '05 GS in my stable. 250L is perfect for iffy routes where I wanted something small and light to get through potentially difficult stuff. But as a 6'2"/200lb rider, any kind of distance on the road (or even long gravel tracks) was sub-optimal in the comfort and performance realm. LOVED my GS...I called it the Toyota Land Cruiser of motorcycles. Comfort combined with very good off-road performance in skilled hands (watch Tkacs take it on Lockhart Basin!!)...Was involved on the editorial side of the moto industry for a couple years so had the opportunity to go on a press weekend with the new Transalp. I fell in love with it ...-ish...Bottom line I truly realized how much advantage there is to a mid-displacement ADV bike. So was thinking very seriously of grabbing the Transalp. But after considering it for a while, I couldn't get past the "meh" factor of it. Trans is a solid bike, agree with the peace of mind of reliability (my CRF250 starts every time and keeps going and going), and it's got enough whistles and bells to be "modern." But I decided I wasn't ready to lock my skills in at the current level, so I found a '20 790 ADV-R used and never looked back. HoleeCrap! that bike is amazing. And as a mid-skilled ADV rider, I feel SO much confidence with it. I could tell from my first ride off-road that that thing can do WAY more than I can. I felt invincible...almost at the level of my 250L where there's very little that'd make me want to turn around. I call the 790 ADV-R a "magic carpet"...It just glides over obstacles...Yes I'm nervous about the reliability side of it. Yes I'm a little more intimidated to work on it than I was the GS or the 250L. But dude, come on...that bike is sick as sh&t. On the fence? Don't buy new, but 100% go for the 790ADV or R...you'll have SO much more fun with it and you will probably never reach its limits. (my $.02)
Awesome video, Ben (as always). ‘24 790 owner here. It’s been flawless for the first 700+ miles and is incredibly capable.
@@baldwin276 😂. Most bike are pretty reliable first 700 miles!
@@moulin680 I’ve got 850+ miles on it now! Defying the odds!
Hope it reached 30000
@@baldwin276my Yamaha lagenda 115 z fi reached 226700 havent do VC on my bike 😊 hope your reach 30000 km
On the Transalp when left in USER mode it keeps the abs switched off in the rear so you only have to tick over to traction control to switch it off when you start the bike, and you don’t have to stop the bike you can switch it off on the fly, I’m surprised you didn’t know that, super simple. Awesome review Ben!
Maybe but I'm talking about when you go from the street to the dirt. I want the ABS on on the street.
Regardless it's a thousand times more complicated than the KTM.
I just want to permanently shut off both.
My 2019 KTM 790 Adventure S experience : 23,000 km without a hiccup, then had the cams checked, and yes, they were starting to go. KTM covered parts and Labour - we’ll see if these have the same problem in another 25’000 km. The bike was pretty amazing off road out of the box, and now, with a full replacement suspension (Andreani / Nitron) it is simply in another class. The lower center of gravity and off road focused electronics make a massive difference. I do wonder about reliability going forward… but I’m not willing to trade down in terms of performance.
Plus minus $800 for new cams and followers IF you are one of the unlucky affected ones. I’m not excusing KTM issues here - just wondering if this will be such a massive deal for the majority of people that won’t keep that bike for longer than 3 - 5 years anyway. You will lose more on that if you are trading in a Honda for a Honda etc Meanwhile you have the best onroad / offroad combination with all the doodads and tubeless tyres if you take the KTM. Whilst many of the real competitors are a lot more expensive. I mean yeah it’s going to suck when it takes a dump far far from civilization.However, from the sounds of it this issue makes itself known quite some time before so you will know it’s coming. All bikes have issues. May as well enjoy it and not worry about it until it happens. IF it happens.
Ride the bike. Don’t worry be happy.
Big difference is KTM willl breakdown repeatedly and the Honda may out live many owners.
I do oil and filter changes on my 2024 Transalp with a Hepco & Becker skidplate without removing the skidplate. Use tinfoil on the skidplate to catch and drain the oil rearward and reach the drain bolt with a 3/8" ratchet, socket and longer extension. I put a piece of wood under the front tire to tilt the bike down rearward. I use a cup type filter cap tool with a very short extension in the tool which I inserted from the left side & across the motor to the right side. Once on the filter I use a wrench from the right side on the short, stubby extension (that has a hex outside) in the cap tool. Then remove the tool and remove the filter out via the left side. Repeat in reverse order to install the new filter.
Regarding the air filter which took me over 1 hour to access the 1st time I can now do in 10 minutes and less.
I do wish the Transalp had better suspension. Maybe next year I will upgrade the front and rear suspension. I weigh 165 with riding gear on and have a 32 " inseam. I installed "SW-Motech Honda XL750 Transalp - EVO footrest kit, 15 mm lower" (1/2" lower foot pegs) to help my bad hips but I do not like that the pegs overall are about approx. 3/4" wider so I have to swing a leg farther out to get around the peg when say at a stop light with my feet down. Especially when I am wearing Alpinestar Toucan boots (which are so comfy I want to sleep in them at night). LOL. Not cheap boots though but are waterproof and offer good protection for offroad and are super easy to put on / off.
The lack of cruise control is what made me ditch the idea of buying the Transalp.
I honestly have no idea what were they thinking, also Suzuki with the V-Strom.
It would help if KTM would announce that they have redesigned the heads for the 790/890 to ensure adequate oil flow to the cams, but they continue to act as if there is no problem.
Good summarization: If you let the "what if" control your life, then don't buy the more fun bike. For me, I buy a bike to have fun. If something happens I'll deal with it.
Do you do BDRs or other trips where you may be a hundred miles from help? Places where you need Matt’s off-road recovery AAA is no help.
@@paulherron4289I’ll reply to that. I have a 2024 790 Adventure and I live in British Columbia. If you know you know. Enough said.
@@sled9263 I 100% Agree we are all grown ass men! I have a made more than one purchase made on passion alone. Knew going in. But I seriously had no clue how freaking far out there you are in BC and Alaska. Just amazing. You’re lucky to have that in your backyard.
KTM is a 50/50 brand based on who you talk to. You either love them or hate them. And most of the hate is from people who have never owned one. Which I really don't understand. I love that you bought one hoping to confirm your hatred for it. And I also love that your initial opinion is changing. That being said, I'd like to see how your perceived reliability issue in justified. Not in what the internet says, but in your own personal experience.
Low fender is fine on an ADV bike, IF they provide enough clearance for mud. My T7 has NEVER packed in the front tire in mud, even with Wyoming clay. It also makes it much more pleasant on the highway over a high fender.
CHEWIE!!!
Great comparison. To me it really comes down to how comfortable someone is riding a KTM with regards to reliability and in this case where it’s manufactured. My 890 ownership was short but eventful. Amazing engine, suspension and brakes, loved the low fuel tanks and handling. When it would start, that is. Dealer was no help and it was traded a few months after buying it new. Maybe the 790 is more reliable, I wouldn’t be surprised if CFMoto does a better job building that bike than KTM does.
For my money I’d be buying a Transalp, adding cruise, skid plate and crashbars. The feeling of dread when my 890 would act up, especially when I was way out in the woods miles from anything, made me not want to to ride, which is a big deal when considering that I ride 20-30k miles a year. My adventure bike while I waited for the GS I ordered to come in was my TW200. Much slower, but never any concerns about reliability.
5000 miles on my Transalp and I couldn't be happier. Yes there are some things that Honda missed but for the money It does everything i want it to do. My Honda dealer is 15 minutes away and provides excellent service. Nearest KTM dealer is an hour and half away. I think I'll keep my Transalp!!!
The TA is a great bike. So easy to ride and approachable. I already got rid of mine for a base AT. It's not night and day difference but the AT is way better. The TA is most certainly a watered down AT, having owned both.
Hey, Dork! I just wanted to let you know I bought a 2022 KLR 650 Adventure today because I found your channel, and you helped me make the decision to finally pull the trigger on one.
10000km on my 2023 890 no issues. I know issues are out there but a buddy had over 50k on his 2022 with no issues before he sold it. Great bike.
I have been waiting for this one for a while! Have been doing research on both bikes, have to tip the hat to KTM for including all the electronics but with the huge question marks on the reliability, I’m going with the Transalp.
Ok now Tenere 700 vs KTM 790!!!
Hi there, having had both, the 790AdvS & the 890AdvR, I decided selling them and got a Transalp 750. Can confirm almost all points you mentioned, except for the "Made in Japan" reg. the Transalp. As to my knowledge, it is made in Tailand (engine made in Japan!) and compared to the Africa Twin (which is definitely made in Japan) , you can still notice the difference in haptics and finish. As you pointed out, the Transalp is more of a "gravelroad capable" tourer whereas the KTM is able to do both. If KTM would have learned from its mistakes and would have improved QM inhouse, I´d go for the KTM. Unfortunately, their work ethics, company policy or whatever is not that of a Japanese company´s understanding to give the customer the most possible quality at a certain price tag. Yes, it has no cruise control and the electronics, especially the gravel mode and the "leaning angle" (which informs you of the angle of the accelerator grip!!!) are absolute useless! On the other hand, I do know that this bike will not let me down, nor will it have any engine issues. As to the maintenance issues I agree, the rediculous air filter accessibility is unbelievable but on the other side, most riders won´t have to change anything, coz the bike will run anyway. Honda says, filter change at 24.000kms which I will do in two years and I probably will do it myself, also in order to get to know my "buddy" better;-). Cheers and ride safe!
Check your VIN. I have a TA and I believe they are built in Japan. Look for the J in the code.
@@jfro5867 Hi there. You are right! However, it´s not the "J" in the beginning which would suggest Japan. The JH2 is only saying that the bike is a HONDA (coz Honda is from Japan). As for the location of production (digit no. 11) I have a "K", which stands for the city of Kumamoto in Kyushu/Japan. Thanks for the hint and ride safe!
@@anchinkan no problem glad it’s put your mind at rest. I’m in the UK. My VIN is the same (K). I did look into this before I got my TA just to see exactly where it was built and knew it was Japan, I just couldn’t quite remember all the details though, but it’s as you’ve written Kumamoto. 👌
@@jfro5867 Yes, it put my mind at rest😅! I am in Germany (and I´ll be in the UK tomorrow;-)).
Something I've learned is I personally like at minimum 9 inches of ground clearance for anything that does offroad. At 8 inches the transalp light be sliding that skid plate alot of anything chunky offroad. But I see it as a more road oriented bike. I sat on one and loved how comfortable it was.
Brilliantly done. They are both fantastic machines. They will both take you anywhere you want to go. 🎉
Clear, concise…well done. Hoping you’ve done a TA / T700 compare. Searching now.
Love my 790. 5000km so far and no issues yet. Probably keep it for two more seasons after this one and then change it out. I’m not looking for a forever bike at this point.
KTM - A blast to ride....when they work.
Camshaft issues and how they are dealing with it is enough to stay away from the 790/890 engines (and CFMoto/Kove variants) until more time has passed. If 2024 KTMs are able to make it to the first cam check without chewing up the cams, maybe they fixed it. Do think the 790/890s are some of the best bikes in their class....I almost got one before the cam issues really came up and now I peacefully watch those cam issues while I RIDE my Japanese bike.
Re Transalp suspension, I put valves in the front forks and stiffer springs (75) as well as a stiffer spring on the rear (114N) , it's a game changer. Total cost about $1k USD, all done by a suspension specialist shop. I weigh 210 lbs. I spent less than $2k in Mods for the Transalp (including suspension) and usb port, tall windscreen, bash plate, Handguards, rear rack for top box. I don't ride hard off-road because I like to ride alone, occasionally in very remote locations. For the same reason I wont be adding any more weight to the TA with any more mods.
Just a quick note on the Transalp - it is a really outstanding adventure bike and not only as a first adventure bike - maybe a good TH-cam video to confirm how the Transalp handles some of the harshest environments - have a look at Footpeg Diaries and their recent Botswana Kgalagadi trip - the suspension has been upgraded, with a few other mods - but still a Transalp. I feel it depends on the rider capabilities most of the time as to how functional an adv is off-road - tracks and sand. But thanks for a great video as always.
Thanks for the great review and breakdown! This is exactly what I've been waiting for. As a long time street rider/racer with limited off-road experience I've been wanting to dip my toe into the ADV world, and these are two of the bikes at the top of my list!
I have a 2019 790 with 17,000 miles. I like this bike because I do a lot of boondocks riding it is awesome I’ll deal with the issues when they arrive.
I was expecting this comparison for so long! Thanks!
I love my first bike - a Honda 250 Rally. Therefore, I’ve become a Honda fan. Having said that, after watching this review - makes me want a T7!
Thanks for the comparison - I would have never thought the Transalp would be anywhere close to the 790 but you bring up some good points. Personally I would swing more into the 'fun factor' vs pure reliability because it's a toy so 790 for me
I've been looking at the Transalp for slightly better offroad capability than my current suspension-modified VStrom 650. I've had 3 KTM group bikes, and none have had any issues. The 790/890/901 platform fits me very well. And I just can't handle the perceived reliability issue. I really, really wish I could. I might be able to let go of my 701 along with the VStrom--but the anxiety would always be there. In other news, Saturday I ended up in a situation I would never have knowingly taken the VStrom into, and it did AMAZINGLY well. I may have to hold off on buying another bike for a while, and maybe KTM can convince me.
Great video! Still haven’t found a bike to pry myself away from my trusty T7. I did put tubeless wheels on mine :)
Im excited for more transalp content!
Ktm can ad so much fancy features they want. It will not fix their reliability. My TA has 19k km. Zero anything. And has zero indicating coming issues from usage. Feels like new. I have tubeless converted it 9k kms ago. Also at same time i added is mccruise cruisecontrol. Helped me to and from Croatia from Norway. Have done suspension upgrade witch made it better at those typical west coast shit roads we have here in Norway. I considered AT. But did not want the extra 30kgs. So i rather modded a TA. For me that have to ride a little distance towards any trail riding. Changing the modes is really not a hassle. If you live right next to trails etc. You dont buy a big adventure bike period.
Thanks Ben for this awesome comparison, I love all these features. It’s hard to pick.
I like the look and capabilities of the ktm 790. I may be looking to add it to my garage soon. As a Pan America owner and taking it off road more now. I get my peace of mind knowing that I have road side assistance. As well as I’m good with the guys in the service department who hook me up. Because I’m not a jerk to them.
I’m in the uk I have a 890 adventure s and have just put 6000 miles on it it’s the 2022 model and it’s been fine, I’ve had a lot of bikes in my lifetime but the 890 is one of the most exciting to ride, yes I do have this cam issue lurking in the back of my mind but if it happens then ill deal with it, fingers crossed.
My biggest frustration with the transalp is that I live in Japan and we can ONLY the bike in white. No black or gray... yes,they are painted here too...
I'm designing a quick switch to keep the rear abs and tc off, so not losing sleep there.
I was totally confident that one or both of those bikes would be confidence inspiring. Great review Ben. I hope your KTM rocks out that next BDR. It’s a fine looking dirt bike, for sure. Thanks for another great video.
Thanks for the vid! I’m upgrading from a bigger/heavier ADV bike to something a little lighter and more capable for off-pavement riding. Honda, does keep coming out on top for me in my personal comparisons.
Great comparative review Ben!
As a Transalp owner, the only thing I might disagree with is your comments on the difficulty of installing the Veridian cruise control. Yes you have to tear off a bunch of plastic to get to the connector you need, but you're talking 7 panels (fairing shrouds, rear side panels, inner fairing shrouds and the inner fairing trim) and 4 bolts on the tank. A little time consuming to figure out where all the bolts and pins are that secure them in place, but once you know where everything is it's actually pretty quick to get back in there. Veridian's new 3 button switch will also eliminate the need remove the right switch box and throttle to install it as it's a hinged design.
On another note, is that a Saddleman seat I spied on the Transalp? Don't recall seeing your review on that so I'll have to go back and see if I missed it. A different seat and LSK's off-road dongle are two of the last things I plan to do to mine over the winter - well, that and maybe a set of VMX tubeless wheels if Uncle Sam is feeling generous with my tax return in the spring.
Last but not least, if you're on the fence about trying the DynoJet Power Vision 3 I can tell you it makes a very noticeable difference on the Transalp. Much more pull in the 4-6k range, throttle is noticeably less twitch when lugging it around at lower RPM, and it pulls noticeably harder north of 8500rpm. Only downside is that it requires running 91 octane fuel.
Can’t disagree with your assessment. Long time KTM fan that lost a bit of confidence in the brand and hoping they up their game; particularly the 790/890 platform.
There it was!! Twice in a row! Must be confidence inspiring
bought a 2024 Transalp in Jan. never loved it, traded it for an Africa Twin last month.
Things Dork left out:
1) The suspension is soft and totally under sprung, and bottoms out easily (I'm 225lbs in gear) off road. Pot holes my Africa Twin soaks up, bottom out the forks on the 750.
2) The power cuts out at around 8500 RPM. It feels like traction control, but it is the CPU. Very annoying.
3) the engine has to rev high to produce power, so I found myself cruising at 6000 + RPM. The engine will tractor off road, but you can't just roll on the throttle on the hwy to pass.
4) This bike is FUGLY, no denying it, it is not an attractive bike, and the front end in particular, as Dork mentions, is hideously dated and stolen from the 500. In the 7 months I owned it not one person came up to me and said what a nice looking bike. Not one. Zero, nada, zip.
5) the skid plate requires crash bars to mount and these are really expensive. And you MUST get a skid plate if you off road at all.
Looking like the 790 is my next, love the alp but for where i want to go i think the 790 is it. Thanks Dork!
You must enjoy your bike being in the garage 🔧!
@@mrnoisy4883 🤣
I know you don’t daily ride these bikes for commuting, but if you are buying these bikes with value in mind, the Transalp takes regular gas and the 790 needs premium. Also to note 2 wheel dyno has announced their tune for the TA that gains 20hp
9:04 Great job, I have a couple things based on personal experience with the transalp. 1. You can turn traction control off in user mode with relative ease on the fly after a little practice and 2. There is a charging port for your phone on the transalp as well. Unfortunately, they put it on the wrong end of the bike, it's more for charging accessories in my opinion. I had a 390 adv and loved it but couldn't get past the reliability issue of the 790/890. Transalp fits me perfectly but agreed it's not for everyone.
Brilliant review, really enjoyed watching this! Real world review by a real world down to earth guy! I’ve ridden the 790, but not the transalp as yet…. I guess the newer 890 is prob worth looking at too. With dealer warranty, maybe, just maybe the KTM edges it, but you pay for the privilege of
The 50/50 on/off road capability.
you definitely get your bikes in the rough stuff...well done Dork
I’ve never had even the slightest problem starting my KTM 790 Adventure S. Perhaps it’s because I live in the hot climate of the Philippines.
Another great review..well played..love my transalp for all your reasonings and more of my own... fantastic all rounder..
KTM has just anounced huge price cuts on most KTM models. The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure R is out in Thailand with the Tech pack included it is 348000 Thai baht which is $10308 at todays exchnge rate.
I guess looks are subjective because I think the Transalp is a really good looking motorcycle. I am considering purchasing a 700-800 cc adventure motorcycle and have researched all of them. I've ridden a Transalp 750 and really like it. I have knocked the Tenere 700 (want something a little more road friendly) and the 790 Adventure (cam issue) off of my list. I still haven't ridden the Vstrom 800DE. A friend bought a Transalp 750 for $10,250 OTD, so that's very appealing to me. If I were to like the Suzuki as well as the Honda, it would come down to price.
I'd like to know your opinion of another motorcycle. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. It's not as big and powerful as the previously mentioned motorcycles, but the price makes it a heck of a deal. From what I'm seeing and reading, it looks like the Himalayan might be better off road than the Transalp and almost as good on road. I'm thinking it might be better to save $4000 for the RE for a guy who doesn't need the power and wants a bike that does many things well.
Kindly elaborate on the T7 lack of road friendliness? As am also doing comparative research. Tx
@@ezvue I'm not saying it isn't road friendly. It's a more trail/offroad bike compared to the other's in the class. I'd rather have something like the Transalp.
Fwiw Ben, on the TA you can change into user mode and disable TC and rear abs while on the move. Just shut the throttle and it activates your chosen settings.
You can turn TC off on the transalp while riding no need to stop. But you do need to stop for everything else.
Great comparison video!
Excellent info - thank you. Great contrast/comparison and sound reasoning.
Hey, with all your riding around Oregon - have you seen Bigfoot? :)
Great review as currently looking at both these bikes to be the more road oriented model to with my 690 enduro. A long term KTM owner the 790/890 appeals to me from a riding perspective, but due to the camshaft issues it will be a Honda for me.
I doubt this'll get any attention but the perfect 3rd wheel to this comparison would be the Aprilia Tuareg 660. I'm toying with the idea of another middleweight bike and that's one of the contenders. A few motovloggers have chosen the Tuareg over these 2 bikes and the Yamaha T7. I've ruled out the T7 due to the high center of gravity. I know Dork's had one and loved it. Thoughts? (In my stable: 2023 1250 GS Rallye, Honda CRF300L, Yam WR250R)
In the UK. Love my TA, great all rounder. Will do whatever you want well. If you need hardcore off road then of course there will be better bikes.
I totally disagree about the beginners riders, having cornering abs for a beginner can be the difference between crashing or not.
The wireless charging + the vibration dampener is great, but only charges about half the time. Good enough, but seeing the charging overlay popping up over and over is a bit distracting.
The ktm front end for 790 and larger versions remind me of an alien hierarchy, cause each step up in size it seems to slowly get larger
This is an excellent review. I’m not even interested in either of these bikes, but if I were this video would help.
Great comparison Ben. I think you are down playing the $1,000 price difference. You can add a bunch of things for that money and let’s not forget about the extra for the cruise,quick shifter and I think the heated grips. You get what you pay for. I’m a Honda fan boy but if there weren’t all the rumblings about KTM reliability I might have bought the 790. To me it’s like what the realtors say location location location. But in this case it’s reliability x3
Not downplaying on purpose...just saying they're in the same price range as opposed to a Tiger 900 or something.
KTM is masterfully engineered, thankfully for the other manufacturers that they aren’t bulletproof otherwise why would you buy another brand.
If you’re in the user mode on the Transalp and you’re wheels are turning (either pushing it or riding) when you hold down the mode button to change the settings it goes straight to TC and then ABS is next I don’t think it’s as big of a deal that people make it out to be cuz you can do it on the fly. I haven’t dug in to my air filter yet but supposedly you can cut some tabs on the fairings when you do it the first time and then every time after that you don’t have to take out all the dash just the sides and tilt the tank up but I can’t confirm that yet
You could have just stopped at “The Trans Alp is a slightly better street bike”. LOL I got rid of my Africa Twin because of the silly electronics. It’s like Honda is compelled to babysit us. Hondas are great though, I’ve been a fanboy for a while because of the reliability. Having said that I haven’t had a Honda in the garage for three years now.
I noticed your "be excellent to each other" key ring/fob thing - you should offer than in your merch! I would totally buy one. Just sayin'...
Excellent comparison and review
Sooo... Wait for the Transalp gen 2 that (hopefully) offers cruise and tubless tires.
Good summary mate.
Holy cheese cam Batman! That was an efficient review.
Been waiting on this one!
Your 790 is made by cfmoto, they don’t have the camshaft issue like the KTM made previous models and 800MT doesn’t have the issue as well so it’s not a Chinese made problem only a KTM problem. I know of 2 people who had their earlier model 790’s who have had their bikes fixed under warranty by KTM.
great job Ben on the comps, Just got back from a weekend trip to the LL Stub Stewart park, stayed in the cabins, great trip on the backroads, love my TA. WHO did your seat on the TransAlp?
Great review thanks!
One bike is inheritably unreliable. The other is, simply HALF BAKED. What should be done : engine from Honda >>> KTM ! Then it is going to be a great bike !
You say there are no negative reliability reports about the Honda Transalp but plenty about the KTM 790 and keep on rambling about lack of piece of mind and camshafts made of chocolate and so on. Sorry to have to say it, but you are misrepresenting the situation.
Mind that:
1. the KTM 790 adventure you are showing is a new updated model from 2023 (with no reported issues) and that the camshaft issues you are rambling on about are all about earlier model years
2. The reported camshaft problems (with regard to the earlier models) represent 0.2% of the sold motorcycles with that engine
So there are no known reliabilty issues with the new Honda nor with the new KTM ( with a 4 year warranty period which is even further extendable, at least here in Europe).
There is no KTM 790 adventure model 2023 group about camshafts. Sure there is one about older models (as previously mentioned represents 0.2%). There is off course no group about problems with previous Honda Transalp model: it’s model year 2008…an era when people still survived without mass BS internet platforms).
I own the KTM and so far (ok, only 9000 km) it’s been fantastic !
I also disagree with the no beginner bike comment: it’s absolutely perfect for beginners as well as for experienced riders. The motorcycle is extremely controllable and luxurious.
9000 km? That's a couple of months worth of riding. Come and tell us how great it still is after a couple of years and 40,000 km.
Electronics are killing biking that’s why I’m going for the awesome T7.
Have fun we just did the North cali BDR. Watch out of Rattlesnakes🙃
Hey Dork, love your content.
Sorry for the weird question, but cudnt find anything anywhere else on the internet. Have you experienced disconnection issues with the quad lock weatherproof wireless charging head? My phone goes from charging to not every 2 seconds literally.
No one has talked about resale? With all the problems around cam wear I’d bet it would be pretty difficult to sell a 790/890 right now??
It would have been nice to cover the mileage on a tank of gas. I've done rides in Death Valley where you need a 200 mile range or your carrying extra gas. Cheers
Japanese motorcycle manufacturers - where is your version of the Ibex 450!? If CF Moto can do it, why can't you guys!
An Ibex 450 clone, that weighs 400 lbs wet, is my unicorn bike now. I thought for sure that my next bike was going to be a Transalp, but the more off pavement riding I do the more I realize that I really just want a lighter, more off pavement capable bike than my CB500X.
I can't wait for Ian or Ben to review the Ibex 450, I just wish it was 40 lbs lighter.
Great looking Evo!
I sold my Africa Twin last year. It was great but too much bike for me (tall and heavy).
Have you ever tried the AT? I would be curious as to what I can expect going on a Transalp.
I do not do crazy off-road, mostly gravel and easy trails. The Transalp would cover my needs I think.
Any thought?
CF Moto, KTM, Loncin (BMW with chain) are good choices for 2nd bike, for small adventures. Here in the great Canadian territories, only tourists have Chinese motorcycles.. and MEN finds a garage that will fix it.
Nicely laid out