Last year we did a meta-review of the Honda Transalp here: th-cam.com/video/Zb0LZx1iE20/w-d-xo.html This video is now a personal review because our guys got to ride the XL750 for a few days and report back. AUSTRALIAN PRICE COMPARISON! Honda Transalp AUD$15800 ride away. Yamaha T7 $20,300 KTM 890R $24,900 Not sure about other countries, but the Honda is priced about the same as the Chinese 800MT Explore. Thinking of a T7? I'd be more inclined to buy the Transalp and have $4500 to save or use to upgrad the suspension. Video credit: Thanks to Moto Real Ride for footage from two of his videos under Creative Commons. Honda TransAlp XL750 2023 - Gravel Road Ride th-cam.com/video/t_ESWi9_aMU/w-d-xo.html Honda Transalp 2023 XL750 - Ride - HQ Engne Sound th-cam.com/video/SJYHaXHzwyA/w-d-xo.html
A Suzuki 800 DE? We'll pretty much review anything we can get our hands on but we rarely get the chance because we tend to be pretty critical in our reviews...
I have ridden and do own the Transalp. I would say that for 90+ % of riders this bike will do most anything you ask of it and perform as well as 90+% of any other bike in a given genre. Is it the best off road bike at the weight and price point?--NO. Is it the best on road bike at the weight, power, and price point?--NO. Is it the best riding the line between the two at this given power, weight, and price point?--I would say YES! I like the way that this review put it--The Honda Transalp is the "Swiss Army" knife or the "Labradore". Anyone who has been around a Lab or a Swiss Army knife knows how perfectly this description fits. Excellent content. I would buy a Transalp all over again and it is my "overall" favorite bike that I have ever owned (been riding since 1987). ...And with $3k in upgrades/mods, an owner could easily close most of the gaps (i.e. cruise control, heated grips, protection, tires, storage, etc.) that may be desired (still well below the price of an Africa Twin, BMW GS, etc.).
@@TommyNitroT7 feels weird to sit on. Tall and narrow but not like a 690 enduro R. I really didn't like the nordon 901 the seat was squared off and really spaced my legs apart.
It was between a TA and a T7. I picked the TA for several reasons over the T7. 1. Better wind protection 2. Comfier seat 3. Punchier engine 4. Fantastic handling on the street 5. Low seat height and centre of gravity 6. Price. It was the same price new as a secondhand T7 here in Australia and considerably cheaper than the competition. Mines got handguards, crash bars, radiator guard and bash plate. I’ve got upgraded suspension for it from YSS that needs to go in. But I’ve clocked nearly 10,000km on mine since October of last year. It’s an awesome bike!
The differences between the Transalp and the Tenere should be obvious to anyone who has never even ridden a motorcycle. But they are not and we still have these stupid questions 'translap or t7?' The Translalp is definitely a more universal motorcycle. Tenere is a typical offroad motorcycle - unfortunately, it is already outdated in 2024. For long journeys, for everyday riding, the Transalp is a much better idea.
I've watched hours of videos talking about all the details of the bike... But your 6 and half minute presentation was the best! You nailed your opinions, sir. Very well summed up. Thank you!
Thanks. Yeah we've noticed that a lot of reviews take ages to actually say anything. Then of course they waste time urging you to 'like and susbscribe'. We try to get all the relevant info done as concisely as possible. And as objectively as possible!
I bought a Transalp 4 months ago and have put 4400 miles on it so far. Very impressed, this is a complete package combining capability on & off pavement. It's stellar as a road bike, you will need some add-ons to make it capable off-road. I added the Honda crash bars & skid plate, Barkbusters handguards, and the radiator protector adding about $1K to the price, but it's still a terrific value. It has plenty of power, is well-balanced, and the weight distribution and seat height are user-friendly.
I own a Transalp 750 and really, without being subjective, this bike it's amazing from many perspectives: On Road with great handling, more than enought power and an amazing fuel consumption (3,7% or maximum 4%). and lately I've been training myself Off-Road with this bike, and as a BEGINNER off-road rider I find it so easy to learn some skiils and to take it to different terrains like gravel, soil, mud even sand. So I look forward to reach 100,000 Km with this bike, I really feel that I can keep it for very long time. Nice rides off-road by the way enjoyable to watch ! Greetings !
first off, i haven't ridden the Transalp but i think this is a fair and honest review style that should be applied to any 'breed' of bike; it doesn't pretend to be something it is not; nor has it been marketed that way; seeing what the bike is capable of in the hands of a real-world rider is impressive; seeing Daryl Beatie punting the Transalp along out in the desert country is also impressive; going by this alone, it looks like it is more capable than most riders who buy this 'breed' of bike are when push comes to shove; as i am near 60 and my crash, bang, take-it-all-on Enduro days are behind me, i had my heart set on a CFmoto450MT but seeing this (and other reviews) i may be reviewing this decision; i'm built more for pleasure with short bursts of speed these days as my comfort factor takes over.
Cheers. We are often quite critical of bikes in our reviews but we think it's unfair when many are expecting this to be a T7 or smaller Africa Twin and then rubbish the bike. The price is amazing... at least here in Australia.
Exactly on point, nothing to be added. Every bike that comes out, it targets a specific group of riders. When you buy a Transalp you know exactly why you are buying it and it's perfect for it's supposed to be capable of.
It is kind of weird it's so much cheaper than the others (at least here in Oz) but there are so many complaints that it doesn't have the features of the more expensive bikes. 🤔
@@crosstrainingadventure Yes exactly, it has less features that's why it's so much cheaper. Not all riders are looking for high tech and all kinds of gadgets. Some like it simple like the good old days. It's a very honest "value for money" bike.
I have a lighty kitted TA and a heavily modified bushpig among other bikes and have been riding for about 30 years. If I had to keep only one bike, it would be the TA. It is an absolute joy on back country roads both paved and gravel. It feels like it will handle terrible off-road, but I am constantly reminded it does the job better than I expect it to. I find myself thinking "that was easier than I thought it would be" when I hit a rougher spot. The bushpig is rowdy, loud and angry, and I love it, but the TA is just plain better at everything, except maybe some tight single track (which it was never designed for). The bushpig isn't the best at that either but easier to manage. Overall, I knew the TA wasn't a KTM500 woods bike when I got it, but it has to be the smoothest, best all around and daily livable bike I think I have ever owned.
Great to hear, Chris. I must admit I could be tempted to buy one in a few years time. Currently I still enjoy doing some rough tracks on our adventure rides with the DR650. But as I ease out of that in my 60s the Transalp (with suspension mods) could be just the ticket.
I wasn't sure I'd like the Transalp after watching a few reviews. I rode one a few months back and I REALLY liked it. I almost bought one. I really like the engine and transmission. The quickshifter is great. The seating position and seat height are perfect for me at 5' 10". For the type of riding I do, It think it would be ideal. I think I'm the type of person they aimed the bike for. I am not into hill climbing or riding over boulders. I ride the dirt, chert, and gravel backroads. They can be a little rough and muddy and there are tons of creek crossings. My only real problem with the bike is the location of the air filter. Why in the world would you put it under the fuel tank? I may still buy a Transalp. I just can't decide if I want an adventure bike or true dual sport to replace my Versys-x 300.
I bought one on 4/13/24, and have 5200 miles on it. There are little things I dont like about the Transalp, but none were or are deal breakers. No cruise, weak suspension, and tubed tires were a bit of a turn off. I bought one anyway, and this bike quickly became a trusty friend on my adventures. It tractors great up steep dirt hairpins, descends with agreeable engine braking, very stable on road, geared almost perfectly for everything freeway included. If you have room for only one horse in the stable, this is a keeper!
I have an 89 Transalp 600. I’ve had it a long time. Along with my xr250, 1987, it is my favorite. I have a stable including some BMWs. The Transalp draws attention and performs.
I'm 50 years old. I've been fortunate enough to ride the earliers models late 90s and 00s. Transalp it's a jack-of-all-trades bike. 80% road, 20% 'off-roadish'.. I remember back in the day , before this hype of ADV bikes/off-road, all my friends with Transalps not even one, I repeat one ! Ride the bike off road or even think about it. It was a beautiful bike, with a fantastic seat position. With a nice Smooth eng8ne , but with growl sound, good for Turing and the city, with reliability ( many still out there). This is the ADN of Transalp. And this is why it's a cult , and this is why I rush to buy again the new one. Cheers ride safe.
Just rode my new 2024 XL 750 home a few days ago. I am downsizing from a big heavy Triumph Explorer. I am looking forward to making the TA my own. Got lots of farkles on the way. TrailMax Raids with HD tubes going on next Saturday. The excitement from buying and dialing in a new bike is habit forming.
The TA is awesome. If you want higher power you just need to keep the revs a little higher. Otherwise its nice and tame. The modes are fun, but TC is a little intrusive. I consider the TA a baby AT rather than a big CB
I bought the TA 750 here in Europe and made 3K kms on it already (I know it's not much). I ride with my wife 99% of the time, so T7 or Tuareg were not a choice for me. Yet, I did not need a monstrosity like a GS1300 or Tiger 1200, as I prefer to go where I want, and trying to manage a big ADV with my wife at the back might be tough for a 75 kgs guy like me. So TA 750 turned out to be the perfect tool: it's an amazing road bike with way more off-road capabilities than what I am planning to put it to. And I totally agree with this review: if you lack TA's off-road capabilities then you got the wrong tool for the job (or chosen the wrong path for the bike). TA 750 is a bike that will get me and my wife far, with all the stuff we need for the travel, and then when we happen to hit some gravel - we won't stop. It's not correct to compare TA 750 to T7, as these two bikes were built with absolutely different purposes in mind: if you ride T7 on road - you're just wasting the bike's potential; if you're using TA 750 as a pure off-road bike, then you've made a wrong choice. The only thing I dislike in TA 750 is the suspension: it is way too squishy even on hardest pre-load. But I hope to fix it with a sent of HyperPro springs So, as a conclusion: there is no real alternative on the market to TA 750 if you're looking for a light-weight comfortable adventure bike for long travel with a passenger and some load, capable both of doing highway speeds and going on gravel without fear to damage the bike and yourself.
@@chrishart8548 I've had F800GS for 10 years before TA750 and covered 160K kms (100K miles) on it. While being an amazing bike which I totally loved, the F800GSstill does not provide the level of comfort TA750 does: it gives more vibrations, the stock suspension is also plushy (as on TA), and it does not handle as well on hairpins as TA does. For the road use I prefer TA, even though F800GS will remain a legendary bike for me
@@andreymatuzkov3766 I've got the ESA on mine this definitely helps with the handling. It's £47 a year insurance and the bike was paid for years ago. I wouldn't say no to a TA750.
The Transalp is a better bike than it seems at first. About to hit 12,000 kms on mine (in South Australia) and it has 'grown on me' over the last six months. I think I bought the first one here, and actually got a good deal on the bike - even better than listed. It goes about its work without 'hoo-hah' - just a capable, easy, not-too-heavy bike that can go most places. Smooth, excellent economy and range (400 kms) and of course a very competitive price. Enough left for suspension work. It may not be for those who want to look like they're just back from the Sahara, but it is far more capable than some critics realise. At about 6,000 kms this bike starts to make a lot of sense, and I found myself enjoying it more than I'd expected to. Thanks for a well expressed review of this intangible feature - ease of ownership, of a capable 'all-round' motorcycle.
Thanks Pat, good to see the vast majority of owners agree with you. In this review I think Dallas hit the nail on the head. Too many riders have expected it would be far more dirt-worthy and directly challenge the T7. But it's aimed squarely at a far bigger market - 80% road / 20% dirt roads. And at a bargain basement price you'd normally see on Chinese bikes.
Exactly. In fact when I got the great deal on mine, the CFMoto 800 cost quite a bit more than the Honda. Yes, the CFMoto has more equipment, but is much heavier.
I have found much the same. I could no longer pickup my Africa twin, and this bike had the look and the weight to solve the AT problem. It will never be what the AT was, but I am certainly enjoying it the more I ride it. I also have a CRF300L for days when I want to get crazy off-road.
@@lexx348 No flats, now at about 15,500 kms. I never had any on my Elefant either (yet!) in well over 50,000 kms. But I had two in a short period on my (tubeless) Ducati's rear, after none for over 60k, so punctures are a capricious event, and always a nuisance. But at this stage I have only had flats (4) in the last 30 years on my tubeless bikes, for whatever reason. I guess the fat semi-slick tyre on a sports bike is more attractive to sharp objects! My last puncture with tubes was on my bevel Ducati in the mid-'90s, and I do a lot of miles. But a couple of levers, a tube and a pump are worth carrying when going away off-road, just in case. I suspect this obsession with tubeless tyres is a bit exaggerated actually. Tubeless tyres can't always be easily repaired at the roadside either. But when things go wrong - that's when you meet people! If you want a life where nothing ever goes wrong, you could always just stay home... 😁
I bought a transalp about a month ago, put about 1200 miles on it maybe 50 miles off road in death valley California, I love the bike, it has a very smooth motor, handles like a dream on the road and through twisties, the front stock tire felt a little washy off road, needs more aggressive tires for off road riding for sure. The stock exhaust sound is wonderful, not to load but has a good tone. For me it was a great choice, I love the reliability factor, I love the performance on the street, and I look forward to some light off road exploring! Safe riding my friends!
I test drive this bike at Americade this year. I liked it except for the seat, in which you tend to slide forward to the tank, constantly making me adjust my seating position (I’m 5’9”). Quite a bit of vibration through the handlebars even at around d 40-50mph. Foam cushion over grips should be a must. On the highway with a side wind, it was blowing me all over the lane. Much worse than my KLR650. Aside from my few gripes, I really like the bike. Decent power for passing and going up hills. If I bought one, I’d change the seat out immediately for something flatter.
Hello, Finally someone who is objective and understands this bike. Bravo ! And I really like the comparison with a Swiss army knife ;-) I love this bike and I'm not ready to part with it. Thanks for sharing! :-) I am sorry for my poor English, I am French Greetings from France!
"If you're going to be going into terrain where this motorcycle is past its clearance, you've probably chosen the wrong tool for the job." Best statement about its ground clearance I have heard so far (at about 4:40 ish)
Well it sure ain't an adventure if you know what is down every track. On top of this the tracks are changing all the time with weather and usage. Hope it turns well so we can all go back the way we came whenever we encounter a rock , tree, or rut.
The transalp does just fine in most off road conditions. Along with this vid, Big Rock Moto has a good video where he takes it into some fairly gnarly stuff. More than I'd want to take any big adv bike. And if someone is planning an adv ride, ideally they have done some modicum of research about the tracks they will be going down. I would disagree about your statement on adventure. Plenty of adventure to be had on known tracks. Although the unknown is often a great thing all of its own.@@loopeyshooter503
I see yt didn't post my original reply. I had a couple points. For one, on any longer adv ride a rough idea and some research on the routes is typically already done (so the riders have an idea of what they may be getting into). Also plenty of adventure to be had on known routes. Secondly, in this video and in the one on Big Rock Moto's yt page there is plenty footage of the transalp off road and it does quite well in some pretty gnarly conditions, especially for its size. So your last sentence appears to be pure hyperbole. @@loopeyshooter503
YT isn't posting my replies for some reason. I haven't said anything controversial. Bottom line, plenty of footage of this bike off road. Your last sentence is hyperbole. @@loopeyshooter503
Test rode it after researching on internet lots of reviews and info about it. I'm a very versatile rider, riding whole year, two up and solo. This Transalp is really the best adventure bike to do it all, in my book. I loved how it rides when testing it with my wife. Expected much softer, bouncy ride but actually got a nimble bike that reminds of my previous sporty nakeds, with great weather protection of big bike plus lots of leg room and seat space for both of us, plus great engine and intake sound, plus low fuel consumption, plus great for crossing bad quality roads or light off road and super for highway riding. It's just a bike I need for all of what I do. My bike is going on sale and aiming for Transalp to be my enter to the different type of bike for the first time ever.
Good to see it's working out for you. It's so much cheaper than the competition in Australia that I'd be tempted to buy one in the future if we stop riding rough trails so often.
I’ve got one and I’ve put 3k miles on it. Love the way it handles on road, but most of all, love the engine, it definitely hits the power curve later in the revs, but man is it fun when it does
I could be tempted to buy one if we ride less rough tracks in coming years. I'd use the money saved from NOT buying the T7 and just spend a thousand or so on the suspension.
I sat on one. Has a very low center of gravity. What I have found is that I just like smaller bikes. Swapped bikes with a guy I know (he rode my DR and I rode his klx230s). I was giggling like a little kid the entire time. A very pure motorcycling experience. On a bigger bike I feel too much like I'm in a car, I suppose. That said I liked the Transalp. Was as comfortable as the T7 in terms of the riding position for a taller guy.
I hear you from the talls angle. The heaviest bike that I have been able to properly abuse off-road has been a XR650L that was barely modded. In motion, it does have the feel of a big dirt bike, although it's 120 lbs heavier than one. I have ridden my gen1 Versys 650 on gravel a lot and on dirt a little .. and the experience told me not to take anything so heavy onto the dirt.
I also, have an XR. I got the DR to address my issues with the XR: top heavy/tipping prone, cramped cockpit. Great bike otherwise. Just didn't jive with me. @@suzyamerica4679
I have an XR. Got a DR to address my issues on the XR. I am much more capable off road on my DR. But where I ride it is not wide open desert, it is hilly and heavily wooded. The top heavy XR is a hindrance. I also find the riding position to be oddly cramped for such a tall bike. @@suzyamerica4679
First of thank you for the honest and complete review. I’m currently looking for a off-road capable bike since we’re going to be emigrating from the Netherlands to Portugal (you really don’t need an adv bike in the Netherlands, believe me) and I gotta be honest, I did not like the looks of the transalp in the bleu/white combination but seeing it in black makes it look so much better imho. Also I feel like it’s a more adv beginner friendly bike which is definitely what I’m looking for. And on top of that you’ll get the build quality and reliability of a Honda for a fantastic price! Thank again! 🙏🏻
Just got one only done 500 km. Have not taken it on rough dirt roads yet because do not have protection on it yet. Definitely needs a good bashplate as minimum. As low to the ground and engine cases very exposed. Great handling, braking, power is adequate. I love the low seat height and would confidently take it on single trail once I get the protection.(only as required and not at race pace!) Maybe I am old fashioned but all the modes just frustrate me. Mind you I probably just have to use them more so I know how they work. I find off road I use user mode and try and turn everything off! The suspension is still settling in. The rear feels a little harsh to me at the moment and the front is excellent. But I do not think I would ever replace the suspension because if I need more I am probably on the wrong bike for the riding I am doing...
I'm planning to get a test ride this spring, Purely as a road bike, nice high seat, light weight, good at everything. If I bought one I'd do a tubeless conversion though.
Hi, Great review. I haven't ridden a Transalp yet. I am thinking about retirement and the midsize class of bike. I would really like a video comparing the European and North American models. The physical difference, if any, and the tuning differences. All I know is that the European model has 90 hp while the North American model has 83 hp.
i got one and love it only have about 150 street miles on it up here in New England i bought it for what it is a HONDA ADV bike not a dirt bike waiting for my skid plate and a few other things before it hits an type of off road adventures (dirt roads and simple trails the bike is what it is and not a big dirt bike
It was criticized, but this is good because the following editions will be improved. Personally, I'm not a fan of the colour in Canada. The Europeans have the best-looking Transalp paint job and we got boring and lifeless. Adding DCT and cruise more USB ports & 12V ports would have been a great addition. Play to the road drivers. Improve the off-road characteristics in the following year. It'll be a cult classic by the time it reaches its third iteration.
I think we are spoiled for choice really. I've done 4000kms on mine and love it. Probably would have loved a T7 or an 800de as well. Enjoy the competition, it's great for us all. If we all looked at spec sheets alone, we'd probably all be riding KTM's. Taken it on tracks the stock tyres didn't love, and apparently the bike can't do, I'm no gun, but the bike gives me confidence. I just like riding it. I think that counts for something. I understand it has some shortcomings, no unicorn dakar bike, but it is what it is, a versatile well priced Japanese bike. PS I'm not sure why everyone is so fascinated with tubeless tyres? Hardly reinventing the wheel. Does this mean my 20 year old corolla daily driver has got some street cred with how it stores its air inside rubber?
Excellent comment! This will be looked on as a golden age of off-road, DS and ADV riding. The pendulum will swing the other way, and I'm hoping I'll be dead for that.
Been riding a 650 Transalp for the last 23 years so I am biased. It has proven very versatile and capable and I still love it. Had the 750 for 6 months and it is better in every respect. Both bikes are too heavy for serious off road. Unicorn bikes, like the beast, are a figment of peoples imagination.
Careful with the quick shifter, my destroyed the transmission on my transalp, still waiting to hear from Honda about the warranty covering the repairs. Other than that, great bike.
At last! Do we have the perfect bike for us aged riders??? Better than the no-frills DR650 but almost up to T700 levels? The BIG question is, is it as good as the CFMoto 800MT Explore??? Does it matter? Not really. We are finally spoilt for choice so take your pick! Thanks for the review Dallas, it brings a reality check to those that think they are Pol Tarres and want to ride their T700 at Romainiacs.
Thank you. The majority of people have no idea or are willfully blind. There is a small group that have the skills and time to participate in hardcore adventure riding but for most of us that just isn't a reality... and, when we finally have the time, our bodies are old and frail.
Bingo. My road bike is an old gen1 Versys 650. It's good at that. Lovely in the corners, fine on long highway trips. But when I get to the dirt, it's a frigging beached walrus. It does not magically transform itself into a lightweight 2-stroke when the pavement ends. Awaiting that "transformative" technology 😅
Wait what? You think the DR650 is further towards trials than the wr250r and crf300l? That's pretty wild. I'm new to motorcycles, granted, but so far I'd feel much more comfortable on the lighter weight option over rocks and in the mud.
I was a bit puzzled at one or two of the bikes on their whiteboard but I figure we all have different angles on how we'd assess each bike. Weight? Power? Road handling? Suspension travel?
I haven't ridden it yet, but I am behind a keyboard and have strong opinions. I believe the TransAlp is the unicorn of Adventure bikes. Its the Holy Grail, its the best position in the Kama Sutra, its the first and last word in yhe Koran. It is the top of the human and machine evolution.
As a keyboard warrior I insist we need a road focused option too - 19" front, cast wheels and tubeless 80/20 tyres. Being off road biased means it will lose to better competition in that field while also losing the road tour and commuter category. Sure, it's in no way a bad bike but it isn't a class winner anywhere... even though it could be.
I got a CB500X. Between that and the Africa Twin, I'm not sure why anybody would get the Transalp other than not being to afford the AT. CB will do 80mph all day, and you can slowly navigate some single track with it [I have anyway]. If you wanted more dirt ability, T7. More road abililty, AT. I don't see Transalp selling all that well competing against it's Honda siblings and the Suzuki and Yamaha midweight offerings.
My cb500x was very capable off road, FOR MY SKILL LEVEL... couple years later and it's not enough. I'm now have another month before getting the TA and I don't see why I would need the AT at its price and weight. The TA isn't competing with it, it's found its own crowd, I would say.
Because some people ride for fun, and they want something that's a little bit more exciting than a 47 hp, not everybody its a beginner, and not everybody can or want to break their bank for a little bit a fun. The cb500x its a good bike, got more mpg, tubeless tires and its cheaper, but its more boring.
Wanna ride the new one so bad just to compare it to my 08 model I’ve had for 10 years absolutely love that thing goes almost everywhere I aim it ,if the new ones as capable it’ll be in the shed for sure 2s better than 1 aye cheers
Ive always struggled with the ground clearance debate. For instance, my T7s skidplate was full of dents from bottoming it out, but i was too short for it already. I guess i think ground clearance is very important. But not if the ground is a mile from the seat to get it.
No, it was going to be a running gag where he kept pointing to it when discussing parts of the Transalp. This was just a very short version, it will appear in the full video on the eRag channel. 😁
Yes, you are 100% to the point! I think that the motorcyclists are more "Wanna be", always waiting from companies to builtt their dream machine that does everything perfect If you know what you want, this bike will never disappoint you. It is almost naked when you buy it, but this gives you the freedom to built it as you like. Do you want it off road? Buy a set of suspension (1600eur) and it will be better than Tuareg or Tenere.
After all these 'wow' Tuareg reviews I decided to try it. I was disappointed. This is great offroad bike but below average on the road. Transalp is more universal.
The differences between the Transalp and the Tenere should be obvious to anyone who has never even ridden a motorcycle. But they are not and we still have these stupid questions 'translap or t7?' The Translalp is definitely a more universal motorcycle. Tenere is a typical offroad motorcycle - unfortunately, it is already outdated in 2024. For long journeys, for everyday riding, the Transalp is a much better idea. What I do not like in Transalp is too soft suspension and (BIG PAIN) tubed tires.
I guess it depends where you live. The Transalp is a bit more expensive here, than the new VStrom 800 DE (and you always get a discount on Suzukis where I live). The only advantage of the Transalp is the weight. But if you throw some crash guards on her and add a few other things, the weight difference isn't so big anymore. What annoys me most is that the original Honda accessories are so expensive. I configured a Transalp online and it has nearly the price of Tiger 900 Rally Pro then - that already has everything you need. I will make some test rides this year but I think I will go for the Suzuki - or a used Tiger Rally Pro. But - we'll see :)
Unfortunately pricing sometimes depends on the importer trying to cash in too much. A Canadian viewer said the Transalp is quite expensive and the same price as a T7! In which case why not get the T7 instead?
I like the comparison (Not the right word but I can't remember the correct word) to a Labrador Retriever. I think bikes are more like the Goldilocks story. Each of us has to find the one that is just right, for our actual use, not what we like to think we are going to use it for. Very, very few (if any) of those of us who consider an adv bike can ride like Chris Birch, Graham Jarvis, or any of the other brand representatives who can ride the heavy adv bike like a two stroke enduro bike. The truth is that we wouldn't have a hope of keeping up with them riding a bid adv bike if WE were on a two stroke enduro bike.
Good analogy! I think this Transalp is going to be a great bike for many riders and at a good price. It's a shame when it gets rubbished for not being a more serious off-road bike. It's just not aimed at that kind of rider.
orginal transalp 600 owner. thay build to do everything not everything well. it will get u there. i love my transalp i love try new one i see the diffence is.
Daryl Beatties off road tours have done a fair bit of work to dial these in. But it is dfficult to ever get the perfect balance of purpose from a bike where you want it to do everything extremely well, if it is ever to be produced, it’s going to be a mid weight, but utilising electronic suspension modes, meaning it won’t be cheap. We are so spoilt to the extreme with being able to build out a bike to do one specific thing well. Expectations are naturally higher…… when in reality we are largely not much quicker on either ….dare I say the door is open for 😂😂 a Suzuki DR big (800) remake, electronic suspension, a bored out vstrom engine. If only 😂
I love mine BUT..... I had a rear puncture earlier this week. It was on a day ride and my breakdown cover got me recovered back home. This weekend I've attempted to take the tyre off the rim to change the tube. 2 hours to break the bead and it's looking impossible to pull the tyre over the rim to get the tube out. I appreciate that my technique is probably lacking somewhat but it's just doesn't appear practical to do at the roadside. I want to be able to do multi day trips comfortable in the knowledge that the bike is repairable at the roadside. The TA is great if you're out on a day ride where you can be recovered but a multi day trip which is remote or at a time when you can't easily get a puncture fixed? No. It's adventure bike shaped but not an adventure bike. Needs tubeless for the 90% of time it will be ridden on roads. Sadly, mine will be going.
Hola tengo una transalp con 10 meses y 17,000 en el sur de España, es una moto sencilla, muy manejable, entra por cualquier espacio en el trafico en la ciudad. Estoy muy contigo en todo lo que dices de esta moto. Yo por ejemplo no hago off road con ella solo carretera.
I’m very likely going to be getting the vstrom 800 to pair with my DR650 (a bike I’ll never let go). I’d love to hear your thoughts on the v800 in a future video. Cheers.
I got one,happy with it,except the torque below 4000 rpm;I tried the v strom 800 DE,the engine is better at low rpm,but the weigh is 22kgs more than the transalp,at the same weigh I would have taken the suzuki!nothing is perfect ;for an adventure bike ,I wish i could put the v strom engine in the transalp...
It is a bit strange they didn't emphasise the low end power more for an adventure bike. It would be interesting to see if a change in mapping made a difference?
The bike is cool but the air filter needs to be under the seat. Deal-breaker. Not so important but should have had: Tubeless, cruise. It's like they left them out to be able to undercut the T7. You don't need 92/83 HP. V-Strom 800 is too heavy but will be good on road. Air filter under the seat. Kawi has nothing except the KLR which is not in the same class. Aprilia is cool performance wise but that's about it. Tiger 900 is expensive, heavy, and overloaded with electronics. Probably a bad ass touring adv. You just have to be honest about your needs. T7 for me all day. I just with they'd bring the World Rally to the US.
That is how my Canadian cousins see things... I guess I mostly agree with their ideas. Dallas might chime in if he sees this. I suspect it's probably due to the suspension? The 300L has very basic suspension that's too soft for any spirited off-road riding. Whereas the 690 is very firm and actually works better the harder you ride.
Look ill be honest, I own one and have already taken the filter out many times. Is it way harder to do than under the seat? Hell yeh! but in reality I can have the bike stripped in 15 minutes, the filter cleaned and then put back together in another 15-20 minutes. Never broken a clip in the 10 odd times I have pulled it apart. I wish it was under the seat but it isn't as shit of a job as a pan america's filter was, the stuff around with pulling plugs and stuff to get the tank up was a nightmare.
It is a bit of an oversight. And it probably depends on whether you like wrenching or not. Me? I HATE doing air filters lol. So I wouldn't like the extra work.
@@crosstrainingadventureAh, I see. It was an easy mistake to make and a good example of how easily the front deflects when there is no weight on it. But it's good to respect one's privacy.
This or the CF Moto MT 450 is probably my next second bike. I own a KTM Duke 890R as my local hooligan. Now I need an everyday commuter and for longer trip with bags. A bike Jack of all traits master of none.
You'd be better off with a CB500X. And if you ever decide to sell it you know people are keen to buy it. A CFMOTO will cop savage depreciation. Also every mechanic knows how to fix Hondas and source parts for them, good luck with the Chinese wheels.
@@SimonBrisbane I have looked at it. It could be a thing. The problem is my friend who is keen to do longtrips off and on road proably will get a T7 or V-strom. The CB500 can't keep up off road with that.
I bought one last week. Only been in the road for now and I love it, good power, very maneuverable. Looking forward to install offroad protection and if I find the limits of the bike maybe get better suspensions.
Dumb question- is it legal do drive off road like that in Canada? In Germany it is certanly not, like at all. So I don't quiet understand why I see that many "off-road" bikes here. You can clearly see by the square back tire that those have probably never seen a single bit of dirt.
Thanks Dallas. I'd like to take some of the keyboard haters to the canyon and see if they can actually ride the bike they own on anything harder than a farm lane. Sadly, most can not afford a true unicorn adv and if it existed, they'd keep it on the gravel. I've had open invitations to do it but only a handful ever have, and only two have come back for more. I'd like to have the white European model to match my '89 Transalp. But it has been retired to light duty and replaced by a pair of 950 Adventures.
I had a very short ride on one. It feels lazy, predictable, easy to ride, and quite characterless at low revs. None of these things are necessarily bad, in fact in many ways they are good for the right use cases. It does also, however, look and feel a little boring, and i'm not a fan of the riding position. Went with a Tenere World Raid instead
Me and my mates ride TET and other gravel road trails in the nordic countries. Every trip we need to get over a log or two when there is no way round, ground clearance is important on an adventure bike so I don't agree with you there but a great review otherwise. Great driving and that view is lovely
@@SimonBrisbane want or need? I believe on an average adventure, average rider uses around 30hp. Bit you can feel 15kg of weight difference and overall lighter feel of the bike 100% of the time.
I only had to remove 8 ads before being able to watch this. TH-cam is broken. Pretty sure I'll leave this video when first ad break pops in to piss you off.
Eight ads?! I'll check the settings, Roger. I've always tried to keep ads minimal with just one at the start you could click out of after a few seconds. And no mid-video ads....
I just checked the settings, TH-cam claim to have 'simplified' the process by removing some options. 😒 I wonder if that's just an excuse to cram more ads in than the minimum I specified a few years back.
@@crosstrainingadventure i felt the Africa twin was heavier 1st time i got on it i put 7000 km on my transalp at home but only ridden my 300 4 stroke before the trip i feel the AT would be a great touring bike but i think a little top heavy the TA feels a bit lighter not sure if the extra torque and power is enough to out get over the weight penalty
Last year we did a meta-review of the Honda Transalp here: th-cam.com/video/Zb0LZx1iE20/w-d-xo.html This video is now a personal review because our guys got to ride the XL750 for a few days and report back.
AUSTRALIAN PRICE COMPARISON!
Honda Transalp AUD$15800 ride away.
Yamaha T7 $20,300
KTM 890R $24,900
Not sure about other countries, but the Honda is priced about the same as the Chinese 800MT Explore. Thinking of a T7? I'd be more inclined to buy the Transalp and have $4500 to save or use to upgrad the suspension.
Video credit: Thanks to Moto Real Ride for footage from two of his videos under Creative Commons.
Honda TransAlp XL750 2023 - Gravel Road Ride th-cam.com/video/t_ESWi9_aMU/w-d-xo.html
Honda Transalp 2023 XL750 - Ride - HQ Engne Sound th-cam.com/video/SJYHaXHzwyA/w-d-xo.html
Any chance of a review of the Suzuki 800 DE? Would be nice to know how it compares to the TA and the T7?
Seems in Australia Transalp's got a bargain price. Because in my parts, and in terms of worldwide MSRP it costs roughly the same as T7: 10k / 10,5k.
The T7 was quite cheap here the first two years but it got so popular they really jacked the price up.
A Suzuki 800 DE? We'll pretty much review anything we can get our hands on but we rarely get the chance because we tend to be pretty critical in our reviews...
3:45 👍
I have ridden and do own the Transalp. I would say that for 90+ % of riders this bike will do most anything you ask of it and perform as well as 90+% of any other bike in a given genre. Is it the best off road bike at the weight and price point?--NO. Is it the best on road bike at the weight, power, and price point?--NO. Is it the best riding the line between the two at this given power, weight, and price point?--I would say YES! I like the way that this review put it--The Honda Transalp is the "Swiss Army" knife or the "Labradore". Anyone who has been around a Lab or a Swiss Army knife knows how perfectly this description fits. Excellent content. I would buy a Transalp all over again and it is my "overall" favorite bike that I have ever owned (been riding since 1987). ...And with $3k in upgrades/mods, an owner could easily close most of the gaps (i.e. cruise control, heated grips, protection, tires, storage, etc.) that may be desired (still well below the price of an Africa Twin, BMW GS, etc.).
It's about $4500 cheaper here in Australia than the T7, that buys a lot of mods or just goes into the bank. 😎👍
I own one, love so far.
Thanks Jason!
I sat on a T7.....and then sat on a transalp a few weeks later. To my shock, I liked the transalp better.
@@TommyNitroT7 feels weird to sit on. Tall and narrow but not like a 690 enduro R. I really didn't like the nordon 901 the seat was squared off and really spaced my legs apart.
It was between a TA and a T7. I picked the TA for several reasons over the T7.
1. Better wind protection
2. Comfier seat
3. Punchier engine
4. Fantastic handling on the street
5. Low seat height and centre of gravity
6. Price. It was the same price new as a secondhand T7 here in Australia and considerably cheaper than the competition.
Mines got handguards, crash bars, radiator guard and bash plate. I’ve got upgraded suspension for it from YSS that needs to go in. But I’ve clocked nearly 10,000km on mine since October of last year. It’s an awesome bike!
Price isn't bad at all, hey? I checked last week and it was about $4500 cheaper.
The differences between the Transalp and the Tenere should be obvious to anyone who has never even ridden a motorcycle. But they are not and we still have these stupid questions 'translap or t7?'
The Translalp is definitely a more universal motorcycle. Tenere is a typical offroad motorcycle - unfortunately, it is already outdated in 2024.
For long journeys, for everyday riding, the Transalp is a much better idea.
Do ypu think a used dct TA a good buy
I've watched hours of videos talking about all the details of the bike... But your 6 and half minute presentation was the best! You nailed your opinions, sir. Very well summed up. Thank you!
Thanks. Yeah we've noticed that a lot of reviews take ages to actually say anything. Then of course they waste time urging you to 'like and susbscribe'. We try to get all the relevant info done as concisely as possible. And as objectively as possible!
I bought a Transalp 4 months ago and have put 4400 miles on it so far. Very impressed, this is a complete package combining capability on & off pavement. It's stellar as a road bike, you will need some add-ons to make it capable off-road. I added the Honda crash bars & skid plate, Barkbusters handguards, and the radiator protector adding about $1K to the price, but it's still a terrific value. It has plenty of power, is well-balanced, and the weight distribution and seat height are user-friendly.
Are you 6ft or over ?
Spot on review!!You said it all!!Everyone who criticizes it,hasn't even ridden it,or thinks it's a 20k bike.
I bought a Honda Transalp in January. I live near Buffalo New York so I haven't got to ride it much yet. But when I did I'm very happy with it.
I own a Transalp 750 and really, without being subjective, this bike it's amazing from many perspectives: On Road with great handling, more than enought power and an amazing fuel consumption (3,7% or maximum 4%). and lately I've been training myself Off-Road with this bike, and as a BEGINNER off-road rider I find it so easy to learn some skiils and to take it to different terrains like gravel, soil, mud even sand. So I look forward to reach 100,000 Km with this bike, I really feel that I can keep it for very long time. Nice rides off-road by the way enjoyable to watch ! Greetings !
Great to hear you are enjoying it!
first off, i haven't ridden the Transalp but i think this is a fair and honest review style that should be applied to any 'breed' of bike; it doesn't pretend to be something it is not; nor has it been marketed that way; seeing what the bike is capable of in the hands of a real-world rider is impressive; seeing Daryl Beatie punting the Transalp along out in the desert country is also impressive; going by this alone, it looks like it is more capable than most riders who buy this 'breed' of bike are when push comes to shove; as i am near 60 and my crash, bang, take-it-all-on Enduro days are behind me, i had my heart set on a CFmoto450MT but seeing this (and other reviews) i may be reviewing this decision; i'm built more for pleasure with short bursts of speed these days as my comfort factor takes over.
One of the best crisp no BS review of the Alpy..
Cheers. We are often quite critical of bikes in our reviews but we think it's unfair when many are expecting this to be a T7 or smaller Africa Twin and then rubbish the bike. The price is amazing... at least here in Australia.
Thank you sir.
Honest and true comments that summarize the transalp!
Exactly on point, nothing to be added. Every bike that comes out, it targets a specific group of riders. When you buy a Transalp you know exactly why you are buying it and it's perfect for it's supposed to be capable of.
It is kind of weird it's so much cheaper than the others (at least here in Oz) but there are so many complaints that it doesn't have the features of the more expensive bikes. 🤔
@@crosstrainingadventure Yes exactly, it has less features that's why it's so much cheaper. Not all riders are looking for high tech and all kinds of gadgets. Some like it simple like the good old days. It's a very honest "value for money" bike.
I have a lighty kitted TA and a heavily modified bushpig among other bikes and have been riding for about 30 years. If I had to keep only one bike, it would be the TA. It is an absolute joy on back country roads both paved and gravel. It feels like it will handle terrible off-road, but I am constantly reminded it does the job better than I expect it to. I find myself thinking "that was easier than I thought it would be" when I hit a rougher spot. The bushpig is rowdy, loud and angry, and I love it, but the TA is just plain better at everything, except maybe some tight single track (which it was never designed for). The bushpig isn't the best at that either but easier to manage. Overall, I knew the TA wasn't a KTM500 woods bike when I got it, but it has to be the smoothest, best all around and daily livable bike I think I have ever owned.
Great to hear, Chris. I must admit I could be tempted to buy one in a few years time. Currently I still enjoy doing some rough tracks on our adventure rides with the DR650. But as I ease out of that in my 60s the Transalp (with suspension mods) could be just the ticket.
I wasn't sure I'd like the Transalp after watching a few reviews. I rode one a few months back and I REALLY liked it. I almost bought one. I really like the engine and transmission. The quickshifter is great. The seating position and seat height are perfect for me at 5' 10". For the type of riding I do, It think it would be ideal. I think I'm the type of person they aimed the bike for. I am not into hill climbing or riding over boulders. I ride the dirt, chert, and gravel backroads. They can be a little rough and muddy and there are tons of creek crossings. My only real problem with the bike is the location of the air filter. Why in the world would you put it under the fuel tank? I may still buy a Transalp. I just can't decide if I want an adventure bike or true dual sport to replace my Versys-x 300.
Yep that air filter placement is pretty dumb.
I bought one on 4/13/24, and have 5200 miles on it. There are little things I dont like about the Transalp, but none were or are deal breakers. No cruise, weak suspension, and tubed tires were a bit of a turn off. I bought one anyway, and this bike quickly became a trusty friend on my adventures. It tractors great up steep dirt hairpins, descends with agreeable engine braking, very stable on road, geared almost perfectly for everything freeway included. If you have room for only one horse in the stable, this is a keeper!
We relied on our Canadian cousins for this review. I'd love to try one! I emailed Honda Australia and no reply. 😒
I have an 89 Transalp 600. I’ve had it a long time.
Along with my xr250, 1987, it is my favorite. I have a stable including some BMWs. The Transalp draws attention and performs.
I'm 50 years old. I've been fortunate enough to ride the earliers models late 90s and 00s. Transalp it's a jack-of-all-trades bike. 80% road, 20% 'off-roadish'.. I remember back in the day , before this hype of ADV bikes/off-road, all my friends with Transalps not even one, I repeat one ! Ride the bike off road or even think about it. It was a beautiful bike, with a fantastic seat position. With a nice Smooth eng8ne , but with growl sound, good for Turing and the city, with reliability ( many still out there). This is the ADN of Transalp. And this is why it's a cult , and this is why I rush to buy again the new one. Cheers ride safe.
Just rode my new 2024 XL 750 home a few days ago. I am downsizing from a big heavy Triumph Explorer. I am looking forward to making the TA my own. Got lots of farkles on the way. TrailMax Raids with HD tubes going on next Saturday. The excitement from buying and dialing in a new bike is habit forming.
Have fun!
I think this video sums up what the Transalp is the best way possible! Thank you, great job!
The TA is awesome. If you want higher power you just need to keep the revs a little higher. Otherwise its nice and tame. The modes are fun, but TC is a little intrusive. I consider the TA a baby AT rather than a big CB
And the engine is sort of a mini AT as well with the 270 degree crank and Unicam.
I'm wondering if a cast wheel version will be available in the future. Like the RE from Suzuki.
I bought the TA 750 here in Europe and made 3K kms on it already (I know it's not much). I ride with my wife 99% of the time, so T7 or Tuareg were not a choice for me. Yet, I did not need a monstrosity like a GS1300 or Tiger 1200, as I prefer to go where I want, and trying to manage a big ADV with my wife at the back might be tough for a 75 kgs guy like me. So TA 750 turned out to be the perfect tool: it's an amazing road bike with way more off-road capabilities than what I am planning to put it to. And I totally agree with this review: if you lack TA's off-road capabilities then you got the wrong tool for the job (or chosen the wrong path for the bike). TA 750 is a bike that will get me and my wife far, with all the stuff we need for the travel, and then when we happen to hit some gravel - we won't stop.
It's not correct to compare TA 750 to T7, as these two bikes were built with absolutely different purposes in mind: if you ride T7 on road - you're just wasting the bike's potential; if you're using TA 750 as a pure off-road bike, then you've made a wrong choice.
The only thing I dislike in TA 750 is the suspension: it is way too squishy even on hardest pre-load. But I hope to fix it with a sent of HyperPro springs
So, as a conclusion: there is no real alternative on the market to TA 750 if you're looking for a light-weight comfortable adventure bike for long travel with a passenger and some load, capable both of doing highway speeds and going on gravel without fear to damage the bike and yourself.
😎👍
The bmw f900gs probably does as well if not for the higher price. Or an older F800gs with a few mods to reduce the weight.
@@chrishart8548 I've had F800GS for 10 years before TA750 and covered 160K kms (100K miles) on it. While being an amazing bike which I totally loved, the F800GSstill does not provide the level of comfort TA750 does: it gives more vibrations, the stock suspension is also plushy (as on TA), and it does not handle as well on hairpins as TA does. For the road use I prefer TA, even though F800GS will remain a legendary bike for me
@@andreymatuzkov3766 I've got the ESA on mine this definitely helps with the handling. It's £47 a year insurance and the bike was paid for years ago. I wouldn't say no to a TA750.
The Transalp is a better bike than it seems at first. About to hit 12,000 kms on mine (in South Australia) and it has 'grown on me' over the last six months. I think I bought the first one here, and actually got a good deal on the bike - even better than listed. It goes about its work without 'hoo-hah' - just a capable, easy, not-too-heavy bike that can go most places. Smooth, excellent economy and range (400 kms) and of course a very competitive price. Enough left for suspension work.
It may not be for those who want to look like they're just back from the Sahara, but it is far more capable than some critics realise. At about 6,000 kms this bike starts to make a lot of sense, and I found myself enjoying it more than I'd expected to. Thanks for a well expressed review of this intangible feature - ease of ownership, of a capable 'all-round' motorcycle.
Thanks Pat, good to see the vast majority of owners agree with you. In this review I think Dallas hit the nail on the head. Too many riders have expected it would be far more dirt-worthy and directly challenge the T7. But it's aimed squarely at a far bigger market - 80% road / 20% dirt roads. And at a bargain basement price you'd normally see on Chinese bikes.
Exactly. In fact when I got the great deal on mine, the CFMoto 800 cost quite a bit more than the Honda. Yes, the CFMoto has more equipment, but is much heavier.
I have found much the same. I could no longer pickup my Africa twin, and this bike had the look and the weight to solve the AT problem. It will never be what the AT was, but I am certainly enjoying it the more I ride it. I also have a CRF300L for days when I want to get crazy off-road.
Did you get any flats during the time? Tubed tires concern me
@@lexx348 No flats, now at about 15,500 kms. I never had any on my Elefant either (yet!) in well over 50,000 kms. But I had two in a short period on my (tubeless) Ducati's rear, after none for over 60k, so punctures are a capricious event, and always a nuisance. But at this stage I have only had flats (4) in the last 30 years on my tubeless bikes, for whatever reason. I guess the fat semi-slick tyre on a sports bike is more attractive to sharp objects! My last puncture with tubes was on my bevel Ducati in the mid-'90s, and I do a lot of miles.
But a couple of levers, a tube and a pump are worth carrying when going away off-road, just in case. I suspect this obsession with tubeless tyres is a bit exaggerated actually. Tubeless tyres can't always be easily repaired at the roadside either. But when things go wrong - that's when you meet people! If you want a life where nothing ever goes wrong, you could always just stay home... 😁
I bought a transalp about a month ago, put about 1200 miles on it maybe 50 miles off road in death valley California, I love the bike, it has a very smooth motor, handles like a dream on the road and through twisties, the front stock tire felt a little washy off road, needs more aggressive tires for off road riding for sure. The stock exhaust sound is wonderful, not to load but has a good tone. For me it was a great choice, I love the reliability factor, I love the performance on the street, and I look forward to some light off road exploring! Safe riding my friends!
Great to hear, Tim. I suspect that for every guy complaining it's not more like a T7 there are 10 actual owners loving it.
I think it would be a great addition to my CRF 300 Rally. So thanks for the, honest, accurate review of the Transalp - much appreciated. 😎👍
Glad it was helpful!
I'm thinking the exact same thing.
To sell the STriple RS, and get the Transalp as my primary bike, with my CRF300L as second bike.
I test drive this bike at Americade this year. I liked it except for the seat, in which you tend to slide forward to the tank, constantly making me adjust my seating position (I’m 5’9”). Quite a bit of vibration through the handlebars even at around d 40-50mph. Foam cushion over grips should be a must. On the highway with a side wind, it was blowing me all over the lane. Much worse than my KLR650. Aside from my few gripes, I really like the bike. Decent power for passing and going up hills. If I bought one, I’d change the seat out immediately for something flatter.
Hello,
Finally someone who is objective and understands this bike. Bravo ! And I really like the comparison with a Swiss army knife ;-)
I love this bike and I'm not ready to part with it.
Thanks for sharing! :-)
I am sorry for my poor English, I am French
Greetings from France!
Je suis desole aussi, mon Francais est desespere. 😁
@@crosstrainingadventure The essential is we can understand each other. And it seems it is the case 😄
Have a very nice day 😎
FKN A ~ you SOLD one right here.
You “showed” everything we needed to see/here. Bravo!
"If you're going to be going into terrain where this motorcycle is past its clearance, you've probably chosen the wrong tool for the job."
Best statement about its ground clearance I have heard so far (at about 4:40 ish)
Well it sure ain't an adventure if you know what is down every track. On top of this the tracks are changing all the time with weather and usage. Hope it turns well so we can all go back the way we came whenever we encounter a rock , tree, or rut.
The transalp does just fine in most off road conditions. Along with this vid, Big Rock Moto has a good video where he takes it into some fairly gnarly stuff. More than I'd want to take any big adv bike. And if someone is planning an adv ride, ideally they have done some modicum of research about the tracks they will be going down.
I would disagree about your statement on adventure. Plenty of adventure to be had on known tracks. Although the unknown is often a great thing all of its own.@@loopeyshooter503
Thank you Tommy! 🙏🏻
I see yt didn't post my original reply. I had a couple points. For one, on any longer adv ride a rough idea and some research on the routes is typically already done (so the riders have an idea of what they may be getting into). Also plenty of adventure to be had on known routes. Secondly, in this video and in the one on Big Rock Moto's yt page there is plenty footage of the transalp off road and it does quite well in some pretty gnarly conditions, especially for its size. So your last sentence appears to be pure hyperbole. @@loopeyshooter503
YT isn't posting my replies for some reason. I haven't said anything controversial. Bottom line, plenty of footage of this bike off road. Your last sentence is hyperbole. @@loopeyshooter503
I put 55K on an 89 TA. I'm moving from CA to MA, and before the end of the year, I will own a new Transalp.
I really like my TA it’s pretty good on the curvy roads around the lake and the quick shifter works great
Excellent review.
🙏🏻
Test rode it after researching on internet lots of reviews and info about it. I'm a very versatile rider, riding whole year, two up and solo. This Transalp is really the best adventure bike to do it all, in my book. I loved how it rides when testing it with my wife. Expected much softer, bouncy ride but actually got a nimble bike that reminds of my previous sporty nakeds, with great weather protection of big bike plus lots of leg room and seat space for both of us, plus great engine and intake sound, plus low fuel consumption, plus great for crossing bad quality roads or light off road and super for highway riding. It's just a bike I need for all of what I do. My bike is going on sale and aiming for Transalp to be my enter to the different type of bike for the first time ever.
Good to see it's working out for you. It's so much cheaper than the competition in Australia that I'd be tempted to buy one in the future if we stop riding rough trails so often.
Spot on summary - that's why I bought it and not T7 or others.
I’ve got one and I’ve put 3k miles on it. Love the way it handles on road, but most of all, love the engine, it definitely hits the power curve later in the revs, but man is it fun when it does
I could be tempted to buy one if we ride less rough tracks in coming years. I'd use the money saved from NOT buying the T7 and just spend a thousand or so on the suspension.
Great, commonsense no bullshit review. I own one and love it from the get go. My seventh bike.
I sat on one. Has a very low center of gravity. What I have found is that I just like smaller bikes. Swapped bikes with a guy I know (he rode my DR and I rode his klx230s). I was giggling like a little kid the entire time. A very pure motorcycling experience. On a bigger bike I feel too much like I'm in a car, I suppose. That said I liked the Transalp. Was as comfortable as the T7 in terms of the riding position for a taller guy.
I hear you from the talls angle. The heaviest bike that I have been able to properly abuse off-road has been a XR650L that was barely modded. In motion, it does have the feel of a big dirt bike, although it's 120 lbs heavier than one. I have ridden my gen1 Versys 650 on gravel a lot and on dirt a little .. and the experience told me not to take anything so heavy onto the dirt.
I also, have an XR. I got the DR to address my issues with the XR: top heavy/tipping prone, cramped cockpit. Great bike otherwise. Just didn't jive with me. @@suzyamerica4679
I have an XR. Got a DR to address my issues on the XR. I am much more capable off road on my DR. But where I ride it is not wide open desert, it is hilly and heavily wooded. The top heavy XR is a hindrance. I also find the riding position to be oddly cramped for such a tall bike. @@suzyamerica4679
What a great review - calling a spade a spade 👍
thank you sir.
It is better than I thought it would be. I had an Africa Twin. The TA is easier to ride off road for sure.
First of thank you for the honest and complete review. I’m currently looking for a off-road capable bike since we’re going to be emigrating from the Netherlands to Portugal (you really don’t need an adv bike in the Netherlands, believe me) and I gotta be honest, I did not like the looks of the transalp in the bleu/white combination but seeing it in black makes it look so much better imho. Also I feel like it’s a more adv beginner friendly bike which is definitely what I’m looking for.
And on top of that you’ll get the build quality and reliability of a Honda for a fantastic price!
Thank again! 🙏🏻
Geen dank, menheer! There should be some great riding in Portugal.
Just got one only done 500 km. Have not taken it on rough dirt roads yet because do not have protection on it yet. Definitely needs a good bashplate as minimum. As low to the ground and engine cases very exposed. Great handling, braking, power is adequate. I love the low seat height and would confidently take it on single trail once I get the protection.(only as required and not at race pace!) Maybe I am old fashioned but all the modes just frustrate me. Mind you I probably just have to use them more so I know how they work. I find off road I use user mode and try and turn everything off! The suspension is still settling in. The rear feels a little harsh to me at the moment and the front is excellent. But I do not think I would ever replace the suspension because if I need more I am probably on the wrong bike for the riding I am doing...
I don't think I'd be keen on all the mode stuff either... just find one setting that kinda works for everything and I wouldn't touch it again lol.
My Transalp 750 is only ridden on the road, of which it's great at. My dirtbike is for playing.
Tah dah! Using the right tools for the job. Phew, finally.
I'm planning to get a test ride this spring, Purely as a road bike, nice high seat, light weight, good at everything. If I bought one I'd do a tubeless conversion though.
Hi, Great review. I haven't ridden a Transalp yet. I am thinking about retirement and the midsize class of bike. I would really like a video comparing the European and North American models. The physical difference, if any, and the tuning differences. All I know is that the European model has 90 hp while the North American model has 83 hp.
All the footage in this video kinda negates that ¨its not a hardcore offroad bike¨. love it! and i love my TA
Great bike very comfy
Soft clutch pull August 23 other bike is RM 2502t so mainly smooth roads ridden
I have one for over 10 years. I like it. It is too heavy for me in the terrain though.
i got one and love it only have about 150 street miles on it up here in New England i bought it for what it is a HONDA ADV bike not a dirt bike waiting for my skid plate and a few other things before it hits an type of off road adventures (dirt roads and simple trails the bike is what it is and not a big dirt bike
It was criticized, but this is good because the following editions will be improved. Personally, I'm not a fan of the colour in Canada. The Europeans have the best-looking Transalp paint job and we got boring and lifeless. Adding DCT and cruise more USB ports & 12V ports would have been a great addition. Play to the road drivers. Improve the off-road characteristics in the following year. It'll be a cult classic by the time it reaches its third iteration.
Very good review, it's a fun bike too, I hope to get one.
A Truly Two wheeler DEFENDER👏👏👏🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
personally i think it is among the most gorgeous of the modern adv bikes
It does look good!
I think we are spoiled for choice really. I've done 4000kms on mine and love it. Probably would have loved a T7 or an 800de as well.
Enjoy the competition, it's great for us all. If we all looked at spec sheets alone, we'd probably all be riding KTM's.
Taken it on tracks the stock tyres didn't love, and apparently the bike can't do, I'm no gun, but the bike gives me confidence.
I just like riding it. I think that counts for something.
I understand it has some shortcomings, no unicorn dakar bike, but it is what it is, a versatile well priced Japanese bike.
PS I'm not sure why everyone is so fascinated with tubeless tyres? Hardly reinventing the wheel. Does this mean my 20 year old corolla daily driver has got some street cred with how it stores its air inside rubber?
Excellent comment! This will be looked on as a golden age of off-road, DS and ADV riding. The pendulum will swing the other way, and I'm hoping I'll be dead for that.
I ride an older 2010 BMW F800GS and will be considering the Transalp as a replacement as I am aging and the Beemer is getting a little high now.
Been riding a 650 Transalp for the last 23 years so I am biased. It has proven very versatile and capable and I still love it. Had the 750 for 6 months and it is better in every respect. Both bikes are too heavy for serious off road. Unicorn bikes, like the beast, are a figment of peoples imagination.
Great to hear!
Careful with the quick shifter, my destroyed the transmission on my transalp, still waiting to hear from Honda about the warranty covering the repairs. Other than that, great bike.
At last! Do we have the perfect bike for us aged riders??? Better than the no-frills DR650 but almost up to T700 levels? The BIG question is, is it as good as the CFMoto 800MT Explore??? Does it matter? Not really. We are finally spoilt for choice so take your pick! Thanks for the review Dallas, it brings a reality check to those that think they are Pol Tarres and want to ride their T700 at Romainiacs.
Thank you. The majority of people have no idea or are willfully blind. There is a small group that have the skills and time to participate in hardcore adventure riding but for most of us that just isn't a reality... and, when we finally have the time, our bodies are old and frail.
Tarres was a freak at Romaniacs. th-cam.com/video/RtlGztTCSKw/w-d-xo.html
Have you seen what's required to service the air filter on the TransAlp? What was Honda thinking!
The only unicorn at the moment out there is the option to own and ride different bikes.
Bingo. My road bike is an old gen1 Versys 650. It's good at that. Lovely in the corners, fine on long highway trips. But when I get to the dirt, it's a frigging beached walrus. It does not magically transform itself into a lightweight 2-stroke when the pavement ends. Awaiting that "transformative" technology 😅
Wait what? You think the DR650 is further towards trials than the wr250r and crf300l? That's pretty wild.
I'm new to motorcycles, granted, but so far I'd feel much more comfortable on the lighter weight option over rocks and in the mud.
I was a bit puzzled at one or two of the bikes on their whiteboard but I figure we all have different angles on how we'd assess each bike. Weight? Power? Road handling? Suspension travel?
I haven't ridden it yet, but I am behind a keyboard and have strong opinions. I believe the TransAlp is the unicorn of Adventure bikes. Its the Holy Grail, its the best position in the Kama Sutra, its the first and last word in yhe Koran. It is the top of the human and machine evolution.
i have the 600 1993. it is a unicorn it dose everything and dose it well. not a race bike. it adventure bike meant to be.
😂👍
Finally. Someone with a fair and accurate opinion.
As a keyboard warrior I insist we need a road focused option too - 19" front, cast wheels and tubeless 80/20 tyres. Being off road biased means it will lose to better competition in that field while also losing the road tour and commuter category. Sure, it's in no way a bad bike but it isn't a class winner anywhere... even though it could be.
I got a CB500X. Between that and the Africa Twin, I'm not sure why anybody would get the Transalp other than not being to afford the AT. CB will do 80mph all day, and you can slowly navigate some single track with it [I have anyway]. If you wanted more dirt ability, T7. More road abililty, AT. I don't see Transalp selling all that well competing against it's Honda siblings and the Suzuki and Yamaha midweight offerings.
Because it weighs barely more than a 500, has twice the power and 50mm longer travel maybe......
Because CB has nothing that the TA has. It's a great bike but a basic bike.
My cb500x was very capable off road, FOR MY SKILL LEVEL... couple years later and it's not enough. I'm now have another month before getting the TA and I don't see why I would need the AT at its price and weight. The TA isn't competing with it, it's found its own crowd, I would say.
Because some people ride for fun, and they want something that's a little bit more exciting than a 47 hp, not everybody its a beginner, and not everybody can or want to break their bank for a little bit a fun. The cb500x its a good bike, got more mpg, tubeless tires and its cheaper, but its more boring.
Wanna ride the new one so bad just to compare it to my 08 model I’ve had for 10 years absolutely love that thing goes almost everywhere I aim it ,if the new ones as capable it’ll be in the shed for sure 2s better than 1 aye cheers
That will be an interesting comparison!
Ive always struggled with the ground clearance debate.
For instance, my T7s skidplate was full of dents from bottoming it out, but i was too short for it already.
I guess i think ground clearance is very important. But not if the ground is a mile from the seat to get it.
The inevitable compromise. 😢
Quite clever... Dallas has the snow mobile in the background. Traction E-Rag planning to pick up a fleet of those and offer winter riding adventures?
No, it was going to be a running gag where he kept pointing to it when discussing parts of the Transalp. This was just a very short version, it will appear in the full video on the eRag channel. 😁
We had already given back the Translp so the SKIDOO was the stand in. 😁
Yes, you are 100% to the point! I think that the motorcyclists are more "Wanna be", always waiting from companies to builtt their dream machine that does everything perfect If you know what you want, this bike will never disappoint you. It is almost naked when you buy it, but this gives you the freedom to built it as you like. Do you want it off road? Buy a set of suspension (1600eur) and it will be better than Tuareg or Tenere.
After all these 'wow' Tuareg reviews I decided to try it. I was disappointed. This is great offroad bike but below average on the road. Transalp is more universal.
I would like to try it, just out of curiosity, but it's not something that fits me.
The differences between the Transalp and the Tenere should be obvious to anyone who has never even ridden a motorcycle. But they are not and we still have these stupid questions 'translap or t7?'
The Translalp is definitely a more universal motorcycle. Tenere is a typical offroad motorcycle - unfortunately, it is already outdated in 2024.
For long journeys, for everyday riding, the Transalp is a much better idea.
What I do not like in Transalp is too soft suspension and (BIG PAIN) tubed tires.
I guess it depends where you live.
The Transalp is a bit more expensive here, than the new VStrom 800 DE (and you always get a discount on Suzukis where I live). The only advantage of the Transalp is the weight. But if you throw some crash guards on her and add a few other things, the weight difference isn't so big anymore.
What annoys me most is that the original Honda accessories are so expensive.
I configured a Transalp online and it has nearly the price of Tiger 900 Rally Pro then - that already has everything you need.
I will make some test rides this year but I think I will go for the Suzuki - or a used Tiger Rally Pro. But - we'll see :)
Unfortunately pricing sometimes depends on the importer trying to cash in too much. A Canadian viewer said the Transalp is quite expensive and the same price as a T7! In which case why not get the T7 instead?
I like the comparison (Not the right word but I can't remember the correct word) to a Labrador Retriever. I think bikes are more like the Goldilocks story. Each of us has to find the one that is just right, for our actual use, not what we like to think we are going to use it for.
Very, very few (if any) of those of us who consider an adv bike can ride like Chris Birch, Graham Jarvis, or any of the other brand representatives who can ride the heavy adv bike like a two stroke enduro bike. The truth is that we wouldn't have a hope of keeping up with them riding a bid adv bike if WE were on a two stroke enduro bike.
Good analogy! I think this Transalp is going to be a great bike for many riders and at a good price. It's a shame when it gets rubbished for not being a more serious off-road bike. It's just not aimed at that kind of rider.
orginal transalp 600 owner. thay build to do everything not everything well. it will get u there. i love my transalp i love try new one i see the diffence is.
Daryl Beatties off road tours have done a fair bit of work to dial these in. But it is dfficult to ever get the perfect balance of purpose from a bike where you want it to do everything extremely well, if it is ever to be produced, it’s going to be a mid weight, but utilising electronic suspension modes, meaning it won’t be cheap. We are so spoilt to the extreme with being able to build out a bike to do one specific thing well. Expectations are naturally higher…… when in reality we are largely not much quicker on either ….dare I say the door is open for 😂😂 a Suzuki DR big (800) remake, electronic suspension, a bored out vstrom engine. If only 😂
How cool would that be? Bring back DR Big with fuel injection to meet emission standards. I'd be in the queue!
I'm interested in buying 1, but the air filter location is a concern. I had an AT and was a pain to check and clean
It's unfortunate they made it hard to access. If you never ride in dust it won't matter much of course...
I love mine BUT..... I had a rear puncture earlier this week. It was on a day ride and my breakdown cover got me recovered back home. This weekend I've attempted to take the tyre off the rim to change the tube. 2 hours to break the bead and it's looking impossible to pull the tyre over the rim to get the tube out. I appreciate that my technique is probably lacking somewhat but it's just doesn't appear practical to do at the roadside. I want to be able to do multi day trips comfortable in the knowledge that the bike is repairable at the roadside. The TA is great if you're out on a day ride where you can be recovered but a multi day trip which is remote or at a time when you can't easily get a puncture fixed? No. It's adventure bike shaped but not an adventure bike. Needs tubeless for the 90% of time it will be ridden on roads. Sadly, mine will be going.
If I ever bought one I'd be working out a way to fit tubeless wheels too. I HATE puncture repairs lol.
Hola tengo una transalp con 10 meses y 17,000 en el sur de España, es una moto sencilla, muy manejable, entra por cualquier espacio en el trafico en la ciudad. Estoy muy contigo en todo lo que dices de esta moto. Yo por ejemplo no hago off road con ella solo carretera.
I’m very likely going to be getting the vstrom 800 to pair with my DR650 (a bike I’ll never let go). I’d love to hear your thoughts on the v800 in a future video. Cheers.
If we can get our hands on one? Sure!
I paired a Moto Guzzi 850 with my 650DR....so far its worked out great....
I got one,happy with it,except the torque below 4000 rpm;I tried the v strom 800 DE,the engine is better at low rpm,but the weigh is 22kgs more than the transalp,at the same weigh I would have taken the suzuki!nothing is perfect ;for an adventure bike ,I wish i could put the v strom engine in the transalp...
It is a bit strange they didn't emphasise the low end power more for an adventure bike. It would be interesting to see if a change in mapping made a difference?
The bike is cool but the air filter needs to be under the seat. Deal-breaker. Not so important but should have had: Tubeless, cruise. It's like they left them out to be able to undercut the T7. You don't need 92/83 HP. V-Strom 800 is too heavy but will be good on road. Air filter under the seat. Kawi has nothing except the KLR which is not in the same class. Aprilia is cool performance wise but that's about it. Tiger 900 is expensive, heavy, and overloaded with electronics. Probably a bad ass touring adv. You just have to be honest about your needs. T7 for me all day. I just with they'd bring the World Rally to the US.
Super cool review. Can you please explain how you find the 300L more "Starbucks-ish" than the 690/701? Thanks. (3:42)
That is how my Canadian cousins see things... I guess I mostly agree with their ideas. Dallas might chime in if he sees this. I suspect it's probably due to the suspension? The 300L has very basic suspension that's too soft for any spirited off-road riding. Whereas the 690 is very firm and actually works better the harder you ride.
Only big problem with Transalp is that the air filter is under the tank. No good for offroading and having to change it regularly.
Look ill be honest, I own one and have already taken the filter out many times. Is it way harder to do than under the seat? Hell yeh! but in reality I can have the bike stripped in 15 minutes, the filter cleaned and then put back together in another 15-20 minutes. Never broken a clip in the 10 odd times I have pulled it apart. I wish it was under the seat but it isn't as shit of a job as a pan america's filter was, the stuff around with pulling plugs and stuff to get the tank up was a nightmare.
It is a bit of an oversight. And it probably depends on whether you like wrenching or not. Me? I HATE doing air filters lol. So I wouldn't like the extra work.
Transalp, the only adventurebike without an ambient temperature on the dash ?
Do you have a DCT on Transalp?
i own one but find it horrible in traffic (30 mph) it doesn't run smoothly, it's like a carb bike with a blocked pilot jet
What's happened to the KLR to DR video? I've wanted to open it again to look at the nice mods on the DR, but I can't find it.
Long story, but the guy who crashed in the vid didn't want that to be appear on TH-cam.
@@crosstrainingadventureAh, I see. It was an easy mistake to make and a good example of how easily the front deflects when there is no weight on it. But it's good to respect one's privacy.
This or the CF Moto MT 450 is probably my next second bike. I own a KTM Duke 890R as my local hooligan. Now I need an everyday commuter and for longer trip with bags. A bike Jack of all traits master of none.
You'd be better off with a CB500X. And if you ever decide to sell it you know people are keen to buy it. A CFMOTO will cop savage depreciation. Also every mechanic knows how to fix Hondas and source parts for them, good luck with the Chinese wheels.
@@SimonBrisbane I have looked at it. It could be a thing. The problem is my friend who is keen to do longtrips off and on road proably will get a T7 or V-strom. The CB500 can't keep up off road with that.
Great video, thanks!
When will you do Aprilia Tuareg ?
We actually had one offered to us but they wanted us to sign an agreement where we'd have to pay several thousand dollars if it was damaged. 🤔
@@crosstrainingadventureStill way cheaper than buying one!
I'm not a snowmobiler, but from YT I can tell what sled does what. There doesn't seem to be a Lynx 2s turbo meth injected deep suspension ADV.
Sensible review - take it for what it is and not what it isn't or wasn't meant o be.
Where are you riding for this video footage?
As per the video, it's not me. Canadians somewhere in BC.
@@crosstrainingadventure I'm near there, I was hoping for a specific town or riding area, so I might check it out.
My 2024 transalp is the best bike ever !!!!
I bought one last week. Only been in the road for now and I love it, good power, very maneuverable.
Looking forward to install offroad protection and if I find the limits of the bike maybe get better suspensions.
But ffs Honda, please relocate the airbox/airfilter
😎👍
Probably most people who buy it will not do much off road with it.
Dumb question- is it legal do drive off road like that in Canada? In Germany it is certanly not, like at all. So I don't quiet understand why I see that many "off-road" bikes here. You can clearly see by the square back tire that those have probably never seen a single bit of dirt.
Canada has huge amounts of legal off-road riding. This was filmed in BC Canada which is over 90% crown land, and you can ride almost all of it.
Thanks Dallas. I'd like to take some of the keyboard haters to the canyon and see if they can actually ride the bike they own on anything harder than a farm lane. Sadly, most can not afford a true unicorn adv and if it existed, they'd keep it on the gravel. I've had open invitations to do it but only a handful ever have, and only two have come back for more.
I'd like to have the white European model to match my '89 Transalp. But it has been retired to light duty and replaced by a pair of 950 Adventures.
The anonymity of the internet is stronger than liquid courage!
😂👍
I had a very short ride on one. It feels lazy, predictable, easy to ride, and quite characterless at low revs. None of these things are necessarily bad, in fact in many ways they are good for the right use cases. It does also, however, look and feel a little boring, and i'm not a fan of the riding position. Went with a Tenere World Raid instead
Me and my mates ride TET and other gravel road trails in the nordic countries. Every trip we need to get over a log or two when there is no way round, ground clearance is important on an adventure bike so I don't agree with you there but a great review otherwise. Great driving and that view is lovely
Transalp 750 or cb500x rally raid?
No. The CB has nothing even close to the TA.
@@Sventy11 Really? Why? Have you ridden a cb500x rally raid ?
Depends on how much power you want.
@@SimonBrisbane want or need? I believe on an average adventure, average rider uses around 30hp. Bit you can feel 15kg of weight difference and overall lighter feel of the bike 100% of the time.
It's just to expensive to the T7. You get for the same price more bike with the T7.
I only had to remove 8 ads before being able to watch this. TH-cam is broken. Pretty sure I'll leave this video when first ad break pops in to piss you off.
Eight ads?! I'll check the settings, Roger. I've always tried to keep ads minimal with just one at the start you could click out of after a few seconds. And no mid-video ads....
I just checked the settings, TH-cam claim to have 'simplified' the process by removing some options. 😒 I wonder if that's just an excuse to cram more ads in than the minimum I specified a few years back.
@@crosstrainingadventure It's good to own the monopoly...
If I recall correctly, in November last year TH-cam removed the option to choose how many ads a video has. It either has ads or not.
uBlock Origin and firefox/librewolf works best for me, no ads. Still get some ads with uBlock Origin and Chrome
i just rode the Africa Twin and Transalp in Europe for 3 weeks i thought the Transalp was Better
Interesting! What sort of things did you prefer with the Transalp? Other than the lower price?
@@crosstrainingadventure i felt the Africa twin was heavier 1st time i got on it i put 7000 km on my transalp at home but only ridden my 300 4 stroke before the trip i feel the AT would be a great touring bike but i think a little top heavy the TA feels a bit lighter not sure if the extra torque and power is enough to out get over the weight penalty