I rode one in Spain at a bike event last weekend. As an owner of a 96 model TA, I went along as I couldn't pass up the opportunity to not just see one but to take it for a spin, and boy it surprised me regarding grunt and weight. Fun is the word that pops into my head, very much surprised. For someone who is considering a larger bike in October like the African Twin, or GS, I have to say this TA has made the short list.
That remark,"feels like I am at home on this bike, I have ridden it before" is the clincher for me. This is exactly what a new bike should feel like from the word go. Your videos are made like you are having a converstaion with your audience over a cup of tea and that quality makes them much, much more relevant than most others. Sadly, I don't think we in India will get this bike, not at least in my lifetime ele it would have been my last big bike. Wondeful video. Subscribed to you now. Do keep up the great work with that informal tone.
Nice review, Thanks for giving us a clear uninterrupted and un-edited recording of the engine sound at the end! EVERY other reviewer i watched hides and edits out the engine sound for some strange reason. I watched this hoping to hear the engine finally, and it sounds great.
Getting decent sound is way harder than getting decent video - so I've got some kit I use just for the sound to try and capture it. It also helps that the bike really does howl and sounds pretty loud - the Suzuki 800DE is whisper quiet in comparison and if I'd recorded that all you'd hear is the sound of the wind 💨
Great first ride review as usual, you always seem to get at least two levels deeper into the bikes than other press launch reviews - best of the bunch by far, nice one Simon
@@LemonDrizzleGang whoa! Thanks, I really appreciate the compliment - just try to stay grounded and say what I see and feel, like you or anyone would. The thing I've really got over the vlogger guys & gals is I'm lucky enough to have been doing this for ages, so maybe a bit of perspective - and also, Bennetts BikeSocial - and this is the truth - WANT the truth. They aren't interested in blowing smoke up manufacturers' aholes; they don't need to. They value me telling it how I see it; that's what they want me for. Otherwise they wouldn't pay my astronomic freelance bill 😉
@@writestuffmedia I agree it's a very in deep review but you're clearly in a conflict of interests with Honda and you can only sell your words to the Honda fanbois and spoiled kids who know nothing about motorbikes. Yes this bike is cheaper because now Honda calls standard equipment as "accessories" so the ignorant fanbois buy the bike "cheaper" then they add this and that which is already installed on other bikes. It's lighter, off course read above, a lot of stuff is missing plus you have to pay for it. It's a bike mainly for road riding but it has a stupid small gas tank so the bike again is lighter than others. The bike you show in the review is intentionally and misleadingly fully loaded with "accessories" as it should be as standard but again the ignorant fanbois don't notice that. Cheaper brakes and suspensions compared to other bikes so yeah this trash is cheaper! No quick shifting and cheaper bike! And what is the point to have a 21" front wheel and spoke wheels when this trash is NOT designed for off road? About tubeless I'm not sure but on a bike like this it should be standard equipment. A in deep review but misleading and deceptive.
Simon makes a good point regarding his benefactor - Bennetts . Each of the reviewers at the launch has an agenda and a paymaster - which is usually where you find the root of the bias - and there is bias in almost everything written commercially. As Bennetts most likely make money from selling insurance rather than bikes, ad space, TH-cam hits…. Etc, they have a different angle and it’s a good fit with Simon as the reviewer. If they can get their premiums to within 20% of the cheapest competition then I might even buy a policy from them 😄. All that aside, I really like the approach of these reviews as he tries to give a sense of the bike by using good tech explanations - not just specs.
Nice review & the bike looks pretty good too. Also glad you dealt with the elephant in the room straight away & called a spade a spade. It's a road bike & that's absolutely fine as most adventure bikes never see a dirt road anyway. Honda will sell loads of them no doubt & for those minority of people who genuinely want to off-road, there are plenty of other great choices in the class. Also to be fair to the Suzuki, you can't spec the Honda to have a bolt-on subframe, bigger tank & fully adjustable suspension which is where the majority of the Suzuki's extra weight & cost come from. Now whether that is justifiable or not is another question I guess.
The looks are kinda meh. It looks like the cb500x which isn't a bad looking bike but , meh. I would take the quirky square looks of the v-strom, at least it's something different.
The original was also mostly used for road riding. I would consider the Transalp a slightly more offroad-capable version of a Triumph Tiger 660. There's a huge market for these tall adventure tourers.
@@fallinginthed33p Yes absolutely agreed. Honda have definitely hit the sweet spot as most people want the look with little or no intention of going off road & on that basis this is perfect. I also thought of the Triumph too & it's a good comparison.
Nice review but I'm realy amazed by the price difference in the UK compared with the Suzuki. In Holland it is only € 100 cheaper and Suzuki gives a 6 year warranty on it as well. I find that a much better deal! Keep up the good work, I love your channel!
You can tell it's a cracking road bike by the way you're chucking it round the bends one handed half the time 😁 I think it looks great and for where most of these type of bike get used it's spot on
The best review so far, very honest, the Transalp is a road bike that you take for a mild bit of offroading, I still think the price and weight are a bit deceptive as it has no bash plate or even hand guards. I think they will sell loads of them, and in a couple of years it will get cruise.
What I didn't mention in the review (because I hadn't thought of it) is that one of the reasons the Honda doesn't feel as happy off-road is because, to my mind, it's much more heavily front-weighted (with someone on the bike stood on the pegs). The Suzuki (and T7) both sit back more, and have less weight on the front - or at least allow enough suspension movement to shift weight back under power. I think that's another reason the Honda, to me, doesn't feel as confident in the front off road. I'd like to weigh them both to find the front to rear weight balance. I bet the Honda has more on the front than the Suzuki.
@DavidZ8 Deceptive and misleading retail price and fully loaded weight specifications because a lot of stuff is missing while it's already installed on other bikes. Honda will only sell this trash to the ignorant fanbois.
500e for a bash plate, a glorified frying pan you can buy for 10 Euro. Our crave for motorcycles give licence to motorbike manufacturers to rob us in pure daylight. Literally, taking us for a ride, pun intended. Shall we remain such idiots? The bike itself is the price of a car. Then come the inflated prices of accessories, that should come standard anyway.
@@anxiousappliance OK Honda is not price of a good car, but many other bikes are. The point is, it's a rip off, even if you buy after market, which are sometimes worse.
I’d just buy an SW Motech one which will be a fraction of that price. Most manufacturer supplied engine guards are garbage compared to aftermarket options.
A 21" front wheel obviously has a longer contact patch than a 19" and therefore more grip. The factbthey kept the front end stiff to feel like a more solid smaller wheel, but with this increase in grip... sounds amazing - fun yet reassured.
Thanks Karol, I try really hard to just call is as I see it. My base setting is that if it's got two wheels, it's brilliant. Then, after that, it's a question of where it fits in the world - sometimes, bikes with loads of flaws are actually still very desirable to some people. And that's ok. You just have to spot them, and spot that the potential customer isn't bothered about that stuff. It's like criticising a Harley for having shit suspension or no ground clearance - that's missing the point, etc. So, anyway, thank you!
I sat on this at the NEC and really liked it. It was as comfortable as the old v Strom 650... And with more beans. Im considering chopping in my z900 for it next year as I'm 52 and would like to move on from naked bikes. Good review, thanks.
Still happy with my el cheapo, suzuki freewind, 170 kilo with half a tank off fuel, offroading with it in Spain, handles like a dream, and good fun in the twisties and does 80 on the motorway. But it is not a looker, not defenitly not.. This honda is a beauty, it really is and a great price..
I waited and waited and waited then in the spring of 2021 I bought a T7. Here in Texas I’m still waiting however, when the Transalp gets here I guess I’ll have both in my barn unless someone wants to buy a low mileage T7 as I’m definitely more road oriented than off road. Nothing wrong with the T7 and it’s a great Bike, I just want and have wanted a TransAlp forever. It’s a little more suited to my needs and absolutely Beautiful in red white and blue.
Honda customer survey, "95% of our customers said they would like it to have a cruise control so we didn't install one plus we don't even give an option for one, we feel we know what's best for you"
My 2000 Transalp still starts every first try and has never missed a beat. Reliability and build quality are my nr. 1 concerns in buying any bike. I take mine offroad all the time, just fit some 50/50 tyres, the Mitas EO7's plus' kept me right side up on some of the more demanding terrain. If you want a more offroad orientated bike get the CRF like Noraly. But first watch Pedro Mota circumnavigate the world on an ancient specimen. That might change your opinion (and question your own abilities as an encore).😁 I'm 1,92mtr 97kg so your experience may vary.
Sadly the newer Hondas are not as good. My 20 Africa Twin has a 1st to second gear crunch and some corrosion issues. Honda don't want to know. I've lost trust in them after 40+ years of riding them
If I hadn't already got so used to being lazy with maintenance, having a shaft-drive on my SuperTenere, then I'd certainly have this near the top of my list. Looks like a fun all-rounder, jack-of-all type bike. Great review mate. I subscribe to all the major TH-cam review channels, and your reviews are always the gold standard for me. Please keep doing what you're doing 👍
Shaft drive is easy, but most of us just neglect our chain drive anyway lol. The new o ring chains don't really need much love. They sure last a long time too. I trust em more than the belt drive cruisers come with. Man that was a heavy bike to push when that belt broke...
1. Where is the airfilter located ? 2. Where is the battery located ? 3. Where do i fit my Garmin gps ? 4. Is it Click on panniers without racks ? 5. How to adjust the windscreen ? 7. Is there Any 12v usb socket out of the box ? 8. Quality of Honda accesories: bashplate, is it dekorbars or proper crashbars , Heated grips, luggage etc ? Great looking Honda but no wingbadge thats a shame.
Great job. Way more informative and non-biases than the other reviews. Love the comparisons. I’d assume if gravel or smooth hard pack are the only “off-road”, this might be the pick too.
Great look at the bike Simon, thanks! Impressed with your - err - impressions of the 21" front wheel. The way you chucked the bike into the bends was eye opening! Looking at the available options at the end, it looks like you could spend £4k on Honda accessories and also make the bike weigh as much as standard GS 😁
It was the options prices that ultimately put me off. The basic spec at £9½ just isn't good enough. At least £3k for the stuff you're going to want. With it being a new bike, there's not enough after market parts available from non OEM manufacturers. I just went with a KTM 890 adventure for £11k with equivalent options AND cruise.
But no matter how well a manufacturer can get adv bikes with 21" front wheels to corner they are NEVER going compare favorably to bikes properly set up with 17" wheels. It is probably like comments about how well some SUVs handle in the twisties which could be all well and fine but they are never going to be AWESOME like currently crops of little sports cars will be. But I think some folks are almost duped into believing they will truly have it all based on how well a reviewer compliments an adv bike's handling ....in reality though you are not getting a sportbike along with your adventure bike ....there is no such bike sad to say. If you want to fully enjoy each genre near the pinnacle of enjoyment then you will need multiple motorcycles PERIOD ....compromise means exactly what it sounds like as in giving up one thing to get another. A motorcycle all geared up to travel around the world tor instance (the ultimate expression of adv riding?) You will give up enjoying a LOT compared to the individual genres specialized at a single riding aspect....handling will SUCK in the dirt SUCK in the twisties etc etc but perhaps will brilliantly succeed in making it the entire trip in the most expedient comfortable manner in amazing time....if that is really your thing.....OR you could enjoy track or canyone riding one weekend on one bike while riding single track the next weekend on another and then spending a week crunching huge miles in utter comfort on yet another motorcycle
@@dougiequick1if you haven’t rode one you have no idea what you’re talking about I got rid of my CBR600 and got a Transalp and it’s really good on the road. I’m in Tennessee all we have is twistie roads with hills and I promise you it keeps up and the front end stays planted and we got the quick shifter standard and it’s the best daily ride I’ve been on
Thanks for the review! Appreciate your honesty, it is one of the best first rides reviews. Still I was expecting more off-road experience, more infos about how suspension handles different off-road situations. Still I look forward to test it myself before June, greetings !
The centre stand should be fitted as standard on the stock bike. No ifs, no buts. Otherwise superb for what it was designed for i.e. touring road bike with off tarmac fire road capability.
Thanks Simon. Very useful . I'm looking for an 'everyday ride in any weather nip down the shops' type bike. The size and definitely the price of the Transalp as well as the retro looks have attracted me to it. Your review has done nothing to change my view. In fact it has whetted my enthusiasm to book a test ride! Thanks once again.
What is the point of a 21” front wheel if it’s a 90% road bike? If it’s more for the road bias surely a 19” makes more sense regardless if it handles great on road with a 21”.
Good and fair review, nice to know where it's compared to the competition. Makes me wonder would a 19" front wheel have been a even better choice? But anyway, this Transalp seems to be a perfect travel companion.👍🙂
Just out now in Philippines. Its really frustrating they haven't switched to tubeless like Africa Twin. Plugging punctures here is kind of a prerequisite
I am so glad someone else has noticed that, no engine guard, I think if you add Honda's engine guard, which comes with the lower bars and hand guards you can add another 4kg to the weight and over £500 to the price. Still a great bike though.
So we could say it is closer to the Yamaha Tracer 700 than the Ténéré, except maybe for the more upright seating position. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. After all, it is what the Transalp always has been: an excellent allrounder seasoned with that slight bit of adventure.
@Mozzer Hmm...as long as you don't look at it straight on. I REALLY had to get used to that front design. The similarity to a Star Wars Captain Rex helmet helped a lot. After one and a half year later, I quite like it (still think there are better-looking bikes available). Anything else...great.
@Mozzer Looks are not everything. I took me a good bit of time to get used to the - IMO - rather strange front setup of my Tracer 700. It rides really wonderfully, but those bubbly lights - ugh. Then somehow I saw a Star Wars Captain Rex helmet face design in there, and now I really like it (Rex is one of my favourite characters). I slapped a pair of blue Jaig eyes on there, and all is good now (yes, I am a nerd).
Great review. It's interesting to hear where this bike sits against the other similar bikes. If it is very much road biased, why has it got tubed tyres. It's the reason I wouldn't buy as a road bike.
It shows how good these things are ...the Tester is holding a " Lecture " at the bars ....I' 13:20 ve not seen so much one- handed riding ...shows how well balanced this thing is ....its putting me off a Super Scoot 😊 200kid
I really wanted one after seeing it at Birmingham motorcycle show in November. But, Honda took way too long to announce the price, great price, £9½k. But the optional extras were just too pricey. Nearly £3k in extras, no cruise control. With it being a new bike, no after market parts from non OEM manufacturers. Then delivery was looking at mid - late June, possibly July! Ended going with a KTM 890 adventure for less than £11k with equivalent options AND cruise control.
I’m quite surprised that the V85tt doesn’t come up much as a comparison when I see reviews of this bike. Very similar in terms of its road- touring- off road abilities and also totally confidence inspiring through the twisties. I also picked one up new for £9499, same price.
To be perfectly honest Will - and I speak as a massive fan of the V85TT; I *love* it! - it never occurred to me. I suppose I see the V85TT as a 'classic' adventure bike, along the lines of BMW's RnineT Urban G/S, Triumph's Scramblers, etc. But you're right, on paper you could put this in the same class. And, personally, I think the Guzzi is one of the best-looking bikes on sale today.
V85 is beautiful and a fun bike to ride, but for long distance adv the tendency to burn oil and the small oil sump isn't ideal, italian reliability and quality is also questionable compared to Honda. On the other hand the simplicity of the air cooled pushrod twin is reassuring. So it's a toss up and totally depends what kind of riding you do, and where you're located.
I've pretty much settled on a transalp. One question having tubed tyres, it will be used 99.9 % on road, should I be bothered by the hassle of a puncture?
Since this is really a road bike I wish it had a 19" front wheel and allow wheels. 90% of owners will not take it off road anyway. I don't need spokes and don't like the look of them either but it looks to be a nice bike. I will consider one in the next year or two if Honda brings it to the USA.
It's the pick of the bunch for me because if I'm honest my off roading is very mild and doesn't warrant a Tenere level of ability. But, I'll wait to see what the faired Hornet looks like, which I hope is coming. Maybe that will be the cb750x I am hoping for. Tubeless flatter one piece seat and a decent payload. Safe, happy travels 👍
@@GJS-live Honestly, I don't know, but I can't believe they won't want their money's worth from that new engine. And the Tracer 700 is probably in Honda's sights...
Will test one the day after tomorrow, for the second time. This time, I’ll ride a little longer and in different conditions. Coming from a 1250 GS, which was a marvellous bike, but a little too much for me nowadays, since I’m travelling much less. I still want a good for everything bike, so this might be it.
Having test ridden a Transalp myself, I am amazed at how many journos and commentators speak so positively about this bike. Yes it handles well, I rode it at speed down a number of roads with extremely twisty bends. Hard braking, chucking it into bends, hard acceleration out of the bends. However, below 4500rpm, it is really lacking in power. It does accelerate nicely after 4500rpm, in the way a bike tuned for top end power does. Generally, as a bike to ride I found it antiseptic and dull. I am comparing to to my current bike, a CRF1000L Africa Twin which despite weighing an extra 30kg or so is still more fun to ride. Also a first generation Triumph Street Triple which had the X factor that the Transalp is missing in spades. Sadly, the Street Triple isn’t an Adventure Bike but it did show me that a well tuned relatively small CC bike can be fun. So my advice is Test Ride one for yourself rather than buying into the hype. Who knows, it might be your unicorn. Certainly not mine.
This review is impressive in content and comparisons. This is a beautiful machine, and could be the perfect set-up for a rider like me who primarily wants a mid-weight road bike with ability for occasional gravel/dirt roads. (The 21-inch front wheel will help so much on those occasions, and it sounds like one sacrifices very little on the pavement twisties.) What were the option kits that you mentioned? Your ride looked like it sported a bash plate. I would want a center stand for chain and tire maintenance along the road. From California, thanks for a fun ride! (Just watched the option pack summary at the end of the video. Brilliant. I'll want it all except the hard panniers and tail box.)
As someone who was riding when the original Transalp was born I looked forward to this review with a lot of interest, even if it wasn't really with a view to buying. Honda look like they've done a great job, balancing the heritage of the name in looks and style but combining it with modern build and ability levels. One thing I do find baffling though and this is not just aimed at Honda, is why they offer these tall-rounder/soft-roader type bikes with an option for a quickshifter but no option for cruise control. Maybe it's my age and background but I'm not sure I really feel the need for a quickshifter on what is an adventure-styled tourer/commuter whereas that's precisely the right area to deploy cruise control. For the pricing strategy I quite understand why it's not offered as standard but it's not even an option, which seems strange to me. Anyway, as the other several-hundred comments reflect, another engaging and thought-out review from Mr H provides information and entertainment in equal measure. Thank you
Good review, I like how you place all the bikes an the on-road / off- road scale, that’s what we want to know. Looks like I’ll keep my Vstrom 650 I was hoping Suzuki and Honda would make a Tenere beater. Thank you
I would expect a "sound road bike" in this category to be fitted with a 19" tire. Suzuki Vstrom went this direction as well. We'll see how the market responds.
The center of mass of the worldwide market for 750 class bikes, are moving towards places where the ratio of plusses to minuses of 21 vs 19, are skewing more towards the former, than in the traditional markets of the US and Europe. Speeds are lower, roads are less smooth, and preexisting user experiences, are more likely to be from 250 dual sports, vs liter class sport bikes.
Great review, thorough and enjoyable. The Honda is 12.5 k euros here in Ireland, not sure what price the V Strom will be here. I'm a Suzuki fan but these bikes are mainly used for touring, I think Honda won't be able to build them fast enough.
Thanks for the review. I get my full licence in 4 months and I am looking around now. The reason I might not buy this bike is because it might not take punishment of the roads in the interior of Australia.
I'm glad you like DCT - personally, on some Hondas I really struggle with it (on others, I totally get it). But no, there's no DCT on the this engine, nor will there be I suspect.
Having watched your previous review on the Honda Africa twin and now the Transalp I was wondering which one you would recommend? To give the question some context. I’m new to Adventure style bikes ( currently ride a Triumph Thruxton 1200 but need something more forgiving for my knackered knees!) I will predominantly use the bike for Sunday ride outs with pals and an occasional 40 min commute. It’s either a new Transalp or a nearly new Africa Twin (2022 onwards). Thank you
One issue with the price - it's about as much as a Moto Guzzi V85TT which comes with shaft drive and cruise control. As a mostly road bike for touring/commuting I think there's a strong argument for the Guzzi tbh. If Honda gave this bike cruise control I think it'd be a much better value proposition.
Agree but parts take forever to get from guzzi and reliability is very hit and miss imo, Honda is very consistent, personally I’d get the transalp just for reliability but the v85 certainly whoops it in the looks department
@@tomcooney183 yeah it will vary from place to place. In the UK you can get one from £9,699 compared with the £9,499 of the XL750 or about £8,900 for a Tenere. To be fair the Tenere is unquestionably a better off-road machine, but as a 90%+ road tourer/commuter the V85TT definitely has the better kit.
That’s a very good point. Atm, the Honda, when compared to the Guzzi V85TT, is simply not as good vfm. And it doesn’t have the cachet or the looks of that Guzzi badge. I’m sure the Transalp is a great bike and does a great job at a fair(ish) price but it’s not a steal like it’s sibling Hornet. I’d have the Guzzi of the two.
Great little bike. I hope someday Honda starts focusing on improving the valve check schedule. On my Africa Twin it was 1000$ at an independant mechanic, and at the dealer it was quoted as an 8h job by a Honda technician. When a Ducati is lower maintenance, you know Honda needs to do their homework. If this bike is anything like working on the Africa Twin...it's not fun.
@@TS50ER it included adjusting, but most of that time is just getting to the valves and putting evrything together after. The spark plugs are just as hard to get to, heck even the air filters require you dig into the bike. I could change oil, adjust valves, change air filter on my dr650 by the time someone changes the air filters on an africa twin.
@@Speedytrip , I hear you. I ride a Varadero 1000, and pack sandwiches and a flask for an air filter change. Honda have hydraulic valve adjusters on their Shadow 1100 bikes. It wouldn't be too much of an ask, surely.
Simon, first time I have seen you in ages where you haven't been in Sardinia!! Great review mate, definitely worth watching! Sadly, I was expecting more out of the Transvestite, more off-road oriented and more Africa Twin DNA passed down! Still, it has a 21" front and 18" rear and spoked wheels so I guess that is a bonus!
Is the Honda Transalp closer to a Triumph Tiger Sport or a Tiger 900? Same question with Yamaha: closer to a Tracer 7 or a Tenere? .... It looks like an awesome machine, but at the same time, if it would be nice to see two versions of it (both tourer focused and with cruise control), one of them, Road focused with Alloy Wheels 19"F/17"R, the other one with Spoke wheels 21"F/18"R (tubeless if possible) adj. Fork and windscreen. (More expensive but still cheaper than the Africa Twin)
Cheers - that's a good shout. I think I'd probably go with the AT, coz engine, mostly. But the Transalp is probably a slightly better all-round road package, I think. I'd deffo take the AT AS tho, with the bigger tank!
@@writestuffmedia Cheers Simon… I only ask because I bought a 2021 DCT bike last year… it had lots of genuine Honda parts fitted… Touring screen Centre stand Heated grips 12v socket Full crash bars upper and engine…. Bought from a Honda dealer for £11,200 only 2000 miles… like brand new and 19months remaining Honda warranty (by the time I specced a TransAlp the same there would only be a few hundred quid in it.. and it doesn’t have DCT or cruise) I’m a bigger guy at 19 stone and didn’t know weather to give this bike a try of just extend the warranty on mine and wait a few years for the new Africa twin because Honda must be thinking of turning the wick up on it now there is just 10BHP difference?
Just about to pass my full licence in a couple of weeks and I'm looking for a bike to replace my cb125f. This is top of my list but I do get tempted by the ability to check out some green lanes and the vstrom is tempting. Desperate to test drive them. Anyways thanks for the vid. Made me even more excited to pass my test and experience some bike adventures!!
Did you do the das without any prior experience on a more powerful bike? Im looking to skip to the das but im not looking forward to doing the mod 1 unprepared on a bike with 500 more cc's.
Great review - thank you. Still waiting for it here in the US... Personal preference, but I like the black version over the classic white/blue/gold rims. Wish it came with tubeless tires, but that's not a deal-breaker.
Pleased its got the 21 front 18 inch rear combo for good off road tyre choices if rally raid make a bullet proof bash plate for it it will be half decent off road good review Simon 👍
Thanks Simon. My Tiger 850 is just out of warranty. Was looking at this as the next new purchase. But like the Tiger 850, no cruise control or even option to get it fitted! Question is another Triumph or back to Honda?!!!🤷🏼
Dunno - haven't ridden them, but the Honda is lighter smaller, more agile than the Suzuki, and you can tailor a mode to your off road liking if you don't like gravel mode. Sounds like the engine is super fun with top end fizz, but Honda makes very tractable engines, so maybe not a rock crawler like the Suzuki seems, but probably very good. I can't help thinking Suzuki missed a target with the strom - I look forward to reading about the gsx-s8, as I know they make great road bikes.
Great review I have to say I'm tempted to trade in the Tracer 900. As a side I like your jacket, what make is it. I like the lack of badge etc. Thanks.
Thanks for the great review simon!now that you had the chance to test both the suzuki and the honda what be your chioce?and which one is more apprecibile at low rpm between 2.000 and 4.000 ?
Great informative review. Awesome bike. I want one. I already have the 2021 Honda CRF 300 Rally, for really playing in the dirt. I’m thinking that the TransAlp and the CRF 300 Rally would be the perfect pairing of off-road and on-road capability. Happy Trails
As soon as I found it had tubed tyres, I knew that I would NOT have one... Honda seem to think I'd be happy either trying to remove the wheel and get filthy for 2hrs at the side of a busy road, (or wait ages hoping for recovery), as opposed to spending 10 minutes plugging a puncture in a tubeless tyre, reinflating it and riding away... When will they listen to us?...
Fun review. Isn't the difference between the Honda's and the Suzuki's gearing handled simply by changing the gears? That's a big advantage of gears, as opposed to shaft drive after all, no?
Ah, I see, you mean by altering the sprocket sizes? Yes, you're right, in a general principle. So in the Suzuki video I actually said if it was my bike I'd think about gearing it down a bit - using a smaller rear sprocket. But the trouble with just altering the final drive ratios is it's a very general-purpose change - it effects all the internal ratios, not just the one you want to alter. So, or example, if you wanted to have the Honda feel perhaps as tractable in 2nd gear as the Suzuki, ideally you alter first and second internal ratios (but that would have a knock-on effect choosing the other ratios). Or you could drop the overall gearing - but which would raise engine speed at cruising speeds too.
@@writestuffmedia Valid point. Being a road rider (and not a racer) I haven't had much need to explore sprocket changes, but it's a common rationale for having chain/sprockets.
Thanks for such an informative and entertaining review of the new Transalp - it sounds like exactly what I'm looking for. The stock bike appears to be excellent value but looking at the pack options at the end of the video, to spec up with panniers, top box, centre stand, tank bag, heated grips, sump guard and quick shifter is going to add ~£2000 to the price so maybe not such a bargain....? Looking forward to riding a demo at some point in the summer, hopefully the fuel consumption in 'normal' ride mode (not road tester thrash mode) would be ~60mpg as I do like the option of ~200 mile refills. Great review, a UK comparison of this and the VStrom 800 would be interesting and maybe even throw in a 790/890 KTM Adventure/T7 too.......?
Good review and honest opinion of where the bike lies i.e more road orientated. When I priced Aprilia Tuareg V Honda the Transalp began to look a little pricey as it has no bash plate as standard or cruise control.
I ride a Honda VFR 1200 Crosstourer X. And I love it. If I could get this new Transalp, there is just one thing that bugs me. Why did Honda put tubes on a obvious road oriented bike? Even the new AT has tubeless wheels. Even my 2012 VFR has tubeless wheels. The tubes are clearly a choice for off road bikes.
As I say in the vid, I think it's a) cost (tubleless rims are more expensive), b) the Japanese product planners not realising it's as big-of-a deal as it is, and c) them looking at every other bike in the 'class' and thinking 'well, if it's ok for them, it's ok for us'...
“I’ll skip the boring history”, great review and history lesson😂😂. Like the way you positioned all the mid weight bikes between off road and road.
I rode one in Spain at a bike event last weekend. As an owner of a 96 model TA, I went along as I couldn't pass up the opportunity to not just see one but to take it for a spin, and boy it surprised me regarding grunt and weight. Fun is the word that pops into my head, very much surprised. For someone who is considering a larger bike in October like the African Twin, or GS, I have to say this TA has made the short list.
That remark,"feels like I am at home on this bike, I have ridden it before" is the clincher for me. This is exactly what a new bike should feel like from the word go.
Your videos are made like you are having a converstaion with your audience over a cup of tea and that quality makes them much, much more relevant than most others.
Sadly, I don't think we in India will get this bike, not at least in my lifetime ele it would have been my last big bike.
Wondeful video. Subscribed to you now. Do keep up the great work with that informal tone.
Nice review, Thanks for giving us a clear uninterrupted and un-edited recording of the engine sound at the end! EVERY other reviewer i watched hides and edits out the engine sound for some strange reason. I watched this hoping to hear the engine finally, and it sounds great.
Getting decent sound is way harder than getting decent video - so I've got some kit I use just for the sound to try and capture it. It also helps that the bike really does howl and sounds pretty loud - the Suzuki 800DE is whisper quiet in comparison and if I'd recorded that all you'd hear is the sound of the wind 💨
Great first ride review as usual, you always seem to get at least two levels deeper into the bikes than other press launch reviews - best of the bunch by far, nice one Simon
Agreed 👌
Thats because Simon is a proper journalist not just a vlogger
Great review 👍
@@LemonDrizzleGang whoa! Thanks, I really appreciate the compliment - just try to stay grounded and say what I see and feel, like you or anyone would. The thing I've really got over the vlogger guys & gals is I'm lucky enough to have been doing this for ages, so maybe a bit of perspective - and also, Bennetts BikeSocial - and this is the truth - WANT the truth. They aren't interested in blowing smoke up manufacturers' aholes; they don't need to. They value me telling it how I see it; that's what they want me for. Otherwise they wouldn't pay my astronomic freelance bill 😉
@@writestuffmedia I agree it's a very in deep review but you're clearly in a conflict of interests with Honda and you can only sell your words to the Honda fanbois and spoiled kids who know nothing about motorbikes.
Yes this bike is cheaper because now Honda calls standard equipment as "accessories" so the ignorant fanbois buy the bike "cheaper" then they add this and that which is already installed on other bikes.
It's lighter, off course read above, a lot of stuff is missing plus you have to pay for it.
It's a bike mainly for road riding but it has a stupid small gas tank so the bike again is lighter than others.
The bike you show in the review is intentionally and misleadingly fully loaded with "accessories" as it should be as standard but again the ignorant fanbois don't notice that.
Cheaper brakes and suspensions compared to other bikes so yeah this trash is cheaper!
No quick shifting and cheaper bike!
And what is the point to have a 21" front wheel and spoke wheels when this trash is NOT designed for off road?
About tubeless I'm not sure but on a bike like this it should be standard equipment.
A in deep review but misleading and deceptive.
Simon makes a good point regarding his benefactor - Bennetts . Each of the reviewers at the launch has an agenda and a paymaster - which is usually where you find the root of the bias - and there is bias in almost everything written commercially. As Bennetts most likely make money from selling insurance rather than bikes, ad space, TH-cam hits…. Etc, they have a different angle and it’s a good fit with Simon as the reviewer. If they can get their premiums to within 20% of the cheapest competition then I might even buy a policy from them 😄. All that aside, I really like the approach of these reviews as he tries to give a sense of the bike by using good tech explanations - not just specs.
Nice review & the bike looks pretty good too. Also glad you dealt with the elephant in the room straight away & called a spade a spade. It's a road bike & that's absolutely fine as most adventure bikes never see a dirt road anyway. Honda will sell loads of them no doubt & for those minority of people who genuinely want to off-road, there are plenty of other great choices in the class. Also to be fair to the Suzuki, you can't spec the Honda to have a bolt-on subframe, bigger tank & fully adjustable suspension which is where the majority of the Suzuki's extra weight & cost come from. Now whether that is justifiable or not is another question I guess.
My 1989 rm80 Yellow and Blue will never die!!!
The looks are kinda meh. It looks like the cb500x which isn't a bad looking bike but , meh. I would take the quirky square looks of the v-strom, at least it's something different.
The original was also mostly used for road riding. I would consider the Transalp a slightly more offroad-capable version of a Triumph Tiger 660. There's a huge market for these tall adventure tourers.
@@fallinginthed33p Yes absolutely agreed. Honda have definitely hit the sweet spot as most people want the look with little or no intention of going off road & on that basis this is perfect. I also thought of the Triumph too & it's a good comparison.
@@ragerider6283 Sweet spot in size and price too. The Africa Twin is too big and expensive for most people.
Nice review but I'm realy amazed by the price difference in the UK compared with the Suzuki. In Holland it is only € 100 cheaper and Suzuki gives a 6 year warranty on it as well.
I find that a much better deal!
Keep up the good work, I love your channel!
You can tell it's a cracking road bike by the way you're chucking it round the bends one handed half the time 😁 I think it looks great and for where most of these type of bike get used it's spot on
Yes, quite right, me thinks. It's not the Mini - AT many of us fancied for, but it will be a success for Honda, regardless.
The best review so far, very honest, the Transalp is a road bike that you take for a mild bit of offroading, I still think the price and weight are a bit deceptive as it has no bash plate or even hand guards. I think they will sell loads of them, and in a couple of years it will get cruise.
What I didn't mention in the review (because I hadn't thought of it) is that one of the reasons the Honda doesn't feel as happy off-road is because, to my mind, it's much more heavily front-weighted (with someone on the bike stood on the pegs). The Suzuki (and T7) both sit back more, and have less weight on the front - or at least allow enough suspension movement to shift weight back under power. I think that's another reason the Honda, to me, doesn't feel as confident in the front off road.
I'd like to weigh them both to find the front to rear weight balance. I bet the Honda has more on the front than the Suzuki.
@DavidZ8 Deceptive and misleading retail price and fully loaded weight specifications because a lot of stuff is missing while it's already installed on other bikes.
Honda will only sell this trash to the ignorant fanbois.
@@billadmond9450 A bit harsh.
@@davidz8 I touched a fanboi's nerve LOL
Tubed tyres is a no go. The rest fits for me. Original bash plate almost 500e, ouch..
500e for a bash plate, a glorified frying pan you can buy for 10 Euro. Our crave for motorcycles give licence to motorbike manufacturers to rob us in pure daylight. Literally, taking us for a ride, pun intended. Shall we remain such idiots? The bike itself is the price of a car. Then come the inflated prices of accessories, that should come standard anyway.
@@davidmallia628 Don't know many cars at that price - and I wouldn't shop the Honda catalog.
@@anxiousappliance OK Honda is not price of a good car, but many other bikes are. The point is, it's a rip off, even if you buy after market, which are sometimes worse.
I’d just buy an SW Motech one which will be a fraction of that price. Most manufacturer supplied engine guards are garbage compared to aftermarket options.
Why 🤷♂️
A 21" front wheel obviously has a longer contact patch than a 19" and therefore more grip. The factbthey kept the front end stiff to feel like a more solid smaller wheel, but with this increase in grip... sounds amazing - fun yet reassured.
You idiot.
I like how this guy is doing the reviews, without any bias and not always the latest is the greatest.
Thanks Karol, I try really hard to just call is as I see it. My base setting is that if it's got two wheels, it's brilliant. Then, after that, it's a question of where it fits in the world - sometimes, bikes with loads of flaws are actually still very desirable to some people. And that's ok. You just have to spot them, and spot that the potential customer isn't bothered about that stuff. It's like criticising a Harley for having shit suspension or no ground clearance - that's missing the point, etc. So, anyway, thank you!
I sat on this at the NEC and really liked it. It was as comfortable as the old v Strom 650... And with more beans. Im considering chopping in my z900 for it next year as I'm 52 and would like to move on from naked bikes. Good review, thanks.
Still happy with my el cheapo, suzuki freewind, 170 kilo with half a tank off fuel, offroading with it in Spain, handles like a dream, and good fun in the twisties and does 80 on the motorway. But it is not a looker, not defenitly not.. This honda is a beauty, it really is and a great price..
I waited and waited and waited then in the spring of 2021 I bought a T7. Here in Texas I’m still waiting however, when the Transalp gets here I guess I’ll have both in my barn unless someone wants to buy a low mileage T7 as I’m definitely more road oriented than off road. Nothing wrong with the T7 and it’s a great Bike, I just want and have wanted a TransAlp forever. It’s a little more suited to my needs and absolutely Beautiful in red white and blue.
Honda customer survey, "95% of our customers said they would like it to have a cruise control so we didn't install one plus we don't even give an option for one, we feel we know what's best for you"
My 2000 Transalp still starts every first try and has never missed a beat. Reliability and build quality are my nr. 1 concerns in buying any bike.
I take mine offroad all the time, just fit some 50/50 tyres, the Mitas EO7's plus' kept me right side up on some of the more demanding terrain.
If you want a more offroad orientated bike get the CRF like Noraly. But first watch Pedro Mota circumnavigate the world on an ancient specimen. That might change your opinion (and question your own abilities as an encore).😁
I'm 1,92mtr 97kg so your experience may vary.
Sadly the newer Hondas are not as good. My 20 Africa Twin has a 1st to second gear crunch and some corrosion issues. Honda don't want to know. I've lost trust in them after 40+ years of riding them
If I hadn't already got so used to being lazy with maintenance, having a shaft-drive on my SuperTenere, then I'd certainly have this near the top of my list. Looks like a fun all-rounder, jack-of-all type bike.
Great review mate. I subscribe to all the major TH-cam review channels, and your reviews are always the gold standard for me. Please keep doing what you're doing 👍
Shaft drive is easy, but most of us just neglect our chain drive anyway lol. The new o ring chains don't really need much love. They sure last a long time too. I trust em more than the belt drive cruisers come with. Man that was a heavy bike to push when that belt broke...
1. Where is the airfilter located ?
2. Where is the battery located ?
3. Where do i fit my Garmin gps ?
4. Is it Click on panniers without racks ?
5. How to adjust the windscreen ?
7. Is there Any 12v usb socket out of the box ?
8. Quality of Honda accesories: bashplate, is it dekorbars or proper crashbars , Heated grips, luggage etc ?
Great looking Honda but no wingbadge thats a shame.
Great job. Way more informative and non-biases than the other reviews. Love the comparisons. I’d assume if gravel or smooth hard pack are the only “off-road”, this might be the pick too.
@flippy5118 I purposely used the words ‘more’ and ‘than’. It’s a comparison comment not an absolute one.
Im so glad so many great bikes are comming out recently, more better bikes is better for us.
Great look at the bike Simon, thanks! Impressed with your - err - impressions of the 21" front wheel. The way you chucked the bike into the bends was eye opening! Looking at the available options at the end, it looks like you could spend £4k on Honda accessories and also make the bike weigh as much as standard GS 😁
It was the options prices that ultimately put me off.
The basic spec at £9½ just isn't good enough. At least £3k for the stuff you're going to want.
With it being a new bike, there's not enough after market parts available from non OEM manufacturers.
I just went with a KTM 890 adventure for £11k with equivalent options AND cruise.
@@RichO1701e Yeah the option prices are way too expensive............ and this is 2.5 grand more than the Hornet??
But no matter how well a manufacturer can get adv bikes with 21" front wheels to corner they are NEVER going compare favorably to bikes properly set up with 17" wheels. It is probably like comments about how well some SUVs handle in the twisties which could be all well and fine but they are never going to be AWESOME like currently crops of little sports cars will be. But I think some folks are almost duped into believing they will truly have it all based on how well a reviewer compliments an adv bike's handling ....in reality though you are not getting a sportbike along with your adventure bike ....there is no such bike sad to say. If you want to fully enjoy each genre near the pinnacle of enjoyment then you will need multiple motorcycles PERIOD ....compromise means exactly what it sounds like as in giving up one thing to get another. A motorcycle all geared up to travel around the world tor instance (the ultimate expression of adv riding?) You will give up enjoying a LOT compared to the individual genres specialized at a single riding aspect....handling will SUCK in the dirt SUCK in the twisties etc etc but perhaps will brilliantly succeed in making it the entire trip in the most expedient comfortable manner in amazing time....if that is really your thing.....OR you could enjoy track or canyone riding one weekend on one bike while riding single track the next weekend on another and then spending a week crunching huge miles in utter comfort on yet another motorcycle
@@dougiequick1 I think "suck" is a wrong word. It will be average or a bit below average in all areas. And that's totally acceptable
@@dougiequick1if you haven’t rode one you have no idea what you’re talking about I got rid of my CBR600 and got a Transalp and it’s really good on the road. I’m in Tennessee all we have is twistie roads with hills and I promise you it keeps up and the front end stays planted and we got the quick shifter standard and it’s the best daily ride I’ve been on
Thanks for the review! Appreciate your honesty, it is one of the best first rides reviews. Still I was expecting more off-road experience, more infos about how suspension handles different off-road situations. Still I look forward to test it myself before June, greetings !
The centre stand should be fitted as standard on the stock bike. No ifs, no buts.
Otherwise superb for what it was designed for i.e. touring road bike with off tarmac fire road capability.
Good stuff Simon, great summing up as always 👍 That sector offers alot of choice now.
Thanks Simon. Very useful . I'm looking for an 'everyday ride in any weather nip down the shops' type bike. The size and definitely the price of the Transalp as well as the retro looks have attracted me to it. Your review has done nothing to change my view. In fact it has whetted my enthusiasm to book a test ride! Thanks once again.
What is the point of a 21” front wheel if it’s a 90% road bike? If it’s more for the road bias surely a 19” makes more sense regardless if it handles great on road with a 21”.
I appreciate the disclaimers under the visuals pertaining to specs lmao. Made it worth watching on the TV.
Good and fair review, nice to know where it's compared to the competition. Makes me wonder would a 19" front wheel have been a even better choice? But anyway, this Transalp seems to be a perfect travel companion.👍🙂
Just out now in Philippines. Its really frustrating they haven't switched to tubeless like Africa Twin. Plugging punctures here is kind of a prerequisite
Honda have played it smart. You add the options that Suzuki has as standard then not only does the weight increase, so does the price.
I am so glad someone else has noticed that, no engine guard, I think if you add Honda's engine guard, which comes with the lower bars and hand guards you can add another 4kg to the weight and over £500 to the price. Still a great bike though.
@@davidz8 I sure wouldn't buy Honda accessories - LOL. But adding 4kg still puts you around 40kg lighter.
The one thing you can't buy is that nicer suspension on the v-strom. Well, you can, but it will cost you more than 1100
Good catch Marcus! Personally, I'd pick the Suzuki for the bigger fuel tank.
@@anxiousappliance They only start out about 22kg apart....... Honda 208, Suzuki 230.
Honestly the best review I've seen on TH-cam. 👍
Ey anyone know where this bike is manufactured? I mean, in which country…? Thanks
I'm fairly sure I asked, and I'm fairly sure I was told "Japan" by a Honda staff member. However I am old and I forget things, so I could be wrong.
Thanks…!
So we could say it is closer to the Yamaha Tracer 700 than the Ténéré, except maybe for the more upright seating position. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. After all, it is what the Transalp always has been: an excellent allrounder seasoned with that slight bit of adventure.
Yup, that's a good shout.
@Mozzer Hmm...as long as you don't look at it straight on. I REALLY had to get used to that front design. The similarity to a Star Wars Captain Rex helmet helped a lot. After one and a half year later, I quite like it (still think there are better-looking bikes available). Anything else...great.
@Mozzer Looks are not everything. I took me a good bit of time to get used to the - IMO - rather strange front setup of my Tracer 700. It rides really wonderfully, but those bubbly lights - ugh. Then somehow I saw a Star Wars Captain Rex helmet face design in there, and now I really like it (Rex is one of my favourite characters). I slapped a pair of blue Jaig eyes on there, and all is good now (yes, I am a nerd).
@Mozzer Yamaha Tracer 700 from 2020. With several moddings.
Great review, thanks for sharing 👍
Great review. It's interesting to hear where this bike sits against the other similar bikes. If it is very much road biased, why has it got tubed tyres. It's the reason I wouldn't buy as a road bike.
It shows how good these things are ...the Tester is holding a " Lecture " at the bars ....I' 13:20 ve not seen so much one- handed riding ...shows how well balanced this thing is ....its putting me off a Super Scoot 😊
200kid
Thanks for saying exactly what you think. Seems everyone else describes the pidgin hole it Only fits in. You loved it, and I wanna ride it too.
I really wanted one after seeing it at Birmingham motorcycle show in November.
But, Honda took way too long to announce the price, great price, £9½k. But the optional extras were just too pricey. Nearly £3k in extras, no cruise control.
With it being a new bike, no after market parts from non OEM manufacturers.
Then delivery was looking at mid - late June, possibly July!
Ended going with a KTM 890 adventure for less than £11k with equivalent options AND cruise control.
I’m quite surprised that the V85tt doesn’t come up much as a comparison when I see reviews of this bike. Very similar in terms of its road- touring- off road abilities and also totally confidence inspiring through the twisties. I also picked one up new for £9499, same price.
To be perfectly honest Will - and I speak as a massive fan of the V85TT; I *love* it! - it never occurred to me. I suppose I see the V85TT as a 'classic' adventure bike, along the lines of BMW's RnineT Urban G/S, Triumph's Scramblers, etc. But you're right, on paper you could put this in the same class.
And, personally, I think the Guzzi is one of the best-looking bikes on sale today.
@@writestuffmedia thanks for taking time to reply Simon 👍🏼
V85 is beautiful and a fun bike to ride, but for long distance adv the tendency to burn oil and the small oil sump isn't ideal, italian reliability and quality is also questionable compared to Honda. On the other hand the simplicity of the air cooled pushrod twin is reassuring. So it's a toss up and totally depends what kind of riding you do, and where you're located.
Thanks very much for your review
Where is the air filter located? How difficult are the maintenance?
Another great review Simon 👏
How does it stand with the triumph tiger 900… please???
I've pretty much settled on a transalp. One question having tubed tyres, it will be used 99.9 % on road, should I be bothered by the hassle of a puncture?
Since this is really a road bike I wish it had a 19" front wheel and allow wheels. 90% of owners will not take it off road anyway. I don't need spokes and don't like the look of them either but it looks to be a nice bike. I will consider one in the next year or two if Honda brings it to the USA.
21" is acceptable. But tube tires is something hard to understand; it should be option to choose.
It's the pick of the bunch for me because if I'm honest my off roading is very mild and doesn't warrant a Tenere level of ability.
But, I'll wait to see what the faired Hornet looks like, which I hope is coming. Maybe that will be the cb750x I am hoping for. Tubeless flatter one piece seat and a decent payload.
Safe, happy travels 👍
English Biker Dan just did a review of it, conclusion: cramped riding position, no wind protection.
@@hondaryder3779 I'm only 5'9" so it could fit. I'm not a full size person! 😁
@@teneretraveller8980 Is there definitely going to be a faired hornet? That would be perfect.
@@GJS-live Honestly, I don't know, but I can't believe they won't want their money's worth from that new engine. And the Tracer 700 is probably in Honda's sights...
Enjoyed that. The David Attenborough of bike reviews. I almost expected a Gorilla to pop out from the trees towards the end.🦍
Will test one the day after tomorrow, for the second time. This time, I’ll ride a little longer and in different conditions. Coming from a 1250 GS, which was a marvellous bike, but a little too much for me nowadays, since I’m travelling much less. I still want a good for everything bike, so this might be it.
Having test ridden a Transalp myself, I am amazed at how many journos and commentators speak so positively about this bike. Yes it handles well, I rode it at speed down a number of roads with extremely twisty bends. Hard braking, chucking it into bends, hard acceleration out of the bends. However, below 4500rpm, it is really lacking in power. It does accelerate nicely after 4500rpm, in the way a bike tuned for top end power does. Generally, as a bike to ride I found it antiseptic and dull. I am comparing to to my current bike, a CRF1000L Africa Twin which despite weighing an extra 30kg or so is still more fun to ride. Also a first generation Triumph Street Triple which had the X factor that the Transalp is missing in spades. Sadly, the Street Triple isn’t an Adventure Bike but it did show me that a well tuned relatively small CC bike can be fun. So my advice is Test Ride one for yourself rather than buying into the hype. Who knows, it might be your unicorn. Certainly not mine.
This review is impressive in content and comparisons. This is a beautiful machine, and could be the perfect set-up for a rider like me who primarily wants a mid-weight road bike with ability for occasional gravel/dirt roads. (The 21-inch front wheel will help so much on those occasions, and it sounds like one sacrifices very little on the pavement twisties.) What were the option kits that you mentioned? Your ride looked like it sported a bash plate. I would want a center stand for chain and tire maintenance along the road. From California, thanks for a fun ride! (Just watched the option pack summary at the end of the video. Brilliant. I'll want it all except the hard panniers and tail box.)
Simon, you are the best !! 😉👍
Thank you, that's very kind. No pressure! 😉
I’d expect it to have cruise control if it’s aimed as a road bike. Looks nice though.
Great video! How would it do with a passenger for touring? Would the passenger be comfie? They get much wind? Seat? Any thoughts?
Excellent, detailed review! Thanks Simon!
As someone who was riding when the original Transalp was born I looked forward to this review with a lot of interest, even if it wasn't really with a view to buying. Honda look like they've done a great job, balancing the heritage of the name in looks and style but combining it with modern build and ability levels. One thing I do find baffling though and this is not just aimed at Honda, is why they offer these tall-rounder/soft-roader type bikes with an option for a quickshifter but no option for cruise control.
Maybe it's my age and background but I'm not sure I really feel the need for a quickshifter on what is an adventure-styled tourer/commuter whereas that's precisely the right area to deploy cruise control. For the pricing strategy I quite understand why it's not offered as standard but it's not even an option, which seems strange to me.
Anyway, as the other several-hundred comments reflect, another engaging and thought-out review from Mr H provides information and entertainment in equal measure. Thank you
What about the offroad capabilities compared to the CB500X?
At the starting price for each you could add the rally raid kit to a cb500x and still be cheaper than the transalp…
Good review, I like how you place all the bikes an the on-road / off- road scale, that’s what we want to know. Looks like I’ll keep my Vstrom 650
I was hoping Suzuki and Honda would make a Tenere beater. Thank you
I would expect a "sound road bike" in this category to be fitted with a 19" tire. Suzuki Vstrom went this direction as well. We'll see how the market responds.
The center of mass of the worldwide market for 750 class bikes, are moving towards places where the ratio of plusses to minuses of 21 vs 19, are skewing more towards the former, than in the traditional markets of the US and Europe. Speeds are lower, roads are less smooth, and preexisting user experiences, are more likely to be from 250 dual sports, vs liter class sport bikes.
Solid review, and I agree with the placement of the bikes. Actually the Transalp is exacly what I'm looking for. Cheers!
I don’t understand why there is no outside temp on the dash ? .The engine is ecu regulated, so there must be an temp input signal.
Great review, thorough and enjoyable. The Honda is 12.5 k euros here in Ireland, not sure what price the V Strom will be here. I'm a Suzuki fan but these bikes are mainly used for touring, I think Honda won't be able to build them fast enough.
Thanks for the review. I get my full licence in 4 months and I am looking around now. The reason I might not buy this bike is because it might not take punishment of the roads in the interior of Australia.
Hi, what is exactly worst with offroad bike performance except of gearing rates? Is suspenstion not good enough?
Does it come with the DCT transmission option? After driving dct AT I'll never go back to manual on a road bike again
I'm glad you like DCT - personally, on some Hondas I really struggle with it (on others, I totally get it). But no, there's no DCT on the this engine, nor will there be I suspect.
Having watched your previous review on the Honda Africa twin and now the Transalp I was wondering which one you would recommend? To give the question some context. I’m new to Adventure style bikes ( currently ride a Triumph Thruxton 1200 but need something more forgiving for my knackered knees!) I will predominantly use the bike for Sunday ride outs with pals and an occasional 40 min commute. It’s either a new Transalp or a nearly new Africa Twin (2022 onwards). Thank you
Thanks Simon for a good video👍
Thank you for saying so!
One issue with the price - it's about as much as a Moto Guzzi V85TT which comes with shaft drive and cruise control. As a mostly road bike for touring/commuting I think there's a strong argument for the Guzzi tbh. If Honda gave this bike cruise control I think it'd be a much better value proposition.
Agree but parts take forever to get from guzzi and reliability is very hit and miss imo, Honda is very consistent, personally I’d get the transalp just for reliability but the v85 certainly whoops it in the looks department
V85tt is 33% more expensive than a tenere in my part of the world
@@tomcooney183 yeah it will vary from place to place. In the UK you can get one from £9,699 compared with the £9,499 of the XL750 or about £8,900 for a Tenere. To be fair the Tenere is unquestionably a better off-road machine, but as a 90%+ road tourer/commuter the V85TT definitely has the better kit.
That’s a very good point. Atm, the Honda, when compared to the Guzzi V85TT, is simply not as good vfm. And it doesn’t have the cachet or the looks of that Guzzi badge. I’m sure the Transalp is a great bike and does a great job at a fair(ish) price but it’s not a steal like it’s sibling Hornet. I’d have the Guzzi of the two.
Also the latest Guzzi V85TT has extra modes, tubeless spiked rims and cruise…..no brainer, then.
Great little bike. I hope someday Honda starts focusing on improving the valve check schedule. On my Africa Twin it was 1000$ at an independant mechanic, and at the dealer it was quoted as an 8h job by a Honda technician. When a Ducati is lower maintenance, you know Honda needs to do their homework. If this bike is anything like working on the Africa Twin...it's not fun.
Were you quoted 8 hours to check the valves or to actually adjust them?
@@TS50ER it included adjusting, but most of that time is just getting to the valves and putting evrything together after. The spark plugs are just as hard to get to, heck even the air filters require you dig into the bike. I could change oil, adjust valves, change air filter on my dr650 by the time someone changes the air filters on an africa twin.
@@Speedytrip , I hear you. I ride a Varadero 1000, and pack sandwiches and a flask for an air filter change.
Honda have hydraulic valve adjusters on their Shadow 1100 bikes. It wouldn't be too much of an ask, surely.
@@TS50ER had those on my 1993 nighthawk 750 as well…crazy that newer bikes need twice the maintenance..
Simon, first time I have seen you in ages where you haven't been in Sardinia!! Great review mate, definitely worth watching! Sadly, I was expecting more out of the Transvestite, more off-road oriented and more Africa Twin DNA passed down! Still, it has a 21" front and 18" rear and spoked wheels so I guess that is a bonus!
Is the Honda Transalp closer to a Triumph Tiger Sport or a Tiger 900? Same question with Yamaha: closer to a Tracer 7 or a Tenere? .... It looks like an awesome machine, but at the same time, if it would be nice to see two versions of it (both tourer focused and with cruise control), one of them, Road focused with Alloy Wheels 19"F/17"R, the other one with Spoke wheels 21"F/18"R (tubeless if possible) adj. Fork and windscreen. (More expensive but still cheaper than the Africa Twin)
Excellent presentation! Thanks!
Thanks. Good review. One QQ, is it better/more capable off-road than the cb500x…?
Great review cheers Simon…
What would you go for the TransAlp or a second hand 21/22 year Africa twin?
Aren't these pretty different bikes? The Africa Twin is like +100lbs and, in the US, it is actually difficult to find a non dct AT.
Cheers - that's a good shout. I think I'd probably go with the AT, coz engine, mostly. But the Transalp is probably a slightly better all-round road package, I think. I'd deffo take the AT AS tho, with the bigger tank!
@@writestuffmedia Cheers Simon… I only ask because I bought a 2021 DCT bike last year… it had lots of genuine Honda parts fitted…
Touring screen
Centre stand
Heated grips
12v socket
Full crash bars upper and engine….
Bought from a Honda dealer for £11,200 only 2000 miles… like brand new and 19months remaining Honda warranty (by the time I specced a TransAlp the same there would only be a few hundred quid in it.. and it doesn’t have DCT or cruise)
I’m a bigger guy at 19 stone and didn’t know weather to give this bike a try of just extend the warranty on mine and wait a few years for the new Africa twin because Honda must be thinking of turning the wick up on it now there is just 10BHP difference?
Dose anyone know what the service intervals are compared to the CP2 5k oil 25K valves check?
As an owner of a CRF450L, this looks like the perfect companion for me
I wonder how it compares to the KTM 790 adv coming out. Roughly same price, weight, power.
Totally, I wonder the same thing.
Just about to pass my full licence in a couple of weeks and I'm looking for a bike to replace my cb125f. This is top of my list but I do get tempted by the ability to check out some green lanes and the vstrom is tempting. Desperate to test drive them.
Anyways thanks for the vid. Made me even more excited to pass my test and experience some bike adventures!!
Did you do the das without any prior experience on a more powerful bike?
Im looking to skip to the das but im not looking forward to doing the mod 1 unprepared on a bike with 500 more cc's.
Im curious if someone would bring this hardcore technical trail how it fairs
I wonder if Honda has a touring seat option for this...?
Great review - thank you. Still waiting for it here in the US... Personal preference, but I like the black version over the classic white/blue/gold rims. Wish it came with tubeless tires, but that's not a deal-breaker.
I like the bike i think this is the one that i ve been looking for. Do they have smaller cc?
Pleased its got the 21 front 18 inch rear combo for good off road tyre choices if rally raid make a bullet proof bash plate for it it will be half decent off road good review Simon 👍
Mi piacerebbe sapere se il motore scalda le gambe, grazie.
Really good review and bike 👌
Thanks Simon. My Tiger 850 is just out of warranty. Was looking at this as the next new purchase. But like the Tiger 850, no cruise control or even option to get it fitted! Question is another Triumph or back to Honda?!!!🤷🏼
Your changing bikes just because out of warranty ? O_o
And the obvious answer is get a Tiger900 and never look back.
@@thierryfaquet7405 the 900 was the other option! But quite enjoyed the lower spec of the 850 apart from no cruise control!
Dunno - haven't ridden them, but the Honda is lighter smaller, more agile than the Suzuki, and you can tailor a mode to your off road liking if you don't like gravel mode. Sounds like the engine is super fun with top end fizz, but Honda makes very tractable engines, so maybe not a rock crawler like the Suzuki seems, but probably very good. I can't help thinking Suzuki missed a target with the strom - I look forward to reading about the gsx-s8, as I know they make great road bikes.
Does it come in a DCT version?
What part of Portugal is this?
Great review I have to say I'm tempted to trade in the Tracer 900.
As a side I like your jacket, what make is it. I like the lack of badge etc. Thanks.
Thanks for the great review simon!now that you had the chance to test both the suzuki and the honda what be your chioce?and which one is more apprecibile at low rpm between 2.000 and 4.000 ?
Am I too short for that bike if I am 5’06”?
So it has a quick shifter option? thanks
Yup, a bloody good one, too. In the UK it's a £250 accessory - not including fitment.
Great informative review.
Awesome bike. I want one.
I already have the 2021 Honda CRF 300 Rally, for really playing in the dirt.
I’m thinking that the TransAlp and the CRF 300 Rally would be the perfect pairing of off-road and on-road capability.
Happy Trails
Any idea on how it would compare to the tracer 7?
As soon as I found it had tubed tyres, I knew that I would NOT have one... Honda seem to think I'd be happy either trying to remove the wheel and get filthy for 2hrs at the side of a busy road, (or wait ages hoping for recovery), as opposed to spending 10 minutes plugging a puncture in a tubeless tyre, reinflating it and riding away...
When will they listen to us?...
Fun review. Isn't the difference between the Honda's and the Suzuki's gearing handled simply by changing the gears? That's a big advantage of gears, as opposed to shaft drive after all, no?
Ah, I see, you mean by altering the sprocket sizes? Yes, you're right, in a general principle. So in the Suzuki video I actually said if it was my bike I'd think about gearing it down a bit - using a smaller rear sprocket.
But the trouble with just altering the final drive ratios is it's a very general-purpose change - it effects all the internal ratios, not just the one you want to alter. So, or example, if you wanted to have the Honda feel perhaps as tractable in 2nd gear as the Suzuki, ideally you alter first and second internal ratios (but that would have a knock-on effect choosing the other ratios). Or you could drop the overall gearing - but which would raise engine speed at cruising speeds too.
@@writestuffmedia Valid point. Being a road rider (and not a racer) I haven't had much need to explore sprocket changes, but it's a common rationale for having chain/sprockets.
Thanks for such an informative and entertaining review of the new Transalp - it sounds like exactly what I'm looking for. The stock bike appears to be excellent value but looking at the pack options at the end of the video, to spec up with panniers, top box, centre stand, tank bag, heated grips, sump guard and quick shifter is going to add ~£2000 to the price so maybe not such a bargain....? Looking forward to riding a demo at some point in the summer, hopefully the fuel consumption in 'normal' ride mode (not road tester thrash mode) would be ~60mpg as I do like the option of ~200 mile refills. Great review, a UK comparison of this and the VStrom 800 would be interesting and maybe even throw in a 790/890 KTM Adventure/T7 too.......?
Good review and honest opinion of where the bike lies i.e more road orientated. When I priced Aprilia Tuareg V Honda the Transalp began to look a little pricey as it has no bash plate as standard or cruise control.
I ride a Honda VFR 1200 Crosstourer X. And I love it. If I could get this new Transalp, there is just one thing that bugs me. Why did Honda put tubes on a obvious road oriented bike? Even the new AT has tubeless wheels. Even my 2012 VFR has tubeless wheels. The tubes are clearly a choice for off road bikes.
As I say in the vid, I think it's
a) cost (tubleless rims are more expensive),
b) the Japanese product planners not realising it's as big-of-a deal as it is, and
c) them looking at every other bike in the 'class' and thinking 'well, if it's ok for them, it's ok for us'...