I just revisited this video, having had my Transalp for almost three months now, and felt the need to correct a couple of details. One being that its claimed horsepower ia actually 91 hp, not 101. Not a massive difference, but worth noting. The KTMs have that sort of power in this category, but not many others. This is a gentler feeling engine than those. The other point was the fuel range, which is significantly better than you found in 'normal use'. Its 16.9L can actually do 400 kms, with not particularly economical riding, which is more like 250 miles than 200. The tank can be filled above its baffle plate, adding roughly one litre more, and the overall economy is remarkable. Important to note that when the last fuel 'bar' starts flashing, you still have 3.7L left. Enough for 80 kms or 50 miles. But after 5,600 kms now I am finding the bike actually improves with longer use. The vibrations reduce, as does the engine noise, and the thing becomes sweeter. For a cheap bike I had reservations about buying, I am finding it better than I had expected. I also found that reversing the handlebar risers provides a more natural feel to the steering. The bike always handled well, but the steering feels better set this way. A ten-minute job with no cost. Now with a (B & B) bash-plate, the 'bear grip' footrests, the wind deflectors, and a lighter (home-made) rear rack, and now a set of Pirelli STR '50-50' tyres, it is becoming more capable on the many dirt roads around here. It is winning me over as a very useful all-round bike, and the fuel economy is a bonus, as there is no fuel for miles here.
@@gapexx Well I've replaced the rear STR since then, and today I just went up to Adelaide for a pair of new Pirelli Scorpion Rallys. Just back. The Rallys are a coarser tread, and feel a bit stiffer in the carcase, but are better on a loose surface of course. But they don't feel quite as sweet on the bitumen as the STRs - they were out of STRs, so I didn't have that choice. I will probably go back to STRs next time. But you asked about the tubeless conversion. No, I stayed with the stocker wheels, and if you read my earlier comment below that might help explain why. I take tubes when I go away on dirt, but a puncture is usually a rare thing. But tubeless aren't necessarily better, and for the rare mishap of a puncture, I might stay with the tubes. This American fixation on tubeless wheels doesn't tally with my experiences (riding for 62 years, with never a year off). Tubeless spoked wheels are a bit of a compromise actually, particularly the front 21". But as an update on my Transalp, which I will have had for exactly 12 months tomorrow, I am still very happy with it. 17,800 kms (a bit over 11k miles) and three rear tyres (and two fronts) in that mileage. I am getting about 6 - 6,500 kms out of a rear, and about 11,500 from the front. I changed the originals over to the STRs at about 5,500. I wouldn't sweat the tubeless tyres - just use the bike for what it is. If you have more than one puncture in about three years you would be unlucky!
@@patkennedy1 You make some good points and in general I agree with you, but I have one big gripe about tubed systems. The tyre wear. I'm running a set of STRs on my GS, a heavier machine, but I get towards 10.000km out of the rear being tubeless. Your experience confirms about 6.000km of rear life on a tubed Transalp and my experience is the same. I just did a month long trip of 5.000km on my brand new Transalp, combined with a 1.000km of running it in, the rear is pretty much gone. Not the best if you plan to travel with the bike. Another issue that I need to look into in more detail is, the STR is labeled as a tubeless tyre only and from what I can pull together online, the front wheel on the TA supposedly isn't the best fit for a tubeless tyre? Something to do with a groove or the height of the side of the rim. If you have any thoughts on this your experience is much appreciated!
@@gapexx Well firstly I am surprised at the life you are getting from the STRs on the GS, although you don't say what size BM it is. Turns out I got over 12,000 kms out of my front STR, but not the rear! My tubeless road bike (lightened Ducati 1098S, done 104k kms) only gets about 3,300 kms out of its tubeless tyres most times, so I don't have an equal experience between my two at the moment. That bike has had 25 fronts and 27 rears... But I ran a few tubeless bikes before, and never noticed any sort of difference tubed/tubeless in mileage. Certainly nothing like you found. Just checking my papers, the last STR went exactly 6,800 kms, and wasn't all gone. Fairly close. I change them a bit early as I live 100 kms away from a tyre shop. The last one also 'early' as I was going away on the bike, so the mileage is a bit 'rubbery'. 😊 But the tubeless tyre on a tubed isn't ideal if they have ribs in their carcass, as that can chafe the tube. I haven't checked any of that, as after a lifetime of changing tyres, I pay someone now! My STRs aren't here now of course, and my new Rallys are also tubeless, now I've checked, so I'll have to look into that. The 'proper' tubeless rim has a lip just in from the tyre bead on the flat base of the rim to discourage a deflated tubeless tyre from 'breaking its bead'. Again, I haven't checked any of that on the the Transalp, going as I do to a tyre shop I have known and trusted for decades, but I doubt the Transalp's would have the proper tubeless-fitting lipped rim, being obviously a tubed rim. (This is one of several problems for those who try to run tubeless on a tube-type rim by gluing rubber inside the rim to seal the spokes). But the tyre shop proprietor (who actually rode in the Australian GP years ago, but wasn't there today) knows a thing or two, and now you have raised the tubeless-tyre-with-tube issue I will check into that, when he gets back from riding around Nepal! I hadn't even checked whether my Chinese/Indonesian Pirellis were tubeless-type or not. Only where they were made. They still have Italian prices I see...
@@patkennedy1 It's an 1150GS, so a bit of a beast in the weight department. Although relatively low on power compared to newer machines, it's still a behemoth compared to the TA. When I first researched the STRs online for use on GSs, I remember reading about similar experiences of about 10.000km on the rear and that was on newer, more powerful models 1200s and up. On your 1098S I can imagine it having a shorter life span :) If you get any more insight on the topic of running tubeless tyres with tubes, specifically on the Transalps I would be more than interested in an update. The way I understand the rear rim on the TA is a "proper tubeless" rim and the front is not, i.e. missing the lip you are referring to. My real reservation about tubes in general really comes from two points. First, it's easy to plug a tubeless tyre if it's just a simple puncture. And second safety, I would really not like to find myself in a case of a tube blow out at high speed. I read some horror stories of tubes instantly deflating at highway speeds.
A nice test, in the green of the UK. Thank you. Most of your comments similar to my own impressions on my test ride, although I found the different placement of the indicator switch a bit of an adaptation. With many having more than one bike in the shed these days, having one 'odd one out' with such a frequently-used control is a bit silly. All the TFT and electronic bollocks could have sat on the top of the switch block, like the Aprilia and Suzuki, rather than taking up the most accessible space. The heated grips are an option, and for some markets (like here in South Australia) they shouldn't be standard - I won't need them. The cruise control I don't miss, although I DO use it in the car all the time. More for not getting booked than being lazy... I daresay that could be a future option, being a RBW bike, but I've never had CC on a bike, so don't miss it. The fact that the sump guard and so on are optional is annoying on one hand, and the Honda options are expensive, but permits you to choose from the aftermarket. SW Motech, Heed, Barkbusters etc. Some of the stock sump guards and hand guards on alternative models (think 800 V-Strom) some owners might replace with metal accessories, so being optional makes some sense. I think I would replace a plastic sump guard with an aluminium one. The tubeless tyres are a long discussion, and I am not too fussed about those. Apparently Africa Twin wheels fit, so I guess a used pair of those could solve that for those preoccupied with tubeless tyres. But some repairs can't be done on tubeless tyres, and if so you can't get the tyre off without a bead breaker. Tubes allow you to run lower pressures for sand, etc. Two sides to that one. My current 'adventure bike' - an old Elefant 750 - also has tubes, but hasn't suffered a puncture in 15 years. My tubeless road bike on the other hand... Still waiting for my Transalp. I was the first test ride in SA, a test which left me a little underwhelmed, and I didn't rev it as it had just 15 kms on it. But my (white) bike isn't expected until October, as part of a rather patchy world roll out, and one colour scheme more popular than the others. I think you summed up the bike, and its potential use (and customers) pretty well. A bike that can do everything, without any fanfare, lairy stickers etc. Probably suitable for older riders, like me... They have tried to strike a balance between off-road capable, and on road use. Tricky. The longer travel suspension models - Tenere, Tuareg and V-Strom - are compromised on-road by their extra travel, so everything is a compromise. As others have said - we are 'spoiled for choice' in this category. But being relatively cheap makes the Transalp able to do more, without concern! At $15,760 on road here, while the Aprilia (a great little machine incidentally) is about $22,500, and the Desert X over $25k, I'll get plenty of use out of the Transalp, without 'repair anxiety'. When it finally arrives...
I have owned two Transalps in the past. The original 600 and then the 700 V twins. Excellent machines. Thoroughly reliable and dependable. No issues at all. This one will prove to be the same. Sure they don't set the world on fire, but for a good honest and go anywhere motorcycle they are hard to beat. Truly one of the best all-rounders and I for one, after all these years, would not hesitate to buy one. Which is what I'm going to do. Welcome back new/old friend. Happy days ahead.
My test ride gleaned exactly the same results. Just that the desirables, H Grips, Q-Shifter and bigger (necessary) screen and winglets. C stand for the annoying (tubed) tyre repairs and power outlet all add a fair chunk to the order form. I still aspire to the Aprilia Tuareg with a couple of enhancements to buy ... but imho a much more appealing purchase ? For (now) the same money !
I just recently bought one coming from both a CB500X and an R1200GS, The Transalp was not what I was hoping for. It likes to be ridden spiritedly but it's poor at low constant speeds. Sorry Honda, I prefer the GS.
I just took the plunge with a new Transalp. I intend to swap out suspension springs and valves to make a better all rounder for me. Then I will make a start breaking in and gathering kit before a UK to Thailand and back tour. Might even stretch it to Beijing if I can. The whole package lends itself well, and i will buy fuel bladders for any intermittent longer stretches to cope with the smaller fuel tank if needed. This is why I chose a Transalp. Plus I have used one on a very long trip to North Thailand previously and it didnt miss a beat whereas some orher bikes were faultering. Totally dependable - and comfy too! Im too old for T7- type discomfort. This is perfect for me - and an AT is wayyyy too heavy.
Did Thailand and Vietnam myself and I would looove to have my new white TA in that environment! Your UK to Thai plan is just the right fit for a TA I think, hard to choose a better bike. I just did a month long 5.000km tour across Alps and ended up on the island of Sardinia, already contemplating if I could swing a trip to the east myself. The best of luck with your endeavour!
Nice review. I think given it is primarily a road focused touring bike, cruise control needs to be standard in this day and age. Surely the cost to Honda at production, would only add a few dollars, which they would recoup handsomely with additional sales. Hopefully we might get cruise control on the 2024 model.
I have ridden the Transalp (x2) and thanks to John Banks Hinda Colchester, gave me more than enough time to geta real feel for the bike, its great. BUT lack of cruise control as an option and tubed tyres. If only they had followed KTM, the 2023 790 cost the same, but cruise control as an option and tubeless tyres. BUT if only KTM would follow Honda with reliability and quality control! 😢 Where is my unicorn bike
I test rode a T7 World Raid and looking forward to testing the Transalp. Whilst the Transalp looks aren’t great the price and ease of use will make up for it plus you save enough money to buy some Krega soft luggage.
I've had mine since July and absolutely love it. The rear shock is too soft and the traction control is way too sensetive, you can turn it off in user mode but it's back on the next time you turn the ignition on. I would like a permanently off option. Other than that it's lots of fun. Took me and her to North Wales and saw 220 miles before fill up but still had one Bar on the fuel meter.
@@Rifleman61 it has preload, I turned it up to its full preload but it's still not enough. I'm 107kg so not super heavy. I changed my CRF shock for a yss. Just waiting for stuff to come on the market
@@Rifleman61 Spring preload is only for setting ride sag. How far the bike squats down when you sit on. Or when you are on it + luggage (which adds weight). Heavier riders need a stiffer spring than a lightweight rider also as every spring has a range that it will work within. Racer on pavement such as Superbikes, and motocross and supercross racer all get the spring that matches their weight riding weight before every touching the Compression & Rebound setings. Compression and Rebound is what is used to adjust the ride. The smoothness & harshness. How fast the suspension or how slow the suspension absorbs a dip, bump or jump. And the Rebound is used to adjust how slow or quick the suspension extends back out ready for the next bump.
Did you notice Honda omitted the fuel remaining range feature ? WTF ? Also grip angle ? That's the angle of throttle rotation, not bike grip ... again, WTF Honda ? Tubeless rims are a must, plus a power socket and CC for next years model !
The Transalp is a nice bike and brings back lots of memories. But I will wait one or two years, then I’m sure it will have cruise control and tubeless tires. Just one question regarding the Halvarssons Gruven. Is the membrane to keep you dry a separate jacket inside or is the jacket itself laminated with the membrane?
Agreed that tubeless tyres and cruise control make it a much more attractive purchase. The Gruven has a laminated waterproof membrane, no need for a separate waterproof liner 👍
@@ABRmagazine This Honda Transalp 750 could have been one of the best mid size Adventure bikes if its not down on horsepower in the Us market & has better design as well as colors. Most importantly the Tires Honda have chosen on this bike. It's not quite suited for Adventure rides compare to the KTM or even Yamaha Tenere & Suzuki V-strom. They should have at least fitted a better type of tires with more grip especially on the rough terrain which this bike specializes on.
I picked mine up on Wednesday … fantastic bike. Cruise control? Not bothered, only ever had one bike with that and I found it a distraction. Tubed tyres? I’ll let you know if I have my first puncture and have to wait for the breakdown service. The engine is a peach, plenty feisty enough for this old geezer … good two up on the way home from the dealer, comfortable and so ‘Honda’ (and I mean that as compliment, I find it just a natural fit) Don’t like the white, I’ve got the Matt Iridium Grey but I know that’s down to personal taste.
I don't get the "Tubed tyres" "No cruise control",it's a bike about the 1/3rd of the cost of a fully spec'd GS1300...tubeless conversion is £130 an end,and you've 2 back up tubes for emergencies! McCruise is working on the C/C,that's only about £500,not a lot in the big scheme of things, it's the same price as a 1 piece, flat ADV seat for the DE800! P.S; Two things missing from EICMA 23,the CL750 and the GB750 using that engine, those 2 are more appealing to me!
I have been digging real deep on getting a larger bike. My x300 is capable of highway speeds, but not real comfortable. I have looked at the 800DE, RE, NC750, Tenere and the Transalp. Took the other half with me yesterday, and I think the Transalp is probably the most comfortable 2 up. The Chinese have a nice 800 also, but I think the Transalp is going to be mine soon. A lot easier to find a Honda dealer while on a cross country cruise.
I loved your video!!!! I am sorry off topic I am absolutely confused between the transalp and z900, I know these are completely different bikes but they both fit the budget. I am looking for something absolutely comfortable for the motorway please could you suggest 🙏 my first real big bike
You see car drivers driving with their knees as you draw level with them on the motorway … they are watching crap on their phones or tablets . No doubt they are on cruise control …cruising to the afterlife .
Haven't ridden it unfortunately as there was a mix up with Honda at Ragley, buuuut I have ridden the 800DE and both T7's and own a 650XT Ström which I'm currently making more capable with add ons [and takeaways lol]. I have to say we are incredibly spoiled as modern day bikers. There're so many GREAT bikes everywhere you look! And so many ways to make 'em GREATERER! Fun vid folks, cheers. Roll on Ragley '24 ❤️🔥❤️🔥✌️🙏
I never got cruise control. I've had it on various cars since the 90's and in the last 30 years I've only found myself in conditions that justify cruise control and I'm suitably zoned out to use cruise control twice. I couldn't fathom being that disconnected on a motorbike. One of the main things I like about motorcycles is interaction between me, the bike, the road and wind. This isn't a Goldwing so the lack of cruise control to me is a bonus. And great review thanks
Rode a Suzuki SV650 back from Spain, one thing that never thought about, as it was National Routes all the way up through France,nothing worse than using motorways on a bike run,tedious and boring...with you there,but handy in the car for the M74/M6(I use the southern Irish ferries to Europe, far short ride,and a better sleep).
I was driving with my wife in her car yesterday, and she mentioned that my daughter and I are the only ones that use cruise! I have always used it in cars that offer it. As for bikes, I have never had cruise, but I have issues with my hands that require releasing one handle or the other regularly. It would just be nice in long trips. I guess I have used throttle locks, but releasing the throttle by touching a brake would be nice.
If you need to cover the distance, do one day on a motorway 8 hours straight, a cruise control is a godsend. If you use just for 30 seconds every 10 minutes it makes a big difference in you being able to relax your right hand and stretch your wrist. Doesn't matter if it's a CRF or a Goldwing.
Sould be interested in your asessment if someone with 30 inch inseam can ride ths bike comfortably. and then your assessment of its ability to do long tour 2 up?
Just remember, Kevlar pants don’t stretch well , so get raised boots also , I ride a 845 mm seat height Versys 650 with preload dialed on softest settting to allow more seat sag , 29 inch inseam , still struggle with Kevlar jeans on
Nice machine but its lacking in important to me features that should at the very Least be Options for the consumer to choose.......( Cruise control & Tubeless wheels) .... Sorry still not sold, I still want the Africa twin DCT 1100 L and if HONDA imports to the US the right Colors thats what I'll be buying in 2024...
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I just revisited this video, having had my Transalp for almost three months now, and felt the need to correct a couple of details. One being that its claimed horsepower ia actually 91 hp, not 101. Not a massive difference, but worth noting. The KTMs have that sort of power in this category, but not many others. This is a gentler feeling engine than those.
The other point was the fuel range, which is significantly better than you found in 'normal use'. Its 16.9L can actually do 400 kms, with not particularly economical riding, which is more like 250 miles than 200. The tank can be filled above its baffle plate, adding roughly one litre more, and the overall economy is remarkable. Important to note that when the last fuel 'bar' starts flashing, you still have 3.7L left. Enough for 80 kms or 50 miles.
But after 5,600 kms now I am finding the bike actually improves with longer use. The vibrations reduce, as does the engine noise, and the thing becomes sweeter. For a cheap bike I had reservations about buying, I am finding it better than I had expected. I also found that reversing the handlebar risers provides a more natural feel to the steering. The bike always handled well, but the steering feels better set this way. A ten-minute job with no cost.
Now with a (B & B) bash-plate, the 'bear grip' footrests, the wind deflectors, and a lighter (home-made) rear rack, and now a set of Pirelli STR '50-50' tyres, it is becoming more capable on the many dirt roads around here. It is winning me over as a very useful all-round bike, and the fuel economy is a bonus, as there is no fuel for miles here.
Please tell me how you fitted the Pirelli STRs - did you go down the tubeless conversion lane or fitted them with tubes?
@@gapexx Well I've replaced the rear STR since then, and today I just went up to Adelaide for a pair of new Pirelli Scorpion Rallys. Just back. The Rallys are a coarser tread, and feel a bit stiffer in the carcase, but are better on a loose surface of course. But they don't feel quite as sweet on the bitumen as the STRs - they were out of STRs, so I didn't have that choice. I will probably go back to STRs next time.
But you asked about the tubeless conversion. No, I stayed with the stocker wheels, and if you read my earlier comment below that might help explain why. I take tubes when I go away on dirt, but a puncture is usually a rare thing. But tubeless aren't necessarily better, and for the rare mishap of a puncture, I might stay with the tubes. This American fixation on tubeless wheels doesn't tally with my experiences (riding for 62 years, with never a year off). Tubeless spoked wheels are a bit of a compromise actually, particularly the front 21".
But as an update on my Transalp, which I will have had for exactly 12 months tomorrow, I am still very happy with it. 17,800 kms (a bit over 11k miles) and three rear tyres (and two fronts) in that mileage. I am getting about 6 - 6,500 kms out of a rear, and about 11,500 from the front. I changed the originals over to the STRs at about 5,500. I wouldn't sweat the tubeless tyres - just use the bike for what it is. If you have more than one puncture in about three years you would be unlucky!
@@patkennedy1 You make some good points and in general I agree with you, but I have one big gripe about tubed systems. The tyre wear. I'm running a set of STRs on my GS, a heavier machine, but I get towards 10.000km out of the rear being tubeless. Your experience confirms about 6.000km of rear life on a tubed Transalp and my experience is the same. I just did a month long trip of 5.000km on my brand new Transalp, combined with a 1.000km of running it in, the rear is pretty much gone. Not the best if you plan to travel with the bike. Another issue that I need to look into in more detail is, the STR is labeled as a tubeless tyre only and from what I can pull together online, the front wheel on the TA supposedly isn't the best fit for a tubeless tyre? Something to do with a groove or the height of the side of the rim. If you have any thoughts on this your experience is much appreciated!
@@gapexx Well firstly I am surprised at the life you are getting from the STRs on the GS, although you don't say what size BM it is. Turns out I got over 12,000 kms out of my front STR, but not the rear! My tubeless road bike (lightened Ducati 1098S, done 104k kms) only gets about 3,300 kms out of its tubeless tyres most times, so I don't have an equal experience between my two at the moment. That bike has had 25 fronts and 27 rears... But I ran a few tubeless bikes before, and never noticed any sort of difference tubed/tubeless in mileage. Certainly nothing like you found.
Just checking my papers, the last STR went exactly 6,800 kms, and wasn't all gone. Fairly close. I change them a bit early as I live 100 kms away from a tyre shop. The last one also 'early' as I was going away on the bike, so the mileage is a bit 'rubbery'. 😊 But the tubeless tyre on a tubed isn't ideal if they have ribs in their carcass, as that can chafe the tube. I haven't checked any of that, as after a lifetime of changing tyres, I pay someone now! My STRs aren't here now of course, and my new Rallys are also tubeless, now I've checked, so I'll have to look into that.
The 'proper' tubeless rim has a lip just in from the tyre bead on the flat base of the rim to discourage a deflated tubeless tyre from 'breaking its bead'. Again, I haven't checked any of that on the the Transalp, going as I do to a tyre shop I have known and trusted for decades, but I doubt the Transalp's would have the proper tubeless-fitting lipped rim, being obviously a tubed rim. (This is one of several problems for those who try to run tubeless on a tube-type rim by gluing rubber inside the rim to seal the spokes). But the tyre shop proprietor (who actually rode in the Australian GP years ago, but wasn't there today) knows a thing or two, and now you have raised the tubeless-tyre-with-tube issue I will check into that, when he gets back from riding around Nepal! I hadn't even checked whether my Chinese/Indonesian Pirellis were tubeless-type or not. Only where they were made. They still have Italian prices I see...
@@patkennedy1 It's an 1150GS, so a bit of a beast in the weight department. Although relatively low on power compared to newer machines, it's still a behemoth compared to the TA. When I first researched the STRs online for use on GSs, I remember reading about similar experiences of about 10.000km on the rear and that was on newer, more powerful models 1200s and up. On your 1098S I can imagine it having a shorter life span :)
If you get any more insight on the topic of running tubeless tyres with tubes, specifically on the Transalps I would be more than interested in an update. The way I understand the rear rim on the TA is a "proper tubeless" rim and the front is not, i.e. missing the lip you are referring to.
My real reservation about tubes in general really comes from two points. First, it's easy to plug a tubeless tyre if it's just a simple puncture. And second safety, I would really not like to find myself in a case of a tube blow out at high speed. I read some horror stories of tubes instantly deflating at highway speeds.
A nice test, in the green of the UK. Thank you. Most of your comments similar to my own impressions on my test ride, although I found the different placement of the indicator switch a bit of an adaptation. With many having more than one bike in the shed these days, having one 'odd one out' with such a frequently-used control is a bit silly. All the TFT and electronic bollocks could have sat on the top of the switch block, like the Aprilia and Suzuki, rather than taking up the most accessible space. The heated grips are an option, and for some markets (like here in South Australia) they shouldn't be standard - I won't need them. The cruise control I don't miss, although I DO use it in the car all the time. More for not getting booked than being lazy... I daresay that could be a future option, being a RBW bike, but I've never had CC on a bike, so don't miss it.
The fact that the sump guard and so on are optional is annoying on one hand, and the Honda options are expensive, but permits you to choose from the aftermarket. SW Motech, Heed, Barkbusters etc. Some of the stock sump guards and hand guards on alternative models (think 800 V-Strom) some owners might replace with metal accessories, so being optional makes some sense. I think I would replace a plastic sump guard with an aluminium one.
The tubeless tyres are a long discussion, and I am not too fussed about those. Apparently Africa Twin wheels fit, so I guess a used pair of those could solve that for those preoccupied with tubeless tyres. But some repairs can't be done on tubeless tyres, and if so you can't get the tyre off without a bead breaker. Tubes allow you to run lower pressures for sand, etc. Two sides to that one. My current 'adventure bike' - an old Elefant 750 - also has tubes, but hasn't suffered a puncture in 15 years. My tubeless road bike on the other hand...
Still waiting for my Transalp. I was the first test ride in SA, a test which left me a little underwhelmed, and I didn't rev it as it had just 15 kms on it. But my (white) bike isn't expected until October, as part of a rather patchy world roll out, and one colour scheme more popular than the others. I think you summed up the bike, and its potential use (and customers) pretty well. A bike that can do everything, without any fanfare, lairy stickers etc. Probably suitable for older riders, like me...
They have tried to strike a balance between off-road capable, and on road use. Tricky. The longer travel suspension models - Tenere, Tuareg and V-Strom - are compromised on-road by their extra travel, so everything is a compromise. As others have said - we are 'spoiled for choice' in this category. But being relatively cheap makes the Transalp able to do more, without concern! At $15,760 on road here, while the Aprilia (a great little machine incidentally) is about $22,500, and the Desert X over $25k, I'll get plenty of use out of the Transalp, without 'repair anxiety'.
When it finally arrives...
You defo got me drooling at the idea of taking this bike for a test drive.
I have owned two Transalps in the past. The original 600 and then the 700 V twins. Excellent machines. Thoroughly reliable and dependable. No issues at all. This one will prove to be the same. Sure they don't set the world on fire, but for a good honest and go anywhere motorcycle they are hard to beat. Truly one of the best all-rounders and I for one, after all these years, would not hesitate to buy one. Which is what I'm going to do. Welcome back new/old friend. Happy days ahead.
My test ride gleaned exactly the same results. Just that the desirables, H Grips, Q-Shifter and bigger (necessary) screen and winglets. C stand for the annoying (tubed) tyre repairs and power outlet all add a fair chunk to the order form.
I still aspire to the Aprilia Tuareg with a couple of enhancements to buy ... but imho a much more appealing purchase ? For (now) the same money !
I just recently bought one coming from both a CB500X and an R1200GS, The Transalp was not what I was hoping for. It likes to be ridden spiritedly but it's poor at low constant speeds. Sorry Honda, I prefer the GS.
I have a CB500X 2022 - Have ridden the Transalp and would buy one - but not without Tubeless Wheels - your review is spot on
I just took the plunge with a new Transalp. I intend to swap out suspension springs and valves to make a better all rounder for me. Then I will make a start breaking in and gathering kit before a UK to Thailand and back tour. Might even stretch it to Beijing if I can. The whole package lends itself well, and i will buy fuel bladders for any intermittent longer stretches to cope with the smaller fuel tank if needed. This is why I chose a Transalp. Plus I have used one on a very long trip to North Thailand previously and it didnt miss a beat whereas some orher bikes were faultering. Totally dependable - and comfy too! Im too old for T7- type discomfort. This is perfect for me - and an AT is wayyyy too heavy.
Did Thailand and Vietnam myself and I would looove to have my new white TA in that environment! Your UK to Thai plan is just the right fit for a TA I think, hard to choose a better bike. I just did a month long 5.000km tour across Alps and ended up on the island of Sardinia, already contemplating if I could swing a trip to the east myself. The best of luck with your endeavour!
@@gapexx Thanks bro - ride safe! 👍
A few years ago, not many, this would have been a high spec'd out bike. ABS, Power modes, LCD display, ride-by-wire throttle,..
Nice review. I think given it is primarily a road focused touring bike, cruise control needs to be standard in this day and age. Surely the cost to Honda at production, would only add a few dollars, which they would recoup handsomely with additional sales. Hopefully we might get cruise control on the 2024 model.
Primary road focused bike with the 21 inch in front ? 😂😂 what are y talking about dude ?
I have ridden the Transalp (x2) and thanks to John Banks Hinda Colchester, gave me more than enough time to geta real feel for the bike, its great. BUT lack of cruise control as an option and tubed tyres.
If only they had followed KTM, the 2023 790 cost the same, but cruise control as an option and tubeless tyres. BUT if only KTM would follow Honda with reliability and quality control! 😢
Where is my unicorn bike
Your absolutely spot on with your assessment of this bike ive got a feeling im in for the long hall with this bike too can't keep off mine 🥳
Maybe not everything you want, but certainly everything you need.
So why pay a premium price?
Cruise is now available for the transalp
I test rode a T7 World Raid and looking forward to testing the Transalp. Whilst the Transalp looks aren’t great the price and ease of use will make up for it plus you save enough money to buy some Krega soft luggage.
I've had mine since July and absolutely love it. The rear shock is too soft and the traction control is way too sensetive, you can turn it off in user mode but it's back on the next time you turn the ignition on. I would like a permanently off option. Other than that it's lots of fun. Took me and her to North Wales and saw 220 miles before fill up but still had one
Bar on the fuel meter.
How is the rear shock too soft? Does it not have the possibility for stiffer setup ,like spring preload changing?
@@Rifleman61 it has preload, I turned it up to its full preload but it's still not enough. I'm 107kg so not super heavy. I changed my CRF shock for a yss. Just waiting for stuff to come on the market
Thanks for the info, speedbumps all over the place where I live ,so prime suspension is essential for my back and kidneys!@@rosskoko100
@@Rifleman61 Spring preload is only for setting ride sag. How far the bike squats down when you sit on. Or when you are on it + luggage (which adds weight). Heavier riders need a stiffer spring than a lightweight rider also as every spring has a range that it will work within. Racer on pavement such as Superbikes, and motocross and supercross racer all get the spring that matches their weight riding weight before every touching the Compression & Rebound setings.
Compression and Rebound is what is used to adjust the ride. The smoothness & harshness. How fast the suspension or how slow the suspension absorbs a dip, bump or jump. And the Rebound is used to adjust how slow or quick the suspension extends back out ready for the next bump.
Good info for senior bikers like me when miles in the saddle become very limited by the quality of suspension on speedbump littered roads!
@@human1513
Can i speak any more like clarkson ffs just review the fucking bike
Did you notice Honda omitted the fuel remaining range feature ?
WTF ?
Also grip angle ? That's the angle of throttle rotation, not bike grip ... again, WTF Honda ?
Tubeless rims are a must, plus a power socket and CC for next years model !
Power socket is option though there is USB-C under the saddle as standard.
The Transalp is a nice bike and brings back lots of memories. But I will wait one or two years, then I’m sure it will have cruise control and tubeless tires.
Just one question regarding the Halvarssons Gruven. Is the membrane to keep you dry a separate jacket inside or is the jacket itself laminated with the membrane?
Agreed that tubeless tyres and cruise control make it a much more attractive purchase. The Gruven has a laminated waterproof membrane, no need for a separate waterproof liner 👍
@@ABRmagazine This Honda Transalp 750 could have been one of the best mid size Adventure bikes if its not down on horsepower in the Us market & has better design as well as colors.
Most importantly the Tires Honda have chosen on this bike. It's not quite suited for Adventure rides compare to the KTM or even Yamaha Tenere & Suzuki V-strom. They should have at least fitted a better type of tires with more grip especially on the rough terrain which this bike specializes on.
Why would you wait two years when you can get tubeless wheel kits and aftermarket cruise?
Too heavy for anything serious off road.
I picked mine up on Wednesday … fantastic bike. Cruise control? Not bothered, only ever had one bike with that and I found it a distraction. Tubed tyres? I’ll let you know if I have my first puncture and have to wait for the breakdown service. The engine is a peach, plenty feisty enough for this old geezer … good two up on the way home from the dealer, comfortable and so ‘Honda’ (and I mean that as compliment, I find it just a natural fit) Don’t like the white, I’ve got the Matt Iridium Grey but I know that’s down to personal taste.
RAV4 of motorcycles!!!
I don't get the "Tubed tyres" "No cruise control",it's a bike about the 1/3rd of the cost of a fully spec'd GS1300...tubeless conversion is £130 an end,and you've 2 back up tubes for emergencies! McCruise is working on the C/C,that's only about £500,not a lot in the big scheme of things, it's the same price as a 1 piece, flat ADV seat for the DE800!
P.S; Two things missing from EICMA 23,the CL750 and the GB750 using that engine, those 2 are more appealing to me!
I have been digging real deep on getting a larger bike. My x300 is capable of highway speeds, but not real comfortable. I have looked at the 800DE, RE, NC750, Tenere and the Transalp. Took the other half with me yesterday, and I think the Transalp is probably the most comfortable 2 up. The Chinese have a nice 800 also, but I think the Transalp is going to be mine soon. A lot easier to find a Honda dealer while on a cross country cruise.
I loved your video!!!! I am sorry off topic I am absolutely confused between the transalp and z900, I know these are completely different bikes but they both fit the budget. I am looking for something absolutely comfortable for the motorway please could you suggest 🙏 my first real big bike
You see car drivers driving with their knees as you draw level with them on the motorway … they are watching crap on their phones or tablets .
No doubt they are on cruise control …cruising to the afterlife .
A very fair and well considered video. Nice work
Tubeless rims should be offered as an option.
I have heard you can retrofit tubeless rims from Africa Twin AS since they have same wheels axle.
Haven't ridden it unfortunately as there was a mix up with Honda at Ragley, buuuut I have ridden the 800DE and both T7's and own a 650XT Ström which I'm currently making more capable with add ons [and takeaways lol]. I have to say we are incredibly spoiled as modern day bikers. There're so many GREAT bikes everywhere you look! And so many ways to make 'em GREATERER!
Fun vid folks, cheers.
Roll on Ragley '24
❤️🔥❤️🔥✌️🙏
I think the 800DE is a better bike than the new transalp
All these "true" reviews when u got bike from dealer 😂
I never got cruise control. I've had it on various cars since the 90's and in the last 30 years I've only found myself in conditions that justify cruise control and I'm suitably zoned out to use cruise control twice. I couldn't fathom being that disconnected on a motorbike. One of the main things I like about motorcycles is interaction between me, the bike, the road and wind. This isn't a Goldwing so the lack of cruise control to me is a bonus. And great review thanks
Rode a Suzuki SV650 back from Spain, one thing that never thought about, as it was National Routes all the way up through France,nothing worse than using motorways on a bike run,tedious and boring...with you there,but handy in the car for the M74/M6(I use the southern Irish ferries to Europe, far short ride,and a better sleep).
Me too my car has it and I've never used it. As my bike is a BSA GoldStar I'm not worried about any modes or technology at all. Just me.
I was driving with my wife in her car yesterday, and she mentioned that my daughter and I are the only ones that use cruise! I have always used it in cars that offer it. As for bikes, I have never had cruise, but I have issues with my hands that require releasing one handle or the other regularly. It would just be nice in long trips. I guess I have used throttle locks, but releasing the throttle by touching a brake would be nice.
If you need to cover the distance, do one day on a motorway 8 hours straight, a cruise control is a godsend. If you use just for 30 seconds every 10 minutes it makes a big difference in you being able to relax your right hand and stretch your wrist. Doesn't matter if it's a CRF or a Goldwing.
Sould be interested in your asessment if someone with 30 inch inseam can ride ths bike comfortably. and then your assessment of its ability to do long tour 2 up?
The low seat option is a game changer. Makes the bike accessible.
Just remember, Kevlar pants don’t stretch well , so get raised boots also , I ride a 845 mm seat height Versys 650 with preload dialed on softest settting to allow more seat sag , 29 inch inseam , still struggle with Kevlar jeans on
Nice machine but its lacking in important to me features that should at the very Least be Options for the consumer to choose.......( Cruise control & Tubeless wheels) .... Sorry still not sold, I still want the Africa twin DCT 1100 L and if HONDA imports to the US the right Colors thats what I'll be buying in 2024...
For the money I'd sooner by a 10 year old GS and be done with it.
Feels like a toy compared to my T7.