I Have Concerns About the New Honda Transalp 750
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- čas přidán 27. 07. 2024
- I have a lot of concerns about the new Honda Transalp 750. Is it not the midweight adventure motorcycle monster we were hoping for? Looking more deeply at the Honda Transalp 750 and its design, it's becoming more and more obvious to me that this is an adv bike that is perhaps designed more for the street than we had previously hoped.
The Honda Transalp XL750 has been rumored for a long time and many of you, like me, were excited about the possibility of a bulletproof midweight ADV Bike from Honda. Finally, the 2023 Transalp was officially announced last week at the EICMA show and I was incredibly excited to see that it officially existed and that it was coming, even if not officially announced for the North American market just yet.
After digging more deeply into the 2023 Honda Transalp 750 stats, though, I discovered a pretty disturbing trend. Item after item on the list of Transalp features seem to indicate a bike designed to be ridden almost exclusively on road.
Consider the evidence:
Exhaust running directly underneath the bike with no stock skidplate.
No frame underneath the exhaust/engine, which means that exhaust takes the brunt of any impact.
Not really a design that begs to be scraped over logs and rocks in the backcountry.
4(+1) ride modes: sport, standard, rain, gravel, and user defined mode.
NO OFF ROAD MODE.
By comparison: the Africa Twin has tour, gravel, urban, and OFF ROAD.
So it’s not like they don’t know how to make one…they just don’t think this bike needs one.
Focus on wind protection and all day comfort
Not a deal breaker by themselves (and welcome, honestly) but the focus on it makes it seem like that’s what it’s for.
The Honda Transalp 750 suspension is preload adjustable only. So you can set it up to carry luggage…but not to take on rougher terrain.
The Transalp also looks more like a 500x or a 750x. Not definitive, but designers do make bikes to conform to a specific idea or use in a rider’s mind.
I was excited for a competitor for the Tenere 700 from my favorite motorcycle manufacturer. I’m afraid the Transalp may not be it.
The Tenere was clearly designed from the ground up to be an off road monster, even at the expense of on road comfort.
Looking at all the features and specs we know about so far, the Honda Transalp NC750x seems more like a tall street bike that can handle some light off road. It’s giving me serious Versys vibes, and that’s not a good thing.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:19 New 2023 Honda Transalp 750 Anticipation and Excitement
00:37 Honda Transalp 750 Concerns: More "Touring Focused"
01:20 Honda Transalp 750 Engine and Horsepower
02:17 2023 Honda Transalp 750 Exhaust Placement
03:36 2023 Honda Transalp 750 Ride Modes
04:44 Honda Transalp 750 Design Choices
05:55 Transalp 750 Suspension is NOT ADJUSTABLE
06:31 Am I Wrong about the Transalp 750?
07:08 Honda Transalp 750 vs Yamaha Tenere 700
07:41 Is the Transalp 750 Really an Off Road Motorcycle?
08:46 Outro
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You aren’t wrong, but it’s in line with what the transalp name has always been. I think what a lot of people really wanted was an Africa Twin 750
Agree, back in the day also the Africa Twin was the better bike for basically everything. BUT I think now that the market has changed and we don't have many offraod bikes anymore like DR, XR and KLR anymore, Honda would have been better off producing something like the T7 or Touareg.
But I guess Honda is not dumb and they want the market share for their Africa Twin. Still sad.
Exactly, I'm not sure why he is surprised that Honda built a modern version of the classic Transalp of the 1980s-90s which was never an off-road focused bike. It was a European touring bike for the mountainous areas where there is frequent dirt road portions but those are well established dirt roads, hence the "Gravel" riding mode.
Yes, people wanted a Halfrica Twin, not a touring bike.
@@nbrider7235 Spot on. It's telling that it's only being announced in Europe, and it even has "Alp" right there in the name. I don't fault Ben for getting excited that it might be aimed at the T7 (AT owner here, I felt the same way). But the TA looks pretty true to its roots.
Yes give me less top end hp and much more low rpm grunt!the exhaust headers will last a month. Forget any of the Colorado passes. Of course you can tour almost anywhere in the world (short of the Darien Gap) on pavement. I had "good wind protection and All day comfort" on my 2008 gL1800.. Sold it...T700 is still top of my list.
It’s exactly like the original TransAlp. I had one and loved it. Light trails and yet it would hit 128 mph. It is what it is. You can’t expect to hit triples on it. 😝
Send it
Surely it can do whoops 🤭
That sounds like a challenge.
I bought a 650 transalp 6 years ago because it was cheap and didn't expect much from it .. I still have it to this day as it's turned out to be one of the best bikes I've ever owned and I just recently rode it across Australia... I think this new transalp may surprise a few like it's predecessor
When you are describing the Trans Alp as you see it, It is exactly the bike I want. So it will definitely fill a nitch with people like me. I'm getting too old for hard-core off-road, but want to take those dirt or gravel roads, or easy trails to explore ghost towns that I can't reach with a Road King.
What age is too old??
Hey Dork. Thanks for the video. Great job as always. Everyone seems to be forgetting... the OG Transalp was never an off road monster. It was always a really off road capable road bike... the bikes didn't sell well in the uk or USA, they didn't understand it, and it seems nothing has really changed. The Europeans Loooooved the Transalp. And I think the same will be true.
In my country Greece there are everywhere. Even the police is using them. From cities with heavy traffic, to the country side with bad tarmac, dirt roads etc.
Maybe rally raid will make a kit for it.
@@vasiliyt8600 - that's what it was built for...
Thank you! Finally a perspective that makes more sense! I really think Honda's got the Africa Twin and Transalp backwards. 750cc / 460lbs - Off-road focus. 1100cc / 550lbs - make this your "touring with some light back roads" focused bike.
Exactly.
Honestly though there's already a touring Africa Twin, the NT1100. We don't need the AT changing, just bring out a mid-range AT.
Don't know that you should be concerned over the features of the new Transalp. I have several of the older models and wouldn't swap any of them for a new T7. They are way better road bikes that are perfect for poorly maintained back-country sealed and gravel roads, with a few farm tracks thrown in. Hopefully the new Transalp will be true to form. Our country (NZ) is full of such roads and, fortunately, it's my favourite type of riding. Well done Honda!
then they should have kept the 19 inches front wheel, like it was in the older model last generation.
@@francescoporcari8597 - Nope, the 21 inch is just fine for the Transalps target usage. It makes it possible to take it just about everywhere when needed, without it being a road-legal off-road or dirt-bike like most Americans seems to think it was/is...
And Americans are kind of strange, when the first TA and AT come out, they had no interest in them at all, and now, they think it is a dual cylinder dirt-bike for road use... Strange people... 🤣🤣
Looking at the last two generations of the TA this isn’t to far out of line. I too got my hopes up a little bit, hoping for a little more off-road looks, but I’m also not surprised with this outcome. It’s a travel and commuting bike, like the others. But also like the previous generations, don’t let it’s specs fool you, the TA has never been any good on paper. They have a huge cult following, the TA has been the European equivalent of the KLR for many years. Slow and unkillable, but unlike the KLR it’s catered to the European market where off-road riding is a lot less common, and in countries such as the Netherlands bordering on illegal. The new bike doesn’t live up to the American expectations, but it’s probably also not really meant for you guys😅
100% agree. Particularly the exhaust routing. It’s a large cb500x. Not a small Africa Twin.
Very well said!
That's exactly as it is. Pretty much a pure asphalt bike with some gravel capability.
If it's $10k, you could afford good suspension to make it a good offroad bike. I bet Rally Raid will make something.
You nailed it!
It's a X700 Versys... just compare the front mudguard? (Identical)
Based on the Transalp name plate this is the perfect modern interpretation of the 80’s / 90’s Transalp - a standard / touring bike with gravel road capabilities and modern day features including FI and 6-speed transmission. The TA was never meant to be a baby Africa Twin. Two different bikes for different types of riding. Love my 1990 TA but looking forward to getting my hands on the 2023 version!
In fact the original Transalp was the basis on which Honda developed the original Africa Twin, and yes it was more road-focused: the same concept of the adventure sports AT, which is less offroad capable than the AT 1100
Very vell written. Denmark 1996 TA.
For me, a tall street bike, not a true off roader, is what I need. At 6' 3" the CB500 feels cramped, so a 90hp CB500X with more legroom sounds great!
Yup, I also see this bike as an upsell for those considering a CB500X or current owners of a CB500X. It's going to be much more powerful, better off-road with a few mods, and hopefully a little roomier (I'm also 6'-3" and ride a 2022 CB - it works, but definitely a little cramped on longer rides)
Suzuki vstrom 650 is a dope bike!
If 99% of ADV bike riders were honest about their needs vs wants... they'd all be on KLR650's. I bet this bike slots between the KLR and T7 for offroad capability and is nearly perfect for what most people do with an ADV bike, whether they like to admit it or not.
Spot on ..had a AFRICA TWIN 1000 FOR 2 YRS SOLD IT BOUGHT MY OLD 97 NX650 DOMINATOR BACK.
WAY BETTER FOR MY EVERYDAY RIDING. ALTHOUGH LOOKING AT KLR650 ATM .
I disagree. Everyone is getting hung up on the exhaust. Plenty of bikes out there that use the engine as the main stress member that are highly capable off-road. I could say the KLR is road orientated because the drain plug doesn’t sit flush with the engine case.
Honda is one of the few manufacturers across the board that I would say is in tune with consumers. Yes, they could put a hilarious excuse of a skid plate on to help with consumer perception and boost sales. However, why spend the money putting it on the bike when they know the consumer is going to get something different. It’s the same reason cars only have a door lock on the driver door. For the manufacturer, it’s better to save the money and put it towards features the consumer actually wants and uses.
Looking at specs, it’s an off-road oriented bike. The 21”/18” tire combo is the standout. If I’m buying a bike that I want to perform superbly on the street, I want a wider, shorter in the front. However, it could be deceptive marketing. Also, the suspension specs are near identical to the Tenere in terms of rake, trail, fork size, and travel. Tenere has a 0.5” travel advantage in the front, which isn’t a huge difference. But I think it’s safe to say we’d all like an extra 0.5”.
Could be the most capable bike in its class, won’t know until someone gets their hands on one. I’d refrain from being the typical adv rider that bashes a bikes capabilities based on looks and stereotypes. I ride past Starbucks on my GSA and wave to the hoard of KTM riders on my way to the trail while they decide if I’ll they want to get their billet parts dirty. I think it’s more about the rider than the bike. But that’s just me.
Perhaps they didn't detune/remap the engine because the riding modes are configurable? 🤷♂Honda Selectable Torque Control sounds like it would have a real impact on engine performance. The wheel set up is 18/21 and the ground clearance is 210mm, neither of which is exactly road oriented. With that being said, some things - such as the lack of a stock skidplate (the optional looks solid) - do raise some questions. I refuse to be disappointed just yet. 😊
Correct me if I’m mistaken, but wasn’t the old Transalp always a road bike with some off-road ability? I wasn’t a Transalp rider, but my memory of reading about it when it was originally introduced in the US included essentially the same concerns expressed here.
Yes, it has always been a road-oriented bike
But as a RD07 owner I would say that @ was never a off-road monster compared to transalp. We are just waiting a true japanese alternative for T7 and we still dont have one. I find it odd.
@@Anuskrebs - The first African Twins was indeed off-road "monsters", or more like desert-monsters, it was not for nothing that they won Paris-Dakar 4 times in a road... And the old African Twin is still a capable machine today, just like the XR650L still is a capable machine
@@StoltHD It was great for marketing but NXR 750 is very far from production XRV
Also my first thought, the Transalp have allways been a touring bike with off road capability (80/20) it is not a full blooded offroad bike.
I agree 100% with your impressions based on info available. With a T7 essentially unavailable and KTM's reliability concerns, I'll be riding my AT for the foreseeable future. Waiting for more info on Aprillia's Toureg as it looks really promising... Thanks Ben!
Like you said, all will be fixable with aftermarket parts. They’ll make crash bars with skid plates that put all load into the frame, not the motor. They’ll make drop in cartridge or emulators for the forks with all the adjusters. They’ll make high exhaust and everything else. But for sure this will turn a lot of people away or to something like the Tenere. Honestly the Suzuki 800 DE is more impressive then I was expecting. I know it seems like the more touring one but the specs are reviling. Also I just don’t really think of any of these adv bikes (even the “light” ones) as hardcore off roaders. Go look where I went with my TW700 (that’s what I’m calling it now) in Oklahoma. It’s premier video on my channel. That’s way beyond what I want to do with an adv bike and I pulled it off with my diy bike. Don’t want to do it again but I could. If I do want to do that kinda stuff I take the ultimate undisputed kind of off road adv bikes… a dual sport with luggage 🤯 Otherwise my TW700 is great and I’d take it on any BDR or similar. It makes me think the whole industry is getting wrong. In chapter two will discuss 😂 sorry for the novel.
I'm in the same boat as you with the rally raid cb500x does a little everything but not great in anything. I believe Rally Raid with have a strong aftermarket support for the Trans Alp.
it all goes down to the price they still have to declare. if they price the basic version at 10 grands, why on earth should I put a 2k €/$ rally raid kit if with the same amount I can buy a Tuareg?
I really wonder about one thing... Why is it most Americans think that USA is the only marked for ADV bikes?
There is a huge marked for this type of bike in Asia, New Zealand, Australia and Europe and maybe South America and South Africa, then it will ever be in USA.
The old AT, Transalp and NX is just as popular here in Europe as they have ever been...
I'm betting once the aftermarket sector explodes & people start buying parts for it, Honda will bring out a TransAlp Rally version with all those changes, having seen that there's a big market for it.
@@Skiamakhos - or maybe a long distance tuned CRF450LR (Long Range)😁
The video shows a skid plate. It is flashed on your very own video twice. You can turn off the rear abs. The promo shows skid plates and crash bars. It has a tft. I think it is more like a Norden 901 that won’t break down any minute. The flat black looks cool. A T7 is good if you live 5 minutes from a BDR but for
Most of us we have to cross a couple of states. Tubeless and cruise control are the 2 biggest mysteries for me from Honda. Maybe they are keeping them for 2024 EICMA.
I was thinking the same thing. There was a lot of footage of one with a skid plate covering exhaust and everything underneath. I'm excited about this bike, but wonder what the price will be. The power is a huge improvement over the CB500x
Love the video Ben - super spot on with your observations. Stoked to see what you think when you actually ride it.
I think Honda did a good thing by keeping the Transalp true to it's heritage, as a midweight, gravel road capable, sport/ADV touring bike. The "problem" is that motorcycle enthusiasts are begging for a midweight Africa Twin or Rally that would handle most parts of a BDR fairly well and still be enjoyable to tackle some highway miles.
They have that in the CRF450L.
@@jamesadams2334 You can't really go adventuring or rack up highway miles when you have to change the oil every 800 miles. CRF450L is basically just a dirt bike.
@@jamesadams2334 That's a good starting point, but that engine has short service intervals and is not the rally spec tank or fairing.
I agree. You just articulated my own subconscious thoughts (feeling) about this bike. Like you, I love Honda, and I look forward to your review if/when you take it on. I may still buy one for everyday riding.... However, the header path under the engine is really a concern for me and I would want tubeless tires for everyday. Thanks for sharing this topic with your faithful Internet riding buddies!
Your impressions are similar to mine. I think this is going to be a great bike for most people. While we all say we are doing hard off-road on ADVs, most of them are on dirt roads and similar areas. This bike will be fine for that.
The low exhaust isn’t good, although I’m sure there will be solutions in the aftermarket. Engine power is going to be great, although it seems like it’s more in the higher RPM vs the low end that I look for. Suspension is a big miss for me as well.
I think we have to think of it more like a bigger better 500x. Of the 2 mid size adv bikes that came out at Eicma the new Vstrom has more potential off road with the suspension setup. Shame it weighs as much as an Africa Twin.
I think they should have just gone ahead with the DCT version.
As I age, I’m always looking at ease and comfort. The transalp looks good to me.
I have a DRZ if I want to get dirty in the bush. More often I’m just cruising the gravel fire roads anyway.
Isn't that the historic core DNA of the Honda Transalp? Was it ever more than a 70/30 bike? I think Honda stuck to their roots on this one. I can only guess as i do not ride offroad (yet). I do agree on the unfortunate exhaust position and lack of a skidplate though.
yes, the DNA of the Transalp has always been road oriented
I’m pretty sure Honda have a skidplate for it.
I'd like to make two points:
1) The exhaust on the T7 also runs in under the frame.
2) At 0:40, the video clearly shows a skid plate on the TA.
Honestly, I like it; 90% of my riding is pave. My only concern is that it doesn't appear to have cruise control.
the skid-plate is in one of the option packs that can be bought...
Agree for the most part. I guess you have to define what adv touring means to you. I live in CT where you have to travel to get to any "offroad". So having good road manners means alot to me.
Nice vid! I don’t think you’re wrong. But for me, since my days of running pure off-road are long gone, a mostly road-focused, mid-size, nicely powered adv-like bike is exactly what I’m looking for to one day replace my f700gs. In fact it appears Suzuki is targeting same market as Honda with their new vstrom. Appreciate your vids. Looking fwd to your test ride.
Looking at the TA on the turntable at EICMA, the bike has a serious skid plate under the exhaust. I think we just have to wait until it is released in the USA to know what we will get. Any ideas on a release date here in the US?
Thanks for the review. Could you please tell me which one you'd pick out of the Transalp and the F750GS if you were going to do ZERO off-roading and be using it mostly on country roads which are not super smooth and 1st class with the occasional interstate highway road trip. Perhaps you can include your 2nd fave choice as a bonus. This is important for me becuase I'm having a super hard time deciding. Thanks a bunch.
What are your first impressions on the V-Strom 800DE?
Fair review and I was eagerly awaiting the return of the Trans Alp - even went to the local dealer and placed my name on a waiting list. Deal killers for me are no cruise control, tubeless tires or adjustable suspension. Unless Honda prices this bike below all possible competitors then I don’t see a winner here.
Ben, I think you hit the nail on the head! An accurate description of the new Honda product. The exhaust routing tells the whole story! Not what we would consider a dual sport/ ready to off-road bike. I'll bet it's fun on the twisties though!
It is fun!
What would you compare it to, since it is not a Tenere alternative? A Vstrom 650?
F750gs ? Least that can have cruise control
Very good points. I think you are spot on. To me it’s just a larger version of the CB500X. Definitely not hardcore off road but probably less than 10% AT owners do more than gravel roads. They do have an option for a skid plate but as you said it may not be very stout.
nothing over 400 lbs. and more than single cylinder is "hardcore" off road.
@@jamesadams2334 Correct! I think people confuse "adventure touring" and "hardcore off-road" too frequently. Even the BDRs are technically all maintained (to different degrees) dirt roads.
@@jamesadams2334 - Honda still sell the XR650L.
I don't understand what Americans that never liked the Transalp and African Twin in the first place complain about...🤣🤣
Interesting video with good points. I wonder if it will be available in the Japanese market. At first, the T7 wasn't available here. But after enough of the right people complained, it finally became available in Japan.
I believe they intend the Transalp to be a mid-weight touring bike with higher and more suspension travel and ability to better handle the dirt roads that vary so widely in condition and are found world-wide. This is finally and exactly the type of bike I want!! So glad they brought a new and modern twin also. I just hope it's comfortable for me. I do get the niche you want to see filled, and if I rode off-road, I would love to see one also. I don't think they want to tread on the Africa Twin sales, but 750 would have been a great mid-size competitor.
Hey man. Great analysis. I was wondering if you have a similar video about the old Transalp? I have a 700V ABS 2014, and I absolutely love the girl. What are your thoughts about it? Cheers, mate.
I would like to ask a question
Based on the engine and bike platforms Honda has. iI this a release before a much more off-road based bike.
Reason being Honda have noted rear swing arm is same specs as Africa twin diffent metal construction makes it lighter
Front suspension similar could it use the Africa twin suspension?
Could exhaust be rerouted and sub supports added to protect the underside their by creating a new middle weight ad bike which is more off-road biased with Africa twin front end styling there by adding to the engine platform like the 500 engine series?
I agree with you 100% on this. Some of the numbers look exciting but it appears to me that it's still a street bike that will manage a little off-road and I was hoping for the opposite.
Are you still excited to try and add one to your garage or do you think you'll pass on this one? Maybe pickup for a few months then move it along to it's next owner?
Will it do the WABDR?
If it will in stock form with just a tire swap than it’s an ADV in my book.
Choice is everything!
My choice would be a 2023 blue T7(with the new TFT 😁)
I had the same concerns. I was really hoping for a baby Africa Twin. The same features as an ATAS, but lighter and greater range.
There seem to be a lot of modifications and accessories available from Honda. Between that and aftermarket, with some decent tires, maybe it can be turned into a decent adventure bike. Maybe next year Honda will offer a TransAlp Adventure Sports (TAAS).
For the moment, I'll stick with my ATAS.
Excellent points, so how are your feelings on the new P-Strom 800?
Thanks for your take on the Transalp. I will look elsewhere when I upgrade from my CRF250L.
I hope you get a chance to ride and review one. Bench comparisons are important but actual experience adds a lot to perspective. Curious as more time passes how these will be received.
What do you think about the new Suzuki 800de
I’m excited about this bike. This may be the bike that gets me back into ADV riding….maybe. 😀😀 Thanks for the video.
Yep, still not a replacement for my 36 year old xl600r yet.😟 what octane is required? We need a new NX
After looking at everything I'm in agreeance with you I have an Africa twin in love it but I will not be trading it in for a trans-self anytime soon thank you as always for your content and it was nice meeting you at rawhide in June
Your concerns are unfounded. I took mine into enduro bike territory on Sunday. Apart from one log crossing which I went around because I'm yet to fit the bashplate, it did everything a well ridden KTM 500EXC. It jumped erosion mounds. Did multiple creek crossings. Went through three massive bogholes on the stock dunflops. And rode up and down steep as MF rutted double track. It's extremely well balanced, very light feeling, precise and with a few clicks of preload front and rear it only bottomed twice when I short jumped some third gear erosion mounds due to the rear mixtour spinning when it shouldn't. It's a very easy bike to do stupid stuff on and not do anything nasty in reaction to it.
I agree with your thoughts completely. I too was hoping for a Honda version of the Tenere. Yet thinking back a bit, wasn't the original Transalp more of a touring bike that people pushed and modified to be off road capable? Perhaps Honda feels they have to be true to the original bike?
Adjustable front suspension, Skid plate, hand guard, Quickshifter are these things that even myself are expecting from Transalp, however Suzuki made it as standard on their V-Strom 800DE. I recognised that even V-Strom can't beat the T7, but maybe you can make a comparo with those three Japanese ADV's
Good info , but immediately following saying it doesn’t have a skid plate , you showed hero shots with the available skid plate ?
spot on. I think they had to ship it and went for 70/30 this round. I’m hoping next year or the year after they will do a more off-roady edition.
Thank you Dork, your videos rock.
I don't know if I agree with your exhaust opinion. Look at the HUGE skid plate on the one in your video and it didn't look "engine mounted" to me??? Looks like it is frame attached?
Look at 4:50 time on your video.
Jeez that's a big plate?
Honestly, I really am into it and would be first in line to get one when they come to the USA but I cannot go back to tubes (except on dirt bikes/dual sports) after having tubeless.
I bet it want be long before you can get tubeless rims/wheels for the new TA.
The Honda Transalp was never an "offroad monster" to begin wth. But a lighter & a bit more on-road centered version of the Africa Twin. This is well known here in Europe, since it is its main market.
Touring focused are all "ADV" advertised bikes (Tenere, Africa Twin, KTM 890, Norden, GS etc.). These are all on-off touring bikes.
it was the original AT that was a Transalp on steroids. The original Transalp was quite innovative (engine, design, segment), and it was one of the more off-road focused big displacement bike (it had more or less the same specs of the R 80 GS, cagiva elefant 650, XTZ 600 tenere). Honda developed the RD03 in order to use the advertisement hype caused by the NXR (a different bike - 45° v Twin) who runned the Paris Dakar
@@francescoporcari8597 - The NXR750 was the first RD01, and started in 1986, Transalp was developed from 1986 but with a PD type number, then RD02 (the single cylinder NX650), then the road-oriented AT (RD03) that was a "copy" of the NXR750.
Transalp and the RD03 was a product of the first AT, the NXR750 Dakar.
They do show a skid-plate in some of the vidz you show?
I had an 89 Transalp,30 years ago.In Cycle World magazine test they said “ notice Honda doesn’t mention off road in any of the brochures”I did some overnight touring,backroad riding and even some single track with it.But at the time I also had a Honda CR500 so I traded the Transalp for a Shadow 1100 and had a comfortable street bike and an awesome dirt bike.
As the long-time owner and rider of an '89 Transalp, I know well why I loved it - and it's not because it was an off-road monster. Who wants it to be an off-road monster? I want it to be an 80/20 street/dirt motorcycle that is equally at home on the bumpy dirt roads of a springtime Vermont back road as it is the highway. I want it to be a daily rider that can both bring me to work as easily as it brings me to my campsite 5 miles down a fire road. I want it to be just as good going for a day trip in the fall and not being afraid to go somewhere I've never been just as much as I want to drive my daughter to the ice-cream shop.
That low hanging exhaust under the engine is a definite design concern. It’s begging to get smashed on rocks on Babyhead Hill on the WABDR.
Like you, I was hopeful for the Transalp to be more than what it is. What I wasn't expecting, was how good the new Vstrom 800 DE sounds. More suspension travel than my KLR, and it's fully adjustable, with a quick shifter, and a host of other goodies that have won me over. If I'm getting a big, heavy ADV tourer, there's no reason for me to get the Transalp as long as the new VStrom exists. It sounds like the perfect poor mans GSA, but that's IF they can make it price competitive with the T7, Tuareg, and Transalp.
Yeah, the new 'strom is pretty much what I hoped the TA to be. A bit heavy, but might not be a deal breaker.
No skid plate? But some of the images and videos you use show it having one?
It's not stock. Optional add on.
Totally agree with you. The investment to make it offroad worthy will put it at 890 Adv R price tag. There will be lots of complaints about its low end torque with the current tuning.
TA XL750 The legend is back with the fourth generation & seems the best one so far on paper. TA a beloved & extremly reliable Honda model for over 35 years from the arctic to the tropics. Have reached cult status with huge followings & dedicated TA clubs all over europe.
Promising but not perfect! More positives than negatives.
XL was never Hondas dirt oriented models. XR/CRF are Hondas dirt oriented bikes.
Many seem to shout out about: cc, tubeless & advanced suspension etc. Asume Honda view these features as premium. Adding these will hurt sales of their flagship model the mighty Africa Twin so that might never happen. Will also increase price & sales will therefore suffer badly.
Positives:
Uncomplicated, Punchy engine 92bhp, Weight 208kg, Adequat Showa/Prolink 43mm robust suspension, Adequat ground clearence 210mm, 21/18 Wheels, Enough electronics, Low accessable seatheight 820/850mm, Slipper clutch, Enough fuel range 390km, Switchable ABS, 6speed, Fully ledlights, Easy removal of fairings, Blinkers as road lights & self cancelling, Click on pannier system without racks, plenty of accessory packs, Classic, clean, timeless & nimble design with a big nod to its heritage & DNA.
Negatives:
No fully adjustable suspension, No easy adjustable windscreen & front fender, no springloaded break pedal, No gps mounting bar not even as accessory, no bashplate, centerstand & usb out of the box, low muffler without its trademark 2»rocket launcers», no maroon Wingbadge again, Quistnable quality on Honda overprized accessories (from expirience), price will be higher with all needed accesories. Qustions: Location & access of:airfilter, battery & sparkplugs ?
T7: For more dirt in agressive Dakar styling.
TA: A comfortable & capeable allrounder. Have no doubt she will do the off road trails happily. Just protect her well & give her correct «shoes» for the job & she will plod along nicely.
Will i part with My lovely TA XL650V 2005 with 100 000 km on the clock thru 11years for the new TA ?
Probably not but might part with My mighty VFR 1200 Crosstourer DCT 2019 down the road when the new TA is settled into the market & «early diseasess» been ironed out.
The Power Of Dreams ❤️
I don’t know. I think it’s going to be right in line with what the Transalp has always been but modernized. It was never really a heavily off-road biased motorcycle. I have always wanted one but could never find one here in the US so I can’t wait for this launch. I will most likely pick one up.
Question Mr. Dork: ;) with your thoughts on what this Transalp will be like - Which would you take on a BDR trip? Africa Twin (heavier - but better off-road) or the Transalp (lighter and much more manageable, but less off-road capable) And don't say the T7 lol ! Let's stick with Honda for now...
I had a honda 230 crfl supemoto as my first bike and preferred the little extra travel suspension for bad road conditions. I guess if you look at the tnsalp as a sport adventure it makes sense
One thing we should touch on here is the engine state of tune, if anything the motor was built specifically for the Trans-alp and then thrown into the Hornet as an after-thought. It's a single over-head cam parallel twin with a 270 degree crank, it 's basically a tractor motor that happens to fire like a V-twin.
What’s the bashplate that’s on it in the video?
Optional add on. All the info is available on the Honda UK website.
Good video... I'm curious on your thoughts about the V Strom, because it has the same issue with exhaust& skid plate you mention here. To me, this bike measures up more with the VStrom, the VerSys, etc. Honda is probably making a mistake here, because it doesn't come at a VerSys price. Again, enjoyed your video
some of the vids show a a skid plate?
It's very close to my 600 Transalp. It was an absolute blast to ride on asphalt or dirt roads. I would prefer the bottom end of a V twin like the original. What I really want is a modern Hawk GT with the same styling!
I think a Honda NTV Revere (with shaft drive) with the Transalp suspension and wheel size would have been hit... no chain, great engine, easy to ride both on and off paved roads, and light enough to take it on a singletrack or forrest road without pulverizing your back after it take a nap... 🤣
One factor you did not mention for its off road ability, is it does have a 21” front wheel if I’m not mistaken? The CB500X and the bigger adventure touring bikes are running 19” front wheels. The 21” is more of a nod toward off road ability. But like you, Im unimpressed with the exhaust routing, the suspension setup, and the styling. I was hoping for a more aggressive AT or CRF450L look.
Transalp TA 650 also had a 21" front wheel and that was not an off road either, but it was great at gravel roads.
Yep 21/18 wheels on the new Transalp. The 600 and 650 had 21/17 and the 700 had 19/17.
It looks like there's going to be a skid plate available as an option, they have one in some of the promos
Dork mentions that the available skid plate has to be mounted to the engine block. I'd rather let the exhaust system take the hit.
I agree with your analysis. However it is exactly what I would like of only it has cruise control. I like off road but I just putt around.
A few of the stock photos do have a stock skid plate on it. I agree it seems 70/30 and I'm fine with that. If I wanted a real bruiser I would buy a klr or drz. I'm honestly interested in the transalp. It seems right up my alley.
Hey man, GREAT video!!! I agree with everything you said. At least we now know what to expect from it. But this just allowed kawasaki to kick the door in and build a bike to really compete with the T7. Maybe a klx 700 crossover between ADV, and dual sport??? I've seen renderings of what that be... until then, I will keep chuggin with the ole klr 650... a true legend in the ADV world.
This is pretty close to the bike I expected with the exception of the low exhaust because I expected it to be like the previous Transalp models. People have been riding the Transalp around the world for years. They have been modifying them so they are more off pavement orientated but they are essentially a paved road bike that can handle docile unpaved roads. I have been following Pedro Mota for years and he seems to have a lot of fun on his Transalps. I haven't seen that Honda has affirmed that the new Transalp will be sold in North America (might have missed it) so this conversation might actually be moot.
My local Honda dealer didn't think it was coming to the NA shores. But then he was pushing his floor planned CB500s.
I owned one of the original Transalp 600's and it was a great bike. However it was never designed as a genuine off road bike. More of a comfortable long distance all rounder, capable of a bit of gentle off road stuff if required. The new bike is true to that thinking.
The majority of people who buy this bike want a great all rounder and will probably rarely take it off road (and this is true of most people who buy adventure bikes). I think honda have done a great job in designing a bike for the real world not for people who kid themselves that they'll spend their days riding over mountains or across deserts.
In the promotion video you can clearly see a bash plate covering the lower exhaust and engine , no doubt a Honda accessory. I'm sure with a bit of tweaking and mods you could make it what you want it to be which is quite clever as most will be happy with it in stock form at a lower cost.
Great video mate
I totally agree with you
I have a 2018 Africa twin and I love this bike. Just did a week long trip through the Finders Ranges in South OZ. Lots of dirt country to ride through. The AT loved it .
The only thing I dont like about the AT is its weight. I did drop the bike on a very steep rocky hill and I had a hell of a job getting it back up
So I looked at the Honda 750 Transalp and I came to the same conclusion as you. Why didnt they make a scaled down Africa Twin !
The suspension is crap on the Transalp the engine rev's out like a street bike, no low down grunt like the AT. Its 35Kg lighter , I like that, the seat hight is pretty much the same.
There is no way I am going to trade my AT on a Transalp
You can get a skid plate ( most of the vids show this), it has rear ABS off, it has 18/21 spokers etc etc.. The engine has a low sump, so whether the exhaust runs there or not, this will define ride height. Suspension - adjusments would be nice, T7 - considered a marshmallow unless you're 80lbs fully geared. Toss up?
Honda built the bike that 98% of the market that will buy it really wanted and needed. Honda built a versatile middle weight sport touring bike that will travel comfortably over any road that its owners will ride it on, will haul a rider and a bunch of gear from campground to campground, or motel to motel and will look really “adventure bike” cool. The vast majority of people that buy this bike will get exactly what they really need and will be very well served by it and will have lots of great adventures.
Some photos show a skid plate ? Is that a Honda add on ?
At 1:39 in the vide there are two bikes there, one white and one black. If you at the black bike it appears to have a muffler attached higher. Also, it has crash bar attached around the fairing. just saying. They may be taking a page from Triumph and have several models based off this model. Just a thought .
What happens to the skid plate that is in the advert?
Anyway the transalp never was a full dedicated off roader plastic skid plate and a basic suspension set up. The new version is just an update of what it always was. Probably will sell ok, but not to riders who spend a good amount of time on dirt while on their adventure.
Hornet with a more upright position?
If it’s for street then why the 21-inch front wheel ?
21 inch front wheel is still much better on rough streets!
I feel like everyone should treat it like a more powerful cb500x. I have a 2016 cb500x that i put rally raid stage 2 kit with skid plate that attaches to the frame on and it's more than capable of handling off road. Am i going to be jumping it over large logs and racing it through huge rocks? no but for $7000 i have a low power but all around can do a little everything bike and gets 65mpg with a 4.5gallon tank. I do think there will be heavy aftermarket off road support from Rally Raid for the transalp
I agree I feel like this bike is marked at the majority of adv ride time being uban. Which to be fair the roads here in Austin where I live are so bad I bought an ADV bike so the road wouldn't beat me to death.
Is this coming to the USA?
Great explanation. Now I want one even more.
Sounds like a good competitor to the Triumph Tiger 660 sport. In that arena and comparison if it’s under $9k it’s probably a good choice.
Hang about! You are right that it is an all rounder but there are factory bolt-on packs for us more inclined to ride off-road.
Ok, based on roughly $11k price, is it worth it?
at 5:01 in your video, the promo video shows a trans alp WITH a lower frame and skid plate on it. must be accessories, but shows it in action
Is this bike coming to the USA?
Agree 100%.
Love the new set!