The Honda Transalp: A Dual Sport Bike for the Masses

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The Honda Transalp has been a staple in the world of dual sport and adventure riding for decades. First introduced in 1986, this bike has undergone several transformations over the years, with the latest model, the Honda Transalp XL750, being released in 2023. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Honda Transalp, its features, and real-world performance, to determine whether this bike is suitable for riders who are looking for a reliable and versatile dual sport machine.

Introduction

The Honda Transalp was first introduced in 1986 as a "new concept touring motorbike." However, it was not a new concept at all, as other manufacturers such as BMW and Yamaha were already producing adventure bikes that could handle both on-road and off-road riding. The Transalp's success was largely due to its legendary reliability, which made it a popular choice among riders. Over the years, the Transalp has undergone several changes, with the latest model being the XL750.

Overview and Key Features

The Honda Transalp XL750 is a significant departure from its predecessors. Gone are the days of heavy and cumbersome bikes; the new Transalp is designed to be lightweight and agile. With a curb weight of 208kg, it is comparable to its competitors, the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 890. The bike features a short-stroke engine, which provides a strong top-end and plenty of low-down grunt. The suspension and brakes have also been improved, making it a formidable on-road and off-road performer.

Real-World Performance

The Honda Transalp XL750 has received rave reviews from critics and riders alike. Its road handling is superb, with many reviewers stating that it is the best-in-class. The bike is also surprisingly agile and flickable, making it a joy to ride on twisty roads. However, some owners have reported rattles in the head unit, rusted spokes, and head-shake, which are minor issues that can be addressed with a bit of tinkering.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Honda Transalp XL750 has several strengths, including its reliability, comfort, and performance. However, it also has some weaknesses, such as its limited off-road capabilities and lack of adjustability on the windscreen. Additionally, the bike does not have a quick-shifter, and the old-style rims mean that tubed tyres are the only option.

Pros and Cons

The Honda Transalp XL750 has several pros and cons that riders should be aware of. On the plus side, the bike is reliable, comfortable, and performs well on both on-road and off-road terrain. However, it lacks adjustability on the windscreen, and the old-style rims mean that tubed tyres are the only option. Additionally, the bike does not have a quick-shifter, which can be a drawback for some riders.

Alternate Products

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Honda Transalp XL750 is a reliable and versatile dual sport bike that is suitable for riders who are looking for a comfortable and capable machine. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of its competitors, its performance and reliability make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a dual sport bike. With its improved suspension and brakes, the Transalp is a formidable on-road and off-road performer, making it a great option for riders who want to explore both paved and unpaved terrain.

Where to Buy

AI-Based Analysis of User Comments

🤖 AI-analyzed · Trust Level: Highly Trustworthy
🔥 Highly engaging video
Overall★★★★★
Positive★★★★★
Neutral★☆☆☆☆
Negative★☆☆☆☆
Confidence Score: 65%
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟡🟡🔴
Verdict: Viewers are highly positive about this video.

Audience Intent Signals

  • 🛒 Buying Interest: Low
  • 🤔 Comparison Questions: Very Low
  • 😕 Confusion Level: Very Low
  • 👍 Appreciation: High

What Viewers Are Saying

  • This description is what the reality of my ideal bike is and…
  • Like your report on the Trans Alp,like you say to many people…
  • Tried to compete against T7 and Tuareg660? Don't think it is in…
  • 👍 15
  • 😐 3
  • 👎 2

Viewer Comments

@crosstrainingadventure

Last year we did a meta-review of the Honda Transalp here: https://youtu.be/Zb0LZx1iE20 This video is now a personal review because our guys got to ride the XL750 for a few days and report back. AUSTRALIAN PRICE COMPARISON! Honda Transalp AUD800 ride away. Yamaha T7 ,300 KTM 890R ,900 Not sure about other countries, but the Honda is priced about the same as the Chinese 800MT Explore. Thinking of a T7? I'd be more inclined to buy the Transalp and have 00 to save or use to upgrad the suspension. Video credit: Thanks to Moto Real Ride for footage from two of his videos under Creative Commons. Honda TransAlp XL750 2023 - Gravel Road Ride https://youtu.be/t_ESWi9_aMU Honda Transalp 2023 XL750 - Ride - HQ Engne Sound https://youtu.be/SJYHaXHzwyA

Neutral
@Andrew-qc9xw

This description is what the reality of my ideal bike is and I suspect the same for many others, if they were honest with themselves.

Positive
@stevenbatley8666

Like your report on the Trans Alp,like you say to many people comment on something they have never tried!

Positive
@n057828

Bigger screen tubeless and cruise well you have me in 2027!!! Pls Honda from down under god bless all ❤🙏🇦🇺💪

Positive
@juhalindberg3120

Transalp 750 is my very first motorcycle as i started my riding as 45 years old last summer. So i do not have much experience about other. But xl 750 is good for beginners.

Positive
@SNPRGhillie

I will choose the transalp 750 over the tenere 700 because to me the T7 is too top-heavy and lacks cruising comfort. Because of medical reasons, the T7 is too difficult for me to lift. I love the transalp's comfort for long highway rides. I will do some offroad and i think the transalp is capable enough to me. Most of my riding will be on roads though, because i want to drive from my home in the netherlands to many countries.

Positive
@jhonrutger3508

I liked the demo ride on the transalp much better then the africa twin I found it to be a lot friendlier and better balanced at low speeds. This may be the bike I may get as a 2nd pair of wheels to mitigate anymore future vehicle issues.

Positive
@ChaosAI24

Tried to compete against T7 and Tuareg660? Don't think it is in that zone, maybe Transalp competitor is 800DE

Negative
@Eric-Abroad

Spot on review! The Transalp suits adventure riders who want reliability over extreme off-road capability. I'm using mine for long-distance digital nomad travel and it's perfect. Comfortable, efficient, and dependable.

Positive
@tywolf4077

I got the 2025 in late August ive got 4k km on it. Its a great bike for anyone that wants a comfortable touring bike that drives into a campsite. With mods you can conquer most downsides to the bike including cruise control, tubeless and better tires (nobies) if you want it to do better offroad. I almost bought an African twin but honestly this bike is much better for handling its lighter, and im just very happy with my decision. Only real negative thing I have to mention what evil engineer designed the air filter placement, curse you lol.

Positive
@brianrichard1768

You rate the WR250R worse offroad (according to your chart) than the DR650 and DRZ400? I'd have to disagree strongly.

Negative
@alfredocesarano757

After getting my license I took a cb500x and after 6 months I traded it for a TA 750. I have had this bike for over one year now and I can say I learnt to ride with a Transalp. I cannot but confirm all your comments and suggestions. It is predictable, easy, reliable. I don’t understand the strong criticism. I have a Transalp but i don’t hate or critic any bike because in my opinion all the modern adventure bikes are good and work well. It is finally only a matter of personal taste and appeal that a specific brand has on people. I took a Transalp as this model was very evocative for me after the glorious past that it had in Italy back in the 90s. Transalp was the bike that police squads used to ride to patrol and most riders in the 90s had a Transalp.

Positive
@tarekabayazeed6548

Just got mine 2 months ago. Did 2500kms on it. Your review is 100% correct. It’s mainly made for roads, and not for hardcore off-road. Yet it will do well off road in general, if an experienced biker sitting on it. I’m so happy with it. Thanks for your excellent review.

Positive
@RandoCalrissian67

I kind of want one of these. I finally live near a bunch of BLM land and I want to ride through some of those roads and trails and do more camping before it gets taken away from us.

Positive
@RedRupert64

I have a KTM 890 Adventure R. So far it's been reliable over 50k km. I'm very happy with the bike, but the suspension is awful in my opinion. Far, far too hard and harsh. I've sorted the front with softer springs (4.8 N/mm v 6.7) and a symmetrical valve conversion. I'm getting there with the shock. KTM's spec regarding rear sag is way out. They say a 75 to 85kg rider should provide 80mm sag (around 33%) but this is impossible. Swapping the 95 N/mm spring with an 85 has put this right.

Neutral
@dc2090

I think they could easily add some ground clearance.... tubeless tires, and better electronic settings and it would be pretty perfect.

Positive
@buddywilson104

Good review. I own one, and you pretty much nailed it. I really enjoy the bike!

Positive
@jurgschupbach3059

Dem Fahrer welcher Roger Taylor My Country 1and2 hört

Neutral
@manuelgomez2715

👍

Positive
@SGH-rt6ci

"keyboard warriors" 🤣 this expression blew me away

Positive

Frequently Asked by Viewers

Q: Last year we did a meta-review of the Honda Transalp here: https://youtu.be/Zb0LZx1iE20 This video is now a personal review because our guys got to ride the XL750 for a few days and report back. AUSTRALIAN PRICE COMPARISON! Honda Transalp AUD800 ride away. Yamaha T7 ,300 KTM 890R ,900 Not sure about other countries, but the Honda is priced about the same as the Chinese 800MT Explore. Thinking of a T7? I'd be more inclined to buy the Transalp and have 00 to save or use to upgrad the suspension. Video credit: Thanks to Moto Real Ride for footage from two of his videos under Creative Commons. Honda TransAlp XL750 2023 - Gravel Road Ride https://youtu.be/t_ESWi9_aMU Honda Transalp 2023 XL750 - Ride - HQ Engne Sound https://youtu.be/SJYHaXHzwyA
A: This question appears frequently among viewers.

Q: Tried to compete against T7 and Tuareg660? Don't think it is in that zone, maybe Transalp competitor is 800DE
A: This question appears frequently among viewers.

Q: You rate the WR250R worse offroad (according to your chart) than the DR650 and DRZ400? I'd have to disagree strongly.
A: This question appears frequently among viewers.

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