AFRICA TWIN or TRANSALP - which one stays? which one goes?

[@awe5543]

I just picked up a Transalp. Funny in our 50’s we have the financial means to nitpick the fine details when we know back in our 20s or 30s we wouldn’t even bat a thought about any of this except the trill of just owning a brand new nice machine. I went with the TA instead of the AT is simply because the prices, the weight, and for the range I will be needing it for is about 100 to 200 mile per day when I do get on the road. The AT is just a bit much in every aspect for my needs. Thanks for the entertaining vid.

[@HoodScotland]

Sell both and buy a new Africa Twin 😀

[@MaurizioAnichini]

Transalp

[@terano999]

I had a 2022 AT and sold it for the TA750. I never regret it. The main reason for me was the weight. The AT is more top heavy.

[@kevinsterner9490]

I traded in my 2017 AT for my Transalp. I loved my AT but hated how top heavy it was. Once I sat on the Transalp I was sold. I do agree with you my Africa Twin was soo pretty .

[@RichardB-d4s]

@@kevinsterner9490 Same here - one sit and that was it! 😁

[@Offroader74]

Never have riden both of them, but this is an easy choice. The Africa Twin ofcourse. Just for the looks and heritage ❤

[@patkennedy1]

I suggest you take the Transalp for a ride, just to make the choice with the appropriate information. Looks don't matter when you're up the road on your own, and you can't see the thing when you're riding! Riding being more important than looking at them... But lighter weight is a real virtue of the Transalp, particularly in comparison with the Africa, and the far better fuel economy is also great in real world ownership. Looks and heritage a long way down the list of priorities, and of course the Transalp has a very long 'heritage' anyway. (I first saw them at Silverstone in 1986). So - try before you judge. A fairly obvious suggestion. From a happy Aussie owner at 18,900 kms on one. The Transalp is a better bike than it seems at first.

[@philipwall8248]

went from 1100 adventure sport to Transalp.. definitely the right choice. As you said, seat comfort and ride position feels better on Transalp.. Engine just makes you smile with the power delivery

[@whiteglory4350]

Hi , i totally agree with your evaluations and feelings about those bikes ! The new Trans Alp is all you really need, but... it feels a bit " cheap" ! The Africa Twin is the more "upgrown" bike, but it is also a lot more expensive ! I testet both of these bikes , about two weeks ago., but i can't make miy mind up, wich one to buy ! My heart says Africa Twin, but my wallet says Trans Alp ! Really tough desicion ! 🤔🤔🤔

[@wright-adventure]

@@whiteglory4350 I’m leaning towards the Transalp the more I ride it!

[@Alexanderpaal67]

Both legendary bulletproof Honda’s. Keep em both. Keep riding 🦾

[@jag1963]

I just bought a 2024 Africa Twin Adeventure ES with the manual transmission. It's some bike. But coming from a 2023 Goldwing with a DCT all of a sudden I have a more viceral experiance. I'd keep that Africa Twin but as of 3 days ago I am bias.

[@FatalityDiablo]

i wish the transalp came tubeless, would be instant buy from me. lets hope they do the right thing for 2025. no cruise control is also insane on a touring bike

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

I realize I'm late to the party but I wouldn't fancy flaffing around with the dct and having to be aware of various anomalies such as keeping a foot on the rear brake and being extra cautious with twisting the throttle from a standstill. Just keep the motorcycle and not the overweight hybrid motorcycle/scooter.

[@tremorflow3614]

Great vid mate, For me the transalp, its almost as quick due to less weight, definitely handles better through corners, only down side is the suspension

[@markparsons5677]

Just purchased a brand new new Transalp for under 9000€ (7600 gbp) from Honda main dealer in Frankfurt, no regrets, 1000km in first week! I fitted heated grips, Veridian Cruise, and SW Motech crash bars for another 1200€ and honestly the package is a bargain. In the past month I rode the AT, GS850, GS1200 plus Transalp. The GS1200 I rode twice and the TA 3 times before I purchased and really no regrets. The AT felt far too top heavy, nice to ride on the road but moving around garage and off road, far too heavy for me to feel fully confident. Its also 50% more to buy compared with the the TA and whilst it has a bit more grunt the downsides of trying to muscle it around were just too much for me. The GS850 is a nightmare worse that AT in terms of weight distribution (and price). The GS1200 is a brilliant bike, heavy but weight is low and feels beautiful but certainly not worth double the price of the TA and its way too complicated! I will very happily be touring the Alps and Dolomites in a few weeks on my new TA, so have added soft panniers for another €500 including a rear frame, to make mounting easier all in all a great bike for the price, fantastic value under 11k€ new with cruise heated grips luggage crash bars and Honda connectivity/reliability. Only very small niggle is the slow speed at or below 30, bit lumpy HOWEVER the riding position for 5'10" 80kg person is perfect (3 - 4 hrs in saddle no problem), weight distribution, fun factor the TA cannot be beaten. Full disclosure, I am 60yrs old coming from Hayabusa and sports bike to adventure riding and wanted something fun and above all manageable for green lanes as well as touring. Could not find anything better. MY (almost) teenage kids also like to ride pillion with me and really love this bike, especially the sound and acceleration (not Busa style but very enjoyable). More than enough power for the A & B roads 2 up! Every time I ride the TA, I have a smile, say no more! As for DTC and Power shifters, they do not interest me. I learned to ride in late 70's early 80s on sports bikes and never use clutch to upshift, just a slight twist of the wrist to unload the drivetrain and bikes shift up with no effort at all completely smooth. Downshift would not be the same without that small blip of the throttle and a little clutch... Not a great fan of electronics, my 2000 Busa has 170 brake, its brilliant, no traction control and no ABS... thats in my opinion for the rider to deliver! I guess the ABS is OK but again what happened to progressive braking?

[@wright-adventure]

@@markparsons5677 veridian cruise? Had no idea? I’ll look into that. Thanks

[@patkennedy1]

Also 5' 10" and 80 kgs here (and 71 y. o...) and I agree with pretty much everything you said. I too would have preferred a lot less 'tech' on the Transalp, but unfortunately buying a new bike now involves all the ABS and TC nonsense. But yes - they are a great bike nonetheless. I too have a 160 RWHP sports bike, ultralight and mad-fast, and the serenity of the Transalp is the perfect foil to it. I intend lightening my Transalp further as I go, and also have some soft luggage to add to the lightweight rear rack I made. Have a great trip on yours! We can go a long way on a small amount of fuel on our Transalps...

[@illes.gergely002]

I saw you have added Veridian cruise in Germany. As far as I know to do this you need a new TÜV because of it. Was it complicated to convince the TÜV that it is OK to install? Is it allowed officially to install it in Germany? What about warranty? Does it affect it?

[@stephenbryson5618]

Can I ask what’s the bike you want? You have 2 very similar bikes with not a lot off difference between them. Me I would keep the smaller bike you can ride it harder and get the best out of your self. We all thank bigger is best it’s not… only in my opinion

[@wright-adventure]

@@stephenbryson5618 I think you are right, I’m preferring the feel of the Transalp as I can indeed ride it harder, if it looked like the Africa twin I’d be a very happy boy!

[@davidrichardson5402]

Keep Transalp, Africa twin to top heavy, both great bikes

[@MarcosSalmeron-pj8vm]

Yo tenía dudas entre AT o Trans y finalmente me quedo con la Trans, cuanto menos peso mejor y las suspensiones se pueden mejorar sí fuese necesario, un saludo desde España 🇪🇸 👍

[@patkennedy1]

I enjoy your videos - refreshingly different, and quite personable. I too picked up my new Transalp last Sept, and am well over 16,000 kms (10k miles) here in South Australia, so I firstly urge you to get out on yours a bit more. Particularly while you have summer there, such as it is... The Transalp improves as you go, and becomes smoother in both vibration and sound, particularly after about 5,000 kms or 3k miles. And of course just becomes more familiar with more riding. I suggest you give it a bit longer. Maybe try the stock seat back on it as well (I am the same height as you). I chose the Transalp ahead of the Africa primarily because of the significant weight difference, fuel economy, and lesser commitment. The Transalp is just easier to ride and own. Easier to shift around, and less scary in tight, off-road situations than the taller/heavier bike - the premium feel of the Africa comes at a price. You would probably lose little if you sell the AT - you may even make a little for your work - but selling the almost-new Transalp would undoubtedly cost you, especially with those optional extras. Try getting 5,000 miles or so on the Transalp before making a decision. At 350 miles you haven't really 'given it a fair hearing'! It is definitely a bike that grows on you.

[@wright-adventure]

@@patkennedy1 thanks for your comment, truth be told I was pretty sure I was going to keep the TA, the AT did get me a bit I won’t deny, I was lured in by her beauty and moves! But I’m a strong willed chap and I knew the TA would be better suited to me. And yes since filming I’ve already put another 200 miles on and sim to get out on it every weekend and I’m definitely enjoying the bike more now . Thanks again for watching I really appreciate it.

[@jayzeebeezee7442]

Transalp of course. I'm on my third. owned the original 88, 600 and then a 09, 700, and now the one you have. They are truly a great all-round machine. Thoroughly dependable and will always be your friend. Africa Twin is great also, but essentially weight and cost of ownership detracts from the Transalp's ease of use and daily rider advantages.

[@TC-iz6xe]

Africa twin, more power, better suspension, bolt on subframe and looks better

[@droptuned83]

I had the same AT and got rid of it because of the DCT , i really didn't get on with it.I prefer the Translap personally. When I got rid of my AT I swapped it for CB500X which I found far better. That was changed for a Triumph Speed Twin 1200, which was ok, though I will never buy an other Triumph after that experience. Currently I am on a 350 Bullet and loving it. Not sure what that all says really but just go with the one you enjoy the most!

[@wright-adventure]

@@droptuned83 yep think you’re right, go with what you like.

[@rkr6237]

Hi, can I ask what issues you had with the dct? And also what the issues with triumph were? Thanks man

[@ecirlos4601]

Keep the Transalp. I like the black crash bar and Slid plate what brand are those ? Saludos 🇲🇽

[@wright-adventure]

@@ecirlos4601 www.hepco-and-becker-luggage.co.uk/

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

I've never ridden either of these bikes or any "big" adventure bike, for that matter. I don't know why, where I live in Australia, our roads are made for them. Our sealed roads, that is! If I was torn between one or another, I couldn't look past the new bike with the low miles on the clock. Even if it were only 10k the difference, that's a set of tyres, a service and nearly a chain and sprockets. So, in this case I'd lean toward the Trans Alp. But what sought of riding do you do? If you're blasting down the M whatever trying to outrun the police, or you make six pilgrimages to Germany each year to visit your favourite aunty, maybe the big banger is the ticket. Is that how you really ride? Or do you pick up a few groceries on the machine, ride the next town over for a pint and go for a couple of weekends away, a year. Be honest with yourself. I don't need to know the answer. Personally, I'm not that keen on "big" bikes. Whenever I ride them, I feel like I'm nursing them. I actually prefer lower powered, more nimble bikes that I can thrash a bit, without going warp speed and rapping myself around a tree. I'm not Valentino Rossi. Having said all of that, at the end of the day, which bike gets YOU, not me, more smiles per miles is the one to keep. Good luck and ride safe.

[@wright-adventure]

@@davidbrayshaw3529 thanks for the comment , truth is I’m still trying to figure out what kind of rider I am? I want to do longer trips to get to interesting places, Pyrenees and Alps, and I want to do the trails in those locations. I’ve got a Honda Monkey bike which is perfect for the local shops and I’ve just bought a 300 rally . I guess as I’m new to bikes at 54 (almost) I want to do it all to find out what I truly like. Thanks for watching I do appreciate it.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

@@wright-adventure You'll find "The" one. But if you're like the rest of it, you'll buy it and then sell again and buy five more bikes before you know it! Keep in the back of your mind that bigger doesn't mean better. And whatever you do, don't read spec sheets or watch reviews. They're all nonsense. Numbers and other peoples opinions of which bike is best blah blah blah, doesn't mean a thing. The bike that fits you and the bike that you're fast on is the best bike on the market, period. It took me a long time to learn that, and it's exactly what the "old blokes" (our age!) used to tell me when I was a kid. Of course... I knew better...

[@jfro5867]

I bought the Transalp but have tried the AT. I did like it but it’s too big for what I want really, think the Transalp is a more sensible sized package and weight.

[@1320613]

I own a transalp. It’s just about to have its 600 mile service and I’m very pleased with it. I had an Africa Twin dct for a couple of days to try it and it is on a different level but I didn’t like the dct. If they put the e-clutch on the Africa Twin I would probably go for that but the transalp is a great bike and for town use such as filtering and tight maneuvers it is easier to use than the AT. Get the AT on the open road and for me it’s perfect. Tough choice. Two great bikes.

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

So, I have a steep, dirt road to navigate everyday. If I stall out a bike here, I’ll likely drop it. I’m wondering if the CDT isn’t the answer?

[@Sventy11]

This video is perfect timing. I have a 24 TA, but was considering taking a look at a new ATAS. Im not a huge fan of the 19" front wheel, but i think if I went to the AT, I would get the AS for the suspension. The base model is also nice and comes with a 21" front wheel. This is all US information

[@alainrigaud7035]

I had an AT1000,and now the Transalp;I find the Transalp lighter,I have 5 years warranty in France,I like the engine when I rev ,the sound please me better giving more fun .the AT1000 was more placid for me! greetings from France!

[@wright-adventure]

thanks for watching and yes I'm leaning towards the Transalp.

[@SomewhereInside]

Just a obvious but often passed on tip for any heavy adventure bike owner. If you are seldom more than 2 hrs from a petrol station , just half fill your Transalp. Still get approx 170km range , and the transalp- wil feel much more balanced as effectively 6.5 kg has just been removed from top of tank .As more fuel is used after filling we get even more weight saving up top of bike . I believe the full near full petrol tank weight makes bike tippy

[@wright-adventure]

@@SomewhereInside good tip thanks.

[@twintech100]

I myself had a 2018 CRF1000L Africa Twin in the blue/white/red, with the later dash. I only did just under 4,000 miles on it. Don't get me wrong, it was a very good machine, but...I just found it a bit cumbersome. So, I p/x it in for a new XL750P Transalp in the Ross White with every conceivable extra thrown in for £11,499 and a saving of £2,499. I've just completed 600 miles on it and it's had It's first service. I agree with you, I much prefer the riding position of the Transalp, it's fun to ride, even good two up, easier to ride, less cumbersome, win win. 👍 I would sell the Africa Twin.😊

[@wright-adventure]

@@twintech100 yes I’m pretty much where you are now, was out on Transalp yesterday and really came to the same conclusion

[@brianhoward9217]

I like the comment below that says sell BOTH and get a new Africa Twin, and make it the DCT - you won't know yourself. At least have a test ride on one, it could be transformative for you! I'm bias though, as I am currently deciding on an AT for myself, the DCT probably - after 15 years on a Ducati Multistrada 1200. Now, if that's not do-able, you must go with your strongest feelings and I think that's the 750. Personally, I'd take the AT but YOU must do YOU and the 750 is newer and will serve you well - it is a Honda after all. Good luck with your decision. Cheers from Sydney Australia

[@wright-adventure]

@@brianhoward9217 you are right in many ways as I do see myself getting the new AT in a couple of years time. I’ve since sold the AT and already bought another bike as promised hope to have a video up in a week thanks for watching

[@duncangatland6021]

Rent each for one week. Start with Transalp first. Then the right decision for the individual is clear. Test ride is too short

[@SomewhereInside]

Hi have the black low seat , does your seat click in and out after being fitted where the pillion would sit ? My seat fell off after a stationary tip over ( don’t stand up , adroitly come to a stop, then realise you haven’t sat down in time 😂and tip over. The prongs near the tank were all bent where I pushed the bike with help to get it off the ground and the seat fell off😂 Pliers fixed the prongs , but the rear of seat still has a clicking noise where the seat slots in at rear.

[@torbenjensen6236]

Interesting, you done 350 miles on the TA in 8 month? I own a AT 2017 DCT that I love but it's heavy no way around that, TA around 30 kg lighter. AT is more premium IMO and the bottom end toque is really nice. You are likely better off letting the AT go if you can't appreciate the very unique DCT as I do. You will likely also loose lees money on the older AT than a new TA. The 1000cc ATs are nice, there are dedicated bottoms for ABS and traction control so no digging in to menu's for switching them off when going on dirt roads. Despite above, my next bike will likely be the AT AS DCT with 19" front wheel. Love the DCT, I really do.

[@nickcalnephone]

The africa twin is the best bike but the transalp is the one you should keep.

[@twowheelstouring482]

Gold wheels, keep the transalp. 👍👍👍

[@AlbertinoPauletti-zd2wj]

Why don't you sell both and buy the new AT? Cheers

[@deanwelsh5702]

I had a 17 Africa dct bought it coz it was cheap. Stuck with it for 2 years. Couldn’t get on with the dct or the weight . I’m test riding a transalp on Tuesday . I currently own a cb500x a great bike that I will have a hard time getting rid of ! the transalp needs to be something special for me to jump.

[@wright-adventure]

@@deanwelsh5702 let me know how it goes on Tuesday, would be interested to get your view on the TA

[@taylormahan1744]

I will pass down my VTX1800C. It will outlive me.

[@davidmallia628]

Common problem, these days, is that we are so spoiled for choice. Add that to the fact that we are actually a spoiled generation. Nothing satisfies us. Imagine having a bike like these in the 1970's. It would be cherished, used, and kept for decades. Nowadays you can find a large array of second hand bikes for little money, low mileage, and laden with after market accessories. They are truly bargains. If I were you, I would keep both, and not look at any other bike. But, you seem to want to experience other bikes, not bothering to lose some money in the process. So keep the Africa Transalp as your stable staple, and flip as many bikes as tickles your fancy, if you can afford the monetary loss each time.

[@RichardB-d4s]

I tested both and for me there was no competition - the TA is the lighter more nimble bike but plenty more power than we normal riders need. I shall do a suspension upgrade with springs and valves and it will be an all round more manageable bike. TA all day for me. AT offered me nothing different or more - and that weight? No thx!

[@philou1052]

I had the same bikes AT 2018 DCT because new metal left knee . Engine ok DCT ok , confort ok but too heavy , I took always my old scooter 125 to go to centrum of city . Now with my transalp , i do all my ways except offroad ( bike is still new ! ) and i have a crf300l for that ! I go to city and also to work by motorway ..I did 900 kms to France in 9 hours .. Transalp is lighter and lower at the saddle . I need a Transalp with the engine of the AT ! 😅

[@ogasi1798]

well my initial response was keep the AT unless you are a damn fool hehe, but after watching you ride it i feel you should get rid - it is too much bike for you and the TA is a truly wonderful machine. By the way, your mileage is insane, i did 350 miles on green lanes in wales last week on my ktm500 exc - ride more sir, ride more.

[@wright-adventure]

@@ogasi1798 yeah I pretty much agree with that. I’m quite new to bikes so the Transalp is the way to go.

[@TRAVERSE_ADV]

The AT is not a gen 2 1000 (2018/19) its a gen 1 2016_17.

[@wright-adventure]

@@TRAVERSE_ADV yes I discovered that when I ordered some parts. The moulding around the dash is slightly different

[@TRAVERSE_ADV]

@@wright-adventure yes also the muffler and most parts rearward of the rider seat with a totally redesigned rear subframe. The gen 2 AT has all the tech the XL750 has and it sounds even better than the gen 1. It also has revised parts to fix all the issues of the gen 1. Also the sports mode 2 in the DCT is supposedly the best shoft point map. Transalp is a nice bike and lighter but its not quite on par with the AT. Go try the 1100 in a manual.

[@wright-adventure]

@@TRAVERSE_ADV well it’s funny you should say that, next year I can see myself trading the Transalp for the manual AT

[@WheelieGood-el2br]

Hi to all, was wondering what you think about the tube rims, I have a 19 plate adventure sports, love it, but the tubes are giving me doubts regarding punctures, don’t worry about changing inner tubes in the garage but not on a country lane. ? Ta👍

[@TRAVERSE_ADV]

@@WheelieGood-el2br I carry a complete tool kit in a tube behind side rack along with 4L of fuel. I ride 90% offroad and keep my PSI at 28.5 all the time. I have TL type motoz adventure/rallz tyres and haven't had any issues while beating my bike along rough trails the last 2.5 years.

[@KikoBW7]

A friend of mine had the exact same choice to make, and my advice was to go with the brand new Transalp. The AT’s engine is a lot stronger (specs don’t tell the full story), but the transalp is easily powerful enough. I have the CRF1100L in manual, and that is a better bike than both, but in this case, my preference would be the new TA as opposed to the old AT 1000. They both have tubed rims and no cruise control, but at least on the TA you get some sort of connectivity and a tft dash, so it looks a lot more modern. Plus, it is 30 kg lighter and keeps the weight way lower, making the handling a breeze compared to the CRF1000L. Or, sell both and go get a CRF1100L, and you won’t be looking at any other bikes at least for a few years 😂

[@wright-adventure]

I think you've hit the nail on the head! I agree with all you said including the transition to the newer AT in a couple of years

[@offroadagain]

If you ride 350 miles a year you don't need a big bike at all. Otherwise, keep the AT. It is the real deal.

[@wright-adventure]

@@offroadagain the 350 miles was a reflection of work commitments, crap weather, laziness, being a new rider and a few other lame excuses but this coming year will be different. Thanks for watching

[@jamesonpace726]

I'd rather have the AT but, you've too much $$ to lose selling the TA, all that new bike depreciation....

[@liammadridista2395]

I'm pretty sure my brother Mike has just bought this Africa twin from you. What are the chances KZbin recommends me this video after he bought it 😂

[@wright-adventure]

@@liammadridista2395 yes I think he has! They’ve got eyes and ears everywhere!😁

[@mikerichardson415]

Transalp every time. Felt so much easier to ride, way lighter and plenty fast enough.

[@WalterEvans-wu6pk]

Keep the Transalp

[@wright-adventure]

@@WalterEvans-wu6pk I agree and I did. Thanks for watching.

[@jackn4853]

I wish l could afford to pay £12,000 for a brand new bike then do an average of 7 miles a week on it. Sell the TA you use it the least. The AT has had it's initial depreciation hit so iis costing you very little now. Whatever you choose to sell get out and ride before you are too old, ( I'm 68 and ride whenever l can.)

[@wright-adventure]

@@jackn4853 I’m trying to get out on the bikes but life has been busy this last year and my lack of use of the TA is very apparent to me. I did consider selling it but discovered the hit is very big so think I’ll keep that long term and stop flip flopping about. Thanks for watching.

[@keisermexico2517]

Sell Transalp and buy a new Africa Twin its amazing trail adventure

[@darylsummer1424]

If you want a real adventure bike, the Africa Twin is the better choice. The Transalp is ok once you upgrade the suspension but doesn't have the travel or ground clearance. 2 different bikes for different riding experiences. Novice rider better with Transalp. Experience riders would choose the Africa Twin every day. Cheers

[@wright-adventure]

@@darylsummer1424 yes I would agree with that, I’m a novice so it’s the TA for the moment I think. Thanks for watching.

[@tritiumglo4699]

Thanks to the cumbersome traction control and ABS, neither one of them is desirable.

[@twowheelstouring482]

It all went well until you said 350 miles, im out...

[@DogsOnAcid]

P-Twins sound like shite

[@jonwoodworker]

Very easy choice...Africa Twin. The Talp is useless as an adventure bike and Honda has much better street bikes.

[@fcalin21]

None. Cfmoto beats them in every metric.

[@stevo8629]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@napz9]

That's absolutely comical, thanks for the laugh 😂

[@fcalin21]

@@napz9 That shows that you know nothing about 450MT and 800MT.

[@napz9]

@@fcalin21 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 you're a regular comedian. Alright, go on then. Back up your claim.

[@fcalin21]

@@napz9 MT450 has no vibrations, DOHC, decent suspensions, not heavy, very good first gear for off-road , low sadle but a good ground clearance, a low center of gravity. Unbeatable price. MT800 similar with KTM890 only better. Honda stoped inovating a long time ago. SOHC engine in 21 century??? F@ck you, Honda!