Does Honda's XL750 Transalp live up to the hype? | Long-term test

[@marianovadillo7127]

Why is everyone complaining so much? Everytime I see any review for every bike it's just a bunch of people complaining about the tiniest details as if they were professional top 1% riders where every detail is important in their performance I feel it's an first world country thing to complain about everything and it creates so much confusion for so many riders around the world who are not doing the the kind of rides where suspension, tubeless tires and what not are going to be noticeable and most likely if they are, they just flow with it. Most people in other countries just want a bike to take them from point A to B with reliability and good pricing and "fun factor" or "cool factor" isn't a thing. This bike (as most japanese bikes) is that. It takes you where you want to go with cheap and available parts... and as long as you are not doing curves at insane speeds, extreme offroad and jumps it will be okay, as most middleweight adv bikes will. Enjoy your god damn bikes for fuck's sake. Edit: When I mean everyone is everyone on the comment section.

[@mugeesshiekh]

goras are always looking down on things and people

[@903lew]

People just want to explain why they won’t buy the thing they’ve been screaming that they’d buy in a heartbeat. This happens in all hobbys, “If [Brand X] would release [Product Y] I’d buy one!” But when product Y is at the dealers there’s always something wrong with the paint or handlebar or brake pedal. Or the commenters bank balance. That and the fact that people love to complain on the internet.

[@CRFLAus]

Well said. Reminds me of people who can't see the forest for the trees. I have a mate who bought a Tiger 800 because it had heated seats and grips, and came with hard cases. When he rode my Africa Twin he realised he bought the wrong bike.

[@mattzobian]

They're not "complaining" so much as they're pointing out where an experienced rider would be disappointed in this bike.

[@christaylor491]

👏

[@CRFLAus]

Having owned an Africa Twin, this bike seems really good. Nearly as much power a lot less weight. Also standard tyres are underrated, you'd be surprised what you can do on stock tyres if it's not muddy. For the price point this sounds like a really good bike. I couldn't give 2 sh!ts about cruise control on a motorcycle unless all you ride is highway. People in the comments are so fussy and picky about silly stuff, go buy a GS.

[@torbenjensen6236]

Agreed with all you said. People are expecting too much for a budget bike.

[@blackskunk54]

Totally agree, well said. I had an AT1000 and prefer the TA750. Much lighter. The power to weight ratio is much the same apparently. I do prefer the look of the Africa Twin though.

[@CRFLAus]

@@blackskunk54 Yeah Honda should have taken the styling from the big bike. Maybe they'll make future models look a bit tougher. Cheers mate.

[@jfro5867]

Yep 🎯. Having recently bought a TA it’s a great bike. Very easy to ride, just works. Typical Honda. I could have bought a more exotic, more expensive bike with all the bells and whistles but didn’t want that.

[@jfro5867]

forgot to add, no idea what this chap is on about with the centre stand, it’s ridiculously easy to use and lift the bike.Someone in the MCN office needs to show him what to do, the technique.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

I'm good with different experience level testers doing these long term reviews and appreciate the reviewers telling us up front what their riding experience has been. Not everybody has 20 years of testing and everyone has start somewhere. I thought he did a good job and answering the questions asked. It is understandable that only four years riding limits the reviewers to do a lot comparisons to competitors but that is okay with thses reviews . Actually newish riders often bring out a unique perspective with less emotional baggage of more experienced can bring.

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

I agree. Sometimes it is good that they don’t have the same nitpicky feelings that many senior journos do. Like brake feel for example, i have never felt the brakes were not good enough for the streets except for my dads old norton. Many journalists want full power at 0,5 millimeters of travel at the lever with zero pressure. Good for elite track riding but not the average street rider. Just an example.

[@AntaresSQ01]

I've "only" been riding for 5 years myself but I think that if you're seriously interested in bikes, not just casually, then 5 years is more than enough to have a VERY informed opinion. It's much more about how much due diligence you yourself do. Many people riding for 10+ years are happy bimbling about not really caring about anything in the motorcycle world and to them suspension is either "harsh or smooth", then there is the camp of 20+ year "veterans" that are so set in their minds they don't have an objective view of the reality, sentiments like " carbs > EFI" or "no need for all these electronic nannies". I feel some of these "beginners" with 1-2-3 years of experience are on the level of someone with 1 month experience that actually cares about bikes. As I said i've "only" been riding 5 years yet one of the most important things even experienced reviewers forget to talk about that in my opinion is extremely important, is the chassis balance and how confidence inspiring it is, and then how much can the components keep up with the chassis? An example of this is Honda CB1000R. It's got nice components, nice brakes, nice suspension, but the chassis is horrific, it doesn't want to turn, and has a very vague feeling both from the front and rear. Results in horrible ride and fear of crashing anytime it's relatively wet or greasy. By contrast, the MT09 that people rave about is actually a horrificly bad bike when it comes to components, the suspension might aswell be a pogo stick, i've never ridden anything worse and more uncontrolled, the brakes are wooden and the ABS has a life threatening tendency to take away ALL braking if you hit a small crack in the road whilst braking moderately hard. It's also got incredibly short wheelbase to the point where it flicks side to side too easily and is fairly unstable, this also means it struggles to get power down and just wants to wheelie. However it also has a very direct connection to the tarmac and you can really feel the bike, it's a bike that picking up wheelies on, stoppies, rolling burnouts, even if you've never done them before is a piece of cake because it fills you with confidence and lets you know exactly where the limits are, even if the limits are not very high. The above is the example of a nice "premium" bike that's actually bad and a "budget" bike with a good chassis that's actually decent. This above applies to many pairings of bikes, and with regards to the transalp it's the major factor that was forgotten. The transalp's front wheel is out in space, it's not got any feel to it, and whilst the bike handles well for what it is, when you put it up against the cheaper, higher performance, KTM 790 Adventure, this bike just makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. The 790 is a well developed, reliable platform by now, despite what KTM haters like to believe, and it's such an easy to ride, confidence inspiring bike, both on and off-road, that it wouldn't matter if the transalp had better suspension or brakes (which it doesn't anyway), you could still get way more out of a 790 even as a casual rider..

[@marcusgeorge1825]

I don’t believe 4 years of riding is low as it’s subjective to so many perimeters. Myself, even after 45+ years of riding and racing in all different categories I’d say I’m still learning. Plus after having my road license for about a year I was already more capable, knowledgeable, safer, and quicker than the average rider with many more years under the belt. I was fortunate to have a house mate at the time that I followed and learnt from who also ended up being my racing team manager as he was an ex Australian Superbike Champion.

[@timjones1236]

I love my xl750, it’s the best bike I’ve had

[@podunkman2709]

Great bike with limits: - Very budget suspension - Tube tires Cruise Control would be nice to have gadget.

[@mcnuggetapple]

Yea, not having cruise control is insane if something like the 390 adventure has it

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

Tubed tires. Very hard to please anyone here. If it is not tubed you have the ”but what if i get a puncture and can’t switch tubes on the road?!?” And if you have tubes people complain cuz it’s tubed.

[@alastairtheduke]

@@mcnuggetapple 390 adventure from ktm does not have cruise control

[@mcnuggetapple]

@@alastairtheduke I could have sworn it was an option

[@scubarubanzaii]

My dad’s been a dirt biker exclusively for about 50 years. He recently got a Transalp and now runs that as his only motorcycle. It’s capable. (We are Utah residents and have been all over)

[@izzy8609]

All these people moaning about tubeless tires dont understand you dont need em for going to the coffe shop, Be realistic about your riding style and most importantly skill. Its a fantastic bike despite the suspension and tires being small hurdles. If you wanted a bike with better suspension and and tubeless tires then youre not going to buy this bike anyway.

[@podunkman2709]

If you plan to visit Bolivia's wilderness you can always take with you tube or install them before you live. Nothing stops you. Yes, even if you have tubeless tires. This is not typical off-road bike so tube tires are just pain in the a... nothing more. Changing tube is difficult process does NOT matter how experience in that you are. And no distortion of reality will help here. Lot of typical off-road bikes have tubeless tires. Because this is just way better solution. Honda made this tubed not because this is hardcore bike but because that was... CHEAPER.

[@chadkline4268]

This is a dumb argument. I would not want tubeless on any bike or bicycle, except superbikes+cruisers. Who wants to be in the middle of nowhere with a bent rim because you hit a rock, and left with tubeless wheels? It's just stupid. And maybe that is why people like them. Only a tube tire can save you. And if you're too dumb to change a tube, maybe you can have your wife help you.

[@mickleblade]

I bought a Cb500x at the start of the year, 1st puncture was at 650km on a sat afternoon. Local repair shop is shut until Tuesday. So I used a repair kit for the 1st time ever, fixed in 10min. Tubeless rules. And then I got another puncture at 2800km....

[@chadkline4268]

@@mickleblade these are ADV videos. Street bikes are a different story. And that's a constant problem in these topics. We have street riders wanting adv bikes to be offered as street bikes, AND THAT'S NOT THEIR INTENDED USE! An adv rider may be 150 miles in the middle of a desert or no man's land, where nobody can come to help, and there is nowhere to walk!

[@mickleblade]

@@chadkline4268 I'm interested in the transalp 'cos of its nice high, normal riding position. It's comfy for my old bones. It's reasonably light. I only ride off road on an easy gravel track. Hence I would like tubeless tyres. From all the reviews I suspect I am exactly the person the bike is aimed at. Back when I did ride off road I would have wanted something waaay lighter for pulling out of the ditch (don't ask), and I'd agree tubes are fine for an xr

[@dgomes265]

A road focused version with 19/17 inch wheels and tubeless tires and 4 pot callipers with cruise and it would be a nice all rounder and light travel bike

[@Bryan11210]

Base model vstrom 800 comes close.

[@Corey-pd3mi]

@@Bryan11210but it’s not a Honda

[@rsq72]

The first of the 2 that has all of the above I will buy. Not keen on the Hondas headlight either, but not a dealbreaker. If it had retro twin rounds, or looked more like the AT, sold. At the moment I’d choose the new 19” front v-strom800 and add an Atlas throttle lock.

[@billparke1520]

These videos are well done. Thanks, MCN.

[@davidrichardson5402]

Alp has pre load adjustable forks and rear shock pre load adjustable, so said to many people cry over stuff they don't reseach, or understand, any ways my 2024 alp is a great bike,

[@1990-t1j]

Looks great in this colour. I prefer the lines of the T7, though.

[@bretonnian6844]

Really enjoy these MCN segments, thanks!!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Possibly the headlight issue was down to rider/pannier weight causing the rear to “sink”. Instead of fiddling with the headlight perhaps just dial in additional preload on the rear to compensate this. Nice review. Thank you.

[@R.C.W.I]

Sharp thinking. Preload it more

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@R.C.W.I As an ex Australian Superbike racer you get used to adjusting suspension for different tracks. Same theory for different loads. Keep it simple. I should have added checking the tyre pressure as well as it also might have needed more in the rear as that’s the other variable. Tyres, just don’t hold pressure and if you’ve maxed out preload then this will also help when fully loaded.

[@whomcares3438]

Tubeless tyres are great for highway running. If you ride off road in hard terrain the tubes just save you so much hassle and time. The amount of times we’ve had to try and fit tunes to tubeless rims due to dents and buckles cousins measured in weeks. The tubed bikes just save pain off road long term. Until you’ve regularly done this type of riding you just don’t know. The bikes with tubeless and TPM systems also don’t go well with tubes either. I bought the CRF. 1100l specifically as I need tubed rims where I ride in Australia

[@terrynicholson9273]

I hired one for riding in Spain. I quite enjoyed the first couple of hours but hated it by day 3. It is reasonably comfortable, has nice enough sitting and standing positions and on open roads it goes quite well if you stick to using the midrange. I don't know why Honda decided to put the horn where every other bike has the indicators and the indicators where every other bike has the horn. Once the pace gets up and you are riding on twisty roads it all goes quite badly wrong. The soft, non adjustable, forks dive badly on the brakes and then rebound on the spring as soon as you ease back onto the power. If it were mine it would have heavier fork oil, a reduced air gap and maybe spring upgrades at the very minimum The low down grunt is almost non existent so if you are on 2nd gear corners on mountain roads it is a gutless pogo stick. The high beam is also a challenge until you get used to it. If your thumb strays to the high beam position of almost every other Japanese bike of the last 40 years you will put it in rain mode and make it even more gutless. The side stand sits it up too vertical and you have to be careful when parking it. The bike is not massively heavy but it is quite top heavy for the weight it does have. Wasn't great on road and didn't inspire great confidence as an off roader either. I hired one as I was thinking of buying one but now I wouldn't have one as a gift

[@gryphongryph]

You should be a reviewer, great write up 🙈👍🏻

[@carlosandleon]

have you ridden the suzuki 800?

[@terrynicholson9273]

@@carlosandleon Not the current model but I owned the single cylinder DR750 Big for a couple of years in the early 90's. I tried the Transalp back to back with a BMW850GS. The BMW had firmer suspension (adjustable preload at rear) and a bit more grunt but felt a little dated against the Transalp.

[@mattzobian]

I had the same impression when I test rode one. This bike is for the average-to-new rider who just wants to ride on and off-road.

[@mickleblade]

20 years ago I had a couple of suzukis that pogo sticked like that, on investigation they only had 100ml of oil in each fork leg. I changed it to the correct 500ml (ish) and it solved the problem. I wonder....

[@blackskunk54]

The OEM deflectors work really well. I have no problems with wind noise or buffeting unlike the AT1000 I had. I am 6' 1". The Honda Roadsync app is very good and now includes a simple GPS system which shows turn by turn and can be linked to a headset for verbal instructions.

[@alastairtheduke]

One bike to compare this to is the suzuki vstrom 800 RE (NOTICE THE R) that is more of an apples to apples comparison on price and it really makes the comparison much more even. Especially since in the U.S. we only get the transalp black version.

[@barneyapps2375]

The headlight ajustment can also be done with a philips scewdriver straight under the hex bolt and turn your bars to the right to access easier. when you have located the bolt by eye and and a light (best done in the dark) I then go by feeling and put the philips screwdriver straight under the hex bolt, clock wise for headlight beem down and anti clockwise for headlight beam up. It has to be turned alot to make differance.

[@splodge57]

It needs tubeless tyres but I'd still prefer the Guzzi TT85. Nice review, cheers.

[@glsracer]

You must be quite hard core. The 85TT is underpowered for road use but I hear people love them for light off roading.

[@thodoris3790]

vstrom800re?

[@MotoSly]

damn, you NEED tubeless??. pretty high level of rider you must be!

[@HenchmanSPARTA]

I really wanted a V85 but apparently they are super unreliable, a large dealer told me every single one they took in as trade in needed work doing

[@Wheelo40]

I have ordered the electronic cruise control from Veridian Cruise. Not surprisingly they are a month behind in deliveries. But this will fix the biggest problem.

[@llerradish]

I have heard a lot of good things about this bike. I am very interested in the Honda Hornet. I like this bike a lot too.

[@moorepower13]

You've heard alot of good MARKETING about this bike friend. It's cheap and cheaply built. Watch the owners try and change out their air filters and you will see how this was designed for a robot to assemble and not for a human to care for it.

[@andrewonmyway8184]

Nothing about fuel consumption? That’s important today for many.

[@FairladyS130]

Please mention the rider's weight and height and how the bike feels when sitting still on it. All relevant but ignored by most riders. Useful review.

[@MikeK6046]

I like the guys at MCN and feel they do a "great" overall job of describing their thoughts & feelings regarding various motorcycles they test. In the end, one should use these "reviews & impressions" as a guide only and not as a final verdict.

[@kaijessen3654]

I just wish that they spoke real English.

[@pinepig]

After watching Zack Courts' demonstration of how the gravel mode traction control can almost shut the engine down it's so aggressive, I have to wonder about the credentials of this reviewer (who thought the gravel mode works well) and/or the legitimacy of his off-road testing. If you're just trundling along at a slow, constant throttle input then it wouldn't have as much of a deleterious effect. But that's not a proper off-road test. Although perhaps it's hard to find suitable terrain for such testing in the UK. But then again, Zack tested it in the city!

[@williamb.6918]

Traction control on Honda adventure bikes has been horrible all the way back to the 2015 release of the Africa Twin (literally the worst in the industry). Honda just does not get it. It only took 27 years of asking to get the CRF450L so I guess I should not totally abandon hope.

[@johna6968]

I like it with the scaffolding and bash plate

[@blackskunk54]

Its a Zimmer frame!

[@alanbarnes2920]

For cruise control try the Atlas throttle lock…isn’t a lock, fully flexible and works for me on my Versys 650 GT

[@marcoaguiar3226]

Im just going to add something unrelated but important you guys should make the subtitles available on your vids for the ones that literally cant hear you but would very much like to...

[@paullester4502]

Yes, I too gave up watching as the sound quality is sub-par.

[@msill5684]

Click on the "CC" icon on the KZbin screen to activate subtitles.

[@pistolpete6321]

Great detailed review!

[@ratbrain7743]

Nice review video. I've been riding since 1970 and have ridden many Hondas. Honda really does have a history of putting out some great underpowered bikes. My friend bought a NC750 for his first bike. I rode it and thought something was wrong with it because it was so weak.. It's became an instant garage queen

[@HenchmanSPARTA]

I just test rode this straight after a BMW F900XR... the TA definitely isn't underpowered!

[@SaqibKhaliq]

Very useful review. Would love to see Honda release a CB750R.

[@williamclarke2020]

The more I see the TA XL750, the less I like it. Specs be damned but I just can't get beyond it's looks or glaringly absent CC and other electroniic aides, Tbless tyres and the low exhaust. I'd rather invest in a Tiger 900 GT Pro or a Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ or God forbid, Norden 901. Great coverage as usual.

[@thodoris3790]

yes with 5k more you have better options.compare the same prices dude

[@Blinducho]

Nice! Thanks for the review!

[@javierc2726]

If you have trouble using the center stand, you need technique

[@Rossi593]

I went from a GSA to a full fat ATAS DCT ES two years ago and regretted it. The riding position was cramped for me (I’m hardly a giant at 5’8”) with seat to peg distance and location being too short and too far forward which, combined with the high bars was unpleasant seated and standing. This looks to be remarkably similar. The Tenere actually has a great seating and standing position but is very tall. The screen issue is hardly new but totally avoidable. How is it that an issue so fundamental is allowed to reach production? I had a 2,000 Varadero with the worst screen I’ve ever had. An MJA Vario screen was a revelation. Honda is not the only one but for all the hype and long terms testing this gets by. I also note that the “crash bars” are the same as the ATAS: ornamental and just somewhere to put the spot-lamps. The exhaust is bulky and low slung. Surely there are neater solutions. The lack of cruise control is bonkers on a bike with this much tech. And no heated grips as standard but a hugely expensive extra. I’ll stick with my 890 Adventure (non S) which isn’t as pretty but wins where it counts.

[@thomasosterloh8861]

So I hear the air filter maintenance takes an hour? Or more?

[@alrightdave6135]

So?

[@mikelobdell2666]

@@alrightdave6135 It's a bike that is supposed to be designed for off road riding which means dust. To have to remove seat, plastics, and fuel tank to service the air filter is frankly absurd. A street bike okay, not great but doable, but not for a bike like this.

[@rogerkay8603]

Neevesy in his Superstars, get in! Sold!

[@stephenchapman8344]

I had a Honda once. Loved it. Started first time on every pull and left fantastic stripes on my lawn. Joking of course. 😂👍

[@human1513]

Mufflers are so expansive now and no power gain. But less weight as you say and a bit nicer sound. After 40 years of riding why would anyone want cruise control? Never wanted it even on an 18 hour riding day. Tenere is a top heavy pig compared to the Transalp. Honda accessories are not great quality and are expensive. Many reviewers say the addition of the Honda windscreen side wind deflectors make a big difference on the standard windscreen. The body deflectors do nothing.

[@KRABI_PT]

I’ve heard of some people having terrible vibration problems with these. Not all of them. But if you get a bad one it’s hell.

[@Otto-AutoPilot]

I want to want this bike, but the CB500X/Hornet headlight just puts me off. The light is as bland and dull as the Africa Twin is awesome and menacing looking. To me anyway.

[@franklinsaltchuck2455]

Many don't buy a bike for the looks

[@YouKayTen]

Looks wise i am pretty bored with mostly similar triangular pointy headlights on most Honda and other Adv lineup. I had hoped Honda with this return/retain to its origin round xl700 headlights . It seems to be doing wonders for Norden 901 and DesertX!

[@sashidemedia]

Can we upgrade the suspension w aftermarket options ?

[@SuperEasy1337]

$10k and no fork adjustments while spring rates are set for 135 lb Japanese guy? Lol? RBW with no cruiser control is always a shame to see, too. But this isn't the only bite that's guilty of that.

[@paulcoverdale8312]

Had mine in the late 80s an ideal bike for travel, workin around London an up to Birmingham, Manchester etc, awsome wkender, reliable an great all rounder. If I could, this would be my first choise again.❤❤❤🙏🙏💎💎🪬🪬🥃🥃🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@cgpubli]

i have another fail... tube type wheels... just try to fix a puncture ....

[@gryphongryph]

Totally agree, if it was more off-road oriented, the tubes would make sense, but this is more of a middle weight tourer! Think Honda lost their way in the decision making designing this bike.

[@mjonno64]

How original!

[@fixento]

With a few exceptions the Transalp 750 will out perform the skill level of the reviewers who attempt to nitpick a $10K bike for attention. Most reviewers have never really rode the bike off road, or perhaps an occasional gravel lane/road, but most of it on the blacktop. A Gold Wing, if road is your style of ridding because that's TA is not ready for offroad. The light weight and power of the TA does not put this bike in midsize adventure bike category, in reality its a beast, and can perform with the heavy weights. I had my bike's ECM tuned in the US and better muffler resulting on developing 89.7 hp on the wheel test on a dyno. It's now quick, always been nimble and capable compared to heavy bikes. I adjusted the sag and it's fantastic on the curves if you not afraid to lean. It came with OEM quick shifter, cruise control is no issue Viridian Cruse Canada $300. OEM heated grips $145, Fog lights, $60.. Kitted it out with OEM upper/lower guards & skid plate, Outback Motortek pannier and luggage racks, Barkbuster handguards, Puig windscreen with adjustable track to raise and lower it. Completely kitted out, with my son doing the installation work, around $3K. That less expensive than a Africa Twin that weighs 60 lbs. more and at my off road skill level if I let it it, it's capable of getting me into heap of trouble. It not the unicorn of adventure bikes, because they don't exists, but it filled in a missing price gap, between the NC500 and Africa Twin.

[@verynormalman]

How the 'ell do you fit on an R7? I am tall and thin, and felt I could get my elbows down, if I had to. It's SO small.

[@moorepower13]

Sub frame being welded to the main frame will screw over so many comuters, when their hard bags tweak the whole frame in a parking lot tip over.

[@erichagen8053]

Hopefully the CC will come out next year.

[@Jagknorr]

The white color looks great, but the other colors its like they didn’t even try to make it look good. 🤷‍♂️

[@steveb1297]

I think online viewers may also want to leave an owners review of this excellent bike on the MCN website but the model is not listed to be able to do that. I emailed the editor but had no reply.

[@neevesybikes]

It’s on there, mate 👍

[@franklinsaltchuck2455]

Opposite of what is stated, The Tenere feels more top heavy to me and less road worthy

[@fulache17]

Would like to ask if the engine heat to your legs is noticeable, like the ktm 790 adventure?

[@SSShPoNgLeDDD]

Honda XL 750 Transalp - Gearbox click noise - Engine turns off (sometimes) Hi guys. I bought a Transalp 750 a month ago and I think the bike has a problema. I would like to know if anyone has had a similar problem with this bike. This video shows what happens: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5ibpqlja8eZbMk&ab_channel=CarlosEstrela And here is a description: In a total of 1500 km (2 414 miles) with the motorcycle, when downshifting, I felt a weird clicking noise more than 70 times, and the motorcycle turned off the engine 5 times when this clicking noise occurred. In this video, I'm normally riding slowly at 2500/3000 rpm, but in the last sequence of the video I'm close to 4000 rpm. The weird clicks and the engine turning off also happened when I was riding above 5000 rpm. As time goes by, the clicking noises are happening more frequently and on the last ride of around 100 km, it happened 8 times. Both the clicking noises and the engine turning off could happen at any downshifting. Has anyone ever felt this? Is this normal?

[@kevinf-b5065]

Re the centre stand I have the same problem on my NC750x DCT.

[@roadwarrior8560]

Vstrom 800 RE is a better bike for most people who ride on the road, spoked tubed wheels are for off road.

[@blackskunk54]

Yeah, but its physically smaller. At 6' 1" I found it a little small for me. The wheelbase is shorter by about 2" which then affects the ergos. Great bike, but not for me. The 800DE is about the same as the XL750 and much better for me. I do prefer the Suzuki engine especially at slower speeds. It is less snatchy than the Honda.

[@stellauniversal]

:”Yeah” 🤣 way too many “yeah’s” 😂

[@Bandit-Iggy]

I just test rode one next to the NX 500, cog is high in comparison.

[@Bandit-Iggy]

In comparison to the NX 500.....normally i ride bikes without a cog, so i don't complain about, slow city riding makes it anoying.

[@Luk4s7St]

You really struggle with front light adjustment up and down?! It is really easy using screw driver from this moto tool box to turn adjustment screw from down the lamp. It it so easy that I was able to adjust mine on the side of the road in the complete darkness. Try it out!

[@fingerscrossed2317]

Haha, lekker professioneel van MCN !

[@Bandit-Iggy]

I sold all of my bikes just recently, all the way down to my '89 Super Tenere Rally bike, byrd, but i find it so really difficult to find something i really like, compared to the golden era of Adventure bikes the new stuff's a bit boring, nothing really exciting out there, or go old scool again, epa, dot, tuv, euro emission, abs, soon black box as for cars, it all spoiled it for the manufacturers being able to build proper bikes that work.

[@Ahrimas]

This is the first time I've head any praise of the gravel mode, it seems almost universally hated by every other reviewer

[@brianrichard1768]

reminds me of my 88 nx 650 dominator but with more kick

[@mickleblade]

Tubeless conversions are pretty straight forward and cheap

[@mcnuggetapple]

Pisses me off that Honda gives the US horrible paint options,literally one color everytime

[@Bryan11210]

I feel they must have been burned in the past with colors that didn't sell, so they gave up on color.

[@mcnuggetapple]

@@Bryan11210 I don’t see why they care so much, say what you want about Harley but you can get almost any color possible

[@lstavenhagen]

The Africa Twin is a Bee Aye Tee See Aich to get onto the center stand too.....

[@BishBosh2010]

If Honda were serious they'll do "Rally" version with more suspension travel, crash bars and a skid plate etc in the future.....roll on 2025 version.

[@anxiousappliance]

McCruise has a CC unit for the bike. Can the CC people now stop making excuses?....of course not.

[@903lew]

Does it work with heated grips? Used to be a limitation.

[@anxiousappliance]

@@903lew I don't know -might say on the website.

[@toltod]

Funny how the electronics (tc/abs/gravel mode) are more of a turn off than even lack of cruise control and tubeless tires.

[@BarnettSpeedSuzukiThou]

A characterful Honda, he really hasnt been riding long. Lol.

[@llerradish]

Head of Digital?

[@trevorphillips3055]

Online content, I guess?

[@magaudion]

The motor does not suit the bike. I’ve just been riding one in Gran Canaria and found it was poor in the mountains.The power is all too high up and the midrange is lacking . I rode an old Vstrom 650 the next day and that was so much better which surprised me. I’ve also ridden a new Vstrom 800 DE and whilst on paper you’d think the Transalp would be the better bike, I found the 800 DE to be far superior, with a fabulous motor that makes power where you need it!

[@chrishart8548]

​@magaudion when a small capacity engine makes that much horsepower all the low end power is lost. Ktm could have given the 790 adventure 105hp like the duke and the 890 125hp like the 890 Duke but it the style of an adventure bike with long travel suspension and 21/18 wheels it's just not useful. And 9,5000rpm just doesn't work off road.

[@gryphongryph]

@@magaudionHonda marketing is powerful 😂

[@llerradish]

@@magaudion I'm sure it's not the best off-road bike, but I don't think that's what Honda was aiming for.

[@Hindu23376]

Yes it is ❤

[@chrishart8548]

It's a good bike but the hype has been too much for any bike it's ridiculous.

[@EndoftheBlock7224]

Would you prefer they don't hype it up, sounds boring

[@pauloakes5718]

I’d save money and buy the NC 750x.Better all rounder!

[@chrishart8548]

Most of this just sounds like marketing from the honda sales blog.

[@arrshyan]

This size bike at this price Cruise Control is a deal breaker

[@TerenceKaplan]

Cruise control, quick shifter, heated grips/seat, luggage, skid plate/protection... I'm fine with them not being standard since sizable portion of buyers won't want or need them. But they sure do make nice additions to the old options catalogue.

[@stuartrutland9648]

For me tubeless would is the deal breaker. I get the pros and cons but would find it a lot easier to live with without tubes

[@podunkman2709]

Cruise Control is nice to have gadget but tub tires is REAL pain. Changing gears in this motorcycle is SO easy (slipper cluch) that quickshifter is not even required.

[@MyRandomLife247]

Theres an aussie company that's got cruise control for under $1k.

[@mikelobdell2666]

Unforgivable air filter placement if you're going to ride dusty roads.

[@Nomadic_Pigeon]

Surprised that wasn't mentioned.

[@problemslayer3538]

Off road only for this. Specs wise for the road why would you buy it over the Tracer 7

[@jonwoodworker]

So, a long term review from a guy who has been riding for 4yrs on an Adventure bike that never did any Adventure riding is the best you can do? My take from this is it's a tall street bike that does ok.

[@EndoftheBlock7224]

Yep, sounds accurate. I really want one

[@splodge57]

How many years does he need to be riding to review a bike, 10, 20, 50 years?😅

[@basmca1]

Most ADV bike riders do 99% paved roads anyway? So in a way this is actually very accurate.

[@mwolsk2146]

Did you just not watch the video? Or just skip past the part where he discussed off road performance?

[@agnwstos1212]

so the review is pretty accurate for the average "adventure rider" ? lol

[@adrianhollington6331]

No mention of how awful this bike is between 20 and 30...uk town riding. I have messed about with engine breaking and power and modes and not smooth at all...jerry. How about a hard hitting review for a change?. Is it the gearing, the fueling...what?. Just been in my car and I could drive at 20 in 2, 3 and 4th gear and still smooth compared to the Transalp. I can't get it to simply operate at slow speeds without juddering or feeling gear too high or too low or going too fast to compensate. I had cb500x before and never even had to think about this. Why nothing about this major flaw from professional bike reviewers?

[@AdrianHollington-vm9qz]

Just had 600 mile service and the mechanic said my issue is not an issue as the gearing is the reason city speed riding is so jerky. So it is a trade off. Seems rubbish to me as in UK we have to go through so many villages with 30 mph limits even if not town riding.

[@jfro5867]

It’s really not that bad Adrian, you’ve just got to be very steady with your throttle. The engine is very eager in Sport mode, very direct. It’s a small trade off. I know what you mean so I’m not disputing your opinion, lots of modern bikes are just the same. Switch the mode if it really bothers you while town riding.

[@Cardus501]

After all the hype, no it doesn't live up to it. Very disappointed in its drivability at low speed and how loud it is at highway speed which by the way is hard to judge as the speedo is way off. You can do better Honda. Sorry I bought into the hype.

[@theoverengineer]

Very cute: 'Not many negatives' right after a detailed analysis on how Honda made another uninspiring, boring, under-equipped and overpriced bike.

[@thodoris3790]

strange opinions this guy has...how long is riding he said?

[@sighheinrich]

No cruise control = a 100% no-buy from me. It's 2023, should be a minimum on all new bikes.

[@blackskunk54]

Stop moaning, go and buy something else.

[@sighheinrich]

@@blackskunk54 Go suck your fingers to equal length!

[@Peter-bu8px]

Cruise control is a very cheap aftermarket gadget!Go buy one for fucks sake!

[@sighheinrich]

@@Peter-bu8px Please tell me which products you can buy? I have only seem badly integrated controls where you mount something extra on the handlebar with so-so safety... How to integrate it with the bikes software, so the CC disengages when I tap either brake or change gear etc?

[@Adrian-uq9mq]

to much waffle at the start, stopped watching and went to the next video.

[@michaelhayward7572]

Honda. The greatest at beige and bland...

[@blackskunk54]

You obviously havent ridden one

[@michaelhayward7572]

@@blackskunk54 correct. Would'nt be seen dead on one.

[@lukeadv]

😂 at icing two chargers

[@Szlejer]

Looks just as boring and uninteresting as the previous model. Offers nothing. Far better and lighter bikes out there for onroad and offroad use. Crappy suspension and ground clearance. It's a Honda, so years late to the market as usual. The same company that should have made an easy killing on a retro Hornet, instead we got a two cylinder abomination with candy colored frame, only like 10 years late to the MT-07.

[@martinrea8548]

With you 100% on that retro 750 from Honda.

[@secondsquared4361]

No one uses gravel mode… it’s atrocious…… not sure i believe the reviewer

[@bangun172]

It would look so much better if front wheel wasnt so skinny and tall

[@nemanjalukic8798]

you are embarrassing yourself

[@AgricUltra]

Without cruise control, not interested.

[@Peter-bu8px]

What a stupid comment… You can fit an aftermarket cruise control. Very cheaply!…

[@jamesonpace726]

No thanks....

[@dayleashleynolasco5765]

The ugliest mid-class Adventure bike out there. So outdated. That is basically the problem of this bike eventhough its durable as you know & works well. The looks isn't even inviting. #Honda should have atleast made it a High front fender instead of this. Also those tires look like aren't suited for it. They looks so thin especially the front.

[@melelms9948]

Boring