Honda Transalp 750 1000 Mile Review: We Had it ALL WRONG From the Beginning

[@DorkintheRoad]

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[@salimufari]

I was curious how this compares to the Africa Twin 'War Horse'?

[@BigRockMoto]

Nicely done my friend! When I first bought my TA, I was thinking... man, this is going to be boring to review for the next 6 months. Now, after 1,000 miles, I am going to really have a hard time giving it up! It has exceeded all my expectations. And SO comfortable - which is huge for me.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah I thought for sure I was selling this and keeping my Tenere but now I'm not so sure...

[@HoratioBunce503]

Both your reviews were sooo good, and helpful! Mucho mahalo👍🏼 Ian, you really pushed the T to the limits, and your efforts are much appreciated. Anxious to see how the spring mods go

[@derekandleonie5636]

Unfortunately our north American friends never got the transalp 650 so understandable to have the wrong idea about what this bike was going to be all about Here in Oz i bought a 650 transalp many years ago because it was cheap and didnt expect much from it... years later its turned out to be possibly the best bike ive ever had and the new 750 appears to be an updated version of that. Glad you guys are getting this model as its nice to see the transalp name getting the recognition that we've known for a long time 👍

[@Trailfocused]

@@DorkintheRoadsell the T7!

[@robertdenney-cq9vt]

I really appreciate both of your reviews and builds of the TA. Would you both be willing to say something about why you each chose different skid plate/lower bars arrangements? I am trying to decide between the two.

[@fixedG]

I would argue that as much as they didn't deliver a "Tenere killer," they delivered the bike a lot of Tenere buyers end up trying to turn their bikes into for non-highway on-road touring and less aggressive, gravel road stuff. That was honestly a smart target to shoot for and it seems as if they've hit it.

[@JohnBrown-bu8ji]

What're you smoking weed , the Yamaha Tenere kill the honda transalp 750 all day long off road trails . Also first gen klr 650 with 10" of travel also beat the honda transalp off road trails I have a 1999 klr with air and spring front standard

[@ThiefOfOranges]

​@@JohnBrown-bu8jihis comment isn't about off road trails, he literally said for less aggressive gravel road type stuff. You're arguing with ghosts.

[@seanb1081]

@@ThiefOfOranges Makes you wonder hey, who's the one smoking weed. 😄

[@stephenmorris523]

@@JohnBrown-bu8ji Your reply is typical of someone replying a scripted defend your bike whatever the other person is saying. Good to practice the art of reading, listening and hearing what's being said before opening your mouth 😂

[@MickH60]

@@JohnBrown-bu8ji Comprehension problem John ?

[@ricatiman]

As a senior citizen I began riding at 16 years old on the then brand new 1969 DT-1 Yamaha. I then spent 10 years racing flat track, enduro, hillclimb and drag racing, and I think this Transalp is one of the greatest motorcycles ever made. I've owned 43 bikes, in many categories, and I have to state that a steetable dual purpose bike like this Transalp is the best of all worlds. It's not a hard core off road bike, and that makes it far more approachable. At 5'9" and 125 lbs, I have tried the 701 Husky, and an 890 KTM, and found they are way too tall and too focused on Hard Enduro, rather than the over 90% on road most riders actually do. Having watched videos like yours, and many others, on all the bikes in this mid-size category, I believe the Transalp is the absolute best all arounder on the market. I am getting one for spring here in Canada, and expect it will likely be my last new bike.

[@larrynorsworthy8582]

We have the same height and weight. My current street bike is a triumph street twin. Dirt, ajp pr4. I too have had many bikes.

[@seanb1081]

That's high praise coming from someone with your lifetime of experience! 👍

[@scottydiver5114]

Dude, I started on a Yamaha DT-E, I still dream about that bike and all my childhood adventures I still have a 1989 Honda Transalp 600 I would love to see a comparison between the old and the new

[@Vazmenko]

Thanks, wish you great rides with it!

[@chimpzahoy]

I have been saving for one of these for 6 months. I am beyond excited. It will be the first time I buy a bike brand new, because it is exactly what I want.

[@cloud9847]

that's awesome bro.

[@GCTO239]

You nailed it perfectly, mate! I was one of the first 350 customers in Germany and got my Transalp 750 in May. What can I say after more than 7000 km? It is a freaking fantastic bike with a peach of an engine! ❤ So flickable with a low center of gravity. I enjoy every second on this bike. I can really recommend the SC Project Rally Raid exhaust in terms of position, sound, weight and performance. I also shed further weight. My Transalp now sits at 94 hp and 202,5 kg. I moved the bars forward, maxed preload and increased the seat height by upgrading the seat. I can now shift more weight to the front which makes the riding experience even better. Great bike that has to be ridden to be understood.

[@Romenet310]

Which taller seat did you get?

[@GCTO239]

@@Romenet310 as there is no taller seat available, I went to my bike saddlery and upgraded my stock seat including thicker padding and a new fabric. Looks fantastic and is comfortable as hell.

[@TheCollabCurator]

The pace of info flow was amazing. No time to swipe away because another good bit of info keeps hitting. Bravo 👏

[@devilslawyer1646]

Bought a Transalp 2 weeks ago (91hp version, I'm in Canada). What a weapon!! That engine is just genius! On the road it thinks it's a Fire Blade with a 21" front wheel, and off road it is way more capable than I expected. The slipper clutch is great, the quick shifter is flawless, and the seat is super comfy. I loved my Africa Twin 1100, but I don't miss the extra weight, complexity, price tag, or maintenance costs. Go Honda!!!

[@sonnys8535]

Canada got the 83HP "North American" version.

[@alozborne]

​@@sonnys8535Do you have a source for that? I've been trying to find a definitive answer on that question for awhile now...

[@sonnys8535]

@@alozborne Canadian bikes don't have the European ECU and they've got the same spark arrestor as the US models. The owner of a Canadian TA did several Dyno runs with different muffler configurations to confirm. Not EU spec. Heck even the BCU wiring is US spec, meaning no auxiliary light connectors.

[@alozborne]

@@sonnys8535 Bummer! Was really hoping we would get the EU variant. Oh well, hopefully an aftermarket ECU reprogram will become available over the next couple of years, when I'm ready to upgrade

[@sonnys8535]

@@alozborne agreed, and I believe it will. I'd rather have a properly tuned 83hp than just 91 above 9K rpm

[@Crittermoto]

Absolutely spot on assessment of this bike. I only had mine for three days - 850km / 530miles - and absolutely fell in love with it! If I could, I would buy one right now!

[@stevelarson4487]

Great review of your experience with the Transalp. I can tell you enjoy riding it from your demeanor when discussing the bike, and the joy you get from riding is what REALLY matters. I'd much rather ride a bike that I enjoy rather than one that has the top specs or highest reviewer rating.

[@JTA1961]

Athefumen

[@mitchdep]

Well, you've convinced me to level up to the Transalp from my CB500X. Just don't tell the wife yet. Thanks! Great 1000 review!

[@dhan7072]

I have a 1988 Transalp 600. Still going strong! It's a Honda!

[@Speedytrip]

I really like your no non-sens type of reviews. To the point, many would have done a 30 minute review, but you summed it up in under 15 minutes and you represent a majority of riders out there. Keep em coming! :)

[@BlastrB]

I couldnt agree with all of this more. I am absolutely in love with mine. I knew it was exactly what I wanted when it was announced for the EU, but it ended up being way better than I hoped. I did not think this thing would be so fast! Also I ride 99% road but I find myself being way more confident on it in the loose stuff than my CB500X. My friend has a T7 and is getting pretty jealous. I can say though after riding his, the T7 would be a fine substitute.

[@AtlasAer]

I work at a dealership, had a lot of people calling and asking about this bike over the past 2 years, but now that we actually have a few available nobody even looks at it.

[@pieterrossouw8596]

Twice the price of a CB500x in my region, not twice the bike though. The VStrom 650 is also really competitive here.

[@leeinwis]

@@pieterrossouw8596 The NX500 is more interesting..

[@pieterrossouw8596]

@@leeinwis the NX500 is mostly a branding exercise as far as I'm concerned. It'll probably be successful with that mini Transalp/Africa Twin mixed look (I think it looks amazing, designer victory) - but its effectively an NC500X underneath. I hope the NX500 does well though since it'll put a lot of lightly used CB500X into the 2nd hand market and it's one of the best beginner-intermediate bikes around.

[@JohnFletcher-kz7mt]

lol. That’s the buying public to a T.

[@darksidemachining]

Your analysis is spot on particularly the comment made @13:51 “There are way more of us than riders like this.” The benefit of this observation is the aftermarket inventors and suppliers will be more apt to come up with more and better products because they will find a greater number of buyers to make it worthwhile and profitable to come up with more accessories.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I feel like they're gonna sell a ton of these, so the mod makers will have to pay attention eventually

[@geoffball9547]

Been on the fence for some time but this video did it for me. I respect your evaluations as they are honest and on point...so I ordered mine today!

[@takeshikusao4674]

Great review! Thank you. This bike is not what I could look for, but now I think I understand why it is like that, and why it deserves respect as it is.

[@FreeTimeAdventures]

The idea of a Transalp in the red white and blue livery with cruise control genuinely makes me take a 2nd look at my Africa Twin. But I suppose if excluding those things was in an effort to save people like me from cannibalizing future AT sales, it definitely worked...

[@deanmalkewich2366]

Yeah I sat in a transalp at the dealer and all I could think was”awe, it’s a baby Africa Twin.” A little less weight is definitely appealing, but the extra power and bells and whistles on the AT would be hard to give up.

[@PoppedBitADV]

@@deanmalkewich2366 lovingly been calling it the Halfrica Twin

[@FireHawkISA]

​@@PoppedBitADV I've been referring to it that was as well 🤣

[@heritagehillsecurity8778]

😆​@@PoppedBitADV

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

Not having cruise control is a huge whiff. It feels like they left it off deliberately and instead added things like a quickshifter and power outlets that, while nice, can all easily be added aftermarket.

[@nose2wind872]

One of the best-organized and presented reviews... Thank you.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Tank you!

[@mikerichardson415]

Yes, Honda nailed this bike, and you nailed the review! I absolutely love my new Transalp. It's the only bike I have ridden that I like more than my 23 year old Transalp 650. That bike was very good at all types of riding but was seriously under-rated by most people. Have motorcyclists just got older or perhaps finally grown up?

[@neilpederson5212]

Lots of guys hate on it because they for whatever reason can't admit what they own isn't the best. Or they like riding in conditions where that bike is not designed to so there for its junk, too narrow minded. Great video as always !

[@ricardorgomez]

Thanks for the realistic review. Too many people who respond to postings don't know what they are talking about. They tend to be 'armchair' whatever and talk like they actually have experience with whatever they are commenting on. I rode my modded '02 Suzuki DR650 for a month through Mexico in a variety of conditions. Nothing too major but... It's Mexico. It handled everything I through at it. It's 37HP. Decent suspension. No luxuries whatsoever. And I did Mexico without cruise control..... Didn't even think about cruise control. I had so much fun. I got to ride the bike, but I think this video made up my mind for me between the bikes I was deciding from. Yes, for $9,999, it's a super value. People think they need a $15,000+ ADV bike to go anywhere. If you have a soul that matches the ADV spirit, you can do it for much less.

[@zudosmg]

I ended up with the V-Strom 800De and I am happy. With my experience with off road either bike would work for me. Suzuki has better colors imo though haha. I've never had cruise control on any bike I've owned so it's not much of a miss for myself. I do plan on doing longer tours with this one so I may find a solution that works at that point. Great review and all the other videos you posted on it. The Brothers from Red and Yellow will make the masses pretty happy over the hardcore riders.

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

Take one long big road trip on a bike with cruise and you'll ask yourself why you bother spending $10k+ on a bike that doesn't come with it when you could just get something on the used market for half that.

[@davidskaggs9914]

Nice video. I'm sold...ended up buying one and took it up to the Black Hills, South Dakota and then over to Yosemite, through Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and back to South Texas. Camping off the bike most days. It was flawless and handled gravel roads and dirt and cruised at 75-80 effortlessly. I did put Veridian cruise control. I set "user mode" and used "rain mode" a few times. Got 55 mpg. Great all round bike! Cost me $11k OTD after ttl and prep fees.

[@advredbikes]

Hi Ben, thank you for the honest 1000 Mile review. Once the snow leaves I am going to take a test ride on the Transalp at my local Honda Dealer.

[@ScottDschaak]

Well, if I had any questions about this bike, I don't now. Great job, so much so that I feel comfortable buying this bike. I recently relocated to the Philippines, and just so happens the local Honda dealership has this bike on sale. I haven't ridden any two wheelers in the last 5 or six years, but I have never lost the itch. I sat on the Transalp at the dealership, and it felt a little top-heavy just sitting there, but with my lack riding for years, I didn't have any recent experiences to compare it with. Thanks again

[@QuackLoud]

I think you have convinced me on this one. A great review, especially since you seem to be the only person that has recognized that $10K required compromises. Thanks.

[@marklanders630]

I have a ten year old Honda NC700X that is perfectly capable as a commuter and with some upgrades would be fun on gravel roads, but I live in the rainforest and ride on road 99% of the time. Ultimately I would have more than one bike, but until I win the lottery I'm sticking with my old Honda.

[@PerdeStal]

I own a 2014 NC750X since they came out and can find no reason to upgrade, even though I love the Transalp and Africa Twin. That extra money for hardly any benefit made me accept the fact that I may own the bike for the rest of my life. I love the NC. Stay safe.

[@zebrakadaver626]

Still a Great bike mate

[@bfields1448]

I test drove a nc700x the front wheel is only 14" not good for off roads. But it was nice bike reliable

[@marklanders630]

Yup, its a great commuter with loads of storage with the frunk and panniers and 75 mpg u.s. Definitely not for trails.

[@zinofoblivion]

I just discovered your channel and I'm a fan. Thanks for the good pieces of information you give! Love the overall tone of the video and the 8-bit vibe to intro and outro. Keep blasting!

[@chadmullins4373]

Yay Dork! It is Dork in the Road and Ian for me. I love watching both. Even when they are long reviewing the same machine. Thank you !

[@jamesbouakadakis3679]

I love this bike! Bought it for my birthday on December 29th. Almost 400 miles and it does more than what i need it to do.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Just saw a T7 and TA side by side at a dealership. Different bikes for different purposes IMO. I would still choose the Tuareg 660 over both. For how and where I ride I chose the V85TT.

[@heritagehillsecurity8778]

I like it. I think anybody that expected it to be like the old one was not disappointed. Those are still great, and they were used by police departments from fFance to Spain. Thank you for another great review.

[@TwoWheelsThreeSheets]

Thank you for the follow-up, Ben! After building the CB500x Haflrica-Twin for Rose, I was considering the Transalp for my next bike. I love our Africa Twin, but it's more bike than I need when riding solo, and honestly, I'm not sure I will be able to re-register it once we make it back to California. I may just need to speak to someone at Honda... 🤔

[@MarksGarage17]

Well-My new Honda Transalp is being delivered this week! Looking forward to experiencing all that it brings to the table. Cheers....and thanks for helping me make that decision.

[@lukef5370]

I got my first dual sport last year. I've ridden dirt bikes since I was 12 and still own them, but I didn't want to go all in so I got me a little CRF300 and it's been a blast so far, but now I want more. I have a V star cruiser and want the comfort of longer rides with the opportunity to go off-road, so I've been looking into adventure bikes. I feel this one is calling my name. Thanks for the review. 👍

[@mikelobdell2666]

Excellent points. I like a bike with good tractor factor and many people say this bike prefers higher revs. Nice to hear you say that there is enough low end torque to tractor up a hill. Sounds like the ride modes resetting are probably the biggest annoyance. Still an excellent bike if used as designed. I believe you can push it but be prepared for way more wear and tear and a shorter life span.

[@larcorba]

Riding the Transalp 600 right now, mainly offroad camping trips. Love Honda, but after seeing the TA750 and hearing a lot of negativity was thinking to go save up for the T7... Your honest review made me rethink and I might just stick with the Transalp line 👀 Back on the list.

[@MattPerry]

try both of them and see what you like

[@johnnyd.8672]

Yup. "Excellent." You nailed the review. Honda nailed the bike. I just bought one. (The Tenere is sexier, but the TransAlp will take me farther). That's it. Excellent, all over.

[@Lukebigrig]

Thank you, I've been excited for you to get to the 1000 mile mark for this review. Hopefully some day i can get a transalp, but for now I've got an old street legal xr400r and a honda nc700x I can take on adventures.

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

Awesome vid Ben. You and Ian @BigRockMoto are my top "go-to" KZbin personalities in the ADV/Dual Sport segment and both of you guys say about the same thing regarding the Transalp. I was pretty keen on the 890 but the quirkiness/reliability concerns put me off. Having been on an AT for a few years, thus spoiled by Honda's quality and reliability, seems like the Transalp checks most of the boxes for me. I REALLY wish it came with cruise control and think I'd prefer tubless tires but otherwise, it seems like a good choice for my next bike. Keep the awesome content coming Ben and hopefully we'll get to ride together some time.

[@Moleskineman]

Wild that the Trans Alp doesn't have tubeless, yet my €6500 Honda ADV350 scooter does

[@alfredocesarano757]

I got myself one last month, grey color with a few cool accessories such as skid-plate, engine guard, urban pack, knuckle guards and 12v socket. It is a great bike I love my Transalp ❤

[@nozgear]

great review. i have become a fan of honda for recognizing that not everyone wants to spend big money for more bike than they need.

[@checkingreality]

I thought the nord was your most controversial bike? solid review, all of your product reviews should be like this. What can the product do? what cant it do? Pros cons etc. You should be proud of this one.

[@beachamowen6601]

Enjoy your channel -- CONGRATULATIONS! You are, what could be, the only media voice that knows the difference between "further" and "farther. Thanks. Beacham Owen

[@chipmattes1160]

Great video, I've enjoyed watching your coverage of the TA. I only started riding two years ago (post mid-life crisis??) and bought a '22 CB500X for my first bike. After almost 7k miles (mostly pavement and some gravel) in two years, I loved everything about the CB except for the longer stretches of highway at higher speed. I was seriously looking at the Transalp but came across and ended up purchasing a loaded '22 F850GS Rallye demo with 350 miles on the clock a few weeks ago which was in the same ballpark price-wise as the TA. Hoping I made the right decision!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Damn that's a smoking deal if you got it for around 10k

[@chipmattes1160]

@@DorkintheRoad Ha! I wish! I'm in WA and we pay a premium for everything around here! With TTL, I was $14k OTD. I was getting $13k+ OTD quotes from the area Honda dealers for the TA. One nice thing is that I don't have to spend $$ for some of the goodies already on the GS.

[@MishMashMoto]

We are currently looking for our next bike purchases and appreciate this reviews perspective. Sure we all want Honda to make the 750cc light weight and more affordable version of the Africa’s twin, that’s just not the case here. While I have not ridden one yet, from your & other reviews I see it more like a different but “better” machine to fill the roll that the Kawasaki KLR did for so many years. Keep up the good work Ben!

[@MotoCampAdv]

Freaking love this bike! I can tell you do too. Safe travels and happy trails .

[@killerx1307]

They came out with this a year too late, I would have bought a Trans Alp if it was available, but I bought a Tiger 850 Sport in 2022, and am very pleased with it.

[@jeckjeck6943]

No regret, the Tiger is a very good bike. There will always be a different / better bike every year.

[@killerx1307]

@@jeckjeck6943 No regrets at all. I like Hondas, and would have bought the TA without looking at the Triumph. But I am very impressed with the Tiger. Rode from Minnesota to Washington state last summer to attend the TouraTech rally and ended up riding 1021mi in 18hrs on the way home.

[@davidruggles996]

Great review Dork. Keep up the great videos!

[@cogentdynamics]

I was able to try one of the new Transalp 750 after building a rear shock. I am super impressed by the Honda! I like the feel and would be a nice nimble bike and I liked it on gravel roads. This thing is super. Thanks for your nice review!

[@walterbarlow8173]

As a distant past 1st gen multi TransAlp owner, it's exactly what I would have expected. The TA always punched above its weight and what the spec sheet might suggest. Not what I'm interested in at this time; but I'm not surprised at your review.

[@realinv3ntor]

Hey Dork, I've been watching your content ever since, no need to say its great. I would really appreciate if you could put the figures in metric too for the people like us (most of the world) who don't use freedom units (horses, arms, digits etc.). I'm an engineer and calculate these quickly like many people. But for the most people 33.7 inches in length or 4.5 gallons might not ring a bell. Thanks and have a great one!

[@troypatterson5862]

Excellent review. Between yours and Ian's I feel pretty well informed. Thanks. Safe travels.

[@matthewpeterson3329]

Great Review. I owned a KLR 650 for several years and was never comfortable on it. I have 30 years of experience on dirt bikes, and thought the KLR was a good, inexpensive choice for touring and adventure riding. At 5'6, I never felt too short or lacking for skill on my CR500, my YZF450, or even my old Husky 510 ( a damned tall bike), yet the only time the KLR felt okay was at speed, on any terrain. In any type of low speed or low traction riding, the KLR showed what a top heavy pig it was. Just a let down. I think this Transalp is exactly what I would have hoped for back then... low seat, low CG, and a smooth engine for long strips of pavement between trail heads. I might have to give it a second look.

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

Number one thing people need to consider is weight when planning off road riding. The difference between a 340lb bike and a 440lb bike off road is amazing.

[@matthewpeterson3329]

@@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC Yep, you're right. And honestly, I was fully aware of what I was buying, and fully confident in my skill level. When the time came to leave the pavement, I was shocked by how badly the KLR wanted to tip if you got more than a few degrees out of plumb at low speed. Like an upside down pendulum. I don't think it was the weight, but more where the CG of that bike is. I suppose a taller rider would feel differently, being able to plant feet when needed. In the end, I used it more as a commuter for about 15k miles before selling it, and went back to my YZF and even my little TW200 when I wanted to ride dirt or moto camp. Laugh if you want, but the TW is as comfy as a pair of slippers, and brings more joy, as a pack mule, than the KLR could have ever given. Riding should be fun, not a fight.

[@jeckjeck6943]

100% agree with you. I bought an almost new transalp few weeks ago from an official dealer ( 90 miles / 10500$ ( transalp is sold for 11500$ new here)) and i like it a lot, more and more every day. i am 6 foots tall and i installed a WRS caponord windshield. Game changer at highway speeds ( 85 miles/h here in france). As i commented in another video of you, you can unplug the ABS fuse to kill Tc ans ABS rear and front for offroading. Or install a kill switch on the ABS fuse circuit to shut them off on the fly.

[@DuncanJimmy]

Great video with an excellent rundown of pros and cons. Only thing I'd disagree with is the "NC750 vibes" criticism. Looks are obviously subjective and totally agree the Transalp isn't attractive, but I think the NC750 looks MUCH better and know many who have concurred. The primary difference is the steep angle of the Transalp's tank to allow riders to stand which makes it looks clumsy and top-heavy.

[@willyjimmy8881]

I'd been on my cb500x for 2 years and loved it except it just didn't have the power and comfort for multi-day rides. A month and a half into my TA and man it's perfect. I was concerned that the larger size would be a disadvantage because I typically like smaller bikes but it feels lighter than it is once you're on it. And the seat is so much better than the cb500x, like way way better.

[@JW-xp5kv]

Nothing like an awesome view whilst draining the bladder @ 13:27! Great review, thanks Dork!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I wasn't peeing but it definitely looks like I was

[@nickharris3977]

I was going to say the same thing lol - hey…we all do it right?

[@longjonwhite]

Haha! Yes, I guessed you weren’t, but thought it looked like you were too! PS. I had an old TA 650 a few years back, great bike, I would say “all rounder”, but tbh gravel tracks and the occasional smooth field were as near as I ever went to “off-road”.

[@JustinNapper]

A few months ago I told you my opinions about the very issues you mention now. You responded I left but glad I seen this. I love Honda but they are cheap on several things. So I guess the census is when you buy one get ready to spend money to improve and protect your bike. Either way shop cautious because there’s other options and manufacturers that offer a lot more.

[@bikerbeliever8169]

takes a real man to admit when they were wrong. Good job bro.

[@PeterVred]

I bought it! Selling my AT, and going for a more moderate line. Thanks for helping me over the bump in my head.

[@markusludwig6023]

Great review, the summary at the end of the video is absolutely identical to what I would say about my CB500X. (after 13Tkm European TET) Only, that on long riding days I like my air cushion seat pad for adding comfort.

[@craighoffman6876]

Nice review! These sensible Japanese midsize bang for the buck ADV bikes make so much sense for the rest of us, the Honda seems to really hit the sweet spot best. It is a pity Honda didn't see fit to bring the TA into the US with their red/white/blue color scheme and at least make cruise an option though as part of a tarted up premium package with bags and whatnot. Of course I'd have to get back the missing horsepower and then some by flashing the ECU. So, inquiring hooligan minds wanna know, will it do a quick shifter enhanced whoolie? I would be willing to attempt that on somebody else's bike, for research purposes of course 😆

[@PeterVred]

My final decision on a bike to replace my 2019 Africa Twin goes to yo and this video, I bought one. Honorable mention to Big Rock Moto, and Adventure Undone. Was a struggle, thanks so much for the help!!

[@advryan1]

I owned a CB500X for a short stint and it was silky smooth on the highway. I felt like it would last forever, so I can only imagine the pleasure the Transalp must bring you riding those twisties to the trail. I think ADV Riding definitely has a stigma that you have to pay to play, and this bike seems more than capable if setup properly, you'll just have to choose your lines more carefully in areas. Definitely a fair price, especially at only $10k. That's kinda what lead me to buy a 390 Adventure years ago. Bang for the buck idea. There is also a strange level of satisfaction that comes from doing cool stuff on a bike that people don't believe it's capable of. As long as you're happy with it that's what counts!

[@pajo2460]

Great review Ben The bike is on my Radar .Honda has built many awesome bikes for many years Cheers🤟

[@DorkintheRoad]

You're right about that.

[@PhT80]

I wish bikes were as ”cheap” in here as they are there. That same bike costs 15990 € in Finland and that is around 17560 USD. Great review BTW. Thanks!

[@JuddDredge]

Haha! I love the way my NC750X looks! But my feelings are not easily hurt. Most people will say the Transalp is better than my bike, And that is true. But I'm not seeking a single all-rounder. For the road I like my nc750x, but I'm planning a very different bike for off-road riding. Great video, Great channel.

[@Robert8455]

Good assessment. A bit of a shame they missed some pretty important points for off road capabilities. Honda doing its own thing and always playing it safe and for the biggest market appeal.

[@xcaceuk]

Another cool review. So right about the front end and the dual headlight look - it would have created a true classic 🎶

[@adventureundone]

Great vid man 👍 and great bike for sure. But after 1k+ miles on mine, I was glad to part with it. We need an upgraded Transalp Adventure Sport.

[@rayshobbyfarm.1019]

Like most of us I do have a limit on my budget so I'm looking into something not costing 20k+ and this is a serious option. I don't do hardcore off-road (as you said, most of us don't) I do commuting, day trips, weekend trips, but also have a 1000km stretch every month ( visiting my kid). I was looking at a bigger tourer for the comfort and ease on the highway, but the bad conditions of local roads, and a million speedbumps make me thing about something more 'all-road' orientated. You made it sound I can easy do that 1000km on 1 day. I was looking at a Benelli TRK 702X but I can't really get over the "budget image" of the brand. And I'm not so sure I gonna like the 1000 km in a day on a "budget bike", I also need to go back after the weekend. Also looked at a BMW 750 and 850GS but I hear to many problems from BMW riders. And since we are getting these Environment zone restriction in city limits, older models are out of the question soon. I really like my current 2008 Honda NT700. Really appreciated your no-nonsence review style, and I'm going to the dealer soon to try one out. Thanks, ride safe.

[@danbraden4401]

I agree Ben with everything you said. I have one out here in Colorado and only have been on gravel roads and the street.I have had two Africa twins and a T7 and feel this is the best bike for me out of all the other bikes. Loved the AT but way too big and heavy for the BDRs for me. The T7 was just alright kinda boring to ride and top heavy only being 5'8. Thanks for all you do!!!

[@fooslinger]

I appreciate the complete review you produce. I think my enduro travel bike of preference is still the KTM 690, for light weight and decent suspension. Anything heavier is for me too much mass in the dirt.

[@MrBigPipesYT]

In regards to being named a smaller number than the engine size 755cc/750. Honda did the same with the Hornet 900 having a 919cc Fireblade engine. Branded Honda 919 in America and can attest they're absolutely awesome motorcycles.

[@gregkiester]

This would be my perfect bike if it had cruise control. 😢 Excellent review!

[@Tripleb6036]

Great to watch while I await mine. I’m going to be touring the Philippines on my CRF300L for shorter stints and the Transalp for longer rides and where the CRF isn’t allowed (expressways in the North). The problem here is that parts are a little harder to get.

[@jonminzner7902]

Man, there are so many choices . Iam not looking for long distances {hand disability}. A light 300 -400 cc bike for around town and back roads. NH is not friendly for dirt bikes. Great video Ben.

[@RadicalLinguisticDescriptivism]

Definitely on my list of future bikes to consider. I don't really do much off road riding but the street capability and features of this bike look very nice. Capable, affordable and Honda reliable... interesting bike for sure.

[@jeckjeck6943]

And very fun with the Hornet's engine ! Very easy to handle, very capable and forgiving on bad roads. ( Transalp owner here)

[@0HARE]

Thanks for a great, informative review. I’m getting close to picking up my new TransAlp, and from all the reviews of it that I’ve seen, it will be the perfect bike for me. I have a CRF300 Rally for the off road stuff, and the TransAlp will be for the on-road stuff. A perfect combination. Happy Trails!

[@JagLite]

$999,000 is an awful lot for any motorcycle. Nice review. I'm interested in it as well as the Suzuki V-Strom 800. Now to find some comparison videos.

[@mikemoran3348]

What a great review. I always thought because you Americans didn’t get earlier iterations of the ta you didn’t understand it. I have the earlier 700 and really all Honda have done is fixed the misgivings I have with the bike. More power and a 6th gear. I love my old bike but if I feel like upgrading it will definitely be the 750. Good work

[@BrianDoherty-e8s]

Doing 50 down narrow logging roads, I hope it has deer/elk/bear/Sasquatch auto-braking mode. I used to do 50 and sometime more down such roads unlit a large buck crossed left to right with no chance of me slowing down. I went left and my right hand and grips hit the deer's tail. No one was hurt, but ripping down narrow roads ... no mas!

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Similar potential probs with Australian roads. Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wombats etc etc etc. You can't be too careful folks.

[@mdc503]

Enjoyed the review. I do hope you play around with a more aggressive tire before things dry out.

[@BillMitchell-lm8dg]

I'd be interested in knowing the ease of maintenance, including changing the air filter and engine oil, and maybe even adjusting the valves. The less time I have to leave a bike at a shop for maintenance, the better.

[@johannesmaas4206]

I was so surprised how good that bike handles and how relaxed you can ride it. Just ordered one of the last bikes they had before the facelift, got a huge discount (approx 2.000€ less than msrp) so I ordered a lot of additional stuff (quick shifter, skid plate & low motor protection, heated grips, center stand, hand protection, ..., ...) - guess it will be pretty good for having some longer relaxed trips and have fun here and there when letting the throttle go a bit (coming from a powerful 4 cylinder I want to slow down a bit).

[@Liberty4Ever]

I didn't want the new Transalp to be a Honda T7. I wanted it to be a 370 pound 500 cc single with a large rear rack, large fuel tank and other niceties to make an off road oriented ADV bike that had the HP to do long stretches of interstate if needed without being at 90% of redline. I wasn't disappointed because I knew Honda wouldn't sell us that bike. Apparently nobody will. We've been begging for decades. The Chinese are getting close.

[@jyoung488]

Same reasons I got my Suzuki Vstrom 650, that DOES come with a 12v accessory plug 😁, and is plenty capable for myself.

[@d.d.7287]

I'm sold on this thing. I really wish we had the option for the white and blue color though.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I bet it'll be out next year.

[@JacobAnawalt]

Fair assessment, especially when you consider Shonky Production's Adventure Bike Truth video and realize the Adventure over the mountian bit is oversold and what we are in shape and skilled to handle with big heavy "adventure bikes" are well groomed gravel roads, which can be an adventure but don't match what the Ads sell us on. Don't go get stuck on single track, muddy roads, or in deep sand with a GS1100, Tenere, or this bike. Enjoy the daily commute or coffee run, and some light fireroad to the campground. If you ride a BDR with buddies though, know you're going to be going slow to keep from smashing your bike up when they're bombing on higher clearance and top heavy bikes, or dual sports, or dirt bikes.

[@kevinsterner9490]

Been following your Transalp series. This recap seems spot on

[@Michael_Shay]

Upshift magazine recently posted some red white and blue graphics they're working on for this bike and it really made me take a second look. I'm just not a huge fan of the boring black.

[@lorisbarbieri7771]

Thanks for the honest assessment. It might just be the adventure bike I was looking for.

[@cgm45]

Really enjoy the videos, especially as another Oregonian. I was hoping you might know where I can go to schedule a test ride for the Transalp, as most of the dealers I've contacted won't do them, and I'm not about to plunk down 10K without a test ride. Thank you, Chris.

[@rorymiskimen5221]

I just discovered this review, and although I’m not interested in buying one, having just bought a Tuareg 660, I was curious about the TA knowing that Honda is going to sell a boatload of these MCs, with lots of ADV riders buying if they can find one to buy. Enjoyed your review, and most seem to agree the TAs strength had always been in touring and light off-road travel, say in riding from Paris to Switzerland, and this new TA hits that mark very well.

[@spinnetti]

Nice review. Cruise, phone mount and power are dumb misses for its purpose, and not saving your mode and tube wheels are annoying too. Otherwise sounds like a good allrounder. but increases the cost a fair bit to fix the shortcomings. Maybe next year they will fix some of that - I can wait.

[@joeybobbie1]

Great review Ben. I sure like the Price of these. Right now I’m Riding a 2006 R1200GS, but thinking about getting something smaller with the lower Seat Height and less Weight. This Transalp seems to tick all the Boxes for me. There’s no way I’m going to spend an enormous Price for an Adventure Bike or any other Bike. I think I’ll be getting a Test Ride on the 750, but I’m going to wait and see if they start bringing the White, Red and Blue Colors here. Thanks for the honest review Ben.👍👍

[@alank9682]

I’m on a 2005 R1200 GS and am thinking the same. Did you end up getting a TA? If so, any regrets?

[@Jeremiah_Johnson139]

Nice review, Ben! I agree with your final take and praise for Honda hitting what (they) were aiming for. Occasionally you give your opinions on certain moto parts, and you seem to be a fan of 'Seat Concepts', but would you ever consider doing a back-to-back comparison of Seat Concepts, Sargent and Corbin for the same bike? Seats are ridiculously expensive, and it would be awesome to have an opinion on this from someone we trust.