Is the Honda Transalp 750 a Good Touring Bike? (EP.7) (w/comparisons)

[@BigRockMoto]

Episode 8 - Tubeless and Cruise, Episode 9 - Comparo, Q&A, Final Results 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Cardo Packtalk Edge:: cardosystems.rfrl.co/62nyq ⚡ MSR Base Layers: bit.ly/3K3bQ8s ⚡Garmin inReach Communicator: amzn.to/40zZwo1 ⚡MSR Xplorer Jacket: bit.ly/3SjxHwk ⚡MSR Xplorer Pant: bit.ly/3Iraq6S ⚡ Arai Contour-X Helmet: imp.i104546.net/6e1WXN ⚡ Forma Adventure Boot: imp.i104546.net/vnXJ6e ⚡ DJI Osmo Action 4 Cameras: amzn.to/493cfTl ⚡ MSR Hydro Pak: tinyurl.com/ebw7wf35 🏍TRANSALP BUILD: ⚡Veridian Cruise Control: veridiancruise.com/product/honda-xl750-23-transalp/ (USE CODE BIGROCKMOTO FOR A 12% DISCOUNT!) ⚡Yoshimura Exhaust (RevZilla): imp.i104546.net/jr6NgM ⚡Yoshimura Exhaust (3D Cycle Parts):tinyurl.com/43atb72d ⚡3D Cycle Parts Light Kit: tinyurl.com/3rnvzmfv ⚡DMD Navigation: www.drivemodedashboard.com/ ⚡Tractive Suspension (Ted Porter's Beemershop): www.beemershop.com/category/xl750-transalp-4992.html ⚡Barkbuster Handguards: tinyurl.com/yc5mv3hn ⚡Motoz Adventure Rallz Tires: pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ Tusk 2Track Tires: tinyurl.com/ywxscetz ⚡Outback Motortek Crash Bars and Skid Plate: tinyurl.com/5fjmb7h2 ⚡Altrider Footpegs (coming soon for the Transalp): altrider.com ⚡Antigravity Battery (ATZ-10): tinyurl.com/yk2vh95k ⚡Tusk Olympus Tank Bag (sm): bit.ly/3yfaQbi ⚡Sedici Dry Bags: imp.i104546.net/JzW41r ⚡Puig Wind Visor: imp.i104546.net/ORazYN ⚡Tusk Tubes: tinyurl.com/ms5ezbap ⚡ Rigg Gear TailBag: imp.i104546.net/VyQQdk ⚡ Highway Pegs: amzn.to/3I2Ctde ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@jnano2071]

As part of the final results it would be really cool if you could update your adv excel document with the ratings and comparison

[@TimRHillard]

Hey, did you move?

[@blainegauvin9458]

Hi Ian... I'm a truck driver up in Canada and I get how frustrating it is to have semi's blocking both lanes. Most of the time up here its because most company trucks are governed at or near the same speed for insurance purposes and the schedules are tight so they get in a pissing match... the passing rig moves in as close to the rear end of the trailer in front of them to get suction just like nascar racing and then jumps out along side the other rig to pass... usually this will be enough to help propel you with enough momentum to get passed the other rig. Unfortunately it dos'n't always work if your both really heavy or the head winds are strong, you end up losing your steam and this is where road manures or the lack of them come in to play. The offending driver has to admit that he can't pass and then should back off and pull back in behind the other rig, also the rig being passed could just let off the fuel a bit and allow the passing rig to get passed him. Unfortunately road manners seem to be at a premium these days, drivers just aren't as polite anymore... I will apologize for them. Please keep up the Transalp content, I'm strongly considering buying one and am taking notes on your mods and opinion... cheers.

[@HyperSpaz]

Great explanation. I’m also a driver but am no longer allowed to get anywhere close to another’s rear bumper due to distance monitoring and the “All Seeing“ dash cam.

[@timonschneider6290]

Also I feel like North American semi detached trucks are undermotorised.

[@chiefenumclaw7960]

I like to drive my car slow, so it's not uncommon for semis to pass me. I ALWAYS take my foot off the gas (usually slow down 10 mph) when they're passing. I don't like to be camped out next to them & I appreciate that they have limited acceleration. The fact that truckers won't do the same is perplexing.

[@Roberta_Esposito]

trucker/ biker 33 years.. agree

[@BraapTales]

Canadian truckers are the best thing in Canada! Stay awesome bro

[@defylifeadventure]

Now that really is going the extra mile (pun intended). Don't think many would just do a 350mile trip just to show us how the bike is tour. Mad props. 👍🏼

[@paulvandervyver4223]

When you are laughing riding a bike , it's a tell tale sign that you are really enjoying it😁

[@GrandSolarEclipse]

I couldn't agree more.

[@matthewlovejoy9917]

I've got one and yes I am continually laughing inside my lid too...fantastic out of the crate value for money bike I've ever owned...ive had a few over the years best buy in a long time

[@RevansNightmare]

I love your content. You’re very informative. I preordered my cruise control before you had your discount code. I ended up contacting their customer service and they refunded the difference! Can’t wait for your review.

[@sercio994]

Cool 👍🏼

[@BigRockMoto]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@fatcole1152]

Back when I was a truck driver, my trainer elected to be part of the company's 60 mph club. The company would pay drivers more per mile in return for governing the top speed of their trucks to 60 mph. The company claimed it was for improved safety, but it was pretty much a given that it was primarily about fuel economy and emissions. In addition to the obvious cost savings from using less fuel, there was a tax incentive for companies to convert a certain percentage of their fleet to 60 mph trucks. So now we get to enjoy watching trucks eco-race on the interstate. We're supposed to slow up slightly to let the other truck pass, but I rarely see it happen. It's likely going to take a law change to force truckers to let another truck pass. I always let them pass just because it made me nervous to be a few feet away from another truck on a windy interstate where a gust of wind can send a truck into the other lane. That, and I had no confidence in the abilities of other drivers

[@wdewilder]

thanks for checking all this bikes out for us !

[@danielklopp7007]

I am with you regarding big-rig trucks (and other left-lane bandits)... the lack of "lane discipline" in the USA is appalling! Pet peeves aside, keep up the good work bringing us valuable content!

[@danielklopp7007]

@@jimbecker6599 Agreed! I am a USA native, however I lived and worked in Germany (private sector, not military) for 3 years... what a joy to drive on German roads!

[@MH-xd2nd]

Not just the USA… no lane discipline at all in the UK, even since middle lane hogging and tailgating became offences. In fact the only truth is that no matter where you are, on every ride there will be someone driving a large German car or SUV who will sit 6’ behind your back tyre until you move over, and will then go past you and 1mph faster than you were riding, or 0.5 miles later turn into a residential road - as if the 5 seconds they’ve saved was life-or-death 😂

[@InTheYear]

The big rigs are governed by the corporations that own them via satellite tracking

[@kwakithailand]

​@@jimbecker6599"team player mentality" is enforced by "very expensive tickets" 😂

[@elgringoec]

They used to have driver education and teach this along with lots of important stuff now left to just parents to teach. There's always some lame excuse why the public education system keeps failing us. And yet amidst all the failures, union lobbying, funding, and threats assure teachers salaries keep going up, up, and up. Like that'll fix it.

[@chrispaillous1064]

It’s funny how you guys in the US are discovering how great the Transalp is. It’s always been a phenomenal bike. I started with a 1990 600cc and now have a 2006 650cc. I am definitely looking at the 2024. I am super happy you love the bike. It is a work horse. The ones I had over the years never let me down. Can’t wait for the next episode. Installing a cruise control is super cool.

[@JebiSe-no5yb]

How does a transalp feel when riding with a passenger? Is it strong enough for two?

[@chrispaillous1064]

@@JebiSe-no5ybMy 650 is enough for me even with a passenger. My goal is pleasure not speed so I am ok with the 55 horse power. If you want something more responsive, it may be a little short in power for you.

[@markmccoy1304]

I think this is an outstanding Motorcycle. Running 80 on the Interstate so smoothly without the engine revving high is huge accolades to this bike. Having advanced Technology built in with so many choices along with sixth gear is priceless. Being at Ten Grand is icing on the cake. From what I hear these style Motorcycles are taking the place of Cruisers. I would rather have this than a $45K HD. Lot more Fun.

[@markchoitz443]

Great review and looked like you really enjoyed it. I got my TransAlp two weeks ago and after a 6 month wait - it was well worth it. I am looking forward to lots of trips as our weather in Oregon starts to mellow out. Thanks for the show.

[@fixento]

As usual another exemplary and informative review, thanks. After I totaled my 22 CB500X, I set on both the 2023 CB500X and Transalp 750 at the dealer's showroom floor, I realized that although she was bigger, she was light, and her low the center of gravity was as low as the CBs. I then was informed the TA was full of gas and the CB wasn't. I took a leap in faith and purchased the Transalp 750, $11,600 out the door, in late November. After my first ride on the Transalp, like you, I was astonished on how comfortable the bike is on the road, especially the seat after coming off the CB500X's seat from hell. With its low center of gravity, nimbleness, lack of vibration, and the engine's quick response, it’s as absolute blast to ride on curvy roads. I didn't have an opportunity to ride more than 125 miles quick roundabout, or off road as sporadic winter weather in northern Ohio. However, before they salted the roads in December, I did managed to put 760 miles on her clock. I ordered the Veridian Cruise control when you first mentioned it, and before you listed it, sorry. Looking forward to your next production, as I will go be going tubeless when her tires require replacing.

[@The_RC_Guru]

My drive to work- one way- is 200 miles. But I only go to work once a week and come home at the end of the week. I’m thinking this bike is going to be what I’m really looking for so I can occasionally go off-road/backroads too. For $300 I found a company that sells you the cruise control setup too.

[@codykeegan1848]

The trucker part is mostly because companies set the governors to anywhere between 65-70 mph... Most are 68-70.. so... When you get 2 trucks with the same governor limit and a slight difference in weight and then throw in hills... Sometimes we get stuck next to each other. I'm a driver myself.

[@coffeecoffee8]

By the way, the reason semi trucks stay side by side like that is a lot of our trucks are speed limited now. So what happens is a truck limited at 65 tries to pass a guy going 64.5. personally I'll slow down if I'm getting passed like that as to not hold up traffic but some people are just stubborn like that.

[@GraemeChapman-d6z]

Love what you have done to this bike Ian. Thanks again for a great review. Most appreciated.😊

[@jamesfoster3862]

In regards to the trucks. The thing is a lot of carriers govern their speed for fuel mileage. So truck A is governed at 66 mph. Truck B is governed at 65 mph. Naturally no one wants to get stuck behind the slower one. But all it takes is common sense and courtesy. Truck B could back off the throttle for 5-10 seconds and let the other one clear him. Super easy!

[@HyperSpaz]

As a trucker I deal with the same situation daily. Most (if not all) company tractors are governed at a max speed. Also weight differences, incline and declines all play a part in a truckers ability to pass one another. It’s not an intentional annoyance by the vast majority of truckers, although as in any profession there are a few bad apples.

[@paintball130]

Great episode, great bike. i'm excited for the tubeless wheel conversion :)

[@BigRockMoto]

Coming soon!

[@nkwd007]

I like your videos a lot. You really put effort to what you do, you do it with passion and I am sure it pays off with subscribers etc. Sometimes you mention and try to prevent stupid comments that people leave here. I don't think you should care about those. There are so many miserable people who would be writing idiotic comments just for a minute of attention on your popular channel. Carry on doing great job, don't worry about "keyboard warriors" who do not have a quoter of your experience with so many different bikes, riding scenarios etc.

[@thisisinakilarra]

This channel and dirtbike channel are the best ones out there.

[@michaljaskowski1309]

Hi. Thanks - I just love the way you react to the engine. That smile tells everything there is to it;)))

[@cliftonsr]

Ian your camera setups seam really spot on with all your reviews, and I would like to hear more about what you use and how you get setup to present your reviews, maybe like a once a month pointers for some of your enthusiast like myself that love this type of content in the motorsport industry. You have an awesome channel Ian that I love watching!

[@davidgiorlando4086]

I agree it's one of the most comfortable I have owned. 900 RP still king for all around but almost twice the price. Can't buy a better tourer for the money than the TA!

[@DelE-jc3yy]

You really get super thorough with your reviews, I appreciate all the hard work and time you put into it!

[@petezny4343]

Around here we call that a "rolling road block" except it's usually a Subaru in the left lane not a truck.

[@raza.o6078]

thank you for mentioning it in KMs

[@davecarrera]

I know that laugh. Picking mine up next week. I wish you well and safe journeys from Airstrip One.

[@797cc]

Great that you're giving the aspect of 'comfort' the attention it warrants! Let's hope it encourages more manufacturers to take this into consideration. I've never understood why bike makers spend a gazillion on design, tooling and manufacturing only to produce a machine that's painful to ride for more than 45 minutes. I recall a KZbin video where a bloke in Portugal explained he'd quickly sold his brand new BMW F900XR for that very reason. (Riders of older Ducatis might want to chime in at this point...) From personal experience I can state that, even with BMW's 'Comfort Seat', my 2009 F800GS is less comfortable than the 1994 R80GS I had previously - and it's not simply due to the difference in engine configuration. (A reviewer from Motorcycle News (a UK bike mag) described the original 800 seat as like having "a razor blade up the chuff").

[@HoratioBunce503]

Thanks for another great test, Ian👍🏼🤙🏼😎

[@Frip36]

This guy never got below an A- in school. Maybe....mayyyyybe in History. In which he got a solid B once. Because he'd rather daydream about the perfect camshaft than hear about Jeffersonian this and Jeffersonian that. Love the graphic detail. Thank you.

[@BigRockMoto]

history and PE anyway

[@TheWizardOfSanity]

i dont live in the us but i'm a trucker, and the superslow overtakes is because the rules makes you avoiding even 1 mph speedloss over a distance.. Although if i'm the one in the right lane i usually let of the throttle for a second to let the other guy pass by but everybody doesnt do that..

[@andrewthompson1313]

Thanks for your explanation. It is helpful to understand motivations and pressures experienced by others on the highway.

[@donnieyoung2774]

I liked the ride part of the video. One thing I'd like to suggest. Put pounds and inches in you comparison chart as well as metric.

[@logangodofcandy]

I recommend you just learn the basic math.

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

@@logangodofcandyArrogant comment…

[@TheSuperTropius]

​We are very small percentage of people that use In, lbs. If 95% of the world uses it that just makes more sense. Plus if you paid attention in school the math isn't hard at all​@@Kelly-oq9nh

[@asparceproton1]

My trucker friend once told me they pull all kinds of antics on the road just to annoy motorists and entertain themselves. Most of the time I think they're making good faith attempts to pass, but they could also be having a laugh. In any case, they could care less about cars and motorcycles they're holding up.

[@Grasshoppa97]

My Transalp is on the stock tires and the only annoying thing is the road noise from the front between 65-68 mph is quite loud. With your knobby tires I would have expected it to be much louder. Thanks again Ian!

[@cloud9847]

guys, those FORMA Adventure Low boots are the real deal. I've had my pair for about 1 1/2yrs and over 14k miles with daily use and they have at least another year on them. Best boots I've ever owned period.

[@soilsmanadv6673]

I really liked this type of review for adventure bikes. I think all of us end up on this type of ride going to and from and adventure. It is not all off road, fire road and back roads. Thank you Ian.

[@advredbikes]

Thanks Ian for the review, great to see the transalp on the highway looking forward to the cruise control add-on in the next video

[@MeerkatADV]

It can be shocking how much highway pegs make a difference in long distance comfort. The transalp has always struck me as being what an adventure-touring bike really should be. Generally comfortable, smooth, and able to handle simple dirt without drama.

[@BigRockMoto]

It's a great long distance cruiser

[@FireHawkISA]

I've put about 4000 miles on my TransAlp so far! Lovely bike, lots of fun in twisties and on the expressways here in the South East. Took a 700 mile round trip (highway and backroad) and the bike performed phenomenally. I do have the low seat - im 5'6" - and it doesnt make a huge difference but the extra inch lets me put much more pressure into the ground to move the bike around if im on it. A windshield and handguards are on my list, and since im going to be keeping this bike for a while, the tubeless wheels, cruise control/throttle lock, and maybe eventually the suspension will all be things to do. I live an hour ride from Andreani USA, and theyve been very helpful when looking at suspension, and offer a front fork tube cartridge kit I may get them to install. Thank you for doing such an in-depth series, Im sure that there arent as many people who use it so directly, but for those of us that do, its an excellent in depth run through.

[@TheZakkmylde]

Why suspension. Do you really find it that bad ? What kind of riding you do ?

[@FireHawkISA]

@@TheZakkmylde no, it's really not that bad. I'm at best a 60/40 rider, and don't have the experience offroad to back it up anyways. It really isn't bad - just a little pogo-y, especially with added weight from protection/luggage. I also have a pillion sometimes, and am seriously looking into getting my dog riding with me 😅 I wouldn't go full bore like Ian did, I'd probably get a mid-range setup. Andreani has some front forks kits for about 600-800, and a rear shock runs 1000+ regardless. So definitely more of a long term thing. Wait till I fully pay off the bike 😅

[@umbrellaman2501]

I'm in UK, but I imagine the trucks in USA have similar speed restrictions we have here ... hence why those two trucks are locked in a side-by-side death-match . Here in UK trucks are supposed to be restricted to 56mph (90kmh). Some employers impose company further restrictions of 50mph, 52mph, and some employers (like mine) manage to somehow get the truck to go 57mph without triggering the tachograph. The tachograph governs the speed limit 56mph. Generally, it's taught when you take your heavy goods licence to allow a faster truck to pass by. If an overtaking truck gets level I let them go pass. You have to also figure in the slight gradients and heavier laden trucks; these also determine a trucks speed. Some trucks are also more powerful than others, also. Trust me, it's stressful when you are the truck locked on the outside lane trying to over take, you might be only going 0.5mph faster than the guy who belligerently makes you hang out there in the lane. Unfortunately a lot of drivers just refuse to make it easier on everyone and let the *slightly* faster truck pass by. You wouldn't believe some of the alpha male crap that happens on the roads with other truck drivers leaving other truckers stranded in the passing lane. It's quite common on UK roads to have European truckers with a fully laden vehicle undertake (at around 70mph +) using their weight advantage and nearly causing death and destruction. So in short, there are a lot of varying speeds for trucks on the road because of the vast difference in their cargo/engine size/restrictions. And it makes for excitement for the truck drivers who get very bored doing 56mph (if they're lucky) but great frustration for car drivers also on the road and wanting to get somewhere.

[@BigRockMoto]

Good info thank you

[@logangodofcandy]

Depending on the purpose and routes, some tankers are set around 65, some local trucks 75, and I have seen long haulers doing 80mph.

[@patkennedy1]

Another thoughtful test of this surprising model. I still get pleasantly surprised by mine, now 9,500 kms in (not quite 6,000 mi) and it is usually the first bike (of three registered) I grab nowadays. It is undemanding, it is comfortable, it is fine on the many dirt roads around here, and it gets decent fuel economy. A good value machine, and as you found, quite competent for covering longer distances. The "pessimistic" fuel indication? The last 'bar' starts flashing, with the low fuel warning coming on, with 3.7L still to go according to the handbook, which is almost a US gallon (3.8L?) and enables 80 kms (50 mi) before running out. Mine has never run out yet. There is also the aspect of how high we fill the tank, as the manufacturer recommends filling only to the baffle plate, whereas filling it close to the top allows another whole litre. Not sure if that makes its capacity closer to 18L, as I have never fully emptied the tank, but I got 390 kms from a tank without running out, which is about 240 miles. Its economy is remarkable, but the average consumption read-out is less so. That has 'lost its mind' twice now, suddenly reading 299.9L/100 kms (has sat at 4.1 - 4.3L for most of its life) which then subsides to the correct reading over the next few hundred kilometres. A bit disappointing, but of no consequence to anything else. (Many have encountered this failure with Transalps and Hornets). Not sure if the US-delivered Transalps run the same gearing as the one we get in Australia, as one US test suggested the gearing may be a little 'shorter' (mine reads exactly 4,000 RPM at 110 - 112 kms/hr, or 70 mph). Can't help wondering if the Euro-delivered 90+ hp model we receive would score even better in your comparisons! Thanks for your in-depth testing of this (and so many other) models. The breadth of your tests gives you a good deal of authority.

[@kamax7672]

Hey Ian, you should , permitting of course, to include the new ktm 790/adventure as it is here in the US now and a direct competitor to the transalp and tenere. I have one and like it so far although its 22 degrees in NY and snowy so it'll have to wait :( I can say it will need a different seat. Also, maybe include miles/ inches in your breakdown, as it is the metrics we use here still.No pun intended

[@tanjukara14]

Hi Ian, I had my Transalp a week ago. You have great influence on my purchase. It is really great bike. A lot of fun to ride long distance. My only dislike is the humming noise which probably comes from tires, I suspect. It starts around 70-80 km increase at around 115km which is very annoying😢. Have you ever exprienced that sound?

[@JohnDoe-1000xt]

BRM..thanks, another informative bike/gear review..the work involved in this is extensive. Puts you on the top reviewers in this category..well done..ps ,the comparison chart is good

[@BigRockMoto]

Much appreciated!

[@antonoat]

You and the bike averaged 58 mpg UK gallons, I think that’s pretty outstanding especially as you weren’t hanging about, think I’m gonna have to get me one of these! Cheers for the review Ian, appreciated.👏😀👍🏍

[@TerraMagnus]

Miles test is really relevant. A light day for me with lots of sight seeing (or heavier mountain days) is about 250. Just covering a lot of boring highway miles as quickly as possible is more like 500. 300-350 is a good fun day with some fun roads thrown in and not much off-bike adventuring.

[@davedempster3405]

Ian, I've installed and truly enjoyed the Vista Cruise throttle lock type cruise control on my bikes for almost 40 years. From my '81 CB750F up to my current '12 VStrom 650 I've used this brand of "cruise control." It is relatively inexpensive, and is adaptable to many different cable actuated throttle systems (one cable, two cable ...). This device merely puts slight crimping pressure on the hand grip to hold the throttle in one position. It is easily overridden when needed and provides the option of removing the right hand from the grip to shake out the hand, or ???? Enjoy the content and follow your adventures and reviews. Toying with trading off my two bikes for this one .......

[@juliemcgillivray3394]

Can you say how the Trans Alp compares to the Africa Twin for touring? I'm considering the new '24 model with 19' front tire.

[@archivecontentsrestoration387]

same

[@nogerboher5266]

550km in 6 hours?!? Wow! When I go on longer rides like that, it takes me almost the whole day or at the very least around 10 or more hours, because I am a type of person that can not just ride (or drive) from point A to point B... I like to stop whenever I see something cool or nice or at a nearby city/town/village if it's cool, or if I think a road or an offroad path I'm passing by looks like it might lead somewhere cool, I will pause the trip to see where it goes or leads to, or maybe I'll just stop at some restaurants to eat something or at random small town coffee shops (especially near the coast line of a country!) and so on and so forth... I literally can't just simply drive from point A to point B! It's impossible for me to do, hahaha. Especially if I'm planning an adventure trip to somewhere, then I'm 100% taking 3-4 days off, because what's the point of an adventure ride if I'm just gonna go from point A to B! 😄

[@jeffbrown6880]

Would love to see a column in the stat sheet on reliability and after sales service. Great work as always. Thank you BRM.

[@ronaldquint]

🛵The I-10 in California was built in 1957. Next time run 62 east, 95 south, Intake Blvd. south, Seeley Ave. west, then 78 west. Brings you out at Brawley, then you can find your way back home from there, ALL on the “backroads”. 🏍️

[@baenkt]

Great work! I wold like to ad a column to your scoring chart. Dollars per point. A maximum value if you like. I think you are right about the distance, but it would be cool to see how for you have to go to reach the uncomfort 😅

[@robynmolle5842]

As always, great work 👍🏻

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks again!

[@kevinsterner9490]

Great job Ian. I agree the Transalp is more comfortable than the Africa Twin. I traded in my 2017 AT for the Transalp and find it slightly more comfotable. As for cruise control, I put on a Kaoko throttle lock like I had on my AT and love it. I use it to give my right hand a rest and it works great. I have never understood the big hoopla for cruise control. it seems that cruise control has not been around that long for ADV bikes, and now everyone expects it.

[@Thirsty_Fox]

Everyone expects it because they've gone to electronic throttle, so adding cruise is extremely easy for them to do. Pretty much just a button and the code they already have on their other systems.

[@stevesprissler8761]

Hi Ian, I ride long range adventure (I go on a 5,000 mile motocamping ride every year exploring off pavement 30% to 40% of the time) and was considering the TransAlp. I have watched all your TranAlp videos so far which were very well done and informative. The one thing I did not see was a 300 mile ride with luggage (maybe 40 to 50 pounds) to see how the TransAlp performs with a load in the moutains at elevation and how easy it is to pass when the bike is loaded. Could you possibly included that in one of your upcoming videos please?

[@neilmeiskey5482]

Hi Ian, recently sold my street bike and am considering getting an ADV. So many small/mid-size choices: KTM 390, KTM 790, Honda Translap, Royal Enfield 450 Himalayan (the four that interest me the most) and others. My question is the Honda looks well suited and at a good price point but needs an engine guard and crash bars immediately if I play in the dirt. Until all the dust settles how much additional investment MUST be done for each of the bikes I mentioned to be ready for ADV riding? I can live without the super niceties like tubeless tires and cruise control (although for the future would be nice) as well as any other personal desired accessories. I just feel the bare necessities need for each bike really has to be reflected in the final price point. I really enjoy what you do, keep it upi. It helps this future 74 year old newbie ADV rider make a wise decision!

[@zachbrautigam3179]

Just bought the tail bag! Got a new Tiger 900. Thanks for the link, exactly what I was looking for :)

[@shaundefeo4981]

How bad was the wind? Double lane trucks have a tendency to have the loaded trailers ride on the windy side and empty trucks ride beside and use the loaded as a wind break.. or they are just a$$holes..lol

[@elgringoec]

It's good to see these various opinions. I'm gonna go out on a limb here and postulate that it's the rider-bike combo that makes the unit.

[@holmesfamily2058]

Thanks for review. I was interested in this bike, but when I went shopping I found the Honda dealerships add on fees make the bike to expensive. When you quote a price of under 10k for this bike you are not taking into consideration transportation and dealer prep as well as dealer outrageous tag fees. I shopped at 2 Florida Honda dealers and the cheapest was $11500, the other one was $12200 plus sales tax.

[@foamysking]

The issue with the trucks is most of them have governors on the speed set somewhere between 63-70mph that is setup due to a combo of either internal company policy or from the outside the insurers want it mine was screaming to high hell because I dare to have it set at 75. Weight and hills don’t help on the passing aspect. But the governors are the largest single factor. Also all new trucks have a cruise control that does not go to a set speed it has a speed range and tries to work with the lay of the land to increase efficiency but causes speeds to vary without input from the driver

[@jkmayhem]

After getting a cruiscontrol on mine. I was laughing when i was using it hehe. I cant be more happy. My tybeless has also held up. I dont need anything else. Looking very much forward to this years adventures.

[@VamsidharaChakravarthy]

Nice catch with the "these people" phew glad no one else noticed 😂

[@Sport-ns5lk]

Great info, I have Honda crosstourer which is a great bike. However looking for mid weight bike to take over as my primary bike. I’m a 85/15 guy as far as off roading use and being able to add cruise control to the trans Alp is all I need to make a switch

[@sunnyvalejedi]

Love your chart! That’s really interesting!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you!

[@aBluegrassPicker]

Nice video Ian - one column I'd like to see is major maintenance ( especially valve check ) intervals

[@BigRockMoto]

Noted!

[@ezbeemer]

Glad to see emphasis on seat comfort. I'm getting tired of having to put a aftermarket seat on every bike I purchase. Often even that solution falls short.

[@posteroonie]

I'd like to see another column in your spreadsheet, dollars per point. Then you could add a row for each modded bike, with updated price, dirt, road, comfort, and fun columns. It would be interesting to see if the money you spent on mods increased the points you give in proportion to the money, in other words were the mods worth it.

[@Underthehelm]

Hi bro. I have to reply on a truck situation - the problem is,maybe with that other driver on a right side. I assume that the trucker on a left is tired of going behind this one on the right- reasons may be: trucker on a right is going unstable speed,slowing down and speeding up... Or it is a normal situation,when your truck is a faster than that infront,maybe that is 2 km per hour,and this is the reason why it last so long.But if you keep driving in back of this slower truck,you must brake alot ,and then will go in action and just hit the gas

[@theheartthehomecom7108]

The breakdown list is interesting… I’ve always wondered why we never see a XR650L in your content despite seeing the klr, the drz, etc. I know it’s a bit of a dinosaur but I think people would love the content 🎉🎉🎉 it’s so budget Friendly it’s stooopid!

[@cv-vv5wp]

Good question and why are the trucks stuck together well most of it has to do about the amount of power that the truck has to do the passing and drafting. Sometimes you lose all the horsepower in the truck when you hit the stream of the other truck, so it actually slows you down and you’ll see the big ones with the big 550 Moters they fly.

[@davidhuot2867]

Thanks again for this great video. One thing will say is missing is to give a score on reliability on your table. Will change a bit on the overall score?

[@sasimayandbruce]

I bought a 23 Transalp 750 and am having bad vibration at 3,500 and up. In the Handlebars and foot pegs.

[@TheDaveyhaha]

Was that car that came out of the petrol station after you driving on the wrong side of the road??? Also, 100% agree with your distance in a day. The longest I ever rode was about 850km from Barcelona to the Millau Viaduct and down to about 100km from Nice, and it nearly killed me. Admittedly, using a Fireblade to tour Europe may not be the best idea in the world! But after that day, my energy levels were in the toilet and it stopped being enjoyable. Generally, I would very rarely venture past 500km in a day.

[@pcsmax]

I really like the chart with the scores. It's not a surprise for me that the tiger 900 and desert x are the ones with higher scores, I had both and they are the most expensive, so you get what you pay for. BUT, the big surprise is the Tuareg 660 with the same high score with much lower price, must be a great bike. Thanks!

[@bsgt98]

Great video, I agree I can't stand left lane drivers. And for the truckers they are speed limited to 65mph, so with variances truck A is doing 65mph and truck B is going 65.5mph and pulls over to pass it's a struggle to get it accomplished then if they hit an incline etc truck B might lose more speed. It frustrates me every time I'm on the interstates traveling.

[@nymalo]

Give the Truckers a break. They both have their foot to the floor. They both have governors and are getting paid by the mile. Take a chill pill.

[@barrylauth6838]

You're spot on with the mileage. In fact, if you really want a nice your, drop that to 500km. Leaves more time to drink beer after you get to your overnight stay.

[@mfranquemont1884]

Another great review. Consider having 2 numbers per box; stock and modified. For example: transalp off road score: 5/8; Stock/modified.

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

You love your work and we love it for ya. Thanks Ian. I have a couple bikes now but thinking a trans alp may be next for me. Time will tell.

[@human1513]

Thanx. Another excellent video. Can hardly wait to ride mine once the snow goes away.

[@erkutgurun]

The KTM790adv should be on the list instead of the 890 if you want a fair comparison. I got the 790 that comes with cruise once you open the tech pack, and it comes with tubeless tires, steering dampener, 2 position seat, low center weight, cornering abs, and a 20lt tank, all of which the Transalp doesn't have. But you have a thing against KTM as to why you always avoid putting the 790 in your comparison lists, or talking about it, which is understandable.

[@BigRockMoto]

I've owned tons of KTM's, I have nothing against them. The 790 will be added shortly, but I can't score it yet because they just arrived to the US and I haven't ridden it

[@erkutgurun]

@@BigRockMoto Ok fair enough. So in that case, looking forward to you testing it out and scoring it against it's competitors.

[@alanjhand]

about the trucks blocking the lane, as they come up from behind the lead truck blocks the wind so the truck in the rear has some closing speed and tries to keep his momentum by making the pass, as soon as they come from behind the wind block they loose momentum and don't have reserve power to take the lead, but refuses to give up the failed pass. Time is money.

[@markwalters1584]

Good video! Would it be fair to put the Honda NC750X IN YOUR COMPARISON?

[@alloutlife88]

Love your videos, informative, all the specs a biker would want, including what gear u wear. Incredible.

[@JimGoryeb]

Great stuff, as always , Ian. Shouldn’t the lack of cruise control , vs other bikes, be factored into the comfort score, especially if you’re rating it as a touring bike? For me, having done two round trip cross country journeys on my GS and a NJ to Montreal trip recently on my Tuareg, the lack of cruise control would be a deal breaker. Also, tube tires would be a deal breaker for touring on any long journey. That you have to spend additional money for a clunky 3rd party cruise control system and aftermarket tubeless wheels is a big miss for Honda. And, it means the Transalp is not a 10k bike but really more like a 12k bike. Still a great bike for the right person.

[@thomassterns7120]

Been trying to talk myself out of buying another bike - you are not helping. If that cruise control works well and is relatively easy to install I may need to head to shop. Thanks for terrific, honest and very helpful content.

[@thegreenman2030]

The Transalp is throttle by wire so it should be a pretty strait forward job.

[@thomassterns7120]

@@thegreenman2030 yeah.. I watched the manufacturer's video and looks like a simple connector and a patch into the brake light lead. Will see Big Rock Moto gets along.

[@mountainlife1165]

Awesome analysis Ian. This helps me decide on my future purchase.

[@stylesbitchly9931]

Ian, great content as always. I have a Tiger 900 GT. It’s a great motorcycle with some nice accessories. But that Honda would be on my shortlist for sure. If I was in the market.

[@ChrisSauer-oe5ve]

Sorry but your Tiger is 10x better bike, I would never down grade. 😅

[@stylesbitchly9931]

@@ChrisSauer-oe5veI don’t disagree with your statement. But… that’s not a bad motorcycle for the money or cost of ownership.

[@gunarslodzins]

Looking forward to table comparison video with all the bikes! And cruise control review! And at the end which upgrades are worth it and which are not :) Somehow tubeless conversion looks meh to me. Thanks for the videos!

[@jsmith7013]

I've been back and forth. Tenere 700 vs Transalp 750. I had to come back to earth as I knew I just had to have a T7, but in reality, I would 90% of time ride pavement with some gravel roads and occasional logging roads. NOW that I am honest with what I will expect of myself and the bike, it will be the Honda. For me, it was a hard look at my expectations, age, skill level, and comfort. Both are great bikes, but when I am honest with myself, it is the Transalp.

[@karlfonner7589]

Excellent review. That chart looks extensive. Right now, I have a Kawasaki Z 400 that I bought salvaged. I put a cheapo windshield on it with nuts and bolts and plan to put on a Perelli upfront. I take it gold panning. At 376 pounds wet, I’m going to call it my trailer trash Transalp😂. Actually, the windshield worked pretty good in the rain the other day. It’s pretty gutless, but when you’re cruising at a mellow pace, you can get up to 65 miles to the gallon.

[@larrywade9041]

Thanks for the video my friend. That sure is pretty countryside. I didn't hear you say what your average speed was; I'm assuming maybe 75mph. If so, that fuel consumption figure of 49 would be good. I heard that the only color that we can get here in the U.S. is the grey/black. I watched a video from the U.K. & they get the white with blue & red stripes. I like the Transalp, but only in the white. Otherwise it would be a deal breaker. Cheers! Have a great day! Illinois

[@ggs0605]

Ian, yet again another great video! Can’t wait for the video on the cruise control and gps! ❤

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

I like the looks of this bike, perhaps me next second bike?. For 75% asphalt 25% gravel road from good to bad condition. Every day commuter and touring sometimes.

[@Kfelix2151]

If you have any pull with the guys at Honda, tell them I would buy a Transalp immediately if they made the rider aids as easy to turn off as the Tuareg. I’m afraid of long term reliability for the Tuareg. My Tiger 800 has 60k miles but all the new bikes have such intrusive rider aids that I don’t want to commit to one.

[@MrGeati6783]

Just came back from a 560km ride, what it is built for, through the Austrian alps. (3.7L/100km) Could do that every day, except my right arm may hurt after a while...

[@westeagle00]

I have just put on the first 500km on my new Transalp, and what an amazing machine it is! I just love the power and handling -EXCEPT I have been noticing that something is afoul. At first I thought it was just the roughness of the road surface transmitting up through the suspension, however I now realize it is actually the engine doing very small but noticeable (and now very annoying!) micro surges/ jerks or jitters (call them what you may). I would say they happen about 3 times a second and its a similar sensation to having bad gas with condensation (but I have changed my gas out to fresh 91 octane, so that’s not it). Here are the conditions when this happens: In Standard, Sport and User (with all settings maxed) modes, it is most noticeable in 3rd and 4th gears, while holding the throttle steady and open between 2000 and 4000 rpm, (as during cruising through a residential area). It only happens on flat, level pavement, not while going up or down a hill, and if the throttle is fully released, or accelerating, it does not happen -it only happens while holding the throttle open and steady. I have read that a similar phenomenon has been documented with some Africa Twins and is a thing that also happens with other manufacturers’ bikes the have ride-by-wire 270 deg twins. Does anyone out there know of a fix to this problem? Now that I have noticed it, I can’t un-notice it, and it’s starting to grate at me! I posted this issue on FB and many other Tranny owners are coming out of the woodwork admitting the same issue. I wish I knew about this problem before rushing headlong to order mine...

[@c0c0asauce]

Ok no pro tuner but your issue is probably going to be fuel related. Most factory ECUs lean out the mixture while cruising at lower rpm. Leaning out the mixture at part throttle and low rpm makes the engine a little less responsive which can make it easier to cruise at steady speed. Fuel ratio at idle works the same way. A rich idle can allow you to pull away with no throttle by slowly letting out the clutch. A lean idle can make the vehicle stall in the same scenario even if the lean idle rpm is set higher. An engine could surge at any rpm and any load if it is too lean or too rich. Solution would probably be a flash, piggyback, or one of those adapters that fools a sensor into running in a richer part of the map(like air intake temp.)

[@_Makanko_]

I've never done those mileages but I just go for a day blast, I usually only do like 200-250 miles tops. Not much comfort in highway riding the 390 anyway. Maybe something for later. Thanks for the touring test!

[@MrFurious1993]

Looking forward to the next episode as I have my pre-order in for the Veridian Cruise kit. Wish it had a resume function, but for half the cost of the McCruise kit I can learn to live without that feature.