Review Summary & Comparisons: Transalp 750 vs. Tenere 700 vs. V-Strom 800DE vs. Tuareg 660 (EP.9)

[@BigRockMoto]

⚡I meant to discuss the modifications more in-depth. The tractive suspension - it works great, but for most people doing a simple spring change would be enough and far more affordable. Outback Motortek crash protection - awesome. 3D Cycle lights, AltRider pegs, Barkbuster handguards, Veridian Cruise, Puig wind deflector, all amazing. Yoshimura pipe - I like it, might be too loud for some (you can get a db killer). Tubeless conversion - I'm 50/50 on that. Is it worth dumping money into the bike? That depends on how much you like it. For me, I'd just get a different bike if I wanted fancy features or better suspension. However, for any Transalp, I'd highly recommend crash bars, skid plate, handguards, lights, good tires, soft bags and then just gas and enjoy! ➕TRANSALP BUILD➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel]: ⚡Veridian Cruise Control: veridiancruise.com/product/honda-xl750-23-transalp/ (USE CODE BIGROCKMOTO FOR A 12% DISCOUNT!) ⚡Outex Tubeless Kit: tinyurl.com/yxynr9s8 ⚡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 ⚡ Mosko Moto Hood Tank Bag: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡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 ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ 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

[@GregLanz]

I never cared about cruise control on the Transalp until I watched your video and pre-ordered the Veridian with your code. Thanks for the info and discount! It also helps that they're in the same city I live in

[@SomeRandoInternetPoster]

The most comprehensive, honest real world ownership experience reviewer I’ve seen who calls out the good, and also completely honest about the bad. Good work sir, very good content 👍.

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@PlanCthruZ]

@@BigRockMoto this comment is on the money. You are good at this! You are living the dream BRM!

[@danielm6507]

Thumbs up for an 800DE build and long term review

[@leeinwis]

Tenere 700

[@osimnod]

When other ADV riders are referring to your channel for reviews on bikes, mods, pros/cons and applicability for the segment, you have to know you are adding great value to our market. Congratulations on doing us all a favor with your attention to detail, honesty, transparency and forthrigthness.

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you!

[@bennett-and-bikes]

Thank you Ian, at 65 years old, I've owned quite a lot of bikes but deep down I've always had a hot spot for Honda. I've had a Transalp for about 3 months now (in Australia so the slightly more powerful one) and really love the bike. I don't seek out anything too challenging in my old age but this is the first time in a long while with just one do-it-all bike and I'm not looking for anything more. Prior to buying the bike, I lived on You Tube and learn't as much about channel presenters as I did about bikes and to be honest, so many of them give a far from accurate evaluation to their audience. You live with the bike and actually learn how everything works, so when you do a review, I know it is worth watching. I would even see some testers using dirt mode on the dirt and either complaining about the lack of power, or even more incredibly thinking they weren't getting traction on a well formed road and you could see the TC light flashing away furiously. To be totally honest, if price and huge distance to the nearest dealer weren't an issue, I would probably be riding a Touareg but for me, the Hoda was a no brainer and I have absolutely no regrets. You can definitely consider the number of spontaneous outburst of laughter whilst you were riding the Transalp in your reviews as a mojor contributing factor to my purchase. Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@TheSuperTropius]

Best MotoVlogger on KZbin. I will die on this hill, you deserve nothing but the Best Ian!!!🎉

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you for the kind words

[@makmoto0606]

Nice comparison. Just picked up a used Tuareg the other day! A great value and definitely puts a grin on my face. Suspension truly is great, soaks up jumps and bumps. Sounds great too! Thanks!

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

Very clear cut in my opinion. I’ll just keep repeating myself. You’re the best in the business. Thanks for the work you do. Keep it up.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@IdealBike]

The Transalp 750 it's one of the few bike's I've owned that give me the feeling that will stay for a very long time in my garage, that I see myself riding this bike many years from now on. Thank you for your incredible work they were just amazing 👌

[@cousteaufan]

Bless you for mentioning both lbs and kg. Often overlooked that viewers might also live outside the US...but not you. Thanks!

[@AyjayM]

Fantastic job! Your reviews are among the very best on YT. Thanks for being so thorough and keeping us adventure enthusiasts and prospective customers informed.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@guymiller2842]

Absolutely Fantastic!!! Thanks very much:)

[@inferno66750]

I love my Tuareg. But I first I even didn't want to test it, because in first view it doesn't seems confortable, and I was afraid about reliability (I had an Shiver with issues). But after owning many Japanese bike and an Africa Twin 2017 before the Tuareg, I must admit after 1 year, 10 000km, many off-road, lot of very long trips, the Tuareg is just phenomenal. Confort, I feeling better that on the Africa Twin, I had absolutely no reliability issues.

[@flamby357]

What reliability issues did you have with the Shiver ? (i'm just curious, i almost bought this bike 2 years ago).

[@inferno66750]

@@flamby357 random issue where the bike wouldn't start when park outside. Like battery low even if not the case. It was resolved after ecu software update, but after that I had random issue of the bike stalling when pulling the clutch. It was on the shiver 750 not the 900 ;)

[@joanbarduena]

I've got my Transalp just last week. After watching your videos, the Transalp is the best bike for my needs. I come from a CBR500R and I use it mainly for commute. I do 110km (68miles) a day with it. So, I wanted something more comfortable, with more power, wind protection and to start going offroad (mainly gravel roads, for now). As all bikes, the Transalp has its downsides, but from the 4 bikes you talked about, it is the best that suits me. Thanks for the series! Greetings from Spain.

[@papercut1987]

I think we're in the same boat. Commuting 50mins everyday in a cbr is doable but not comfortable.

[@joanbarduena]

I agree, that's why I changed. Even though the CBR has not a radical sports bike position, I got my wrists, lower back and cervical muscles very tired after long distances. @@papercut1987

[@gabrielkopp2036]

Yea but everyone and their mom are doing builds on the transalp and no one is doing any build series on the vstrom 800de.. so will you please do a vstrom 800de build and long term review???

[@neelsawant5862]

Yes, please do on the Suzuki! I just feel like Suzuki adv bikes are so underrated and not many people on KZbin especially in NA give Suzuki its fair share of exposure. People just get so hung up on Transalp and Tenere

[@bernielomax4859]

They’ve got a point, you’ve got a great chance to really stand out with the DE, Ian

[@orionswitness]

@@neelsawant5862There’s an Aussie guy who has a channel called “ On The Back Wheel , he has several videos on the Vstrom DE enduro 850 model …and he hits the trails hard 😮

[@iangriffiths9930]

100% agree, as far as I know there is only one guy in Australia who is doing anything with the Suzuki. It seems to me you have already said it’s the best Japanese adv bike so let’s see how good it can truly be👍 best wishes from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@QuinnBoone]

Just a few suspension mods away from being terrific!

[@Driftuner]

Been riding 20+ years, mainly adv bikes and motocross but also some (super)sport bikes aswell, bought a T7 World Raid last year and im never selling that bike. Its one of the best bikes ive ever ridden, to me it is the perfect machine. Its like someone rebuilt the original 750 Africa Twin to modern specs. Both +-700cc, both 60-70ps, both about 230mm susp travel, both 23l in the tank, both about 220kg fueled and ready to go. Very similar machines and i love the fact that the T7 is "old school" with cable clutch and throttle, no TCS, no riding modes, no electronic suspension, nothing. Just a switchable ABS and thats it. The KYB susps are amazing, the CP2 engine is a joy, gearbox, seating position, wind protection, very low fuel consumption (ive done 600km on one tank)....everything is just perfect on this bike (to me)

[@gillesgenete9598]

You may test ride a Tuareg, you'd be seriously surprised. I have about the same experience like you, I was a Yamaha enthusiast for decades, R1, WRF, XT, but when testing T7, Tuareg, 890r, DesertX, AfricaTwin, my best was the Tuareg, best value overall, best value for the price. I chose the 890R for the larger engine (fun factor, ego factor) and a bargain price at the Tuareg price.

[@Driftuner]

@@gillesgenete9598 i considered the tuareg and the 890. Purposefully chose to steer away from them because of quality issues. Im sure both of them are objectively better than the T7, but i ride a lot to distant and remote places (north africa, romania, greece, croatia, etc) and i dont feel like dealing with oil loss and overheating (aprilia) and all the countless issues that the 790/890 platform has.....im already lucky enough that my 1290 Adventure hasnt broke down on me yet

[@Driftuner]

​@@gillesgenete9598 i did consider it, but i dont want the eletronics and the possible oil-leak and overheating issues that might occur. I am usually a 750 Africa Twin type of rider. Old school. No electronics. But finding good 750ATs is getting harder and more expensive by the day. So no, T7WR with a huge tank and no electronics is what i need

[@BigRockMoto]

I'd buy one if they came to the US

[@Driftuner]

@@BigRockMoto i was talking to someone over at yamaha and they said the WR versions should come later this year to the US, its yet to be officially confirmed though. Imo its a far cry to the regular version. The new susp, steering damper and the new tank, though yes bigger and heavier but mounted *much* lower to the frame, completely transformed the bike imo. The range is insane. Ive done over 600km with a single tank and the bike actually feels lighter or at least less top heavy than the regular version, since the tank is mounted about 20-25cm lower into the frame. Its honestly an amazing bike

[@1young-geezer]

WOW IAN!!!!!! Impressive, conclusive, exhaustive - you really have done yourself proud w/ this analysis, of ALL the bikes in that long long list at the beginning. BRAVO! and THANK YOU!!! As an Aprilia owner, and one who sees the mid-weight ADV bikes compared generally WITHOUT the Tuareg's inclusion, it was just finally a joy to hear you speak on these 4 together like this. YOU BRING SO MUCH VALUE TO THE TABLE w/ all your exhaustive reviews, no one really travels the distance w/ the bikes, the mods, the time spent, and your VERY FAIR and OPEN rider experience. The biking community owes you a ton of appreciation for your work putting your findings and assessments out here for us. Can't thank you enough!!! You perform your job w/ EXCELLANCE.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you

[@IRLtrolls]

Ian is a legend and a gem for the adv community. Unmatched journalism

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@gunarslodzins]

You have a fantastic very structured approach to testing and scoring. I really appreciate your videos. Thank You very much and keep it up!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you very much!

[@giannis7720]

I’m on the market and this is the final verdict I was waiting for. Tuareg for the win🇮🇹

[@admoto77]

Dear Ian I’m your big fan here in the UAE 🇦🇪 you are my number 1 source and reference in motorcycles. Have great respect for your contribution and info you giving us in this channel. I was also emotional for this last episode of transalp series. BTW i was almost buying the transalp , actually Honda for some reason doesn’t sell transalp in my region I was looking in different ways to ship it from Europe or east Asia. But after watching your last episode and your reference to Tuareg I went and watched all the series of Tuareg, and again you nailed it. Fortunately we have Aprilia dealer here in Dubai and I’m going to go test ride it and most probably getting it very soon. Sorry for the long paragraph , but I wanted to tell you how great is what you doing for your followers and how you affected positively in my motorcycles choice . All the best Sir

[@sameermoto]

8000kms on the Aprilia Tuareg, love that machine!

[@onthebackwheel]

100% agree with you on the Tuareg 660 Ian. It is fantastic motorcycle

[@BigRockMoto]

Love your content

[@onthebackwheel]

@@BigRockMoto thanks mate. Been following you for a bit now and appreciate your honesty and how you test bikes

[@auping2565]

Good review but i think you should review/test the Ktm 790 Adv model 2023. Super value for money. Cruise control- tubeless tires- engine power-all electronics like quickshifter-etc. I bought mine 2 weeks ago. Great bike for the money. Here in Holland i payd €12300(incl €1500 taxes here😢)incl quickshift- cruise control and original heater grips- 1000 km maintanance for free. Honda Transalp 750 here stock without any options €12599. I read the 790 Adv is available for 2 months in Usa $10999 i think the Techpack about $800(quickshifter-cruise control- Ralley ride mode-MSR motor slip regulation) Eric from Holland

[@AT2021Rocker]

This is the absolute best evaluation, build and comparison video I’ve seen in a very long time! You do an outstanding job! Keep it up!

[@ricklee4122]

This is great! Now for the KTM 790 2024 review series to see where it lands!

[@AntaresSQ01]

@@RogerTernyak Doesn't matter.

[@gbner9991]

901 Expedition would be more interesting...

[@anibalj.sarotto3990]

Man, you make such detailed and comprehensive reviews. If someone want's to buy a motorcycle or it's choosing between different models, MUST watch your videos. Thanks for your honest opinions!

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@richmotion]

Getting emotional when selling a bike means it was the right one. ;) Had the same last week selling my old CBR 1100 XX Super Blackbird. One of the best motorcycles ever made. I would choose the Transalp over the V-Strom any day. Not just because I am a Honda guy, I love the engine, sound, lower seat height, lower weight, more comfort, better wind protection, reliabilty and reselling value. To us guys out there who have to buy and sell, pay everything ourselves - you are the best because you consider things many other reviewers don´t care. The most comprehensive reviews - thank you Ian!

[@nwbasson]

Nooooo why did you sell the Blackbird 😢

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@nativeoutdoors1780]

Bruh people need to stop buying and selling stuff just buy and ride it until the wheels fall off, if you want to sell a bike and retain value then don't ever ride it and don't buy new

[@richmotion]

@@nativeoutdoors1780 What I meant is, that reviewers often get their hands on motorcycles, ride them, review them, but never pay a dime. Those reviewers rarely take longevity, service plans and so on into account, but we have to. And Ian does too, that´s what makes his reviews widely unbiased! You are right, we should not seek the newest model every year, hence the Blackbird. ;) That beauty does everything as fine as newer models, except styling and electronics.

[@richmotion]

@@nwbasson Good point. It always makes me riding faster than I should and it´s quite expensive in insurance and taxes - I live in Austria, Europe. ;) The riding position is on the sportier side as well. Maybe, in the future, there is another one waiting for me, we will see.

[@davidkinkade4764]

A PROFESSIONAL review. Can’t get anymore detailed and thoughtful input on bikes than from your review series.

[@RSVRusso]

Ian, I think you are a phenominal content creator. Love the detail, authenticity and passion that you convey for riding. Unparalleled in the motorcycling world. Your videos were a key part of my decision making when buying the aprilia, so it's nice to see you rating it so highly. Beyond the bike purchase though was also the inspiration that your channel (along with the ageing process!) gave to move away from track racing and riding sports bikes to adv riding, camping and exploration and it's been a great move. Thanks mate.

[@Ridingforsanity]

I bought the V-Strom 800DE and really love the bike. Thank you Ian for playing a part in that. My previous bike was a 2016 Aprilia Caponord and based on my dealer experience, the reliability, and the maintenance I will never own another Aprilia or possibly another Piaggio product for that matter. The Italian bikes just don’t support the dealers in regards to parts or part revisions. That last bike went through 3 fuel sender units before they could get it right on the same service visit! I am happy being back with a Japanese brand and love the throwback yellow and blue on my bike as well.

[@danketchpel7460]

I agree Piaggio USA doesn't support their dealers very well which is big part of the problem in the States. Sometimes they will come through if the dealer fights for you.

[@edombre4637]

Piaggio has now opened a huge warehouse in Pennsylvania so getting parts is now longer a problem.

[@christopher9626]

No surprise how well this was presented! Excellent job, Ian! All the relevant data, and no fluff! This is where I go when I want data and perspective that I trust and is relevant to what I am looking for in a bike. Very pleased Patreon member here! Thanks, buddy!

[@brunoferlin62]

The biggest consideration for me is the lack of electronics and the ability to do virtually all maintenance in my garage. I'm certainly between the KLR and the T7.

[@K0lyanich]

After many ADV bikes I think I will be switching back to 2nd gen KLR. It's simple, comfortable and can go almost anywhere.

[@slalomking]

@@K0lyanichthat’s what I ride. Had to put in 685 kit at 18,000 miles. Eagle Mike put in the KLX needle in the carb, I run the quiet stock pipe. He said I had to remove the rubber snorkel that’s in the airbox. It wakes it up quite a bit.

[@dub2shoe]

I had the same requirements, adding in reliability. T7 absolutely blew the KLR out of the water in every metric, and overall riding enjoyment. It's undoubtedly worth the extra $, unless you want to ride a tractor ;)

[@andreymatuzkov3766]

Somehow, all the reviewers forget one thing, especially when reviewing adventure bikes: a lot of riders ride with a passenger. And when you take that factor in, the TA is superior to all the middle-weight bikes out there. I always ride with my wife, and we love on-road and off-road touring, taking smaller gravel roads. With that factor in, you don't need the long travel suspension, you need a wide comfortable seat, relatively good off-road capabilities, reliability and a powerful engine. That's why I went with TA750 )after having BMW F800GS and Honda NC750X) and I don't regret a single bit. It's an amazing bike that I am sure I will put at least 100K kms on.

[@JeremyRhodes-j9d]

Agreed! I ride with my wife >50% of the time on my TA, but I'd add that replacing the rear shock or at least the spring is a must-do. Although, I'd give Ian and Dork and these guys a break on not trying to review 2up. I can't imagine how difficult thorough reviews of multiple bikes like this would be if you had to evaluate them all with a passenger!

[@YangCalgary]

Really like your table. Having followed you for a few years now, I can tranlate your evaluation into what is important to me. Thank you! Here is a suggestion: What would help (but make it harder for you) is if the range of scores really went from 1 to 10 (since they are relative); your lowest score is 4. Use the full range.

[@chrisbray9799]

Having had a GSA and two Africa Twins (and all with some recalls or breakdowns) I bought a CRF300L and a Toureg. Im now selling the CRF as the Toureg does it all. Absolutely no reliability issues for the Toureg and love it. I hope everyone buys the Transalp though.....because then i can get another great future deal on a Toureg when the PCP runs out😂 Thankyou for your independent analysis.

[@netalantan4609]

Almost bought the Tuareg, but choose the T7 because of the looks, the reselling, and the reliabilty...

[@iangriffiths9930]

That’s what’s stopping me from buying the Aprilia, also dealer support, aftermarket support, reliability issues and resale 👍

[@chriscleland7008]

@@iangriffiths9930 Aprilla Tuareg is the best bike, hands down.

[@iangriffiths9930]

@@chriscleland7008 That may well be, but I think you have to be able to trust your bike and I just wouldn't trust the Aprilia

[@chriscleland7008]

@@iangriffiths9930 Your loss.

[@iangriffiths9930]

😁

[@fishlegs106]

I love the piano at the end of this vid...you ended your relationship with your temp GF... ........NEXT..... One of my favourite lines when going through Lotsa bikes or ups and downs in life.... Keep up the great work Ian... Yes I love all Aprilia bikes too... Braaap...

[@daviddrabek5834]

Thank you for your content! I picked up the new Strom 800DE last week for my son. After sitting on both bikes and watching reviews, I felt the Suzuki had better suspension. I do love Honda and own the AT and a 450RL.

[@danielpalmberg3371]

The absolute best motorcycle content from any youtuber!! I would like you to have a 5th category where you put in your perceved reliability and quality expectations, dealership network and service attitude from dealer/seller/manufacurer. Also included could be after market mods availability...

[@BigRockMoto]

I've played with that, but it's so hard to quantify

[@fireice1997]

I am very excited for the 1300gs. Also I hop you get the Ibex450. I’ve seen quite a few videos of people brushing off CFmoto however they are excited for the 450. I have the 450ss and it’s such a playful engine. So hopefully you pick one up when it’s available in the US.

[@iangriffiths9930]

Hey mate, can I ask how you have found the CFmoto? Any issues? Thanks in advance 👍🙏

[@trailbrake]

Ian, the best reviews anywhere; thank you! Seeing you get a little emotional at the end of this review was refreshing. For those of us who love motorcycles, they evoke an emotional response that defies logic or masculine tendencies. I have been choked up selling a bike I spent time on, experiencing new and great adventures. Thanks again for your honest hard work in producing these videos!

[@UncleWally3]

As well as comprehensive and professional analysis, really appreciate the chapters.

[@Ntmoffi]

My pick would be a used Tuareg. Shoot, I've seen some for sale from EuroCycle for 8-9 grand. Plus I don't need a brand new machine.

[@timhewitt2910]

I got a Tuareg from Eurocycle. Great bike, but watch the dealer. They didn't mention it had been dropped, only had 1 key, and didn't want to discuss the issues.

[@alozborne]

What a fantastic round-up Ian! It's such a tough choice between the Transalp and the 800DE for me. However, given that you say that you don't really notice the extra weight of the 800DE, that it's just as good for touring and comfort, and that it's appreciably better off pavement, I think the V-Strom 800DE is my next bike! I've finally made a decision on this, whew!! Or maybe I buy a Transalp and upgrade only the rear suspension, haha! Thanks again for all the incredible work you've done to provide what is by far the most comprehensive review of the Transalp.

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

As I've mentioned before, I appreciate your data-driven approach and look forward to access to the spread sheet. Also, the giggle factor works for me as well. Solid effort Ian, keep up the great work. You're easily the best bike reviewer for my needs on the interweb!

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks

[@timothydippenaar8340]

Awesome review!!! I would like to point out that Triumph Scrambler 1220xe sits with 9.8inch/250mm suspension travel instead of what's listed in the comparison.

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

Thanks for a great series on the Transalp. All of these bikes were available to me in Australia and within my budget. I ended up with the Transalp because I trust the brand and it best fitted the type of riding I want to do. I've done a ton of off road riding on dedicated off-road bikes, but these days I'm more interested in comfortable highway travel with some light off-road 4wd track, fire road, dirt road riding. If it looks too challenging, I probably won't attempt it on the Transalp and just turn around. This gets me to 99.9999% of the places where I actually want to be, not some gnarly mythical off road scenario where I should be on a KTM 350, DRZ, etc. Plus, I don't want to carry all the weight, I'll be putting a bash plate on the Transalp (maybe even an acerbis plastic one), handguards and a rack to carry some gear and that will be it. The bike is super comfortable and the suspension is fine for what I'm asking of it.

[@JTinGA]

Great wrap up! I love the charts -- keep them updated and available ! I make a personalized comparison chart for any major purchase (bikes, cars, houses, etc) -- and this is a great input for helping make the best decisions. I also like how you always explain your perspective on riding, and how that influences the scoring -- so we can adjust for our preferences. Probably my favorite channel. Keep up the good work 👍

[@disekjoumoer]

Thank you so much, Ian. This was a phenomenal series of videos. You give people so much content, it's amazing. Thank you again!

[@G3A3]

i like the look of the v-strom best with the best range and I'm more of a tourer than off-roader. cheers👍

[@adventhusiast]

Thank you Ian, great series. Amazing and professional work. Kudos! I am the happy owner of a Touareg, for a year now and 6000miles (10,000kms). After few initial glitches swiftly solved under warranty by the dealer, it's been flawless on every ride. It did not eat oil as some warned. Even today, days before the annual service, the oil is still surprisingly clean. It does run like a swiss watch. I love it. Period. I plan a Paneuropean tour with it this summer and i am curious how it feels and holds out for probably over 8000kms. I was looking at the new Tiger Rally Pro as a potential stablemate for my Tuareg, one that can swallow miles slightly easier, but I will decide after the summer tour. I love japanese too but find them a tad soulless. Ride on!

[@MrSPEEDFOUR]

Best reviews for motorcycles and gear. I'm more on the street side of adventure. (2023 Tenere 1200, because it's a comfortable touring bike and doesn't cost 25-30k) but I still enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work

[@georgeloveday9674]

You put in a lot of time and effort to the details. I thank you. It’s appreciated.

[@dionoliveira4058]

Thank you Ian, you keep pushing the limits and the excellence shows. I particularly appreciate your logical and technical mix with the fun factor.

[@BigRockMoto]

Much appreciated!

[@Oscar240z]

Excellent review. I don’t go off road but always head to your channel for the on road content and thorough tests.

[@motoman7445]

Your videos are second to none. Really good stuff.

[@PentagonalAntiprism]

Thank you so much for this review, I would have loved to see the VStrom in a longer review but this comparison was really helpful! Thank you again for your passion and awesome work!

[@x3c915]

You are really getting emotional with this grand final and classical music !😢 Thank you for your dedication! I don’t know if I will buy a motorcycle someday… it is one my dream! But because of you, I know better…!

[@mac22011964]

Love this channel, by far the best in terms of most comprehensive and objective…..great stuff.

[@PlanCthruZ]

Wow dude you have really found a way to be of service while doing the thing you love! What an excellent video! I have been away for a while crushing my debt so I can buy a new bike. I look forward to watching your videos to help inform my future purchase. FYI I highly value reliability and long maintenance intervals in my purchases. The air filter under the tank is also a dealbreaker for me… I really like the classical music parting shot at the end as well in this video. Also thank you for the amazing list of hyper links in he description, there are some excellent picks down there! Keep it up! Stay safe! Work hard, be honest, be kinder than is required! Your friend in Maine

[@SKgeostrat]

Really well done Ian! This is the most complete comparison on the net and you deserve credit for it. I'd really like you to test the Triumph 900 GT Pro with the 19inch front wheel. It may be a heck of a contender for someone who doesn't do very tough offroad, with all that is included in the base price.

[@chrisknight5263]

lol!😂 the music at the end was like the “ in memorium” section of Grammies… “and now we bid farewell to those we’ve lost”. Seriously though, really top notch reporting on these bikes. I couldn’t wait early last year for all those great models to come out and I bought a V-Strom 650. Will be doing V-Strom 650 things for a couple years before I’m ready for a new adventure bike, hopefully the jury will in on the Tuereg’s reliability by then!

[@reinmansmith]

As ever your assessment is the most thorough and wide ranging, giving us all the relevant information to weigh up where our own preferences lie. All that alongside the fact that you assess these bikes over a decent period gives us faith in your judgement 👍

[@SimonJackMTB]

I like your honest style, Ian, keep doing what you do, my friend 👍👍👍

[@Trialstire]

Thanks for taking us on the journey!! I rarely end up owning bikes for more than a year, but the Transalp fills slots for me in Light Offroad, Light Touring & Light Sportbike fun. I looked at all four before my purchase and really wanted the T660 - but Heat, Long Term Reliability questions & Dealer oil maintenance resets made me move on. The next hot list was the T7 - but Top heavy for a 50+ yrs old rider does give me confidence (although aftermarket galore), I would go for a World Raid right now :) , Suzk 800 weight and price. Transalp is seeing more and more aftermarket and in a couple years I expect it to be really interesting (plastic skidplates, cost-effective suspension, ECU flashes, pre-air filters, etc.). If I don't wait long enough, I feel the resell and reliability are enough to dive in on a TA now and T660 next go-round. Looking forward to the GS1300 review.

[@ramonsolves6736]

I loved the emotional music- Transalp closeups ending, I think is a great adding to the already world best reviews that you provide.

[@GregLanz]

Thanks for the great content, this series has been incredible and amazingly informative. I'm not tempted by the Toureg as the reliability and support worry me and considering the price difference it's not something I'd consider. Out of the Japanese bikes I'm sure I'd be happy with any of the remainder but to me the Transalp is the most compelling followed by the Tenere, that said I would like to test ride the Vstrom as well and while I'm sure I'd be happy with it as well the extra weight cost and to me looks of the Transalp made me choose the Honda. It's been a few decades since I last had a Honda motorbike and I'm really looking forward to the snow melting here so I can take it out. Thanks again Ian, most videos on KZbin I watch at 1.5x speed but I have to slow it down to 1x for yours and often re-watch segments so I don't miss anything. I'm really looking forward to the KLX videos as I'm really tempted by that and the Honda 300L for a supplemental

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@kimmosuomalainen9945]

Thank you, Ian. One thing to add to your table is price after all those mods you have made, and the weight after mods.

[@RichardB-d4s]

Thanks so much Ian for all your hard work in this series. It was really excellent and you have helped me tremendously to make sense of the options and ultimately make my decision. Im going with a Transalp (with respringing and valves tuning in the suspension), the Honda dealer network for international riding is a significant factor that helped to swing it for me. Thanks again for the excellent series and keep up the great work. We reallly appreciate it!

[@mikelobdell2666]

I agree with you on the air filter being a deal breaker on the Honda. If it was a street bike okay but not for a bike that is supposed to be made for 50 percent on dirt roads. I live in a rainforest but in the summer it is heavy dust every vehicle that passes you.

[@larryvaughn7243]

I probably agree, but. Service, dealership availability, reliability, and factors like these are why I have a T 7 and honestly it is fun too after I have made it my own. Us weekend riders are not professionals and don’t push the limits. Many of us have 890s and 1250s too so the small ADVs are not expected to be “the one perfect bike”. None are. Overall I do agree with you and appreciate your efforts.

[@nwbasson]

Sounds like a very fair comparison, although I haven't ridden anything but the T7, which I have had for 3 years now. I would love to own an Aprilia, but like you briefly said, there is no nearby dealers and combined with the service interval that is kind of a deal breaker for many. If we do get a local Aprilia dealer it would make it more palatable, but it is also a concern with doing long distance riding and being able to find parts IMHO.

[@johnno4616]

Excellent video Ian; your impartiality, honesty & professionalism are what makes your channel the best adv channel on the net 👍 One thing worth mentioning about the Tuareg, the front of the seat is quite narrow & that makes it easy to get your feet down. I’m 5 ft 6 & it was the easiest bike for me to reach the ground while still having excellent suspension travel & ground clearance

[@BigRockMoto]

Much appreciated

[@richardfrantz9539]

I have a 2021 BMW F750GS that I rise primarily on road with Anakee Adventure tires. My off pavement is gravel and dirt roads. Your evaluations rate this bike relatively low and are accurate assessments. The way I ride in northern Ohio backroads and the twistiest generally yield a fuel mileage of around 60 with mileage around 50-53 on interstates. This is with regular grade fuel which is cheaper and available everywhere. A MRA Vario windscreen gives great touring comfort. I really hate there is no shop manual available to the owner. Only a bootleg digital pdf on places like eBay. It would be nice if you could add to your matrix the fuel grade requirements (with lowest octane acceptable also), and availability of shop manuals. I like the F750GS overall and it ha given me no trouble over 32,000 miles. Keep doing this informative and entertaining channel. Thanks

[@BigRockMoto]

Good ideas

[@jmfernandes519]

Great series and awesome job! Congrats! It surprised me the Transalp being the 3rd on the comparison, specifically seeing the fun you had driving it. But also shows you are being fair and honest on the scores!! Congrats again!!

[@mallard109]

Thanks for putting in all the hard work to make these videos. SUPER helpful!

[@cloud9847]

I'm a miles over time guy. I know people who will tell you they've been riding for 5yrs and then you ask them how many miles and they'll say 12k...I put over 15k in about 10 months. So long term for me can be 7 months if you've put miles on the bike. Your videos on the various bikes indicates that you definitely put miles on bikes. I'd say your 'long term review' is valid. One thing I'm interested in is hard factual data about the KTM cam shaft issue. I am interested in a 890 Adventure BUT simply cannot afford to repair the bike if the cam-shaft goes and they don't cover it. There are other issues I have but that's the main one keeping me from considering buying one. I get comments from both sides that it's not a problem and that it is a problem. I'm looking for hard facts.

[@Q2Flyer]

Ian, thank you so much for doing this series. I bought a TransAlp last October when one came to a dealer in my area. I'm a little older (62) and chose the transalp for its (potential) reliability and comfort, along with its moderate offroad capabilities. Again, thank you. It lets me see what it can be if I chose to go there with it.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

The Moto Guzzi V85tt also remembers your settings once turned off as well . I agree ☝️ about the Filter thing , I love the Aprilla 660 filter access “ fantastic and simple “

[@Lopez_67]

Your reviews are seriously next level. Thank you for the insane amount of thought, time, effort, and money that goes into this. If price was not a contributing factor, would you pick the Taureg over the more expensive bikes as well? (890 R, Tiger 900, Desert X)

[@BigRockMoto]

For 50.50 riding, yes. For more road, Tiger all the way

[@heinschwartz7941]

Great video - we need more of this kind of quality reporting and comparisons, quoting the stats. Well done 👏👏👏

[@youMeino]

I´ve ridden all but the Transalp, but did own a Hornet 750 for a while. In the end I bought the Tuareg and love it. The price of the Aprilia might be higher advertised, but a lot of dealers (in Europe) do deals on it, I got mine for 10.000€ new (last year model). Now I´m considering a second, fun road bike and the Triumph Street Triple RS might be it, just did a test ride on one. The ride quality and noise is addictive.

[@nighthawk695476]

I saw you also have the KTM/CFMOTO 790 Adventure on the list. Could you please do a long term video for it, like the one for the transalp? It's value seems too good to be true

[@adventureundone]

Ah yes, this is the one I have been waiting for! Thanks for all your hard work here man 👍 PS: would love you to do a Vstrom 800 long term series

[@bruceramseyramsey2605]

As always your tests are by far the most comprehensive and un biased! Thank you.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@daddio1954]

Thank you Ian. I appreciate your attention to detail, honesty, and passion in what you do - so well.

[@BlazinBlades]

Thank you Ian A wonderful summery ❤ Looking for a unique one off project? Consider importing by yourself the new Tenere World Rally from Europe. I’m sure there will be plenty of people (from across the pond 😄) who would love to help you with that.

[@JimGoryeb]

Fantastic review. Unbelievable detail. I have not ridden all the bikes but, after a year and several BDRs and long distance trips, I am completely in love with the Tuareg 660. I sold my 2018 R1200GS and haven’t looked back. The Tuareg is an amazing, do everything bike. I’m more confident off road on the Tuareg than I was on my 690 Enduro R. With some windscreen adjustments, it tours really well. And, so far, no issues with the bike (knock wood). Thanks for your terrific video!

[@BigRockMoto]

Awesome

[@InTheYear]

Awesome motorcycle content! I don’t own and have barely ever been on a motorcycle ever and your test data is very rounded and well written. I hope to get a moto in the next few years.

[@sebasbecu]

Why is it that the new ktm 790 is excluded from most 10k bikes comparison ? Great review , thanks !

[@edombre4637]

Ian, I agree with all the positive comments about your channel - it’s excellent. Given all the comments questioning Aprilia’s reliability, would you consider making a video which researches in depth the reliability of these mid-sized adv bikes?

[@r4avn]

Thank you, Ian, for making such a fantastic series about Transalp. I'm a first-timer with big ADVs, and Transalp is my choice (from XR150L to XL750). Just made my initial payment, waiting for the registration. Thanks again for your efforts in making such detailed videos.

[@BigRockMoto]

Great to hear!

[@advredbikes]

Ian, what a great comparison, thank you for giving us a comparable chart, your honesty is valued. I know will go back and look at your Aprilia content again.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@markherrington4584]

I have owned many Hondas and loved them all. I rode the Tuareg 2 miles and I bought it. Picking it up tomorrow. Your reviews are great, keep up the good work.

[@johndevito4237]

How would you compare the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure with these 4? It's in this price range and class. I think you are spot on with this review.

[@stefanhansen5882]

Awesome as always! I would REALLY like to see your table including e.g. the Honda CRF300 L and Rally, the 701 and more.

[@mikeb3536]

As a two decade V-Strom rider I can appreciate all your hard work and skill. Your reviews tell me exactly what I want to know in a way that I can easily absorb. When you have time to test another bike, I'd love to see you do the road-biased version of the 2024 V-Strom 800. I'm thinking that may be my next Strom when my 2011 650 wears out.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks, will do!

[@agp7073]

Thank you for putting the comparison vedio together. No matter what you say people will sometimes get personal. Much appreciated

[@jondiaz3475]

Thank you taking the time to test the bikes and put this comparison together. The Tuareg is my favorite, but I have no dealerships within 200 miles in every direction. :(

[@rorymiskimen5221]

A great comparison and review. These are all great MC’s. I bought a Tuareg, and I’m extremely happy with it, it’s a huge step up from my VStrom 650.