Skid Plate, Crash Bars, New Tires, and MORE: Honda Transalp 750 Mods Install

I'm very excited to finally get some protection on this Honda Transalp 750. Today, we're adding a skid plate, crash bars, handguards, new tires, headlight guard, kickstand foot enlarger, pannier racks, and more to my brand new 2024 Honda Transalp 750. These Transalp 750 mods will completely transform the bike from mild-mannered pavement princess into a true off road adventure and adventure touring machine.
Honda Transalp 750 Mods List (so far):
(affiliate links where possible)
Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Tank Guard: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Engine Guards: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Skid Plate: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Side Stand Enlargement: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Pannier Racks for Honda Transalp 750: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Engine Guard Mounting Adapter: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Headlight Guard for XL750 Transalp: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Side Protection Plates for XL750: www.motomachin...
Hepco and Becker Handguards: www.motomachin...
Doubletake Adventure Mirrors: bit.ly/3F1lxkT
Dunlop Trailmax Raid Front Tire: www.rockymount...
Dunlop Trailmax Raid Rear Tire: www.rockymount...
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Disclaimer for reasons: I am not a professional journalist, expert motorcycle rider, or a mechanic. These videos are for entertainment purposes and represent my personal opinions and experiences. I'm just a dude who isn't even good at riding or making videos, so be smart and don't risk life or limb trying to follow my example or advice.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Honda Transalp 750 Mods List (so far): (affiliate links where possible) Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Tank Guard: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-tank-guard-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Engine Guards: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-engine-guard-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Transalp 750 Skid Plate: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-engine-skid-plate-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Side Stand Enlargement: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-side-stand-enlargement-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Pannier Racks for Honda Transalp 750: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-side-carrier-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Engine Guard Mounting Adapter: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-engine-guard-mounting-adapter-set-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Headlight Guard for XL750 Transalp: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-headlight-guard-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Side Protection Plates for XL750: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-side-protection-plates-for-engine-guard-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Hepco and Becker Handguards: www.motomachines.com/hepco-becker-handlebar-guards-honda-xl750-transalp-2024 Doubletake Adventure Mirrors: bit.ly/3F1lxkT Dunlop Trailmax Raid Front Tire: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/dunlop-trailmax-raid-front-motorcycle-tire-p Dunlop Trailmax Raid Rear Tire: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/dunlop-trailmax-raid-rear-motorcycle-tire-p

[@mechcavandy986]

Did you forget the tuner? I want one that has the European tune.

[@robluce6334]

Dude, most of us aren't "mechanics". But, turning wrenches can be cathartic. I don't know of a real mechanic that hasn't busted out the hammer from time to time.

[@hamfixer]

As a mechanic I’d never be without my nylon mallet!

[@Watchinchemtrailz]

Dead blow is my go to

[@AbdurrahmanZedSaeed]

What is cathartic?

[@Kevinhobbytime]

I have a fleet mechanic that only uses hammers lol. Headlight out? Hammer. Tailight out? Hammer. Guy is a nutcase.

[@NunyaBusiness...]

I so appreciate you including the struggles. So many "professionals" out there do super quick and clean video cuts on stuff to make it look easy. Then when a noob like me gets into it we think we are screwing everything up because it takes 5 times as long and I'm dirty, tired, and swearing at inanimate objects. You show that it's doable, but you don't sugar coat it like it's going to be second nature if you haven't done it a million times. Your authenticity is appreciated, Sir!

[@jeckjeck6943]

I 100% agree.

[@nickabrahall1412]

I can definitely relate to talking to your bike while working on it like you’re defeating an arch enemy😂😂😂

[@jameslee5428]

Real deal, uncut, unrehearsed, turning wrenches, installing mods listening to music. Great video. Really cool to See the Dog sitting on the trashcan then barking in the background. Keeping it real. Anyways really enjoyed it. Be safe out there and enjoy life to the fullest.

[@howardbarker7768]

Nice to see how a normal guy fumbles his way through the job putting the aftermarket parts together. It’s about how 99% of us do it and it does take effort we’ll done. Watching you from down under in New Zealander cheers

[@billcove]

Re H&B Adaptor Plates: I had the same issue with the threads. But thanks to your video I checked and fixed the problem before mounting. I measured the original hole diameters; they were 7mm and should have been 8mm (for the M8 bolts). I used a M8 x 1.25 tap set and it removed a lot metal in the process; so it wasn't just a matter of paint. H&B inadvertently had tapped the holes the wrong spec. After my re-tapping, the H&B-supplied M8 bolts screwed in without problem. Really appreciate your videos. Entertaining and, for the installs, you save us a lot of frustration! Much thanks.

[@steveh545]

ok, this was different... but super cool. Good job Ben, and a nod to your sponsors!

[@tommykawasaki9676]

Now the bike looks fit & proper. As far as skid plate clearance, I would sure rather loose a half inch & have the protection. Love it ! I can feel my grip on the Versys loosening, with each video you post.

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

I thought I was crazy cussing and talking to myself while working on that stuff…… I might still be but I’m in good company haha. Thanks for the video.

[@PNW-ADV]

"Don't know, bout' to kick this bike off the stand" ...."Fun so far!" ----Hahahaha. I've been there.

[@MericanAdventures]

7 1/2 inches impressive, "That's What She Said"! LOL😂

[@mullins6429]

Nice video Ben, don’t be so hard on yourself. I’ve had trouble with fitting every set of crash bars I have ever put on. Transalp is looking pretty cool. The tyres will be interesting, other videos I have watched about these tyres are reporting the front washing out in sand. I haven’t seen them on a Transalp yet though . 👍🇦🇺

[@jjohnson6252]

Watching you work is so funny! It's almost like watching a video of myself/ you just need a grinder and a sledgehammer, then we'd be twins!

[@JWDesert]

LMAO Starbuck chilling on top of that trash can is awesome hahaha

[@wereeves]

Great video - you showcase what can be done by the "average joe" in the garage; things don't aways go smoothly or perfectly the first go, and it's important to know when to step away for a minute!! Good Job, please keep it up!!

[@loganurquhart11]

Things never go as planned Lol

[@MikeBentley-wm9qo]

Nicely done Ben. It’s not a satisfying experience without some cussing and busted knuckles!😅

[@mrmbr]

Lol watching your vid on my TV.... our voices must be similar. My entire house went playing 3 days grace. Dude 😂🤘it was LOUD!

[@wherewithalmoto]

Sweet mad max build! Can't wait to see how it does off road with the new tires and protection!

[@2WheelFreak]

I had the same issue with the adapter plates!!!! I figured it was because there was paint in the threads. I forced the bolts from the engine guards in to ‘clear’ the threads then used the longer bolts from the tank guards, but they were super tight! Quite a tricky install..

[@tradewinds2121]

Same issue with the adapter plates here in my garage!

[@loganurquhart11]

Man you have to be getting pretty good with setting up mods on bikes by now.

[@netterjeff4013]

It’s looking a lot like my AT! Got mine in 2020 and probably would have gone with a TA had they been available then. I’ve since become very in-tune with my AT and, despite its weight, take it places most fellers would not. Love your work brother!

[@JohnDoe-bw7bq]

Cool video... The bike looks sweet with the new add ons...

[@mt1885]

Really like the New Transalp but would want it in White/Blue with Gold wheels. Really LOVE the new Transalp wonder if other colors will be available?? GREAT VIDEO!!!

[@Sherry-jx9hs]

I was thinking wrong bolt thread pitch (yes it's a thing) when you said made in Germany. MM bolts are weird there are multiple thread pitches not like SAE standard or fine threads. Too easy. Looking forward to you pounding down the BDR and bottoming out :)

[@fixedG]

I know you don't necessarily feel super comfortable sharing your frustrations, mistakes and uncertainties that come from not being a mechanic but that's relatable for me, and probably most of us.

[@Homdaactual]

I bought my transalp a little over two weeks ago now, based on yours and big rock motos videos up to that point. And I absolutely love it. Despite it needing some work to make it off roadable. I mostly use it as a commuter so its not that big of a problem for me right now. Thanks for all of the info you’ve shared! Oh and I also have the OEM tall windshield, windshield extenders, fairing block offs, 12v plug, heated grips coming. Soon if anybody wants to know how those pan out

[@DorkintheRoad]

Where did you find the 12v plug? I'm hoping to get the OEM one

[@thatoneguy2756]

​@@DorkintheRoadthat hardware included with those h@b guards was garbage.

[@mrbjay5443]

I got to admit it's fun putting in new equipment on our bike. Great idea w/ the zip ties!

[@matthew3136]

H&B is good stuff. It looks pretty dang solid.

[@davidskaggs9914]

Thanks for the how to video. I just bought Transalp today and will be doing the skid plate crash guards and handguards. Will order givi rack system because I already have the bags on another bike

[@user-yn5gm8st6d]

I really enjoy your channel as I am a dual sport/adventure bike rider. Love to watch you install all the various goodies on your bikes. If you don't mind when you have time would you please make a video or two on motorcycle chains, the good, bad and ugly. Also, a video on choosing a new sprocket with more or less teeth. I really like your honesty when comparing parts, putting them on wrong, etc. So many sites are just full of BS! The author usually could not put a screw into a piece of wood with a hammer. Ride safe!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah I know almost nothing about chains so I'm maybe not the guy to make that one.

[@user-yn5gm8st6d]

@@DorkintheRoad Sorry to hear that. Thanks for the quick answer.

[@mxdkfpsq]

Very helpful video for Hepco & Becker. In particular for the need of adapter for tank guard and engine guard. Even Hepco & Becker authorised dealer not sure about…

[@RealHooksy]

Nice work dork 😎

[@chrisobrien1117]

I placed a big order with Moto Machines for my Transalp based on this video and wrote them to give your channel credit. Hopefully this helps you continue to make awesome content brother.

[@Charlie_He]

Really enjoyed watching all these good efforts ❤❤

[@tremorflow3614]

Nice! Man it was confusing to understand if the adaptors were needed or not. They were for me as you. Also damn threads were an issue also and I had to tap them too. Great work H&B

[@human1513]

I bought the Honda Shop Repair Manual & torque specs are: Rear axle: 74 ft- lbs. Front axle: 48 ft-lbs.. Front axle pinch bolts: 16 ft-lbs.. Do the left side 1st. I finally received my Hepco skidplate, lower crash bar & rear brackets. I also had to run a 8mm × 1.25 tap through the tapped holes on the 2 brackets & the 1 on the lower part of both lower crash bars. It was only paint on the female threads that the tap was required to removed. Then it was perfect.

[@offroadagain]

Looks good! Looking forward to see it off road.

[@djangowoods3866]

Nicely done! I definitely relate to the “let’s step away from this” moments. Your ears will thank you for doing away with those terrible stock tires…please let us know what you think of the raids!

[@kylehamilton7952]

Great stuff brother

[@Hooky_68]

Thanks for the video tutorial. 👍🏼 I installed Hepco and Becker tank guards on my Transalp two weeks ago (I’m in Australia) and had your problem with the threads in the adaptor plates. I’m a toolmaker by trade so had the necessary tap and tap wrench on hand to run through the existing threads. Definitely took steel out but not sure what the problem was as I didn’t think to check the existing holes. My thoughts are the existing threads could have been tapped with a fine thread and not a course thread to match the screws. M8x1.0 pitch instead of M8x1.25 pitch. Btw, enjoying your Transalp videos and tutorials, entertaining and helpful. 🍻

[@MotoVania]

Way to “walk away” when you’re frustrated. 😂

[@JCrozier1]

I had to use a tap on my last project. worked out very nicely. i can certainly agree that it is sometimes good to walk away and come back when frustrated. The mods look great.

[@jege41]

Good Vid, yes the not included adapter plates was the why I decided to get the Heed crash bars instead, it's like yeah I really like the HB but I don't like to be nickeled and dimed on something that already has a premium price, and the Heed offer more protection but just ain't as pretty as the HB.

[@marylandflyer]

I suggest "Dynamat" on the skid plate to stop noises and harmonics that come from the plates and are so annoying. Sheet is available from the big "A".

[@michaeldavison430]

Have had that same harbor freight lift since 2005, excellent tool.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Pretty happy with it so far.

[@DuffersMcDuff]

Really enjoyed this video.... I can totally relate to everything that happened here. It was funny too. "...Thereby ruining the livelyhood that provides for her" Brilliant!. Nice to see what the Transalp can be. Seriously considering upgrading from my V-Strom 650 to a TA. The H&B stuff looks mint...although we have a few other options here in the UK. Its nice to see "Not a Mechanic" wrenching on the bike and the frustrations it can cause.. I have had many experiances like that with both my MTB and Motorbike. Great content and glad to be a subscriber!

[@mattsloop2736]

The crash bars might look good red. If you could match the red on the tank.

[@jjnnbns]

@9:35 Dr Horrible reference… thank you!!

[@LenaScott-numoto1]

Awesome mod video!! Very cool! Love the pit crew support also, Chewy & Starbuck! 😂

[@DualSportDuffer]

That Transalp is now properly equipped for an adventure to the local Starbucks! I’m just kidding, and am actually jealous of your Transalp. Excellent vid, as always.

[@RaptorPackAdventures]

Outstanding. Let me know when you’re going to sell this one 😆

[@bigbird2464]

I've pretty much got all the same parts as you, unfortunately my broke ass doesnt have the tools atm so I'm gonna have to palm it off to the mechanic to do up for me but goddamn if it doesnt look good, Hepco and Becker definitely have the best crash bards and skid plate IMO

[@ericsweetadventure]

You've developed mad wrenching skills dude!

[@Splooj69]

Dude! Thanks so much for setting my Echo Dot off! Three Days Grace is now in rotation on my Spotify 😂😂😂😂😂

[@yubtypin]

Nice mods. Good luck with the dog.

[@dstubby82]

0:01 "This baby right here..." *obligated slap of product* 😁

[@DorkintheRoad]

LOL 100 percent

[@ne-adv]

Personally, I use a magic marker and write the torque values right on the part, so no need to look up while on trail (Yes, I have a cheap, tiny, torque box in my kit.).

[@rodneyaiken1742]

👍👍2 thumbs up. Next up grade you need to go for is some LED lights in the garage. It's so much nicer working on stuff when it's well lit.

[@knappdaddy]

I would be more than happy to have the 7 1/2” :) Good job looks great !

[@alainmichaud6747]

Great Job , Nice to see all the work you do ... that what Utube is for , to show us what not to do ....... Hawsome bike set up . Alain & Yellow

[@ne-adv]

Yer the perfect wrenching buddy, IF, and this is a big IF, you have a frig in the shop full of beer AND a couch to sleep it off on. Three consecutive days is excessive, as some are not fortunate enough not to have other day jobs we have to do. But two consecutive weekends is okay... though, would rather ride than wrench. The way it works here, I have all the tools you could need (minus a pretty bike lift) and the frig, others bring the beer and the bike. But one should do ALL work (at least the first time) with the tools you personally carry.

[@jkmayhem]

Cool vids. It is funny to see your take on it now compared to when it was teased. Goes to show that a bike can be insanely different from what it seems to be on paper. I love mine. Currently doing suspension upgrades on mine. Had it since june.

[@wandersofp]

I guess its a little late now but I would be curious as a little weight break down with the protection items. I like the lower bars vs the entire setup if they are functionally effective.. I'd consider case covers if they make any for this bike.

[@MotoMachines]

Great content as always!

[@easyfromtnbtw3555]

You know that little trap door on the back of your lift is for dropping the back tire when you take it off

[@joetheagent]

Can't wait to see it go do stuff now! Transalp lookin' pretty sweet

[@bigdave6194]

Gotta admit I wasnt too enthused with the bike at first. Now that its tricked out....very good looking bike.

[@anthonycoffey6565]

I'm not a professional mechanic but I grew up helping my dad work on all kinds of hot rods & stuff, I can definitely say it seems that nothing these days seem to want to fit together & work like they're supposed to anymore 😅

[@rjfreimuth]

LOL at Starbuck randomly sitting on the trash can.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I was hoping people would pick up on that

[@americaunboxed1449]

7 1/2" Is impressive 😂

[@andrewlivingston92]

Yeah I used Zeiger German parts for my AT and had to buy other bolts and do some other mods in order to make it work. Not sure why German made stuff would be this way but such is life.

[@timjones1236]

I had to tap out the adapter plate M8 bolt holes as well. Powder coating stop the thread.

[@Handirifle]

Frankly kinda glad to see ya struggle with those tires. I thought I was doing something wrong changing the tires on my Harley touring bike.

[@jasonsibbring9630]

The mods look great. I look forward to more rigorous off road testing. If you're good maybe Santa will bring you a breaker bar 😂

[@mntbighker]

For the record, a tap in general will probably remove some metal along with the paint. This is not what you want. If you can find a thread chaser they are generally a better option. You can sometimes make one just by filing some v slots in a bolt. Also, some leftover paint is often a good "thread locker". Especially if you are not applying loctite to everything.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yes I discovered the existence of thread chasers after I had already bought the tap, but it worked out well so I'm okay with it.

[@mntbighker]

@@DorkintheRoad The deeper the threads, the less critical it is to use a chaser. Live and learn ;)

[@woundedtiger7547]

One of those wham bam thank you ma'am. An 2wks later 😮😅😊

[@lukebarber7598]

Please tell me your pug is named after the pug from the Iron Druid chronicles??? If not disregard. Great install. I don’t know any one that hasn’t wanted to kick a bike off the stand from time to time lol!😊

[@user-hj5ml8rr8u]

for not being a mechanic, you did a great job on those tires! ...i cannot even do that!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Well I cut out a lot of the fumbling and cussing.

[@user-hj5ml8rr8u]

never mind my busted knuckles ..and yours..?..@@DorkintheRoad

[@allanmcdonald4500]

I see the dog was standing guard on the recycle bin. Stunt dog for sure. See you at the Desert 100

[@JeffreysGrabItAndGrowl]

Man, you are 😂 entertaining!!! 😅

[@erichalker6667]

Now you need a cool sounding exhaust! I have seen a few that sound good.

[@walterconn5637]

Wow, Christmas came early

[@JAES1]

moto-machines, great resource and customer service (wish they had Kineo wheels). I've had a few of those taps to clean out with great success. great walk through on those upgrades\;]

[@antoniorengifo1447]

Great job 👊☀️

[@lefujiste1525]

I installed the exact same crash bars on my Transalp 750 and didn’t have any issue with the adapters. Just bad luck I guess. I however had a lot of difficulties screwing the skid plate bolts though, and even broke one bolt head.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Good to hear. I figured it was just something funky with the ones I got.

[@scottsmith1897]

Love it as you keep saying not a mechanic.......

[@DorkintheRoad]

I got lucky and was actually able to fix my mistake this time, lol

[@sonnys8535]

I've got the same plate coming but this is the first time I've seen the mounting bolts on the bottom of the plate. Not cool, especially being as the plate has to be removed to change the oil. They will also grab a tree rather than slide Hmmmmm. A few other's reccess the bolts, even if it means losing more clearance. We'll see. Maybe I'll make 1/4" plate sliders with countersunk bolts to replace those. Touratech has that setup

[@Luk4s7St]

I have same set of protective bars on my TA and all fit perfectly. I suppose you’ve been just affected by a small production error.

[@retiredbiker]

Thanks for Playng three Days Grace on MY Alexa and I love the conversation you had with the tires. LMAO. Always entertaining.

[@DorkintheRoad]

LOL I sort of left that in to see if it would set off anyone else's device. It's like 3D video!

[@brianfackrell4139]

Ya got mine going. I'm an old man, confused and had no idea what was going on. The wife explained it to me.

[@mikogarage]

Even here in Indonesia after seeing your video we have to tap the adaptor also

[@normandegeorge6526]

You work like me, a cuss word works wonders!!

[@raymondmuzic4520]

Tap: M8-1.25. I also had to clean up the threads but only on one side.

[@GM_Rider_]

Was the rim paint ok after using the metal levers?

[@brianfackrell4139]

My new internet 'not a mechanic riding buddy'.

[@Crittermoto]

Why Hepco and Becker over the others? Looks great tho! Oh, nevermind you answer that question at the end 😜

[@DorkintheRoad]

Price (aka free) and availability (everyone else was a few weeks/months out)

[@Crittermoto]

@@DorkintheRoad I think it’s a good thing you have something different. That way you’ll be able to showcase options. I’d like to see how they compare to the others 👍🏻

[@jbman413]

They may have painted the threads to prevent corrosion, requiring tap to get the paint off? I would have done that if I was making them I hope. :)

[@ElgatoUnamused]

Most Excellent !

[@human1513]

Your videos helped me to decide to buy one. I put a down payment on a Transalp. Pro tip: wash the bike before installing new pieces. It will look even peeeertier. 😋 You fixed the threads in the bracket holes. If you keep fixing things you will not be able to call yourself the Dork anymore. 🤣 Sometimes a bolt hole has excess paint in it and that maybe the situation with the brackets you received. The Yamaha Tenera T7 has the same type of low exhaust and oil pan and comes with a skid plate already as it needs one also. The Hepco& Becker website pic of the skidplate installed shows the clamp's bolt installed from the front just like you decided too. 👍 Good idea to always apply baby powder to the inside of the tire and the tube. This greatly reduces friction between the 2.

[@markchoitz443]

Looks good, you convinced me to pay someone to put mine on (when they ever get here). Any progress on auxiliary lighting? Thanks for the install.