The Honda Transalp 750 | The Legionnaire Hat of Motorcycles

[@paulm749]

This review has the feel of a man talking himself into a purchase. Problem is, Freddie's so convincing that he's nearly talked me onto one too! Well done!

[@chrishart8548]

Just get an old bmw f800gs it's basically the same bike. Half the price or less.

[@sbrides3042]

What and be a sheep !

[@mukunddidwania7732]

@@sbrides3042exactly bro a “SHEEP” exactly what people don’t think about

[@petethebeastgaming3390]

Would have talked me into it if I hadn't already purchased one two days ago.

[@lincolnkaden7758]

@@chrishart8548 ‘Old’ is the reason I would prefer to pay the money for this bike instead

[@chrismorgan6032]

I rode 10,000 kilometers from Hobart Tasmania to Perth Western Australia via the Victorian high country. My 2023 Transalp performed without fault.

[@berndl.5214]

Dear Honda team, now that Freddie is an ambassador for the Transalp, a gift bike like this would be more than appropriate. 😬 Freddie, thanks for the great video👍💪👏

[@chrissunde1104]

As an owner of a v85tt I believe that I would miss the cruise control, shaft drive, tubeless tires and Italian style more than 16hp. The Guzzi has more torque, and that torque is available out. The Guzzi has no trouble cruising all day at high speed and is very comfortable for my 6'1" frame. The Transalp I think would have the advantage off-road and have an extensive dealer network. While Honda has a great reputation for reliability, my experience with two Moto Guzzis since 2017 has been completely trouble free over 27,000 combined miles. Most will choose the Honda but Moto Guzzi has my heart.

[@Chewwy1973]

Fully agree

[@ewganhoff]

Honda, you have a huge opportunity here. We all know Freddie should buy this bike. He loves it and it fits his usage almost perfectly, but we also know that Freddie is drawn, however irrationally, to a more classic aesthetic, which might be the final hurdle preventing him from laying down the cash. Now, Honda, imagine if somehow you just forgot to ask for the bike back. You would then have one of the best, most charming, most characterful, and most likeable Moto content creators featuring your bike in his beautiful, nearly cinematic creations, for years to come. Think about it, Honda, think very long and hard. ❤

[@Chewwy1973]

Freddy works in / for Motorcycle cos - he also maybe doesn’t make enough £ coz if i did what he does i would have several bikes whereas Freddy has a classic thats now a banger falling apart.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great work as ever Freddie and Monika - and I have to agree with you, the Transalp is a VERY good machine and as a practical, fun and excellent value all rounder comes very close to, or even at the top of the class.....

[@guyrose2239]

Andy…..You, Freddy, Monika and Mrs F should do a biker scran or some tour together … French alps and gourmet food and wine trail, I reckon !

[@faraway5828]

One might even argue that the NC750 is even more fitting, and possibly more forgettable, sadly. Practicality isn't always the best marketing proposition...

[@faraway5828]

Same might be true of the Deauville / Dullsville. We can be so shallow and image conscious that form supersedes function..

[@davehudson2064]

The Transalp is so you. Think of the adventures you could have on that bike. Great video as always ❤

[@FreddieDobbs]

It is pure adventure daydreaming- I love that about it🏍️🤘🏼

[@uytteb]

I'd say Freddie's bike of choice should always be a retro bike, however much he might love the Transalp.

[@pw9150]

@@uyttebthere shouldn’t be any must, guess 2 bikes would be a wonderful arrangement: the retro & the adv. wanderer ❤😂

[@hulkhatepunybanner]

*IDK. I say get back on the Bonneville and try out a Japanese 125cc scrambler.* Visit this park a couple times a month. Work on keeping boots off the ground as much as possible.

[@bobbyblaster7619]

Thanks for an honest offroad test :) that is how 90% of us ride in forests. I see myself on a transalp. I do not see Freddie on it. Moto guzzi would fit your style better.

[@mysterybiker1717]

I was stuck choosing transalp or v85. Got an ex demo v85 with 1k miles for £9k. Shaft drive, cruise, huge tank range, v twin character, people have done 100k miles on them, amazing build quality, has soul, better electronics / more flexible off road. Tubeless tyres. No brainer for me.

[@splodge57]

I reckon you made a good choice there. I'd much rather have the V85TT.

[@TheZakkmylde]

What about parts and reliability? Im in Canada and not sure but I’ve heard wait times for parts can be an issue

[@TheZakkmylde]

I don’t think this bike is about off-roading. Maybe at low speeds I’m Hearing it is soft

[@the.communist]

@@TheZakkmylde a guzzy certainly aint a honda in regards of reliability

[@trevorsmith8487]

Swapped my V85 in for a Desert X and miss it already. Yes the Desert X is a better bike in almost every aspect, apart from possibly the looks, yet the V85 has secured a place in my cold heart. I also would deffo choose the V85 over the Transalp 👍🏻

[@robertsilver1296]

My word Freddie! I have no idea if you script your videos, but I would hazard a guess at no. Either way, your turn of phrase, your speech is just excellent and always filled with knowledge and fun. And thank you to Monika for great filming and superb choices of music!

[@smallam49]

As an Accountant the joy of commuting by motorcycle to the office....and the stress relief at the end of the day....cannot be understated. ( Many years since I retired...but still riding.)

[@JohnSmith-xw5qe]

Brilliant video Freddie & Monica! You sold it to me! Am off to buy the legionnaires hat😎👍🏻

[@karenwiltshire4311]

Cracking review, forget all the numbers and specifications, there really is no one who can convey the passion of a particular bike better than Freddie, and with such sublime video production

[@Alexanderpaal67]

Best Honda Transalp review ever. Honda give this man the Transalp. You are the true ambassador of The Legend. The Power Of Dreams ❤ Cheers from Norway 🇳🇴

[@loki1066]

I don't know what 'abasadeur' means but I'm sure he's one !

[@stina6762]

Freddie . Off road . Up on those pegs . All the time! Knees braced into the tank, elbows out with a loose grip on the bars , knees slightly bent. Eyes 👀 looking to your exit point ! Love to see you do a video of an off road school . Rotor adventure down here in Dorset for example, Dave Knight . Loads to choose from. Improve your road and all round riding no end . Love your vids . 👍

[@tomstockell9481]

Good one - you remind me of a young David Attenborough “ here we have the Transalp in its native habitat “ keep up the great vids

[@mrbear143]

Hi - I’m sure you already know this but in case you didn’t- maybe try standing up on those pegs more when off-roading. You can do slight turns by pushing down on the pegs with your feet in the direction you want to go while using your knees as shock absorbers- especially over bigger rocks, sand areas, ruts or through steams. When you sit, all that energy from bumps travel up your body from your butt into your shoulders, arms and hands which can cause you to fight the bike more or lose control. Just a suggestion. Really enjoy your videos and always look forward to your next one!

[@Darryl1982]

A comparison with the Suzuki V Strom 800 is needed I think Freddie. The Transalp is up there for me and your video described why in great detail. Excellent stuff!

[@nockianlifter661]

DE is Better off road.

[@CHuzz7777]

Yes, I’d say the V Strom is the obvious competition. I had a 650 for a while, it was just a great bike. Quietly appreciated by owners, quietly underrated by the industry.

[@the.communist]

@@nockianlifter661 DE?

[@nockianlifter661]

@@the.communist 800 DE ( Desert Explorer ? ) they also do the RE (Road Explorer) with less suspension travel and bigger brakes.

[@reinmansmith]

I think you’ve hit the nail on the head with this review Freddie, just the same as Honda have hit the nail on the head with this bike…. Beautifully filmed as ever 👍

[@speedyboolooks]

I know its not your bag Freddie, but this machine would suit you & your adventures to a tee.

[@FreddieDobbs]

It really would- I think it’s the bike that’s made the most sense out of any I’ve tried

[@jamespressly6303]

Freddy….. you are so right, in the USA you can only get black, where I believe the red/white/ blue would sell so well …… the only thing short sided thoughts from Honda regarding the Transalp. I have the #2 bike to ride around the world (Suzuki Vstrom 650) but your review makes me want a Transalp! BTW…… the Transalp is got your name written all over it!!! Dave P

[@ecirlos4601]

I wish they can bring the white one to the U.S.

[@MrCapri78]

I bought 2 new Honda motorcycles in 2019 fitted with free trackers. Removed both of them after a few months as I was having the same issue. No problems at all since.

[@casualemt]

Freddie, The real gem in your videos is Monica, what a talent! You definitely have a gift of enthusiastic presentation, but she packages it in a beautiful wrapping… I have read through most of the comments here, and realize you have projected an image that provokes people’s desires vicariously through your enthusiastic reviews, interestingly you always seem to ultimately gravitate towards the Triumph even after riding around on all these fantastic new bikes…it is very revealing..the soul of a hopeless romantic..and please never stop loving the incredible Monica!!

[@catflap]

Nice review Freddie. It was great to meet you briefly in London last night. My apologies for interrupting your conversation. Thanks for being so understanding and friendly and welcoming. I look forward to more entertaining videos! Ed from Dublin.

[@millinutz]

One of Mr. Dobbs very best reviews! Well researched and with an entertaining presentation, in a fitting scenery, and using a very good comparison..., a Hat that virtually nobody has, but should have, although he hasn't realised it yet. This is the sort of Review, companies pay big money to Advertising agencies to have done. Well done to the both of you at F&M Motorcycle Promotions !! I hope you get to keep this Transalp as Payment for your troubles. Ride Safe.

[@Steve-s8k]

I loved all the props and mood camera work in this episode Freddie. I had to smile at it.

[@stevesane800]

Ohh Freddie & Monika, another brilliant expression of passion & professionalism. Capturing the filtered sun through the bare leaved trees. Beautiful. The obsession with Moto Guzzi never dies & is always filled with passion. Though I really do hope you get to experience the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE or any of their parallel twins for a true comparison 🙏 Perhaps one day when the leaves have regrown on the trees!

[@dochonk961]

Your brilliant videos just keep getting better!

[@Adv207]

It looks great in white color compared to black US version. Lighter color helps a lot where drivers are not used to spot motorcycles here in the US.

[@tisgautzo]

Not shy to give your own opinion about the bike. I like that. Video is very well made and the presentation and story you tell is that of a professional presenter. Very good to watch, keep up the good work 👍🏼👍🏼🙌🏼✊🏼

[@MattLeeman]

Amazing metaphor to kick off with! Freddie Dobbs you are one of the best human beings on this planet!

[@andrewkeir5788]

You are preaching to the converted with me Freddie. Got one and love it. It’s a bit like my wife. You can tell it’s the right one because I don’t ever look at other bikes. A great series on this bike. Thanks.

[@conduiredanslesud]

The shaft drive alone would make me pick the V85TT over the Transalp. I've owned a Guzzi v7 for 2 years now and the absence of chain maintenance is amazing for daily use. The V85 also has the following advantages: bigger tank, cruise control, easy valve checks, accessible air filter, included sump guard... The V85TT Travel edition additionally features heated grips, panniers, large screen, center stand, TPMS. You know, stuff that Honda didn't include in the "adventure" pack.

[@the.communist]

Guzzi aint as capable off road

[@MrRiddicules]

You forgot the main thing - looks and feels!

[@MrRiddicules]

​@@the.communistmore than most of us, to be honest

[@conduiredanslesud]

@@the.communist As if most people would even take the Transalp off-road...

[@Max-kk1wf]

Freddie's enthusiasm is pouring out of the screen. I am convinced it is the greatest do-all of all time. I am going to pick up one used in a year or two. In the tri-colour, naturally.

[@MikeHcan2]

Great review! Can I just say that I really appreciated the offroad portion of the video. No professional rider blasting down single track doing wheelies and power slides, but rather the kind of riding I do - somewhat slow and cautious. That's no reflection on Freddie or his riding ability which is no doubt above mine, but it's refreshing to see compared to many other review videos. I've been very interested in the new Transalp ever since I first saw it in the press two years ago, and this review has done a wonderful job of reinforcing my decision that it will be my next bike. I recently got the chance to swing a leg over one in a dealership, and it immediately felt like home. Thanks!

[@KennethSwaby-j9d]

It looks like the Transalp would please many riders. And yes, the tracking device drains batteries like mad. Thanks for the Vlog Freddie, most enjoyable. 👏👏👍👍👍

[@jfro5867]

Just got my TA, in white. Extremely pleased with it, exactly as per your summary, it just ‘works’. Honda nailed this bike, proper all rounder. 🎯

[@chiefenumclaw7960]

3:16 "And it gets even worse if you're from the U.S." 100% I've been crying about this for a while now. The matte black version is SO boring & uninspired looking. An all-black color scheme is great for a Harley, but not for an ADV bike.

[@TallyHoTech]

Freddy Dobbs. You Off Road Weapon. Genuinely impressed with your water crossings

[@conorhayes4213]

The Suzuki DL650 XT V-Strom all day. Heated grips, handguards, bash plate, engine bars, supreme comfort(im 6ft2") screen is very good, its a miser on petrol , 550km for full tank . Comes with power output on the dash . And of course the actual cost ..... I bought mine new in 2022 for €8950 (£7650) ...Absolute no brainer... Quality video AGAIN though. Cant wait for more tours.

[@JasonMoon111]

Thank you for all Transalp content! I have Moto Guzzi V85TT and I think it is a superb bike, but also very different. Biggest difference is not weight, because V85TT has very low center of gravity. Biggest difference is chassis and suspension. Let me quote few words from Bike UK adventure bike mega test about V85TT: "its chassis is the highlight. Quietly sneaking into this gaggle of 21-inchers with its 19-inch front wheel, the V85 could never be called quick steering but rolls into turns with measured ease, surprising accuracy and pleasing road-holding. It's not sharp, but it's definitely fun. And the Guzzi's suspension is wonderful too. It's not just got the best ride quality of the bunch, but some of the best I've ever sampled." They rated V85 TT the second best middle sized adv bike, after Ducati Desert X saying: we’d take the Moto Guzzi V85 TT for long trips and huge miles - it’s got glorious comfort, surprisingly effective handling and flexible thrust, in a touchy-feely package that makes you smile. 1. Ducati Desert X 2. Moto Guzzi V85TT and Tiger 900 Rally Pro 4. Yamaha Tenere World Raid 5. Husqvarna Norden 901 6. Aprilia Tuareg 660

[@drink4711]

Excellent video Freddie and Monika! Agree on your take of the Transalp, plus I really enjoyed the narration and the costume changes :)

[@RoosterRaw]

I’m a Transalp owner and spot on Freddie. Well happy with mine! Safe riding and happy travels dude!

[@Munter1]

lt must be said Freddy when you give a bike an unbiased road test that's exactly what the bike gets, if l remember you did have a thing about the Transalp a year or so ago on one of your videos so it's strange you only just got round to testing one. l'd like to think there be one in your garage in the near future along with the Bonneville, if that comes to fruition l'd like to see you and a Transalp doing the Welsh Dragon next year, it should be a breeze for you Freddy though l can't see the boss roughing it in a tent in February. A great well presented video as usual thanks to your long suffering camera lady.

[@karimbenna5334]

As a owner of a transalp you got me hard emotional! I am so happy whith that bike and i could make a 3400km trip and the bike was amazing in every situation. I even drove off-road on a sandy ground, fully loaded (40kg) and without protections on it and it still did not put me in a uncontrollable situation. Great companion.. I found the video super nice! Thank you

[@thebikegeekandmore2448]

Regarding the v85 tt, due to the fact that the cylinders are sticking out of the frame, It feels much lighter then it is. It feels more like a 195 kg bike and have in mind that it has shaft drive.

[@nockianlifter661]

? How does a higher centre of gravity make a bike feel lighter ? A BMW feels lighter because the cylinders are way down low.

[@thebikegeekandmore2448]

@@nockianlifter661read above

[@nockianlifter661]

@@thebikegeekandmore2448 The Guzzi has a higher centre of gravity because of cylinder placement so how does it feel lighter ? Do you mean when it’s moving, or a standstill ? Bikes with higher cog feel top heavy when stationary - try getting a Guzzi off the side stand compared to a similar weight air cooled Ducati V twin and you’ll see what I mean. Once moving, higher cog bikes feel lighter to turn all things being equal. Lower Cog bikes tend to have less rake to counter that effect.

[@the.communist]

@@nockianlifter661 cog?

[@nockianlifter661]

@@the.communist centre of gravity.

[@allanhughes7859]

Yet another fantastic up load so so professional and well presented. The camera work, the music, but mostly the content I take my hat with a peak and back flap off to you both Well done !!

[@philipdorling1577]

this guy is SO good at this. Well done Freddie

[@Bill3558]

Beautifully done video. You have talent. I recently got a TA. My God, it has opened up a whole new world to me. Old guy 74 coming from a heavy CTX1300.

[@janeharris9879]

I'm a "mature" lady rider. Test at 55yrs, now 64yrs. Had a Versys 650..not comfortable with it. Son suggested RE Himalayan. It taught me to ride. Love it. Now I have a Transalp which I chose myself. Had one for 2 months now. Hand picked options. The packs weren't logical to me. Loved the video! Everything you say is pertinent!

[@mickleblade]

How tall are you BTW?

[@janeharris9879]

@@mickleblade I'm 5ft 10 or 1m78..

[@mickleblade]

@@janeharris9879 ta. I'll be OK at 6' I was curious if my wife at 5'6 would be able to if needed. She got fairly long legs.

[@wmranson9311]

Without a doubt the most honest, thorough and practical opinion on the TA. I daily ride an MT-07 and a GS 310 off-road.

[@lanodramallama]

I bloody love your reviews, Freddie. EnglishBikerDan's reviews are great: informative yet easygoing. Yours are informative, too, but they're always verging on the poetic, and that's what keeps me watching. I hate to use a football analogy, but if Dan is England, then you're Brazil. Keep doing what you do, because you do it well.

[@FoxtrotOscar9]

Great vlog Dobbs, thought provoking. It is seriously tempting and makes sense going Honda wise. I really fancy the V85TT, for character and ease of maintenace, getting to the heads easily is a bonus. And shaft drive/cruise control etc! That said, i can easily get parts for the Honda, and peace of mind re reliability. Tough call! Maybe head to head conparison with the other contender, or all 3! Would be a interesting trio and vlog?!

[@FreddieDobbs]

I’ll try and do a comparison video, possibly with Danny, over the summer🙂🏍️🏍️

[@NoTengoIlusiones]

Then engine of this new Transalp it's a dream.... a Jack-of-all-trades bike. ❤

[@antonoat]

More bike than the sum of its parts! I’m sorely tempted, it is more than likely all I need! Great review Freddie! 👏😀👍🏍

[@alanduncan3337]

You're probably right Freddie. It may not be the most exciting bike but it'll do everything you ask of it and more. Honda reliability is legendary so it won't ever let you down.

[@charlesmaasz247]

Great film. What a team you both are! Have no mainstream producers approached yet? If not it is only a matter of time. Love the Transalp but.. Guzzi is not an academic exercise. Honda might be all things to most people but Guzzi is artisanal in a mass produced world. Guzzi is an exercise in soul, character, romance, simplicity and they are evocative in ways which are not easy to express. Certainly not on a spec-sheet or in a game of top trumps. Guzzi is analogue in a digital world, it is vinyl in a world of streaming. The world is better because Guzzi exists. If you have access to the digitally designed universe through your presser bikes and contacts then you owe it to yourself, to your soul, to make the bike you actually own one that speaks to the artist inside you both.

[@thepictontwowheels7195]

Brilliant Fredie, love your enthusiasm, you would make a fantastic salesman. I'd not be surprised if you convinced Honda to buy that bike back off you, even though they own it🤣 Love the vids, great work

[@davidsandilands1285]

Enjoyed your review. I own one and its my preferred everyday go to over my other bikes including a multi. That said this bike is too perfect for you and your channel.

[@joeljorgefernandes8513]

This was the big report I was waiting for... thanks Freddie for your help. I own a Transalp 650, and I've been thinking about an upgrade for some time, but without knowing exactly what the smartest choice is to replace a machine that has never let me down. Your eloquence and impartiality was just what I needed to support my decision... I'm really tempted to invest in the new Transalp... ✌

[@duncanc2592]

Freddie, I am an owner of several classic Triumphs from the ‘70s. However, I haven’t bought a new bike since the mid 1990’s… and that was a Ducati 900ss which was by today’s standards, an old fashioned bike. I have been following your videos since I found you by chance reporting on a BSA Goldstar at the Goodwood Festival of speed a few years ago. However, the videos of the TransAlp in Yorkshire and Kent have persuaded me… I want one! Farnham Honda, will be seeing you soon. Thanks Freddie. Keep up the good work. I love the mix of videos.

[@SteveSeadog]

As you say, the Transalp is very good, but not perfect. The lack of a centre stand, front-end auxiliary power outlet and heated grips, plus the fact that it has tubed tyres meaning puncture repairs will be a real faff, all count against it. In spite of all this, it will probably be my next bike because it's so good in all other areas. Great review, Freddie.

[@volt8684]

Which is why the new v strom is better imo

[@rodnb2600]

I agree 100%, the transalp is the best bang for your buck when it comes to motorcycles!! Very nice video and very well articulated.

[@robinwilcox9777]

The bike really suits that colour scheme. Well done Freddie. I only recently started watching your channel and am enjoying it.

[@daveanderson70]

I loved watching the series of the Trans Alp and this final video was fantastic - beautifully short & narrated. I think Honda should do a Legionnaire’s edition!

[@jamesschneider3828]

That's what Kawasaki did with the KLR 650.

[@OurManInCumbria]

Great review as ever Freddie. Picking my new TransAlp up this weekend and off to Spain and France in July. Can’t wait.

[@Houseof900]

Just picked mine up last week. Looking forward to many miles in the saddle! Thank you for a great review!

[@plattenschielerlp7796]

Freddie your videos are such a joy. Thank you so much and keep up the good work.

[@dwb468]

Freddie, kudos to you and Monica for the stellar content. I've put 10k miles on my 2021 CRF300L Rally and love it. I commute with it and ride gravel and B-road. I do find myself wanting a bit more horsepower on the motorway. The Transalp is on my short list. It seems to do nothing phenomenally, but everything exceptionally well, much like my 2013 Honda CR-V with 250k miles on it.

[@laurentvenet2758]

Great video as always with nice coffee break and the « pain au chocolat » :) yesterday while in the city there was a KTM 790 adventure parked on the pavement, it was one of those before 2023. It does not look too high to sit on and I read that the tank was going lower for ease of use. Maybe it would be another possible choice though a bit more expensive. Competition is huge in that segment.

[@melfzs]

The TransAlp is a great bike, you've sold it to yourself, you know you want one! For me the Vstrom's still the one , I've owned mine for eight years and 63,000 miles, it's as hard as an Anvil and as reliable as the sunrise, I own other bikes and change them occasionally but the Vstrom will never be parted with . Cheers Mel 🍻

[@cf.5093]

I do love a t7 though much more capable bias to being off road looks abit more aggressive but overall you'd be right picking a transalp for all the boxes to tick

[@teneretraveller8980]

40000 miles on a 650 confirms everything you say. Most of it 2up travels. But I'm now on my 2nd 650 strom. Tubeless spokes. 20 litre tank. Equally as reliable. A few less horses. Irrelevant for me. She loves it on the back. Available for less than 8g if you look around. Try one. Safe and happy travels 👍

[@volt8684]

Totally concur. I think the strom 650 or 800 pips this, please Fred try one

[@teneretraveller8980]

@@volt8684 suzuki now doing 7yr warranty, too.

[@easyfromtnbtw3555]

I really like my Transalp. I daily it through the week and go pretty much anywhere I want on the weekends. I haven’t took a long trip yet but I don’t see any problems with it being comfortable enough and the wind protection is surprisingly good

[@Tommy-Atkins]

Nah….a RE Classic 350 is Freddie….is all you will ever need for most motorcycling in the UK..commuting , bimbling, coffee shop hunting and some light touring 👍……Im just hoping to see a European tour of the Baltics one day by Freddie and Monica on one to prove that mile munching doesn’t need to be fast or heavy/bulky! ✊😎….great vid guys

[@TheNorthernClassicRider]

I ordered a new one yesterday (red & chrome) off the back of Freddie's reviews. Can't wait, himalayan up for sale. Will be sad to see that bike go but really looking forward to the classic.

[@KASPERACDC]

That intro was "Top Gear" quality, i loved it, keep up the good work Freddie

[@fitzstermoto]

I've never purchased a brand new motorcycle but ever since this new Transalp was released and even the press release before that, I have been eyeing this one and would absolutely buy it without any hesitation! Unfortunately we're currently house hunting and it's a bad time to purchase any motorcycle on finance but I really hope I could find a really clean and nice second hand example in the not so distant future! Absolutely excellent video Freddie - you did a great job and can't wait to ride the Transalp some day! 🏍🏍🏍

[@jonnytimerider]

Another fantastic video Freddie, I can`t praise you or Monika enough, and I`m so looking forward to what`s coming as the better weather gets here. As a salesman, I think Honda owe you big time. I haven`t even test ridden the Transalp yet, BUT... I know this is the bike I will be buying as soon as the funds allow. I would love Honda to gift you this bike, as I really do think it`s a keeper, and personally I would love to see you give an ongoing, longterm, living-with review. I can see you having some fantastic adventures on it in the coming years, and think a lot of us would like to come along for the ride. There are plenty of "new bike test riders" on youtube, which is great, but I love your "living life with a bike" style of films. As for people saying you`re more of a retro guy, well retro is just a matter of perspective really. The transalp has it`s roots back in the 80`s, and it gives me the retro feel but with a modern look, (although I still wish they`d given it the twin round headlights). That would have been the icing on the cake for me. And don`t forget, tomorrow`s brand new bike will be retro one day. Keep up the great work, can`t wait for next episode. Cheers Freddie!

[@motomitch]

You left out that those of us in the Western Hemisphere not only miss out on this beautiful color as an option (even though I think I would prefer the black.. they may be right on that assumption), that our version is apparently 70 something horsepower, not the rest of the world's 90+! I don't understand that. I am hoping some of the woes with this bike get ironed out in subsequent models the next few years. At this time I'm pretty convinced it'll be my next/second bike. Much different than what I currently have but it's the next step I'd like to take in my riding journey. Great review, big fan. I think you were reasonably honest with the downsides of this thing, and you describe the beauty and perks of it so well, as always. Thank you sir.

[@StoriesOnWheels9]

I am here for Monica's camera work!😅 Awesome review Freddie.....succint and to the point!

[@davidm.4698]

Best review of Honda TransAlp on KZbin!! Well done! I was on fance about it or T700 , but you sold me on a Transalp !!! 👍 Hope you get to test the 2025 model and compare them! Thanks !! 🙏

[@jshanni2066]

Excellent ponderings as always, Freddie. Personally, unless i was genuinely going to tackle an around-the-world , largely off road journey, i'd still go for the Guzzi 85tt. At a practical level, it offers cruise control and shaft drive. At an emotional level, it has soul, a sense of pride of ownership, great looks (imo) and an overall appeal to my senses. These things matter. Sometimes.

[@Yourbestlife1]

Best review on the Transalp I have seen! Great work, keep them coming!

[@richardcasey7521]

I bought one 3 months ago and I absolutely love it!

[@dionoliveira4058]

Excellent! review Dobbs I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoy your banter.

[@iqjobs2766]

Great video ❤! And it brings great memories since I had an 92 blue transalp!

[@tbillington]

Great review and wrap up Freddie. I've got a Transalp, it's a brilliant bike. But I only ride for pleasure a couple of times a week, and the heart isn't into it. If I commuted daily, I would keep it forever. But I think I'll be selling it this year and picking up an inferior, but more desirable Italian bike.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Very interesting insight! I do totally understand it

[@trailingarm63]

Great film Freddie, but so far over the top it's got snow on it. It's a fine bike no doubt, but as you pointed out the lack of heated grips, centre stand (and cruise control) would be a concern. More subjectively, I prefer shaft-drive and for this reason the Moto Guzzi looks more attractive.

[@kejefelcz]

Great video and review! I'm just taking my license lessons and test. And obviously I've spent endless hours considering my first bike (being 187 cm tall, old, with sore back and wanting to do longer trips, many of bikes are out of the question). At first, I was very keen on the NC750x. Then I discovered the MG VT85TT. And finally, the Transalp. Not sure if any of these would be a good beginners bike but it made me happy all of those actually are listed in this video (two of them in the top answers!) :). Plus, I'm still very much in love with the Transalp, although the VT with the prop and tubeless tires is right behind.. This is a tough choice. Thanks for the video!

[@mikeyb6737]

Great video. I owned the 2020 africa twin DCT Adventure sports until my car was Tee boned. I was insured, but I decided to let it go and buy an AWD Endura with the lot. I kept my HD Ultra limited as my bike. I think the Africa twin has more presence than the Transalp, but that lighter weight would be more fun. Thank you for a great review.

[@MOTOUK1]

Would love to see you on the new Tiger 900 Freddie hear your views 👍think it fits more than the scrambler 900

[@FreddieDobbs]

I’m very curious to try one!

[@garyyoung9956]

Freddie another great review for people who may want to own a bike long term. If possible can you add the service costs when reviewing a bike, keep up the good work.

[@mjonno64]

Nice video mate with Beautiful countryside. Understand you may not be an experienced off-roader, but that Gravel mode is really quite useless. It is far too harsh and intrusive. You did omit talking about its closest competitor being the New Vstrom 800DE, now that is a tough call. Hope you get that Transalp in your garage soon. Has the making for some great travelling and touring content.

[@903lew]

Whenever Mr Dobbs says it needs ”minimal maintenance” I always wonder how he’s come to that conclusion. All bikes with engines need maintenance as the current trials of the bonneville should prove ^^. Great review of a very interesting bike. I’ve only sat on one in the showroom and while it’s incredibly comfortable for me I fear the tubes (and my riding habits) would lead me to the Vstrom 800 RE instead. Slightly better pricing and seven years warranty also helps.

[@biker_dale]

Great review of a great bike and a bike I would have if I have the funds. Common sense aside many people including myself do go for a bit of character too and this is why the roads aren't full of Transalps, or one particular bike. I think it's that happy medium of heart and mind coming together in agreement over something which has to stir the soul and also do the job. Thankfully we all differ.

[@martynpearce4754]

Great Review Freddie! Anyone that has ridden the previous models will know what they are getting, you summed it up nicely! Honda should provide the bash plate and hand guards as standard, just for the looks! (hope you have given the norman wisdom suit jacket back😅). I would love for someone to offer you a free off road motorbike riding course and get you popping a wheelie or two!😜

[@markwilliam8936]

Freddie, thanks for that. I have a Honda Transalp XL 700 2018. 34000 miles on it, Its a tank. Looking to get the new Transalp, but I dont like rider modes. Mark from glasgow.

[@andrewpodmore2440]

I like the blue and white livery and those gold rims, it’s a handsome machine ❤

[@jonathanloveday153]

Morning Freddie. Great review of this bike.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Really glad you enjoyed it!

[@jonathanloveday153]

Just been to the MCN bike show at the ExCel but unfortunately Honda did not have a stand so couldn’t see the bike in the flesh.

[@robertlee6949]

So... wash the bike... check. Great review as always. Honda should use you for their advertising. Cheers!

[@UKPete]

Great review Freddie. I have the old 1998 Transalp and would upgrade at the drop of hat should the the finances permit. Honda should at least include the bash plate at the standard price.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Totally agree!

[@Paul-67]

I tried a 600 transalp in Portugal, early 90’s. I was very impressed with it. I would buy a second hand 600 or 650 transalp. (That’s all I can afford😊)