Honda Transalp XL750
Collect Memories with the New Honda XL750 Transalp:
An In-Depth Review
EXPLORING THE NEW
HONDA XL750 TRANSALP
A Journey of Freedom on Two Wheels
As the sun rises over the horizon, painting the world with hues of orange and pink, the spirit of adventure stirs within the hearts of the road warriors. For them, the thrill of exploration and the joy of discovery are as essential as the air they breathe. These are the bikers, the travelers, the explorers of the world’s endless roads, the ones who find solace in the hum of the engine and the sensation of the wind pressing against their gear. They are the embodiment of freedom, adventure, and passion.
For those who belong to this tribe, we bring a tale of a legend reborn, a tale of a machine that shares their spirit of adventure and exploration – the new Honda XL750 Transalp. A motorcycle that is not just a means of transport, but a companion for life’s adventures, a canvas for their stories, a testament to their journey. This, dear readers of Bike Travel Adventures Magazine, is an in-depth review of the new Honda XL750 Transalp, a motorbike that not only aims to carry forward the legacy of its iconic predecessor for a new breed of adventurers, but also to rekindle the passion of the experienced generation who’ve spent over two decades eagerly awaiting the return of this legendary machine. If you’ve traversed the globe on the old Transalp and yearned to relive those memorable rides, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Get ready to seize the handlebars of the Transalp once again, as we set off on a journey wherever the road or trail may lead.
In the pages to follow, we delve deep into the rich history of this legendary model, explore its innovative features, and share first-hand experiences of what it feels like to ride this machine both on tarmac and the untrodden path. Gear up, rev your imaginations, and let’s hit the road to discover the magic of the new Honda XL750 Transalp!
More than a motorcycle, the Honda XL750 Transalp is a testament to the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road.
Honda Transalp: A Timeless Icon of Adventure Motorcycling
In the realm of adventure motorcycles, few names resonate as powerfully as the Honda Transalp. The iconic model, first introduced in 1986, carved its name into the annals of biking history with its unique blend of versatility, comfort, and ruggedness. It was a bike built not just for the highways and city streets, but also for the off-road trails and the paths less traveled. The Transalp’s soul was that of a do-it-all crossover, a motorcycle that could glide over tarmac just as smoothly as it could tread on rough terrain, thanks to its long-travel suspension and light off-road dynamics.
The original Transalp came to life with a robust 583cc V-Twin engine, a testament to Honda’s commitment to delivering a bike that was as powerful as it was practical. Such was the quality of its build and the timelessness of its design that even today, decades later, many of these bikes can still be spotted on the roads of Europe, each one carrying a myriad of stories etched into its well-worn body.
That brings us to the present day, a time when the adventure segment has expanded massively. Amidst a diverse lineup of Honda’s adventurous offerings, from the pocket-adventurer CB500X to the super-athletic CRF1100L Africa Twin and its long-range continent-crossing sibling, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports, a legend is reborn, ready to continue its legacy. The stage is set for the introduction of the new Honda XL750 Transalp, a machine designed to captivate a new generation of riders with a different set of adventurous aspirations.
As the years rolled on, the Transalp continued to evolve, growing in strength and size. By 2000, the engine had grown to 647cc, and for the last version in 2008, it landed with a 680cc powerplant, fuel injection, and a kerb weight of 214kg1. Each iteration was a step forward, a testament to Honda’s relentless pursuit of perfection and its commitment to meeting the ever-changing needs and aspirations of adventure riders.
But as the saying goes, “the more things change, the more they stay the same”. While the Transalp underwent many changes over the years, what remained constant was its spirit of adventure and its ability to deliver an unparalleled riding experience, regardless of where the road led.
“
The Honda Transalp: an enduring symbol of adventure, reborn for a new generation of riders.
The Transalp Experience
The first streaks of dawn paint the sky as one approaches the Honda XL750 Transalp. Its sleek design exudes an unmistakable feeling of adventure, the steel frame gleaming in the early light. As the rider swings a leg over the seat, the firm yet comfortable cushioning is immediately noticeable. Hands find the familiar coolness of the handlebars, a reassuring promise of control and power. With a press of the ignition button, the engine stirs to life, its low, powerful growl sending a thrill through the body. The scent of the morning air, tinged with the distinct, metallic tang of the engine, fills the nostrils.
Through the city, the Transalp is a dream. The engine responds to every twist of the throttle, delivering power smoothly and effortlessly. The purr of the engine is a steady rhythm in the ears, overlaid with the sounds of the city waking up – the distant hum of traffic, the sporadic melody of birdsong. The bike maneuvers through the urban maze with agility, each turn a dance of precision and balance.
Leaving the city behind, the true spirit of the Transalp emerges. The open road is a ribbon of possibilities, and the Transalp responds with eager enthusiasm. The engine’s roar deepens, a thrilling symphony that ebbs and flows with the changing landscape. The wind whistles in the ears, the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers replacing the urban smells. The transition from tarmac to dirt trail is seamless. The Transalp’s long-legged stance and Showa suspension rise to the challenge, handling bumps and rough patches with remarkable ease. The crunch of gravel under the tires, the scent of dust kicked up by the wheels, and the feeling of the bike moving beneath the rider as it navigates the uneven terrain – it’s an intoxicating symphony of sensation that embodies the heart of off-road adventure.
When the trail turns rough, the Transalp remains unfazed. The bike’s steady rhythm is a comforting presence, its consistent performance a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess. Every vibration of the handlebars, every shift of the bike’s weight is a conversation, a constant exchange of feedback between rider and machine.
As the journey winds to a close, and the sun dips below the horizon, the Transalp’s full LED lighting system cuts through the growing dusk. The engine cools, its low hum softening to a whisper, and the quiet of the night settles in. The scent of the cooling engine mingles with the fresh night air, a final sensory reminder of the day’s journey.
In essence, the Transalp 750 isn’t just about getting from point A to B – it’s about the journey, the sensory symphony of sights, sounds, and feelings that make each ride an unforgettable adventure. It’s a call to the open road, to the thrill of discovery, and to the spirit of adventure.
“
With its adaptable Throttle By Wire system, the Honda XL750 Transalp ensures a tailor-made riding experience for every adventure.
The GRAVEL mode is specially designed for off-road adventures on rough terrain. It utilizes a moderate level of EP (level 2), high EB (level 3), and advanced HSTC (level 4) with the least aggressive ABS setting (level 1) to provide confident and controlled off-road travel.
In addition to these pre-set modes, the bike also features a USER mode. This allows riders to customize their own settings, selecting from 4 levels of EP, 5 levels of HSTC, and 3 levels of EB. This mode also offers the option to turn off the rear ABS. Once set, these personalized settings can be saved for future use.
The bike also includes a standard Wheelie Control feature, which is integrated with the HSTC system. This provides an added layer of control and safety, particularly when riding in SPORT mode.
The Electronics
The Honda XL750 Transalp is equipped with a Throttle By Wire (TBW) system that provides the rider with four pre-set riding modes: SPORT, STANDARD, RAIN, and GRAVEL. Each of these modes automatically adjusts the bike’s engine response and overall performance to best suit the current riding conditions and the rider’s specific intentions. Switching between modes is a breeze thanks to the left handlebar control and the TFT screen display.
The SPORT mode maximizes the bike’s performance for thrilling rides, using the highest level of Engine Power (EP, level 4), intermediate ABS (level 2), and the least aggressive Engine Brake (EB, level 1) and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC, level 1). This combination ensures strong acceleration with minimal electronic intervention.
The STANDARD mode provides a balanced setup, ideal for city commuting. It employs a mid-range level for EP and HSTC (level 3) and an intermediate level for EB and ABS (level 2).
For tricky on-road conditions, the RAIN mode comes into play, offering the gentlest power delivery with the lowest EP setting (level 1), accompanied by an intermediate level of EB and ABS (level 2) and the highest HSTC (level 5) for maximum traction control.
Honda XL750 Transalp: The New Chapter
Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter: the latest chapter in the Transalp story, the new XL750 Transalp. A bike that has managed to transcend its own heritage and redefine what it means to be an adventure bike, setting a new standard for the mid-capacity sector of Honda’s range.
Honda has taken its time in crafting the new Transalp. It’s clear that every decision made, from the smallest design feature to the largest structural changes, has been meticulously thought out. This bike isn’t just a continuation of an old model; it’s a revival of a legend, with a modern twist that caters to the riders of today and tomorrow.
The new XL750 Transalp is built for versatility. Whether you’re planning an extended touring trip or just facing the daily urban cut-and-thrust, this bike is prepared to take you wherever you want to go. It’s just as comfortable slicing through an Alpine pass as it is kicking up dust on rough tracks. This bike is the epitome of an all-rounder, and it leaves only one question unanswered: How far do you want to go?
Mr. Masatoshi Sato, Transalp Large Project Leader at Honda R&D in Japan, said, “With our new Transalp we looked hard at what made the first model so good and wanted to strike the right balance between urban agility, long-distance, on-road touring comfort and off-road ability. Around town or around the world – our Transalp is ready”.
The design of the Transalp radiates an undeniable sense of adventure touring, perfectly engineered for road performance. Its tall stature boldly expresses its adventurous nature. The combination of the fairing and windscreen provides effective wind deflection without adding unnecessary bulk, maintaining the motorcycle’s sleek, simple, and clean aesthetic.
The heart of the Transalp, its engine, is a testament to Honda’s innovative engineering. The all-new 755cc, parallel twin-cylinder unit, featuring an 8-valve Unicam configuration, is compact and lightweight. The bore and stroke are set at 87 x 63.5mm, with a compression ratio of 11.0:1. This lower compression ratio is a distinct advantage for those desiring far-flung adventures, as it allows the Transalp to run efficiently even on lower-quality fuel. This results in a top power output of 67.5kW at 9,500rpm, accompanied by a broad range of usable torque, peaking at 75Nm at 7,250rpm. The engine delivers enjoyable performance for riders of all experience levels across all types of rides and distances.
This compactness and lightness are the products of clever packaging. There’s no balancer drive gear as the primary drive gear performs dual duties, spinning the balance shaft. The water pump resides inside the left-hand engine cover, eliminating the need for a water-cooled oil cooler.
The Unicam head, borrowed from the MX competition-ready CRF450R, operates the 35.5mm diameter inlet valves via cam and 29mm diameter exhaust via rocker arm. Patented Vortex flow ducts ensure uniform distribution from the side scoops into the airbox, which feeds downdraft intakes and 46mm diameter throttle bodies.
The engine’s cylinders use a Ni-SiC (Nickel-Silicon Carbide) coating, just like the CRF450R and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, for improved efficiency. The crank employs a 270° firing order, lending the engine a distinctive, characterful twin-cylinder pulse. Furthermore, the exhaust note has been tuned for a satisfying low-end beat and a raucous top-end howl.
The Throttle By Wire (TBW) settings of the Transalp’s engine are tailored to its long-distance touring work. An assist/slipper clutch, with F.C.C Leaning Segment (FLS) discs, reduces clutch drag torque by 30% for a lighter lever load and smoother upshifts, while also managing rear wheel hop during hard braking and rapid downshifts.
With a fuel consumption of 23.km/l (WMTC mode), the Transalp can potentially cover a range of 390km from its 16.9L fuel tank.
The Transalp’s nimble and confidence-inspiring handling is courtesy of its lightweight steel diamond frame, optimized for wall/pipe thickness and stiffness. The Showa 43mm SFF-CA USD forks and rear shock, operating through Pro-Link, provide supple on-road performance and off-road bump absorption. Dual two-piston calipers ensure efficient stopping power, and the 90/90-21/front and 150/70-18 rear tires deliver versatility on or off-road.
Completing the package, a 5-inch TFT colour display offers vivid information delivery and management of all systems. The Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCs) ensures seamless connectivity for Android and IOS devices. All lighting is LED, with indicators that auto-cancel and also feature Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) technology to warn other road users of sudden braking.
Honda XL750 Transalp Specification
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
|
Engine Type |
Liquid-cooled OHC 4-stroke 8-valve parallel twin with 270° crank and Unicam |
|
Engine Displacement |
755cc |
| Compression Ratio |
11.0:1 |
|
Max. Torque |
75Nm @ 7,250rpm |
|
Oil Capacity |
3.9L |
|
Fuel Tank Capacity |
16.9L |
|
Fuel Consumption |
23km/l (4.4 l/100km) |
|
Battery Capacity |
12v 8.6Ah |
|
Clutch Type |
Wet multiple, assist slipper clutch |
|
Transmission Type |
6 speed Manual Transmission |
|
Frame Type |
Steel diamond |
|
Dimensions (L´W´H) |
2,325mm x 838mm x 1,450mm |
|
Wheelbase |
1560mm |
|
Suspension Rear |
Monoshock damper, Pro-Link swingarm, 190mm travel |
|
Tyres Rear |
150/70-R18 M/C 70H |
|
Brakes Rear |
Single 256mm x 6.0mm ‘wave’ disc is operated by a single-piston caliper |
|
ABS Type |
2 channel |
|
Quickshifter |
Optional |
Please note that these specifications are based on the provided information and may be subject to change or updates by the manufacturer.
In the end, the Honda XL750 Transalp is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a passport to the world of adventure that lies just beyond the beaten path. It’s a companion for the long-haul, ready to accompany you on a journey of discovery, be it through bustling city streets or on dusty off-road trails. It’s a vessel for the freedom and joy that comes with the open road, the wind in your face, and the horizon stretching out before you.
Every journey with the Transalp is an opportunity to collect memories, to etch your own stories into the heart of this remarkable machine. As we ride, we leave behind more than just miles; we leave a part of ourselves, and in return, we carry with us the sights, sounds, and sensations that make each journey unique.
So, when you fire up the engine of the Honda XL750 Transalp and feel the hum of power beneath you, remember that you’re not just starting a journey, you’re beginning a new chapter in your adventure book. A chapter filled with the promise of new roads to explore, new sights to see, and new memories to collect.
How far you go is up to you, but one thing is certain: with the Transalp, every journey is an adventure, every mile a memory waiting to be collected. In the spirit of Bike Travel Adventures Magazine, it’s time to gear up, saddle up, and embark on your next adventure.
And remember: Don’t just collect miles, collect memories.
Photos: Honda Media – Words: Pablo Ferrero
Related Articles
Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Unveiling the Game ChangerAs the wind whips past, and the open road beckons ahead, there's a symbiotic thrill between an adventurer and their trusty motorcycle - a dance,...
Testing the Giants: Erzbergrodeo and the Unusual Suspects
Testing the Giants: Erzbergrodeo and the Unusual SuspectsThe tranquil town of Eisenerz buzzes with anticipation as the annual Red Bull Erzbergrodeo approaches, transforming into a spectacle of grit...
Bones, Grit, and Triumph: A Journey Along the Forgotten Route
Bones, Grit, and Triumph: A Journey Along the Forgotten RouteThe air hung heavy with the impending clash of man versus nature, as the massive ZIL truck vibrated with barely-contained energy. A...