We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment - Hilaire Belloc
Ride, Relax, Reflect
From shared journeys with loved ones to the personal love story with the road, find joy in every moment on two wheels
Cruise, Calm, Connect
Embrace the rhythm of the road, share the journey with friends, and let every twist and turn elevate your spirit
Conquer, Cruise, Cherish
The road winding like an inviting challenge, experience the thrill of motorcycle sport touring and the joy of the journey in every moment
Meditate, Move, Mingle
Find your balance, where every ride deepens connections and amplifies the shared joy between souls
Honda Transalp XL750
Embark on a journey with the Honda Transalp, a name synonymous with adventure and versatility in the motorcycling world. Since its inception in 1986, this dual-sport motorcycle, crafted with precision and passion in Japan, has become a beacon for bikers seeking both off-road thrills and on-road comfort. The Transalp series, including the XL400V, XL600V, XL650V, XL700V, and the latest XL750, stands as a testament to Honda's dedication to the evolution of motorcycle design and performance.
The Evolution of the Honda Transalp
Our story begins in 1985, with Honda's vision to create an off-road motorbike that could conquer any terrain. This vision materialized in the form of a robust 500cc engine prototype. However, Honda, known for its innovation, quickly adapted the design to cater to an increasing demand for a more road-oriented bike, leading to the creation of the 600cc model with an improved fairing.
The Milestone Models
The XL600V (1986): This model marked the beginning of the Transalp legacy, offering riders a taste of Honda's revolutionary approach to dual-sport motorcycling.
The XL650V (2000):Entering the new millennium, this variant showcased an engine uplift and design modifications, highlighting Honda's commitment to continuous improvement.
The XL700V (2008): With a focus on environmental standards and advanced road capabilities, this model featured a 680 cc engine, reiterating Honda's pledge towards innovation and sustainability.
The XL750 (2023): A leap into the future, the XL750 brought with it a powerful 755 cc engine, shared with the CB750 Hornet, encapsulating the essence of modern adventure biking.
Throughout its history, the Transalp series has seen numerous refinements. From the increase in horsepower to the transition from drum to disc brakes, each change reflected a response to riders' needs and technological advancements. The introduction of new carburetors, ignition systems, and braking mechanisms across different models exemplifies Honda's dedication to delivering a top-tier riding experience.
As the years progressed, so did the Transalp's road adaptability. The evolution from the XL650V's engine upgrade and road-tailored shock absorbers to the XL700V's smaller front wheel and ABS integration marked a significant shift towards a more road-focused design. This evolution continued with the 2008 model, emphasizing larger tyres and a lower saddle, further enhancing its road touring capabilities.
Design & Aesthetics
The Honda Transalp captures the essence of a bike that's been crafted for both the eye and the journey. Designed as the ideal companion for any adventure, this bike combines a purposeful, tough look with a lean and efficient build. Perfect for urban sprawls, highways, or trails, its slim mid-section and aerodynamic fairing offer both freedom and wind protection.
At the heart of its design lies the understanding of a rider's needs. The Transalp's ergonomic layout is thoughtfully tailored to ensure a comfortable ride, regardless of the terrain. The bike is easy to handle with an 850mm seat height and a 209kg kerb weight, offering an upright and relaxed riding position for excellent visibility and comfort.
Moving to the dashboard, the Transalp embraces a seamless fusion of the traditional and the contemporary. Digital displays are integrated in a manner that feels both futuristic and intuitive. Riders are greeted with an easily navigable interface, offering all the necessary information without distraction, allowing them to focus on the joy of the ride. The attention to detail in the cockpit area reaffirms the bike's dedication to providing a user-friendly experience.
The lighting system of the Transalp is another area where functionality meets design finesse. The LED setup is more than just about illumination; it's about making a statement. These lights, robust and energy-efficient, ensure superior visibility in all conditions, carving a clear path ahead. They contribute to the bike's distinct look, with a design that's as aesthetically pleasing as it is practical.
Riders can choose from four default riding modes - Sport, Standard, Rain, and Gravel - to suit various conditions, adjusting engine power, braking, and the level of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Wheelie Control, and ABS intervention. A custom User mode is available for personalized settings, including rear ABS switch-off for off-road riding, all managed through a 5-inch TFT screen. The Honda Smartphone Voice Control system keeps you connected, and full LED lighting with Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) technology enhances safety by alerting other road users during sudden stops.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Honda Transalp XL750 is its robust and dynamic engine, a marvel of engineering that powers this versatile adventure bike. The 755cc, 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine is a powerhouse, delivering an exhilarating 90.5 bhp (67.5 kW) and a torque of 77 Nm. This engine isn't just about raw power; it's about refined and responsive performance, making the Transalp XL750 as suitable for city streets as it is for rugged trails.
A standout feature of this engine is Honda's patented air vortex intake technology, which plays a crucial role in amplifying and smoothing the engine's low- and mid-range response. This technology ensures that power delivery is not just strong but also exceptionally smooth, providing a riding experience that's both exhilarating and comfortable.
The engine's sophistication extends to its construction. The cylinders use high-specification Ni-SiC plating, a technology that significantly reduces friction. This reduction in friction not only enhances the engine's efficiency but also boosts its power output, especially at higher rpms. The result is a motorbike that responds eagerly to the throttle, with a power delivery that's both immediate and controllable.
Complementing the engine's performance are the four default riding modes: Sport, Standard, Rain, and Gravel. Each mode adjusts the engine's power output and braking to suit different riding conditions, ensuring that the Transalp XL750 remains versatile and adaptable, regardless of the terrain. The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Wheelie Control add layers of safety and performance, allowing riders to tailor the bike's response to their riding style and conditions.
Main Features, Spec and Considerations
Specs - Main Features
ENGINE
755cc, Liquid cooled OHC 4-stroke 8 valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and uni-cam
MAX TORQUE
75Nm / 7.64kg-m / 55.3 ft-lb @ 7,250 rpm
POWER
90.5bhp (67.5kW) @ 9,500 rpm
FUEL CONSUMPTION
53.45mpg / 4.4l/100km
TRANSMISSION
6-speed, Manual
DRIVE
Chain
FRONT SUSPENSION
Showa 43mm SFF-CA USD, 200mm travel
REAR SUSPENSION
Separate pressure, Pro-Link swingarm, 190mm travel
FRONT BREAKS
Dual 310mm x 4.5mm disc with axial mount 2 piston calipers
REAR BREAKS
Single 256mm x 6.0mm disc with single piston caliper
TYRES (FRONT - REAR)
90/90-21M/C 54H - 150/70R18M/C 70H
LENGTH
2325mm (91 ")
WIDTH
838mm (33")
WHEELBASE
1,560mm (61.4")
SEAT HEIGHT
850mm
FUEL CAPACITY
16.9 litres
TANK RANGE
242 miles / 388km
WET WEIGHT
208 kg (458.5 lb)
Known Problems
The Honda Transalp XL750, as a recent addition to the adventure motorcycle market, inherits Honda's reputation for reliability and quality. However, maintaining its performance and preventing potential issues requires regular maintenance and a keen eye, particularly given its sophisticated engineering and advanced features. Key areas to monitor include the engine, where irregular noises or performance issues could signal the need for a check-up. Similarly, the electrical system, integral to the bike's functionality, demands routine checks to ensure everything from the battery to the lighting system is in optimal condition.
With its potential for both on-road and off-road use, the Transalp XL750's suspension and brakes are subject to significant wear and tear. Regular inspection and maintenance of these systems are crucial for safe and enjoyable riding experiences. Additionally, keeping an eye out for fluid leaks, especially in the engine and cooling system, is vital for preventing minor issues from escalating into major repairs. Consumables like brake pads, tyres, and chains, integral to the bike's performance, require frequent evaluation and replacement, depending on riding conditions and habits.
While the Honda Transalp XL750 is designed to be a durable and robust machine, its longevity and reliability largely depend on the owner's attention to regular maintenance and timely addressing of any arising issues. This proactive approach ensures that the bike remains a reliable companion on both adventurous trails and urban landscapes.
Honda Transalp against Rivals
The bike distinguishes itself in the competitive mid-size adventure motorcycle market through several key strengths that set it apart from its rivals like Triumph Tiger 800, Yamaha Tenere 700 or BMW F900GS:
Balanced Performance: The Transalp XL750 is known for its balanced blend of power and maneuverability. The bike's 755cc engine offers a strong, yet smooth power delivery, making it suitable for a wide range of riding conditions, from city streets to rugged off-road paths. This balance makes it an appealing option for riders who want a versatile bike that can handle different terrains with ease.
Honda's Reputation for Reliability: Honda motorcycles are celebrated for their reliability, and the Transalp XL750 is no exception. Honda's engineering and build quality mean that riders can expect a machine that will not only perform well but also stand the test of time with fewer maintenance issues compared to some competitors.
Advanced Technology Integration: Honda has equipped the Transalp XL750 with a range of modern technologies, such as multiple riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and a sophisticated dashboard with a TFT screen. These features enhance the riding experience by providing customization options and important ride information at a glance.
Accessible Adventure Capability: While some adventure bikes lean heavily towards off-road or on-road performance, the Transalp strikes a middle ground, making it a more accessible option for a broader range of riders. It offers enough off-road capability to satisfy most adventure riders while still being very manageable on the road.
In comparison to its competitors, the Honda Transalp XL750's strengths lie in its well-rounded nature, reliability, and the integration of advanced features in a package that remains approachable and versatile for a wide spectrum of riders. This combination of traits makes it a strong contender for riders seeking a mid-size adventure bike that excels in both performance and practicality.
Summary
The Honda Transalp XL750 marks a significant return in the adventure motorcycle segment, offering a compelling blend of versatility, performance, and reliability. This mid-size adventure bike, with its 755cc engine, delivers a smooth and powerful ride, making it suitable for a diverse range of riding scenarios, from urban commutes to off-road explorations.
Key to the Transalp XL750's appeal is its balanced performance. The bike strikes an excellent balance between power and maneuverability, providing enough thrust for thrilling rides while maintaining a level of agility and control that enhances its off-road capabilities. The incorporation of modern technology, including multiple riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and a sophisticated TFT dashboard, places it at the forefront of motorcycle innovation, offering riders a customizable and informed riding experience.
In terms of design, the Transalp XL750 does not disappoint. It features a sleek yet rugged aesthetic that aligns with its dual-purpose nature, appealing to riders who value both function and style in their motorcycles. The bike's approachable nature makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of riders, from adventure touring enthusiasts to daily commuters.
In conclusion, the Honda Transalp XL750 stands as a versatile, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycle that effectively meets the demands of the modern rider. Whether it's tackling city streets, cruising on highways, or adventuring off the beaten path, the Transalp XL750 is poised to deliver a riding experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
Did you know the world's longest motorcycle was over 26 meters long. It was presented and measured at Lakhota lake, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India, on 22 January 2014. The bike was more than 4 m (13 ft) longer than the previous record holder's.
To ensure that his super-stretched motorcycle would be able to perform like a conventional motorbike, the constructor rode it along a road for 100 m (328 ft) without putting his feet down.
Tip of the week:
Never grab the front brake; squeeze it!
Grabbing the front brake abruptly can cause the front wheel to lock, as it doesn't allow time for the bike's weight to shift forward.This significantly reduces the front tyre's grip on the road and may result in loss of control, posing a serious risk of an accident.
Did you know?
The aerodynamic drag on a motorcycle can increase by up to 40% just by the rider sitting upright instead of in a tucked position. It's a wind-resistance thing—like trying to walk through a pool vs. gliding through it!
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Forget the fuss of hotels; discover the liberating joy of motorcycle camping with us, and elevate your road trips from memorable to absolutely legendary!
Having the camping gear with you grants the freedom to decide where and how you want to spend your nights, including the option of choosing a hotel bed if desired. Though it's common to camp every day due to the desire for fresh air and the outdoors when you're prepared.
Reading List:
Twist of the Wrist II by Keith Code
Why it's ace: This book is essentially the Bible of motorcycle cornering. Want to tackle bends like a pro? Get this in your noggin.
Motorcycle Maintenance TechBook - Haynes Manual
Why it's ace: This is like the Swiss Army knife of motorcycle books. It covers everything you need to know about servicing and minor repairs.
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Riding a motorcycle is like savouring a five-star Michelin meal when you're absolutely famished. It's an experience that not only satisfies an immediate craving but also leaves a lasting impression. Just like that first bite of an extraordinary dish makes you forget the world around you, so does the initial twist of the throttle. Your focus narrows to the sensation of the bike, the road, and the rhythm of your breathing. It's an immediate way to bring mindfulness into your day.
So next time you feel weighed down by the demands of life, remember that your two-wheeled 'Michelin experience' awaits you. One session on the road can recalibrate your mood quicker than you can say 'Michelin star.' It's the sort of lifelong journey that never disappoints, always offering new flavours for your soul to relish.
