Review of Honda Transalp 2024
Adventure bikes weren’t a prevalent concept in 1989, particularly in the United States. Even BMW’s renowned GS was viewed as an oversized dual-purpose machine connected to the Paris-Dakar rally, which had been around for just over a decade. In the shadows of the dealership I worked at in 1991, an overlooked 1989 Honda XL600V Transalp sat next to the tire rack. Alongside other Honda models available only in 1989 and 1990, such as the GB500 and CB-1, the Transalp was more of a curiosity than a popular choice.
Fast forward 35 years, and Honda is reintroducing the Transalp to American riders at a time when adventure bikes are as widespread as popular songs by Taylor Swift. It’s essential to note that the Transalp never vanished; it merely ceased to be available in the U.S. market. In the interim, the Transalp received occasional upgrades and continued to be offered overseas alongside other Euro-only models. It seems that European riders understood the versatile benefits of adventure bikes a generation ahead of their American counterparts.
With the 2024 Transalp making a return to U.S. shores, Honda is expanding its adventure bike lineup to include five models: Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES, NC750X, CB500X, and the Transalp itself. Both the Transalp and NC750X feature 750cc Parallel-Twin engines, with the Transalp positioned as the off-road alternative to the more street-focused NC750X. While the NC750X leans towards paved roads, the Transalp, equipped with more substantial suspension travel, higher ground clearance, and spoked wheels, is designed for off-road adventures.
To showcase the Transalp’s off-road capabilities, Honda invited riders to explore a portion of the PA Wilds BDR-X route. The Transalp, fitted with more aggressive Bridgestone Trail AX41 tires, handled various terrains, including gravel roads, technical two-track sections, granite trails, mud, and water crossings.
Weighing in at a claimed 459 pounds, the Transalp’s sub-500-pound weight made it an accessible option, particularly for riders not accustomed to larger adventure bikes. The comfortable rider triangle and adjustable seat height (with an optional lower seat available) catered to different rider preferences. Wind protection was suitable, and the non-adjustable windscreen was designed to pop off in a minor crash.
The new 755cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine raised some eyebrows. While it featured a torquey mid-range with a 270-degree crank rotation, its oversquare design (87.0mm x 63.5mm bore and stroke) emphasized high-rev performance. On the street, the engine didn’t truly come alive until well above 2,000 rpm from redline, requiring downshifting for efficient passing at freeway speeds.
The Transalp incorporates Honda’s five rider modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, Gravel, and User), offering customization options for engine power, engine braking, ABS, and traction control. However, the transition between modes raised some concerns, particularly when returning to User mode, where traction control defaulted to the highest level.
The suspension, with only preload adjustability on both the fork and shock, was an area where Honda made concessions to maintain an affordable price point. However, during the test ride, the suspension performed well within its limitations, showcasing Honda’s adept tuning.
Priced under $10,000, the Transalp comes equipped with a bi-directional quick-shifter, adding value for riders. The braking performance from dual front Nissin calipers and a single rear caliper was deemed adequate, complemented by the motorcycle’s lightweight design.
For riders seeking a sub-500-pound adventure bike at an affordable price, the Transalp presents a compelling option. It caters to those who may find larger adventure bikes overwhelming and serves as an entry point for adventure-curious street bike riders.
Having experienced the Transalp, it prompts reflection on neglected opportunities, such as the 1989 Transalp parked at the dealership years ago. While it may not have altered the course of a dedicated sportbike enthusiast, the new Transalp’s affordability and versatility could appeal to a demographic described by Honda as price/value-conscious riders in their 40s to 50s, embracing an outdoor lifestyle and a passion for exploration. Is this you?
