The XL750 Transalp
the mountains are calling
When adventure motorcycles took off, the emphasis veered towards bigger is better. Many riders with an adventurous spirit though, were looking for a midsize bike that could do everything. A motorcycle that was as maneuverable around town as it was surefooted over the loose ground and offered affordable adventuring.
In 1986, the bike to fill that gap was the 600cc Honda Transalp. A motorcycle, light enough to commute, yet sturdy and capable of hitting far-flung trails. The Transalp’s reliability and durability became legendary.
When Honda revived the Transalp name in 2023, it had big tyres to fill. It became obvious from the get-go that the all-new XL750cc was more than willing to carry on the Honda family tradition. Whether adventure newbies or seasoned dual-roaders, the XL750 had something to offer every rider.
Moving forward, the Transalp gets some useful additions to its already Swiss Army Knife capability. Its front fairing has received a makeover giving it a purposeful vibe but like everything Honda, the devil is in the detail. The tweaked lines of the front fairing add to the Transalp's fuss-free and robust ascetic but also aid airflow. Meanwhile, a central air duct improves airflow around the rider’s helmet.
LED Projectors
You will find all-new angled LED projector headlights within the nose section. The lighting unit takes styling cues from the mighty Africa Twin and throws out a more penetrating beam.
Sitting right above the lights is another addition to the 25 year model. The screen is higher and its re-profiled design includes additional ducting which further reduces helmet buffeting. The screen is crafted from Durabio, a plant-based polycarbonate that Honda pioneered for use on the Africa Twin.
New 5” TFT Screen
A 5” full-colour TFT screen sits at an ideal height to convey rider information at a glance. Moreover, it’s possible to optimise the screen for different formats. By downloading the Honda RoadSync app, you can also enjoy turn-by-turn navigation, calls, and music via a Smartphone.
The screen shows changes to the Transalp’s four rider modes, 4-level engine braking and 5-stage torque and wheelie control.
Pre-set rider modes and customisable configurations cover multiple surface and weather conditions. The rider can also turn off the rear brake ABS.
Adjustments to all rider aids are via a 4-way backlit toggle switch located on the left handlebar.
Ride Enhancement
The strong, lightweight diamond format main frame with reinforced subframe remains unchanged. Meanwhile, Showa 43mm SFF-CATM USD forks are re-tuned to offer increased road stability. That’s not all, as there are also changes to the rear, remote reservoir, Showa shock’s compression and rebound damping.
A revised suspension setup provides more control on rough ground while at the same time, offering increased control if fully loaded.
The 25YM Transalp’s power plant is unchanged from the water-cooled, 755cc, 8-valve, twin-cylinder engine of previous models. The 90bhp engine provides feisty acceleration and mountainous low and mid-range torque. The 270-degree crank feeds back the engine's beating heart enhancing the riding experience with every twist of the throttle.
Whether battling city streets, exploring country tracks or adventure touring two-up, the 25 year model XL750 Transalp will take it all in its stride.
Built with Shorthand