@G452TYU yeah the design is the worst part. it's like a hamburger from mcdonalds, the most generic boring wide appeal thing they could do. also why i think the '23 suzuki katana in blue with the bronze wheels is the best looking bike on sale!
@@sonnys8535 more comfortable seat on the transalp and better weight distribution or at least I’m told. That’s good enough features to spark my interest.
@@theeschatechannel2854 I've got 1,200 miles on my 2024 TA. For my multi-surface riding it's an excellent bike ! My comment about the sump was because the T7 has a very similarly designed sump hanging low
@@sonnys8535 ah, didn’t realize that about the T7. At first I didn’t like the transalp but the more look at it and more I learn the more I like it. Probably going to trade my KLR in for one.
I second your comment. Also I need cruise control because I need to chew major road miles and then have dirt capability when I get to where I'm going. I live on the east coast and I'd like to see the American West again.
I purchased one of those palm wrist-ease throttle slip on accessories for my Transalp. The way it works is I rest my hand on the plastic sing that holds the throttle without needing wrist stress. I have these on two other bikes.
I got back into motorcycling about 15 years ago with a 2005 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom. I had to have a shop change all of my tires because I don't have an air compressor that will give me a burst of air to set the bead. I've since had a Suzuki DR-Z400 and a Honda Africa Twin, both with tubed tires, and I've changed all those tires myself. It can easily be done with a bicycle pump. In the approximately 100,000 miles I've put on those motorcycles, I've had exactly 1 flat, and that was from a utility knife blade that got embedded in the rear tire of my Twin. I don't think I could have plugged that cut on a tubeless tire. I could have patched the tube. As it was, I was at home, so I replaced the tube. There are videos available that will show you how to replace a tire on an Africa Twin. As for the tires themselves, stock tires are always street oriented. Everyone who wants to go off-road changes them, and the ones I would choose are going to be different from yours. I have no interest in cruise control. I do not like the feel of being propelled down the road out of my control. I use a CrampBuster. It works on street, dirt, and highway. I've done numerous 2-week, 3000 mile rides with no problem. Oh, and, adjust your clutch. You can have it engage anywhere you want. The reason to have it engage away from the grip is for people who only use two fingers. I have two issues with the Honda Trans Alp. First, the lack of suspension adjustment beyond preload, especially with the reduced clearance and travel. Second, I'd like a shorter windscreen. I ride year round. I want the wind to hit my helmet in the winter to clear fogging, and in the summer for cooling. My 2019 ATAS came with a tall windscreen. I swapped it for a short screen from an AT. All 2016-2019 AT/ATAS share the same mounting bracket so all windscreens are interchangeable.
I just sale my T7, after one year. I saw and sit on the TA…realy nice. First issue for me is the air filter. I road test the V-Strom 800DE, next after i ride my Tenere 700 1-1/2 hours to go to the dealer to demo the Suzuki…..felt in love with the 800DE, that why i sale my T7. More and more i look at the spec of the TA…..the Suzuki win far ahead for me. I was torn before but now is clear.😎
For 12k$s no cruise control, no bluetooth, tubeless tires. NO THANK YOU. ILL STICK WITH MY 7 YEAR OLD TIGER 800XR. It's paid for years ago. It's faster, better, just as capable off road!! Adventure style touring motorcycles. Nice video. Thank you.
1. Is the throttle jerky at low traffic speeds behind cars in 1st and 2nd without using the clutch? Can you (and this one is very important) keep the throttle steady without twisting up or down at about 25mph in 3rd or 35mph in 4th without the bike doing micro-stutters and jerks (so, keep the throttle steady at low speeds)? ("Jerky Issues at slower speeds while holding throttle open and steady") 2. Does it cut the fueling when you slowly decelerate or is it slowly reducing the fuel but never cuts it? (Tenere allows you to feather the throttle and never jerks no matter how slow you go and you can feather it out of fueling without noticing).
5:35 I could be mistaken, but I believe you can "save" your default user profile via the main menu, including the TC setting. The only thing it will not save is ABS off all the way.
Appreciate your honest assessment, and despite the cons, I'm pulling the trigger. The configuration works for me in many ways for a variety of reason. Tho know, somehow, I feel you've already scratched my new bike before I got it into my garage, and I'm ok with that ;) Your vid and presentation are top notch. Keep it up. I live in Las Vegas, and this bike is hot; can't find and waiting lists. So I'm buying this one in NY and shipping it west!
Honestly,the placement of that exhaust will not be a problem for 119%-127.3% of the owners.😅 It’s mounted quite a ways above the bottom of the bike itself. So if nothing hit the bottom of the bike,nothing will hit the exhaust itself. The only exception to this of course is water crossings. And are you really planning on regularly crossing bodies of water that are over a foot deep?! Where? And why?! I always use the bridge,myself. And lastly but not leastly, the exhaust is,in fact,an exhaust! Exhaust air is coming OUT of the pipe,it’s not being pulled IN! You could run it underwater all day with no issue. Cheers! 🍻
I just got mine this week, what I don't like is the snatchy throttle. It is very hard to ride smoothly in town. If this doesn't improve then it's a deal breaker for me.
Yeah it is. What I have done is put my customer user setting on power lvl 2, it’s much better. And if you want a little more smooth set to 3. Makes the bike feel much better
When I first saw the white version ,I was not impressed at all with the looks, but I think the black version is a stunner! This is for sure not a serious off road bike though ,due to the ground clearance issues.
Bluetooth does work in North America. The app isn't available in the Apple or Google Play Store, but can be had and works flawlessly, but it's still not that great. It only works with Google maps on Android, certain music programs, etc.
@@adventureundone i would have kept the KTM890 now that puts a smile on your face, I feel the Honda is like the Suzuki vstrom great reliable bikes but get boring after a while
Suspensions.. what do you do about that.. I like the engine and how light the bike feels.. I only wish the suspensions were as good as a 900 rally pro.. I feel it’s a must upgrade on this bike to be able to fall in love with it.. your thoughts?
Mine came with Metzeler Karoo Street tyres which are awesome. I got the white color. The only downside for me is I wish could have tubeless tires and better suspension. I have the European version. Also the gas tank indicator is not precise.
AT 2024 could fix most of the things that are you "disliking" about the Transalp?? Tubeless tires, Ground Clearance, High Exhaust, (I don't know about the Traction and ABS settings, perhaps almost the same?), better Bluetooth connectivity, Cruise Control... I wish there make two versions of the Transalp, one more Road oriented, 19"/17", Alloy Wheels, Touring style. Other one like this one, improving some of your points.
Like everything there is probably a art to changing tube tires yourself . I bet there's lots of experienced guys that can do this with their eyes closed. Me, I'd likely pinch the tube as well as bend the rim, scratch it,and likely lose a washer that takes over an hour to find.. lol
Thanks for the video. I think this is an 80/20 travel/offroad bike so no cruise control is quite awkward even though I'm not crazy about it. I decided to get this and sign out of the waiting list for the F750GS especially coz they still don't even supply upside down forks, and not enough suspension play. The Transalp is a little better but should suffice. I especially love the power and the agility in the twisties despite it's 21 inch front wheel (according to many reviewers I've been watching up till now). Luckily we have all 3 color options in Turkey. So, I think I'll go for the original nostalgic white one many seem to prefer.
It's 10 grand, But.....how much do you need to spend in mods to bring it to where you want to? When you get you mods all set could you give us a total of what you spend.
Its a 460lb. "Adventure bike" most buyers are never going on anything other than pavement and an occasional gravel road. Sometimes more bikes are necessary. Having some for road and some for dirt is really a safety issue.
I presently have a Honda NC750X that I love, but not completely. The low torque of the NC750X is not a problem for me. However, the street suspension and the 17" front wheel are excellent for tar and gravel roads but limit the off-road capacity I want to reach. Not big off-road, but something more rough than a gravel road. The Transalp should fit my needs very well. So, I bought the Transalp and will receive it in March 2024. I have bought it fully equipped ... no, that is not true ... WHY in Canada (probably also in the USA) the Foglights ARE NOT AVAILABLE ???
I have to stop you on your #1 complaint. While I agree that the cost of changing tires is an issue if you have to bring then to a shop is a major factor, not being able to do them yourself is a much more serious issue for other reasons than cost. I never change my own tubeless tires, but I CAN fix my own flats. I have thrown plugs in my tires to fix a flat many times, because I have tubeless tires. If I ran tube type tires, I'd be screwed. And THAT just destroys the argument made by all the doofus-wanna-by-hardcore guys who argue that Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki putting tube-type tires on their midsize adv bikes in a good thing. IT'S A COST SAVING MEASURE. These doofuses need to stop defending the manufacturers for cheaping out and putting tube-type rims on them.
I think exact opposite. All Honda these days are tri-colors, and it's boring. Black is the best, because grey is not really a colour... Though tank bag leaving scratches on matt finish is a bit concerning
Think you are expecting too much, it’s not an off reader, it’s a road bike that can go off road. I’ve seen your initial videos and the bike does really well stock. Sounds like you need an off road bike and that way all your gripes are solved.
Most of the bike's shortcomings could have been rectified, but then no-one would buy their more expensive Africa Twin. Honda have done this sort of thing before with their Hornet (called the '599' in the US?) bike, which briefly had a half-fairing in Europe. Sales of it were eating into their more expensive CBR600, so Honda rapidly dropped the half-faired version for more coin...
same price as a tuareg but no cruise control, airfilter is in tough spot, 1 color, settings reset, step seat instead of flat, really bad ground clearance. thats a hard pass for me and im gonna go for a tuareg instead with the tubless rear and tubed front
Good review....I like the bike a lot but the lack of tubeless rims is a complete deal breaker for me. Not keen on matte paint either but could live with that.
@@iangriffiths9930 safety issue the most, tubed are dangerous, especially on the highway or higher speeds. I will never own road bike with tubed tyres again...
Hand guards not standard? Apart from saving your knuckles, did you ever get your brake lever caught in a branch of a bush? Nose dive. Also ground clearance.
So many haters 🤣. FYI there is a drain hole in the exhaust for water crossings , many adventure bikes have this type if exhaust. Where did you order the Heed protection from ?
This isn't a Tenere and it wasn't designed to be. I like it because I live on dirt roads but I would not take this on offroad trails. I would buy it if it had cruise due to all the straight roads where I live. Too bad it only comes in black. Overall I like it and like what I see in reviews.
Changing tube tires it's your technique . I've done them all my life and yeah it stinks but it is what it is I owned a 22 T7 and now a 22 Africa twin love the bike hate the electronics and a Lil more hp would be great
99.5% of the time I only ride on the street, therefore many of your complaints don't apply to me/ my riding style. "HOWEVER", I wish it came with tubeless tires (maybe TPM as well) & optional factory cruise control. As for no cruise control, getting an "Atlas Throttle Lock" would be the next best thing/ get the job done?!?
Sounds real good so far, but $10k is still a lot to shell out for a bike. Waaaaaay too much wimpy, woke snowflake crap on it to begin with. Cruise control, seriously? Is it because it gets in the way of your texting while riding? I have a throttlemeister on my Valkyrie I've used maybe twice in the last 23 years, not needed. Heated handgrips? the absolute most ridiculous idea I can think of, complete unnecessary expense that does nothing but add complexity and cause repairs. If it's that damn cold, what the hell are you doing on a motorcycle? Weird display thing, traction control, ABS all that crap--- strip it off, add a regular speedo and tach. that might get the price down a couple of grand . If so I'll be at the dealer with a pocketful of cash for one.
Since the Transalp is definitely a tarmac/groomed gravel road-oriented bike, the lack of cruise control IS dumb. The V-Strom 800DE doesn't have a cruise control, either, and I can see that for the 800DE, because it IS an offroad bike. It would be nice if it was an option on the 800DE, but I'm driving for 3 hrs to get to a trail, and then, when on the trail for 8 hrs, I don't need it. But the Transalp isn't enjoyable on a trail, so cruise control should be there. People keep making this mistake. The Transalp is for flat roads, the 800DE is for both flat and rugged, and the T7 is more dual sport-ish. I treat my DL1000XAL8 like a dual sport and it suffers due lack of ground clearance and suspension travel. Thats all the Transalp is: a Honda made old school V-Strom. A good rider (I am not) can force an old school V-Strom thru some enjoyable nasty. And a good rider can pay more and force a Transalp. But a good rider can eat it up with an 800DE. And a good rider can kill it with a T7. So, a Transalp is really a pavement adventure bike, unless you have skillz. It's really less capable than an Africa Twin.
@@funnyrabbitadventures Point us at those tests. Just the ground clearance, not even counting the subpar suspension, makes the Transalp a great flat gravel/tarmac bike. Yes, the 800DE needs a heavier rear shock spring. Talk about those preload only adjustable forks and rear shock on the Transalp. The 800DE has preload, too. And rebound and compression damping adjustments, front and rear. Heck, my 2018 V-Strom 1000XT has preload, compression and rebound damping. And has that tiny 6.5 inch clearance, just like the Transalp. Maybe you are confusing the T7 with the Transalp? T7 whoops the 800DE. Anyway, a link to those professional test riders video's comparing the Transalp and the 800DE would be great. Thanks!
@@funnyrabbitadventures I'm familiar with the MCN video. I think it's less than 5 minutes in they admit their skill level on dirt is low and most of their reviews are tarmac reviews. We don't hear from the professional riders, except second hand and the only negative was they didn't like the 800DE chassis, but fail to say why, and that, firsthand, the narrators say the seating position felt strange. I understand your brand loyalty, I didn't pee in your Wheaties, just agreed with you about the things you dislike about the Transalp. I disliked the same things about my DL1000. Sorry to hear you cross-rutted your Africa Twin. Trust me, you aren't going to lose subs because I said I thought the 800DE was a more suited off-road bike than the Transalp. It's your channel and your opinion and mines not welcome. Just block the comment if you don't like it, unless you think getting in a contest helps your content or makes your channel more interesting.
What everyone looking at bikes in this class seems to want is a Honda, Yamaha, or Suzuki competitor to the Touareg 660. I see this as another out-of-touch, half-baked Japanese motorcycle.
I agree but with one caveat. In most countries Aprilia do not have an extensive dealer network and sourcing parts could be an issue. I think the Tuareg is probably as good as it gets for an off-the-shelf adv bike, but assuming you put it through its paces off road, waiting for replacement parts could be a killer. The simple fact is, a bike that is really comfortable to ride long distances on road, in all weather, carry lots of luggage, and handle spirited riding on tarnac at high speeds is not going to cut it on technical off road terrain or a motocross track, unless you're prepared to spend time changing suspension settings and tyres. Admittedly, some of the top riders can thrash these big adv bikes and make it look easy but they're paid professionals and usually have full back-up crew on their photo shoots!
That's silly to say rims don't get damaged off road. Just search yt for: damaged rim motorcycle I've had a few damaged rims, and the point is you're not just a little screwed, you're VERY screwed if you are 100mi in the middle of nowhere and tubeless. And no, you can't put tubes into tubeless wheels.
@@adventureundone ok, just bear in mind the average midsize ADV with a 200lb man is around 700lbs, and if you hit a 5in rock or log at 30-40mph, you will likely bend a rim. And if you are 100mi in the middle of a desert, that's a 24-30hour walk.
Whatever happened to just getting on the bike and riding without all that crap I remember back in the day when you kick started your bike put it in gear and off he went. He didn’t have all that electronic BS. I wouldn’t miss any of it personally, I don’t like electronics on motorcycles I’m old school.
the main thing for me about off-road isn't necessarily about raw ability, but it has to inspire confidence. That's what I really like about the KTM, and the electronics it has.
The tubes is you...I have changed 50 tires with tubes by hand.. And never pinched my inner tube.... People should stop focussing on the tube/tubeless....
Great and concise video, after watching the reviews of owners like yourself, I think I can pass on the TransAlp. I have a Pan America 😢 and also a KLX 300😊 something in between would be nice, and lighter. The T7 still looks great to me. Also, Ian from Big Rock Moto in CA, said his bike was $12.5k out the door. 😎 ride safe 🤙🏻
Imagine riding home late at night. It's dark, starting to rain, cold, and you get a flat tire. That sounds like two hours of not so fun work. Do you have a center stand? Can you call AAA? Some say Honda crippled the Transalp so as not to hurt sales of the Africa Twin. I think it's almost a perfect bike.
If your looking for a new bike challenge I recommend picking up a new Honda CB500X. Upgrade the suspension, tires, add body protection, new foot-pegs, maybe a new windshield, skip the hard cases and go with soft luggage (color coordinated) centered forward and low. Think of it as a one rider pony, lean and mean. For some reason that bikes profile just looks right. @@adventureundone
...included 2 of the reasons I sent my 2019 AT DCT packin....no cruise + tubes. ...yes I bought it like that new but 1550 miles later those were just to big in the back of my mind. ...got on a 2021 Tiger Rally and added the shift assist.
No one seems to mention the CRAP air filter replacement regime. Check YT post regarding this. It,s cumbersome+++ and pretty well a deal breaker. V poor design.
So you went to the showroom, checked the bike out, presumably watched a ton of reviews online beforehand, and now you're moaning about it. All the issues you've pointed to were well known before you purchased the bike. Fair enough if, after 1000s of miles actual riding, certain issues or idiosyncrasies become apparent (which happens with all new bikes) but if the bike didn't fit the bill for your intended purpose, why buy it in the first place? There are dozens of models with more ground clearance, tubeless rims, more adaptive rider modes, higher exhausts, etc. My guess is you'd find something to moan about with another purchase that ticked all the above boxes. Not trying to flame you in any way, but if you need a hammer, don't buy a chisel. It's a pretty well established fact that this latest version of the Transalp is not a seriously focused ADV bike, like for example the A Twin or KTM 890; it's a very competent road-based tourer, with an upright seating position, and the potential do some mild off road exploring ie the exact design brief that Honda set out to achieve. In a few years time, they'll update this model and may address the lack of cruise control, which is a reasonable gripe for a bike that will ofen be used for distance touring, but don't expect a unicorn at this price point.
No cruise on the HONDA F6B was an issue for customers when that bike 1st came to market. HONDA listened and it was added later. Now days, cruise control on a large displacement bike with a TBW system should be a no brainer. If the bike already has an electronically controlled throttle it's very ease to add cruse. And it would add maybe 1 ounce of weight to the bike.
Some of your gripes could be fixed with a software upgrade. Others are because the bike has been built down to a price, and also I don't think that Honda want it to tread on the toes of the AT. What I can't figure is why the Transalp is so much more expensive in North America. Here in France it is 10600€ inclusive of sales tax. Registration tax is sometimes extra, but normally doesn't amount to more than 200 - 300€. There's 3 colourways here too. However, the original TA was built for the European market, so maybe this is Honda's thinking for this model too?
What is your #1 issue or complaint about the new Honda Transalp?
There is not one in my garage!
@@joshmccormick7534 LOL
Headlight is terrible - cheap and dull like the Hornet and 500X - needs something with presence like the Africa Twin.
@G452TYU yeah the design is the worst part. it's like a hamburger from mcdonalds, the most generic boring wide appeal thing they could do. also why i think the '23 suzuki katana in blue with the bronze wheels is the best looking bike on sale!
@@LiviuXSA It certainly makes a bold statement.
The low hanging oil sump is the most concerning design flaw. Everything else can be added or lived without.
Like the T7 ?
@@sonnys8535 more comfortable seat on the transalp and better weight distribution or at least I’m told. That’s good enough features to spark my interest.
@@theeschatechannel2854 I've got 1,200 miles on my 2024 TA.
For my multi-surface riding it's an excellent bike !
My comment about the sump was because the T7 has a very similarly designed sump hanging low
@@sonnys8535 ah, didn’t realize that about the T7. At first I didn’t like the transalp but the more look at it and more I learn the more I like it. Probably going to trade my KLR in for one.
You need an old school twin spar frame if you don’t want junk hanging down below. There’s not many in the mid weight market.
You miss Cruise Control when your wrists get older and you have had injuries to your wrists.Its a no brainer on modern bikes.Cheers.
I second your comment. Also I need cruise control because I need to chew major road miles and then have dirt capability when I get to where I'm going. I live on the east coast and I'd like to see the American West again.
Oh I miss it already, just not as much as I thought I would.
But I 110% want it
I purchased one of those palm wrist-ease throttle slip on accessories for my Transalp. The way it works is I rest my hand on the plastic sing that holds the throttle without needing wrist stress. I have these on two other bikes.
I know a guy that used to put a credit card or something in between his throttle handle and the part that doesn't move. He also ran with scissors
I got back into motorcycling about 15 years ago with a 2005 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom. I had to have a shop change all of my tires because I don't have an air compressor that will give me a burst of air to set the bead. I've since had a Suzuki DR-Z400 and a Honda Africa Twin, both with tubed tires, and I've changed all those tires myself. It can easily be done with a bicycle pump. In the approximately 100,000 miles I've put on those motorcycles, I've had exactly 1 flat, and that was from a utility knife blade that got embedded in the rear tire of my Twin. I don't think I could have plugged that cut on a tubeless tire. I could have patched the tube. As it was, I was at home, so I replaced the tube. There are videos available that will show you how to replace a tire on an Africa Twin.
As for the tires themselves, stock tires are always street oriented. Everyone who wants to go off-road changes them, and the ones I would choose are going to be different from yours.
I have no interest in cruise control. I do not like the feel of being propelled down the road out of my control. I use a CrampBuster. It works on street, dirt, and highway. I've done numerous 2-week, 3000 mile rides with no problem.
Oh, and, adjust your clutch. You can have it engage anywhere you want. The reason to have it engage away from the grip is for people who only use two fingers.
I have two issues with the Honda Trans Alp. First, the lack of suspension adjustment beyond preload, especially with the reduced clearance and travel.
Second, I'd like a shorter windscreen. I ride year round. I want the wind to hit my helmet in the winter to clear fogging, and in the summer for cooling. My 2019 ATAS came with a tall windscreen. I swapped it for a short screen from an AT. All 2016-2019 AT/ATAS share the same mounting bracket so all windscreens are interchangeable.
No outside temperature on the dash ? I’don’t understand. The engine has a motormanagement system, so there must be an outside temperature signal.
I just sale my T7, after one year. I saw and sit on the TA…realy nice. First issue for me is the air filter. I road test the V-Strom 800DE, next after i ride my Tenere 700 1-1/2 hours to go to the dealer to demo the Suzuki…..felt in love with the 800DE, that why i sale my T7. More and more i look at the spec of the TA…..the Suzuki win far ahead for me. I was torn before but now is clear.😎
Sadly the DE also lacks cruise control. However, it is a better bike if you plan more off pavement riding.
I went to look at the suzuki, but it was too tall. Was really thinking hard about getting it.
@@trd4d there OEM lower seat option, maybe help?
Air filter access broke the deal for me. Shame - liked the bike.
@@pigmeal2224 Me too. Bummer.
The lack of cruise is a deal breaker for me - I would want to use this bike for adventure/touring & this is a function I can't live without 👍
Sook. Get a 15 dollar cramp buster and be done with it.
Tube/tubeless both have pros and cons. If you bend the rim on a tubeless it my not seal.
For 12k$s no cruise control, no bluetooth, tubeless tires. NO THANK YOU. ILL STICK WITH MY 7 YEAR OLD TIGER 800XR. It's paid for years ago. It's faster, better, just as capable off road!! Adventure style touring motorcycles. Nice video. Thank you.
It has bluetooth, you need to get a life
Mine has Bluetooth you can use it in the usa or Canada it’s not hars
1. Is the throttle jerky at low traffic speeds behind cars in 1st and 2nd without using the clutch? Can you (and this one is very important) keep the throttle steady without twisting up or down at about 25mph in 3rd or 35mph in 4th without the bike doing micro-stutters and jerks (so, keep the throttle steady at low speeds)? ("Jerky Issues at slower speeds while holding throttle open and steady")
2. Does it cut the fueling when you slowly decelerate or is it slowly reducing the fuel but never cuts it? (Tenere allows you to feather the throttle and never jerks no matter how slow you go and you can feather it out of fueling without noticing).
I mention your channel in my Transalp video. The clutch on the bike I rode was excellent yours may need adjustment. Have a great day be safe 😊
5:35 I could be mistaken, but I believe you can "save" your default user profile via the main menu, including the TC setting. The only thing it will not save is ABS off all the way.
no, TC resets if bike is turned off, same with ABS
Appreciate your honest assessment, and despite the cons, I'm pulling the trigger. The configuration works for me in many ways for a variety of reason. Tho know, somehow, I feel you've already scratched my new bike before I got it into my garage, and I'm ok with that ;) Your vid and presentation are top notch. Keep it up. I live in Las Vegas, and this bike is hot; can't find and waiting lists. So I'm buying this one in NY and shipping it west!
Can you make a video on how you manage to buy so many bikes without your wife killing you? :D
I always sleep in the van down by the river
Yes, just do it, dont ask, just do it. I know from experience
Honestly,the placement of that exhaust will not be a problem for 119%-127.3% of the owners.😅 It’s mounted quite a ways above the bottom of the bike itself. So if nothing hit the bottom of the bike,nothing will hit the exhaust itself. The only exception to this of course is water crossings. And are you really planning on regularly crossing bodies of water that are over a foot deep?! Where? And why?! I always use the bridge,myself. And lastly but not leastly, the exhaust is,in fact,an exhaust! Exhaust air is coming OUT of the pipe,it’s not being pulled IN! You could run it underwater all day with no issue. Cheers! 🍻
Water crossing are fun. Often no, but when they show up, don’t be the guy that says “I’ll meet u all back at the camp ground”
I just got mine this week, what I don't like is the snatchy throttle. It is very hard to ride smoothly in town. If this doesn't improve then it's a deal breaker for me.
Yeah it is. What I have done is put my customer user setting on power lvl 2, it’s much better. And if you want a little more smooth set to 3. Makes the bike feel much better
Thanks, I'll try that.@@adventureundone
Me too
Search youtube for a video called Glass House on my Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. Tell me the Transalp can do that.
My #1 complaint is that I don’t own one yet!
When I first saw the white version ,I was not impressed at all with the looks, but I think the black version is a stunner! This is for sure not a serious off road bike though ,due to the ground clearance issues.
I wanted alloy wheels, lower seat height, a wider wind screen, a memory on setting. There is an aftermarket cruise control.
Mine vibrates like hell over 3,500 rpms. Felt in the handle bars and foot pegs. Hands and arms get num after 30 minutes
I'm glad you pointed out all your dislikes..I think I will wait for the 2024 AT.
New sub
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My sights are on the 25’ Base model AT that bike looks like a real winner
@@adventureundone I'm glad Honda is finally focusing on the ADV segment it seems to be the fastest growing.
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Bluetooth does work in North America. The app isn't available in the Apple or Google Play Store, but can be had and works flawlessly, but it's still not that great. It only works with Google maps on Android, certain music programs, etc.
I have a feeling you will sell it in 6 months
3 😂
@@adventureundone i would have kept the KTM890 now that puts a smile on your face, I feel the Honda is like the Suzuki vstrom great reliable bikes but get boring after a while
Suspensions.. what do you do about that.. I like the engine and how light the bike feels.. I only wish the suspensions were as good as a 900 rally pro.. I feel it’s a must upgrade on this bike to be able to fall in love with it.. your thoughts?
I wonder why Honda didn't produce the Transalp 750 DCT?
Mine came with Metzeler Karoo Street tyres which are awesome. I got the white color. The only downside for me is I wish could have tubeless tires and better suspension. I have the European version. Also the gas tank indicator is not precise.
AT 2024 could fix most of the things that are you "disliking" about the Transalp?? Tubeless tires, Ground Clearance, High Exhaust, (I don't know about the Traction and ABS settings, perhaps almost the same?), better Bluetooth connectivity, Cruise Control...
I wish there make two versions of the Transalp, one more Road oriented, 19"/17", Alloy Wheels, Touring style. Other one like this one, improving some of your points.
i think they'll make one just like what susuki did with vstrom800re
Oh I have my eyes on them big time
Like everything there is probably a art to changing tube tires yourself . I bet there's lots of experienced guys that can do this with their eyes closed. Me, I'd likely pinch the tube as well as bend the rim, scratch it,and likely lose a washer that takes over an hour to find.. lol
I think the biggest gripe about this bike is availability. The covid experience use is getting old.
For me it would be: tubed rims, very heavy stock exhaust, low ground clearance, not being able to save ABS off, small fuel tank
Thanks for the video. I think this is an 80/20 travel/offroad bike so no cruise control is quite awkward even though I'm not crazy about it. I decided to get this and sign out of the waiting list for the F750GS especially coz they still don't even supply upside down forks, and not enough suspension play. The Transalp is a little better but should suffice. I especially love the power and the agility in the twisties despite it's 21 inch front wheel (according to many reviewers I've been watching up till now). Luckily we have all 3 color options in Turkey. So, I think I'll go for the original nostalgic white one many seem to prefer.
It’s no sports bike in the twisted, but also No Africa twin.
It was the best decision you made in your life.
It's 10 grand, But.....how much do you need to spend in mods to bring it to where you want to? When you get you mods all set could you give us a total of what you spend.
Its a 460lb. "Adventure bike" most buyers are never going on anything other than pavement and an occasional gravel road. Sometimes more bikes are necessary. Having some for road and some for dirt is really a safety issue.
I presently have a Honda NC750X that I love, but not completely. The low torque of the NC750X is not a problem for me. However, the street suspension and the 17" front wheel are excellent for tar and gravel roads but limit the off-road capacity I want to reach. Not big off-road, but something more rough than a gravel road. The Transalp should fit my needs very well. So, I bought the Transalp and will receive it in March 2024. I have bought it fully equipped ... no, that is not true ... WHY in Canada (probably also in the USA) the Foglights ARE NOT AVAILABLE ???
I have to stop you on your #1 complaint.
While I agree that the cost of changing tires is an issue if you have to bring then to a shop is a major factor, not being able to do them yourself is a much more serious issue for other reasons than cost.
I never change my own tubeless tires, but I CAN fix my own flats. I have thrown plugs in my tires to fix a flat many times, because I have tubeless tires. If I ran tube type tires, I'd be screwed. And THAT just destroys the argument made by all the doofus-wanna-by-hardcore guys who argue that Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki putting tube-type tires on their midsize adv bikes in a good thing. IT'S A COST SAVING MEASURE. These doofuses need to stop defending the manufacturers for cheaping out and putting tube-type rims on them.
100%, I actually meant to mention that 👍
I think exact opposite. All Honda these days are tri-colors, and it's boring. Black is the best, because grey is not really a colour... Though tank bag leaving scratches on matt finish is a bit concerning
Think you are expecting too much, it’s not an off reader, it’s a road bike that can go off road. I’ve seen your initial videos and the bike does really well stock. Sounds like you need an off road bike and that way all your gripes are solved.
I wonder if the Honda hornet wheels would fit
Most of the bike's shortcomings could have been rectified, but then no-one would buy their more expensive Africa Twin.
Honda have done this sort of thing before with their Hornet (called the '599' in the US?) bike, which briefly had a half-fairing in Europe. Sales of it were eating into their more expensive CBR600, so Honda rapidly dropped the half-faired version for more coin...
Thanks for the video.
same price as a tuareg but no cruise control, airfilter is in tough spot, 1 color, settings reset, step seat instead of flat, really bad ground clearance.
thats a hard pass for me and im gonna go for a tuareg instead with the tubless rear and tubed front
good luck on getting repair parts with tuareg
Good review....I like the bike a lot but the lack of tubeless rims is a complete deal breaker for me. Not keen on matte paint either but could live with that.
Tubeless = Useless if you damage the rims or they tarnish
Can’t understand people wanting tubeless tyres as I’d much rather swap a punctured tube than a bent rim 🤷♂️
@@iangriffiths9930 especially up front !! I've bent 21" front rims that would have definitely resulted in loss of air if tubeless
@@iangriffiths9930 safety issue the most, tubed are dangerous, especially on the highway or higher speeds. I will never own road bike with tubed tyres again...
Just think… for $2k more , you can buy an Aprilia Tuareg 660….What would smart money do ?
If there were more dealers
Aprilia is not reliable .
Hand guards not standard? Apart from saving your knuckles, did you ever get your brake lever caught in a branch of a bush? Nose dive.
Also ground clearance.
It doesn't have cruise control, tubeless tires and DCT to not compete with Africa Twin
It should of come with a minimalist skid plate.
So many haters 🤣. FYI there is a drain hole in the exhaust for water crossings , many adventure bikes have this type if exhaust.
Where did you order the Heed protection from ?
You'll learn to change tubed tyres. I have an old BMW and I seem to get a flat every tour. It's just practice.
I have tried so many times :(
This isn't a Tenere and it wasn't designed to be. I like it because I live on dirt roads but I would not take this on offroad trails. I would buy it if it had cruise due to all the straight roads where I live. Too bad it only comes in black. Overall I like it and like what I see in reviews.
Changing tube tires it's your technique . I've done them all my life and yeah it stinks but it is what it is I owned a 22 T7 and now a 22 Africa twin love the bike hate the electronics and a Lil more hp would be great
Why wont buy the transa. Tube tires and no cruse.
my biggest issues with the bike as well
99.5% of the time I only ride on the street, therefore many of your complaints don't apply to me/ my riding style. "HOWEVER", I wish it came with tubeless tires (maybe TPM as well) & optional factory cruise control. As for no cruise control, getting an "Atlas Throttle Lock" would be the next best thing/ get the job done?!?
Sounds real good so far, but $10k is still a lot to shell out for a bike. Waaaaaay too much wimpy, woke snowflake crap on it to begin with. Cruise control, seriously? Is it because it gets in the way of your texting while riding? I have a throttlemeister on my Valkyrie I've used maybe twice in the last 23 years, not needed. Heated handgrips? the absolute most ridiculous idea I can think of, complete unnecessary expense that does nothing but add complexity and cause repairs. If it's that damn cold, what the hell are you doing on a motorcycle? Weird display thing, traction control, ABS all that crap--- strip it off, add a regular speedo and tach. that might get the price down a couple of grand . If so I'll be at the dealer with a pocketful of cash for one.
Try practicing on a bicycle tube, after that it's the same
The air filter is too difficult to change, big mistake, on the Suzuki 800 it's simple to change.
Absolutely. Stupid design decision. Undoing fairing, electrics and removing petrol tank sucks big time.
For cruise control you can buy a plastic thing to put on.
Nice video by the way 👍
Exactly, the moaners just enjoy moaning with no intention of buying
@@blackskunk54 Just like me. i'm old so moaning keeps the heart going 😛
Since the Transalp is definitely a tarmac/groomed gravel road-oriented bike, the lack of cruise control IS dumb. The V-Strom 800DE doesn't have a cruise control, either, and I can see that for the 800DE, because it IS an offroad bike. It would be nice if it was an option on the 800DE, but I'm driving for 3 hrs to get to a trail, and then, when on the trail for 8 hrs, I don't need it. But the Transalp isn't enjoyable on a trail, so cruise control should be there.
People keep making this mistake. The Transalp is for flat roads, the 800DE is for both flat and rugged, and the T7 is more dual sport-ish.
I treat my DL1000XAL8 like a dual sport and it suffers due lack of ground clearance and suspension travel. Thats all the Transalp is: a Honda made old school V-Strom. A good rider (I am not) can force an old school V-Strom thru some enjoyable nasty. And a good rider can pay more and force a Transalp. But a good rider can eat it up with an 800DE. And a good rider can kill it with a T7.
So, a Transalp is really a pavement adventure bike, unless you have skillz. It's really less capable than an Africa Twin.
actualy on many tests they found transalp better from 800DE in dirt handling
@@funnyrabbitadventures Point us at those tests. Just the ground clearance, not even counting the subpar suspension, makes the Transalp a great flat gravel/tarmac bike. Yes, the 800DE needs a heavier rear shock spring. Talk about those preload only adjustable forks and rear shock on the Transalp. The 800DE has preload, too. And rebound and compression damping adjustments, front and rear. Heck, my 2018 V-Strom 1000XT has preload, compression and rebound damping. And has that tiny 6.5 inch clearance, just like the Transalp. Maybe you are confusing the T7 with the Transalp? T7 whoops the 800DE. Anyway, a link to those professional test riders video's comparing the Transalp and the 800DE would be great. Thanks!
Search on RUclips the 3 models , there is an English magazine test ride of the Transalp vs 800DE vs Tenere
@@funnyrabbitadventures I'm familiar with the MCN video. I think it's less than 5 minutes in they admit their skill level on dirt is low and most of their reviews are tarmac reviews. We don't hear from the professional riders, except second hand and the only negative was they didn't like the 800DE chassis, but fail to say why, and that, firsthand, the narrators say the seating position felt strange. I understand your brand loyalty, I didn't pee in your Wheaties, just agreed with you about the things you dislike about the Transalp. I disliked the same things about my DL1000. Sorry to hear you cross-rutted your Africa Twin. Trust me, you aren't going to lose subs because I said I thought the 800DE was a more suited off-road bike than the Transalp. It's your channel and your opinion and mines not welcome. Just block the comment if you don't like it, unless you think getting in a contest helps your content or makes your channel more interesting.
What everyone looking at bikes in this class seems to want is a Honda, Yamaha, or Suzuki competitor to the Touareg 660. I see this as another out-of-touch, half-baked Japanese motorcycle.
I agree but with one caveat. In most countries Aprilia do not have an extensive dealer network and sourcing parts could be an issue. I think the Tuareg is probably as good as it gets for an off-the-shelf adv bike, but assuming you put it through its paces off road, waiting for replacement parts could be a killer. The simple fact is, a bike that is really comfortable to ride long distances on road, in all weather, carry lots of luggage, and handle spirited riding on tarnac at high speeds is not going to cut it on technical off road terrain or a motocross track, unless you're prepared to spend time changing suspension settings and tyres. Admittedly, some of the top riders can thrash these big adv bikes and make it look easy but they're paid professionals and usually have full back-up crew on their photo shoots!
That's silly to say rims don't get damaged off road. Just search yt for: damaged rim motorcycle
I've had a few damaged rims, and the point is you're not just a little screwed, you're VERY screwed if you are 100mi in the middle of nowhere and tubeless. And no, you can't put tubes into tubeless wheels.
I didn’t say never, I said very very unlikely or often
@@adventureundone ok, just bear in mind the average midsize ADV with a 200lb man is around 700lbs, and if you hit a 5in rock or log at 30-40mph, you will likely bend a rim. And if you are 100mi in the middle of a desert, that's a 24-30hour walk.
Whatever happened to just getting on the bike and riding without all that crap I remember back in the day when you kick started your bike put it in gear and off he went. He didn’t have all that electronic BS. I wouldn’t miss any of it personally, I don’t like electronics on motorcycles I’m old school.
the future
Transalp is a road bike that can go off-road, I prefer off-road bikes that can go on the road.
Well said
the main thing for me about off-road isn't necessarily about raw ability, but it has to inspire confidence. That's what I really like about the KTM, and the electronics it has.
The tubes is you...I have changed 50 tires with tubes by hand.. And never pinched my inner tube.... People should stop focussing on the tube/tubeless....
yeah I said it was me, but I would also rather change a tubeless over a tube on the side of the road
Great and concise video, after watching the reviews of owners like yourself, I think I can pass on the TransAlp. I have a Pan America 😢 and also a KLX 300😊 something in between would be nice, and lighter. The T7 still looks great to me. Also, Ian from Big Rock Moto in CA, said his bike was $12.5k out the door. 😎 ride safe 🤙🏻
Good video
It's amazing how when you sat on it, it looked like the skid plate was on the ground. The Transalp just doesn't make sense as an ADV bike.
Is a transalp no an crf
Imagine riding home late at night. It's dark, starting to rain, cold, and you get a flat tire. That sounds like two hours of not so fun work. Do you have a center stand? Can you call AAA? Some say Honda crippled the Transalp so as not to hurt sales of the Africa Twin. I think it's almost a perfect bike.
If I could only change a tube in 2 hours, lol.
If your looking for a new bike challenge I recommend picking up a new Honda CB500X. Upgrade the suspension, tires, add body protection, new foot-pegs, maybe a new windshield, skip the hard cases and go with soft luggage (color coordinated) centered forward and low. Think of it as a one rider pony, lean and mean. For some reason that bikes profile just looks right. @@adventureundone
...included 2 of the reasons I sent my 2019 AT DCT packin....no cruise + tubes.
...yes I bought it like that new but 1550 miles later those were just to big in the back of my mind.
...got on a 2021 Tiger Rally and added the shift assist.
You almost resemble kid rock !
Baw wit ti braaap !
LOL
Why did you buy the bike in the first place ? If I found so many negatives with a bike I would buy something different ffs . .
I like trying different/new bikes & products! Never expected or thought this was the "perfect" bike. So calm down
good video
Thanks for the review...I won't buy simply on it not saving my settings in User mode. Horrible Honda!
dude it's a street bike. the adventure part is the fantasy the corporation sells you.
They put the exhaust in this stupid position to improve it with the next model update.
It's because it shares the same design architecture as the Hornet to save costs.
@@Otto-AutoPilot It was a joke, dude🤣
Unfortunately you didn't get it.
If you have a hard time changing tubes in your tires, your technique is all wrong. It’s not hard.
No one seems to mention the CRAP air filter replacement regime. Check YT post regarding this. It,s cumbersome+++ and pretty well a deal breaker. V poor design.
So you went to the showroom, checked the bike out, presumably watched a ton of reviews online beforehand, and now you're moaning about it. All the issues you've pointed to were well known before you purchased the bike. Fair enough if, after 1000s of miles actual riding, certain issues or idiosyncrasies become apparent (which happens with all new bikes) but if the bike didn't fit the bill for your intended purpose, why buy it in the first place? There are dozens of models with more ground clearance, tubeless rims, more adaptive rider modes, higher exhausts, etc. My guess is you'd find something to moan about with another purchase that ticked all the above boxes. Not trying to flame you in any way, but if you need a hammer, don't buy a chisel. It's a pretty well established fact that this latest version of the Transalp is not a seriously focused ADV bike, like for example the A Twin or KTM 890; it's a very competent road-based tourer, with an upright seating position, and the potential do some mild off road exploring ie the exact design brief that Honda set out to achieve. In a few years time, they'll update this model and may address the lack of cruise control, which is a reasonable gripe for a bike that will ofen be used for distance touring, but don't expect a unicorn at this price point.
I like trying new products, and nothing is perfect. I want to let people know the pros and cons. Never expected it too be the perfect bike
No cruise on the HONDA F6B was an issue for customers when that bike 1st came to market. HONDA listened and it was added later. Now days, cruise control on a large displacement bike with a TBW system should be a no brainer. If the bike already has an electronically controlled throttle it's very ease to add cruse. And it would add maybe 1 ounce of weight to the bike.
Some of your gripes could be fixed with a software upgrade. Others are because the bike has been built down to a price, and also I don't think that Honda want it to tread on the toes of the AT. What I can't figure is why the Transalp is so much more expensive in North America. Here in France it is 10600€ inclusive of sales tax. Registration tax is sometimes extra, but normally doesn't amount to more than 200 - 300€. There's 3 colourways here too. However, the original TA was built for the European market, so maybe this is Honda's thinking for this model too?
You need to stop trying transform a heavy for gravel bike, and by a racing off bike that it is FOR GRAVEL & IT'S LIGHT .......
Big Honda fan but I find the bike to be boring looking. No appeal.
Don’t like the color, wrap it!
Cruise control is my big one.
Seat height is too high.
You will miss Cruise Control when you get older and you have had injuries to your wrists.Its a No Brainer on modern bikes.Cheers.
Im 69 with Arthritis and have no need for CC, its a con
Tubed tires are a deal breaker
Do you have satan tattooed on your right hand?
Lol, no. It says Stay left hand says true. (Stay True)
SMDSR
Cruise control! Older rider with arthritis in my wrist. And why only black?👎
Stop being a sook. Get a 15 dollar cramp buster and be done with it. Cruise control ??? Really. Harden up kids.