Is the Honda Transalp the $10,000 Adventure Bargain?
If you’re looking for a middleweight adventure bike that doesn’t require a second mortgage, the Honda XL750 Transalp has likely crossed your radar. This machine isn’t just a revival of a legendary name; it’s a calculated entry into the most competitive segment in motorcycling. I spent a week taking this bike from the freeways of San Diego across the border into the rugged terrain of Tecate and Ensenada, Mexico, to see if this $10,000 ADV is a true world-traveler or just a street bike in a tall suit.
On-Road Manners and Freeway Slugging
Leaving San Diego, the first thing that stands out is how well this bike “gobbles up miles.” On the boring slab, the Transalp is impressively stable. The broad front fairing and tall windscreen create a comfortable cocoon, effectively moving air around the rider. Even without adjustment, the windscreen punches above its weight.
While the bike lacks cruise control—a common gripe at this price point—it makes up for it with excellent road manners. The steering is light and agile, and the 755cc parallel-twin is a charismatic companion once the revs climb. If you’re a shorter rider, you’ll appreciate the low seat height and slim stand-over, making it much less intimidating than a KTM 890 Adventure or a Yamaha Ténéré 700.
Crossing the Border into Baja
Riding into Mexico adds a layer of complexity to any review. Beyond the tacos (which were excellent), you have to consider registration and supplemental insurance. Once across, the Transalp proved to be a fantastic city companion. Lane filtering is the name of the game in Mexico, and the bike’s narrow profile and light clutch made zipping through traffic a breeze.
Off-Road Reality Check
When the asphalt ends and the “chunky” Bridgestone AX41 tires hit the dirt, the Transalp’s character shifts. This is a 60/40 road-to-dirt split machine. On two-track trails and light sand, it’s surprisingly capable. The suspension, with nearly 8 inches of travel, delivers a cozy ride on light ruts.
However, the electronics are a bit of a mixed bag. The user interface on the color TFT is busy, and disabling the ABS and traction control for the dirt can be a chore. Even in “Gravel” mode, the front ABS is quite conservative; it intervenes early, which can be unnerving on steep descents. The engine also lacks the low-end “grunt” of its competitors. To get the most out of it, you have to keep that 755cc twin singing high in the rev range.
The Verdict: Bargain or Compromise?
The Honda XL750 Transalp is built in Japan with the high quality you’d expect from the Wing. It isn’t a hardcore enduro like the Ténéré 700 or a high-tech “Cadillac” like the KTM 890, but at $9,999, it doesn’t try to be. It’s a versatile, fun, and accessible adventure bike that’s perfect for the rider who spends most of their time on the pavement but wants the freedom to kick up some dust in the Baja back country.
2025 Honda XL750 Transalp Technical Specifications
- Engine Type: 755cc liquid-cooled 24.5º parallel-twin
- Valve Train: Unicam® SOHC; four valves per cylinder
- Bore and Stroke: 87.0mm x 63.5mm
- Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
- Induction: PGM-FI electronic fuel injection; 46mm throttle bodies
- Transmission: Six-speed manual
- Final Drive: #525 Chain
- Front Suspension: 43mm Showa® SFF-CA™; 7.9 inches travel
- Rear Suspension: Pro-Link® system with Showa shock; 7.5 inches travel
- Front Brake: Dual 310mm discs with two-piston calipers; ABS
- Rear Brake: Single 256mm disc; ABS
- Front Tire: 90/90-21
- Rear Tire: 150/70-18
- Curb Weight: 463 lbs (includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel)
- Fuel Capacity: 4.3 gallons
- MSRP: Starting at $9,999
- Warranty: One-year, transferable, unlimited-mileage limited warranty
