Honda's xl750 transalp adventure motorcycle, launched in 2023, offers value at $14,499 plus on-road costs. Riders tested the bike on roads and gravel near the Gold Coast, praising its versatility for commuters and tourers. The model shares its engine with the cb750 hornet and targets a broad audience seeking affordable adventure options.
The Honda xl750 transalp debuted in 2023 as a mid-range adventure bike, priced at $14,499 plus on-road costs, equating to about $16,000 ride-away in New South Wales. Available in three colors—Mat Iridium Gray, Metallic Mat Ballistic Black, and Metallic Ross White Tricolour—it features a 755cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crank and Unicam head, delivering 91.8hp at 9500rpm and 75Nm at 7250rpm. The engine, shared with the cb750 hornet, includes throttle-by-wire, an assist/slipper clutch, and a claimed fuel efficiency of 23km/L from its 16.9-litre tank, providing nearly 400km range.
At the launch ride in the Gold Coast hinterland, led by former GP rider Daryl Beattie, testers rode through urban traffic, winding roads to Mount Tamborine, and tame gravel paths. The bike's 850mm seat height and neutral ergonomics suit commuting, with the 21-inch front wheel aiding maneuverability in traffic. In Standard mode, it offers balanced throttle response and traction control, making town riding easy. Switching to Sport mode enhanced responsiveness on bitumen, though dual-purpose Metzeler Karoo Street tyres limited cornering grip compared to road-focused bikes like the Hornet.
On gravel, Gravel mode proved ideal for the 21/18-inch wheels and standing position, but traction control intervened early, requiring a switch to User mode to disable it for more fun. Rear ABS deactivates in Gravel mode, while front ABS remains on. The 208kg wet weight felt light, with a steel diamond chassis and tube-type wheels. Suspension includes non-adjustable 43mm Showa forks (200mm travel) upfront and a preload-adjustable Pro-Link rear shock (190mm travel), which Beattie adjusted for a heavier rider: “These come from the factory for a 70kg or so rider... You’d definitely need a firmer spring for the Transalp.” He also noted on wheels: “You’re less likely to bend a rim with tubes in.”
Electronics feature a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, Honda Smartphone Voice Control, self-cancelling indicators, and emergency stop signals activating above 56km/h deceleration. Brakes use 310mm front wave discs with twin-piston calipers and a 256mm rear disc, both with two-channel ABS. Extensive accessories, including bash plates, panniers, and quickshifters, allow customization, though some like cruise control are absent standard.
The Transalp appeals to novice riders from LAMS licences, budget-conscious mature riders, and casual tourers, positioned below the pricier Africa Twin for less intimidating adventures.
