The Legend Is Reborn! Honda Unveils All-New XL750 Transalp
The iconic midsized Adventure Motorcycle from Big Red returns to the lineup.
Well, we can’t say we didn’t see it coming. After endless rumors and leaks, the legendary Transalp name, first introduced in 1986, has finally been resurrected today by Honda. The all-new 2023 XL750 Transalp takes inspiration from the original machine and adds to the formula a high-performance engine, all-new design and the kind of top-drawer equipment level that modern riders demand.
All-New Parallel Twin
At the heart of Honda’s freshly unveiled Adventure bike is an all new 755cc, parallel-twin unit (shared with the new CB750 Hornet) with a 270° crank pumping out 90.5 horsepower @ 9500 rpm and 55.2 ft-lbs of torque @ 7250 rpm. Refined settings of the Throttle By Wire (TBW) system orientate the engine character towards touring and comfort.
The new engine is extremely compact and lightweight, due in no small part to the Unicam head (as used by the MX competition ready CRF450R) which operates the 35.5mm diameter inlet valves (with 9.3mm lift) via cam, and 29mm diameter exhaust (with 8.2mm lift) by rocker arm. The compact dimensions are also due to clever packaging: there’s no balancer drive gear since the primary drive gear doubles up duties and also spins the balance shaft; the water pump is tucked away inside the left hand engine cover and there’s no need for a water-cooled oil-cooler.
For razor-sharp pick-up and throttle response, patented Vortex flow ducts create a more uniform distribution from the side scoops into the airbox, which then feeds downdraft intakes and 46mm diameter throttle bodies. The cylinders use a Ni-SiC (Nickel-Silicon Carbide) coating, as used on the CRF450R and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, to increase the engine’s efficiency.
An assist/slipper clutch – with F.C.C Leaning Segment (FLS) discs – reduces clutch drag torque by 30% for a lighter lever load and easier up shifts. It also manages rear wheel hop under hard braking and rapid down shifts.
Fuel consumption of 23 km/l (WMTC mode) offers a potential range of 242 miles (390 km) from the 4.5 gallon (16.9L) fuel tank. And just like the Hornet, a 50 HP (35kW), A2 license option will also be available through a quick ECU remap at a Honda dealer.
Chassis
The steel diamond mainframe is lightweight, at just 40.3 lbs (18.3kg) – 10% lighter than the frame of the CB500X. A major R&D process of reducing the number of reinforcing parts, thinning of the main and down tubes, and optimization of the upper shock mount and swingarm pivot shape has produced a strong platform, with rigidity balanced to deliver feel to the rider across all conditions and geometry set to inspire confident handling agility. The integrated heavy-duty subframe employs high-tension steel pipework for strength and toughness.
Rake and trail are set at 27° and 111mm, with wheelbase of 1560mm and kerb weight of 458.6 lbs (208 kg). Slow speed U-turns are easy thanks to a 42° steering angle and 2.6m minimum turning circle.
The suspension specifications have been selected with the all-round concept firmly in mind, featuring longer travel and optimized bump absorption to deliver smooth performance and comfort on-road, and reassuring control off-road. Showa 43mm SFF-CATM (Separate Function Fork-Cartridge) USD forks offer 7.9 inches ( 200mm) travel with spring preload adjustment, and mount by a forged aluminum bottom yoke and cast aluminum top yoke, for a perfect balance of strength and rigidity in wide-ranging riding situations.
With 7.5 inches (190mm) of travel the remote reservoir Showa shock (with adjustable preload) operates through Pro-Link and the swingarm which, while employing the same castings as the CRF1100L Africa Twin’s, uses aluminum material exclusive to the Transalp. Ground clearance is 8.3 inches (210mm).
Compact, two-piston calipers work dual 310mm ‘wave’ discs up front. The rear 256mm ‘wave’ disc is operated by a single-piston caliper. Tube-type 21” front/18” rear spoked wheels (stainless steel) wear 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tires respectively. Customers can choose from either the Metzeler Karoo Street or Dunlop Mixtour.
The new Transalp’s seat height is low for the class at 33.5” (850 mm) but a 32.3” ( 820mm) low seat is also available as an option.
Equipment
A 5-inch, full-color TFT screen offers four types of speed/rpm display – 3 analogue rev-counter styles and 1 bar – according to rider preference – as well as fuel gauge and consumption, riding mode selection and engine parameters, gear selected and customizable shift-up point on the rev-counter. Management is via the screen and switchgear on the left handlebar.
Also incorporated into the interface is the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system, which links the rider to their Android while on the move and allows voice management of phone calls, messages, music and navigation. Several of the HSVCs functions will also be accessible on IOS smartphones. A helmet-mounted headset is needed, and the smartphone connects to the dash via Bluetooth; management of Honda Smartphone Voice control is also possible using buttons on the left switchgear.
To simplify the entire electrical system the Transalp uses a Controller Area Network (CAN) alongside a Body Control Unit (BCU). The BCU is sited on the left-hand frame rail, under the fuel tank and collectively processes control signals – from the ABS modulator, TFT screen and switch gear.
All lighting is LED. The rear indicators feature an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function. At a minimum speed of 35 mph (56 km/h) with either brake working, if negative acceleration of a minimum of 6.0m/s2 is detected, the hazard lights flash to warn other road users a hard stop is in process. At the same speed the threshold is reduced if ABS is activated, to a negative acceleration of a minimum 2.5m/s2.
Turn indicators also auto-cancel; rather than using a simple timer, the system compares front and rear wheel speed difference and calculates when to cancel the indication relative to the situation.
A rear carrier is standard and there’s a USB socket under the seat.
Engine Electronics
Throttle By Wire (TBW) engine control offers four default riding modes: SPORT, STANDARD, RAIN and GRAVEL, adjusting the engine’s performance delivery and feel to suit conditions and the rider’s intent; they’re easily switched and managed between the left handlebar mode and TFT screen. There is also a specific USER mode that allows the rider to fine tune their own personal settings
There are 4 levels of Engine Power (EP), 3 levels of Engine Brake (EB), 2 levels of ABS, and 5 levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) available; HSTC and rear ABS can also be switched off. The riding modes offer different combinations of each parameter. Wheelie Control is also standard and integrated to HSTC.
SPORT mode offers maximum performance and uses level 4 EP, level 2 ABS and level 1 EB and HSTC to deliver strong acceleration with minimum intervention.
STANDARD mode is a mid-way setting for urban riding that uses level 3 setting for EP and HSTC, with level 2 EB and ABS.
RAIN mode is designed for challenging on-road conditions and employs the lowest EP setting, level 1, for the least aggressive power delivery with level 2 EB and ABS and 5 HSTC.
GRAVEL mode features level 2 EP, level 3 EB, and level 4 HSTC with level 1 ABS setting for confident travel on rougher terrain off road.
USER mode allows the rider to choose between settings 1-4 EP, 1-5 HSTC and 1-3 EB plus rear ABS switch off, and save them for future use.
Accessories
A full range of accessories are available for the 2023 Honda XL750 Transalp, ready for personalization to an owner’s preference and use, including a quickshifter and low seat option.To make it easy, there are 5 packs that group the accessories neatly together:
URBAN PACK: (practicality and storage) 50L top box, aluminum panel, mounting base, pillion pad and inner bag plus tall screen and main stand.
TOURING PACK: (comfort and storage) Rear panniers (R26L / L33L), aluminum panels, support stays, inner bags and heated grips.
ADVENTURE PACK: (style and functionality) Side pipes, LED fog lights and radiator grill.
RALLY PACK: (style and functionality) Quickshifter, engine guard, bash plate, off-road rally footpegs and knuckle guards with extensions.
COMFORT PACK: (comfort and practicality) 3L tank bag, wind deflectors, comfort pillion footpegs and AAC charging socket.
Additional accessories include side tank pads and color matched wheel stripes and all accessories are also available separately.
Colors
The 2023 Honda XL750 Transalp will be available in Matte Iridium Gray Metallic and Mat Ballistic Black Metallic, including a Tricolour scheme (Ross White Tricolour) paying homage to the original XL600V, marking the return of an icon.
Pricing and availability haven’t been revealed yet. Also, the announcement comes from Honda Europe, so we haven’t gotten confirmation yet if and when the new model is slated to come to the US. As always, we’ll share more details as we receive them. Stay tuned!
Honda XL750 Transalp Specs
Engine Type: | Liquid-cooled OHC 4-stroke 8-valve parallel twin with 270° crank and Unicam |
Engine Displacement: | 755cc |
Bore x Stroke (mm): | 87mm x 63.5mm |
Compression Ratio: | 11.0:1 |
Max. Power Output: | 90.5 HP (67.5kW) @ 9,500rpm |
Max. Torque: | 55.2 ft-lbs (75Nm) @ 7,250rpm |
Noise Level (dB): | Lwot – 81.5; Lurban – 77.5 |
Oil Capacity: | 3.9L |
Starter: | Electric |
Carburation: | PGM-FI electronic injection |
Fuel Tank Capacity: | 4.5 Gallons (16.9L) |
CO2 Emissions WMTC: | 103g/km |
Fuel Consumption: | 54.1 MPG (23km/l) |
Battery Capacity: | 12v 8.6Ah |
Clutch Type: | Wet multiple, assist slipper clutch |
Transmission Type: | 6 speed Manual Transmission |
Final Drive: | Chain |
Frame Type: | Steel diamond |
Dimensions (L´W´H): | 2,325mm x 838mm x 1,450mm |
Wheelbase: | 1560mm |
Caster Angle: | 27° |
Trail: | 111mm |
Seat Height: | 850mm |
Ground Clearance: | 210mm |
Kerb Weight: | 458.6 lbs |
Turning radius: | 2.6m |
Suspension Front: | Showa 43mm SFF-CA – 7.1” (200mm) travel |
Suspension Rear: | Monoshock damper, Pro-Link swingarm, 7.5” (190mm) travel |
Wheels Front: | 21in (stainless steel) spoked wheels |
Wheels Rear: | 18in (stainless steel) spoked wheels |
Tires Front: | 90/90-R21 M/C 54H |
Tires Rear: | 150/70-R18 M/C 70H |
ABS Type: | 2 channel |
Brakes Front: | Dual 310mm x 4.5mm ‘wave’ discs with axial mounted 2-piston calipers |
Brakes Rear: | Single 256mm x 6.0mm ‘wave’ disc is operated by a single-piston caliper |
Instruments: | 5″ TFT |
Headlight: | LED |
Taillight: | LED |
Connectivity: | Honda Smartphone Voice Control |
USB: | Type C (under the pillion seat) |
12V Socket: | Optional |
Turn Indicator Auto Cancel: | Yes |
Quickshifter: | Optional |
Security System: | HISS |
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What about DCT???
Funny how no one is mentioning that in their articles.
Nice bike! Honda has really been thinking about how to reduce weight across its models lately. They and Yamaha are doing some great engineering and design. Kawasaki and Suzuki however have been on autopilot since about 1987.
there is no cruise control?
and kerb (curb) weight is about 20-25 lbs under what it will weigh fuelled up on road. Still not in KTM 790 Adv territory with inclusions like tubeless rims and CC and lower weight
No compression or rebound adjustments?
Underwhelming.
No adaptive cruise control is a deal breaker
Who has adaptive cruise control in that class? Asking because I don’t know.
Nobody does, lol.
KTM 890 Adventure
Yes……it’s lighter than an 890 fully fueled….oh, but so is a CB500X. LOL.
about 2.5 kgs supposedly….. but I’d wait till a reputable magazine puts both of them on a scale with the same amount of fuel on board. But no CC or tubeless tyres kills it for me – and the tank is several litres too small
it’s better to install an aftermarket cruise control on a bike with RBW like this TransAlp. Companies like McCruise AU allow cruise to be engaged in any gear at any speed (like My 1190R) whereas Honda factory systems limit it to 4th gear or above and 50kph and above. I will be installing a McCruise and singing all the way home. That way I get to choose 3rd gear and crawl speeds like 40kph in school zones or 48kph in residential zones and keep my licence clean.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 has
V85TT
ADAPTIVE cruise control in the 800cc 12.000 Euro class? Keep on dreaming. KTM and BMW are just introducing it in their top bikes!
Did it mention price? I skimmed for it but may have missed it..??
Well, I glanced it again and found this:
Pricing and availability haven’t been revealed yet. Also, the announcement comes from Honda Europe, so we haven’t gotten confirmation yet if and when the new model is slated to come to the US.
20 pounds heavier and double the horsepower of the 500X, plus 2″ more travel. It’s going to come down to price. CB500X plus rally raid suspension is $10K. Tenere 700 has fewer electronics, and is just over $10K. I’d guess $10,999 USD. I’ll take mine in white, if Honda prices it near my guess.
Tube wheel=No deal
Several people have commented about it not having tubeless tires. I only have older bikes (including an ’89 Transalp) that have tubes so am curious what the advantages of tubeless are? My experience is that I like the ease of carrying a patch kit and spare tube to be able to fix tire issues. What am I missing? Thanks
Some people prefer repairing the tire and not having the weight of tubes. I prefer the tube for off-road because you can do pretty bad damage to the tire and rim, but slip in the spare tube and make it back. I got ride of air all together on my enduro bike and used bib mousse.
With tubeless tires you can plug the leak without having to use tools to remove the wheel much faster.
Thats awesome. Still ride my 86 xl600r daily love the red white and blue with gold rims makes me want to upgrade now lol. But my 86 runs like a dream so why! Unless ya wanna give me one Honda lol!
Lol always the beggars looking for free stuff makes us laugh in the motorcycle industry
Wonder if they’l take my ’86 and or ’89 in on trade?
I was hoping to be a bit lighter the the A/T
The two big misses here are lack of Cruise Control and lack of Tubeless tires. With the Tuareg, Desert X, and KTM 890 being out for a while with all of the above included, I don’t understand this oversight…
Several people have commented about it not having tubeless tires. I only have older bikes (including an ’89 Transalp) that have tubes so am curious what the advantages of tubeless are? My experience is that I like the ease of carrying a patch kit and spare tube to be able to fix tire issues. What am I missing? Thanks
That all depends on the price discount to the KTM and Ducati models. After all… you get what you paid for.
I can not tell if the rear subframe bolts up. The text says “integrated”, and that could mean welded on. Same as others note: no cruise, and tubed tires thats bad. 460 lbs hmmm. CANbus hello BMW, tho don’t know much other than hard to (more expensive) option with aftermarket electronics. 460 lbs ugh. No rail for a Nav device. Anyone like the suspension?
It’s a welded subframe
That’s a shame, too bad. Even Triumph does no do that anymore.
Looking to replace my 7 year old Honda NC750X which I have had from new. No cruise control so not interested. How can Honda be so out of touch when it comes to cruise control. It should be standard on all drive by wire bikes now. Alan, Airdrie, Scotland
Looks amazing in Black! Honda has done a great job getting the weight down to 208kg wet for a 750cc with a range of 390km and a centre stand! HP Power is up a LOT on the Tenere and hopefully, it’s got luggable torque at low RPM too like the T7? Engine braking sets it apart from the T7. Based on the basic suspension and the pre-approved headlight off the CBX I expect the price to be lower than the Yamaha. We’ll see, haha. That’s how they smashed into the market with the 2015 AT and went straight to #1 in sales in AU – on price. Everything looks sweet to me and even has the option for a low seat. So a fork cartridge kit and an after-market shock, lighter exhaust, EVO ECU – should have it well sorted.
Let’s see the price, it might be a T700 killer…
I notice the cat is in a position to not fry your shin, which is good. It looks like the cat could take a beating from rocks, but should not be a problem to fit a bash plate. The ECU is probably locked to Euro5 standards.
I’m guessing the rumored 800 cc Africa Twin is this instead? I love ADV bikes in this range so glad to see a Honda here. Looking forward to the shootout tests next year.
I am really wondering, with so many things made mandatory by law today, why warning indicators – at least with manual activation – are not standard on all motorcycles. They have been standard on cars for decades. I would find them quite useful if you e g ride in a group and want to communicate an upcoming hazard further back into the the group.
Also self cancelling indicators are nice to have, I guess we have all forgotten them once in a while, which might lead to dangerous misunderstandings in traffic.
So: yes, some electronic features really make sense. Honda has chosen to implement some, thanks!
And while Honda was not know to build light in the past, they really nailed it with the weight of 208kg fully fuelled! Nice!
DCT not an option on this bike. Price is rumored at $10,400usd
PS: my only real point of critics is the low exhaust. Just like at the T700 this is the first thing that makes ground contact if you drop the bike and the Yamaha folks are seriously complaining about the weak exhaust hanger. Once the exhaust is bent inwards, it will make contact with the swing arm. For the T700 there are finally aftermarket options available, that place the exhaust higher up. Honda should have done that right away. Advantage of the low exhaust: less chance of contact with luggage. Guess that’s why it’s down there.
A street oriented Adventure Bike with no cruise control……Boo! And it’s 460 pounds……Boo! It looks pretty good though.
I believe the Aprilia Tuareg 660 is the only mid size Adv Bike that comes with cruise, I think you can ad it as an option with the KTM 790/890, but I had a bad experience with KTM ad on electronics before.
Cfmoto 800mt has cruise and heated seat, quickshifter etc etc
Glad I got one instead of waiting for this.
Normally with tubeless its Plug, air and go!
For some tube type tires is a deal breaker. I want to see tubeless tires at least as an option however they should come standard.
I like it but don’t understand why no cruise or tubeless tires. Basically a cb500x with more power and less fuel range.
The Yamaha T700 also has no OEM cruise control, because the throttle is still cables on that cycle. So now I’m wondering: Is this Honda also cable throttle or RBW? Anyone know?
I’m going to have to take this on a test ride, but from what I’ve read, I’m pretty much sold, that is if the price is right.
It’s ridiculous to offer a dual-sport without a standard bash plate!
Nearly perfect, thanks Honda! If anything, I’d prefer less rider aids and electronics but horsepower and weight looks good. Looking forward to seeing the Canadian price ‘though.
Welcome back Honda !
If they bring out an X version with cast wheels and cruise control at the correct price then I think they’ll sell thousands. Until then I’ll stick with my TDM900
Is this bike a legend too??
Wow its like all old bikes are legends…just because they where discontinued at some point. Maybe thats why their legends? Because the company for some reason decided its not worth producing the bike…ofc thats makes a legenedary bike.
Once again Honda have taken a street bike, tacked on a few adventure style features and called it an adventure bike. Crappy SFF suspension, huge exposed exhaust running under the engine, poor ground clearance, welded subframe, etc. this is a sheep in wolf’s clothing. I get it Honda. 90% of adventure bikes are bought for the image, and never go off road. The other 10% of us will have to buy elsewhere. Shame though. Sounds like a great motor.