Honda XL700V TransAlp

• Watch video from testing

It is understood that it was made exclusively for the European market as it was designed and manufactured by Honda's development department in the Old Continent. Americans will not be upset with this model, especially the Indians to whom Honda sells a huge number of bicycles that we do not even know about. This time it was the turn of good old Europe with its own wish list. This, believe me, was short-lived.

They allowed themselves to beg for a very long time if we were a little mean. However, what you see was mixed at first. Of course, an unusual light catches the eye. Its shape is somewhere between an ellipse and a circle, but it is definitely vertical, as required by the fashionable commandments of our time.

Well, probably no one, especially old motorcyclists, would mind if, for example, they used a double circular light in the style of old Dakar race cars and the legendary but sadly retired African Twin. But even our doubts have subsided to this day. When we look at the bike as a whole, we dare to claim (and risk the ire of the aforementioned motorcyclists) that this TransAlp is in fact a beautiful and comprehensive product that meets modern standards of aesthetics.

And, of course, the needs of an urban contemporary, a motorcyclist who commutes to work around the city on such a motorcycle, every day, in almost any weather, and, if desired, makes a pleasant trip somewhere far away, among the mountain peaks, along a winding road. roads of beautiful and countless mountain passes. The TransAlp XL700V is equipped with everything you need for such a rhythm of life.

In particular, they took care of decent wind protection, which does not tire from the wind even after more than 100 or 200 kilometers, and protection from adverse weather conditions (rain, cold), meaning the convex aerodynamic armor and a large arm. security guards. at the helm.

Honda's goal was clear: to make the new TransAlp the most versatile and useful European mid-range motorcycle. The Suzuki Vstrom 650 has reigned here in recent years, the Kawasaki Versys 650 joined the company last year, and now Honda has finally demonstrated its vision of the needs of dynamic people. But about the competitors another time, when we have the opportunity to compare them with each other.

Let's do a good job of all the new items first, because the list is quite long. The heart, of course, is new, of a larger volume (680 cm?), But still V-shaped; they only added electronic injection to it, which therefore has a corrected power curve compared to its predecessor, especially in the mid-rev range, where the old TransAlp liked to breathe a little during a serious chase.

Just for a more flamboyant ride on the roads, they put on a bit more road tires, which also affects the wheel sizes? 19 "front and 17" rear. Suitable tires for enduro travel were selected. This progress is very evident on the move, as the TransAlp is extremely easy and manoeuvrable in both the slow city center and the winding country road.

Considering that the word enduro is more used for decoration, the decision to use more road rather than off-road tires was the only correct one. If the TransAlp had more off-road tires, it would be like putting an SUV in “pickled” mud tires, even if those mud cars don't even smell from afar. So is it the same with this Honda? If someone already wanted to ride it in the mud, the choice of a motorcycle would be more dubious than the choice of tires.

He just can't work miracles. The engine also has its limitations, and on longer plains we have repeatedly searched in vain for sixth gear. Well, yes, the gearbox could also work faster and, most importantly, more precisely, because the gear changes disappointed us a little.

On the other hand, we can praise the excellent brakes and ABS that we had as an accessory. Braking is not sporty, but safe even in late November, when Honda and I were accumulating kilometers along the Adriatic highway and partly in the vicinity of Ljubljana. The trip has become much more relaxed. You know a good ABS keeps you going.

Sitting is also very good. The passenger will also be able to sit comfortably in a beautifully padded seat that can be gripped by the side handles that protrude into the small trunk. The seat has more rounded lines and provides a safe contact with the ground, even for shorter riders. The suspension is also subordinated to comfort, which manifests itself flawlessly when driving at moderate speeds. The engineers also thought we like to travel in pairs and added the ability to adjust the spring preload on the rear shock.

So, we think this is a great beginner bike as it has everything you need for a pleasant, relaxed and safe ride. He is forgiving and undemanding; and this is more expensive than gold for someone who is just getting used to living on two wheels. So for those who prefer a more relaxed and calm rhythm on two wheels, they definitely won't be disappointed with the new Honda TransAlp, and we suggest more demanding riders consider the Varadero if they are looking for an enduro tour.

Face to Face (Matevj Hribar)

It no longer surprises me that Honda has developed the new TransAlp very gently and calmly. The shape perfectly matches the character of the drivers for whom it is intended. The engine is easy to operate, stable and comfortable, I would like the steering wheel to be one centimeter closer to the body. There is enough comfort for two, and even a two-cylinder can work hard, only there it shakes a little up to 3.000 rpm during acceleration. In short, it is a very good two-wheeler for travel or short day trips, even if you are new to motorsport. It's a pity, however, that they stopped paying attention to the little things that might bother fans of this famous Japanese manufacturer. The derailleurs are quite angular and antique, the look of the steering wheel leaves a rather cold impression, and there are some welds that Honda cannot be proud of.

Honda XL700V TransAlp

Basic model: 7.290 EUR

Price with ABS (test): 7.890 EUR

engine: two-cylinder V-shaped, 4-stroke, 680, 2 cm? , 44.1 kW (59 HP) at 7.750 rpm, 60 Nm at 5.500 rpm, el. fuel injection.

Transmission: 5-speed, chain drive.

Frame, suspension: steel frame, classic front fork, single shock at the rear with adjustable spring rate.

brakes: front 2 discs 256 mm, rear 1 disc 240 mm, ABS.

Tires: front 100/90 R19, rear 130/80 R17.

Wheelbase: 1.515 mm.

Seat height from ground: 841 mm.

Fuel tank / consumption: 17 l (stock 5 liters) / 3, 4l.

Weight: 214 kg.

Represents and sells: As Domžale, doo, Blatnica 3A, Trzin, tel .: [phone], www.honda-as.si.

We praise and reproach

+ broad applicability

+ pleasant meaning

+ windshield protection

+ ease of handling

+ comfort (even for two)

+ ergonomics for big and small people

- we missed sixth gear

- the box does not like to rush

- cheap feed

- some parts (especially welds and some components) are not the pride of the famous Honda name

Peter Kavcic, photo: Matevz Gribar, Zeljko Pushcenik

• Basic data

  Base model price: € 7.890 XNUMX €

• Technical information

  engine: two-cylinder V-shaped, 4-stroke, 680,2 cm³, 44.1 kW (59 HP) at 7.750 rpm, 60 Nm at 5.500 rpm, el. fuel injection.

  Energy transfer: 5-speed, chain drive.

  Frame: steel frame, classic front fork, single shock at the rear with adjustable spring rate.

  brakes: front 2 discs 256 mm, rear 1 disc 240 mm, ABS.

  Fuel tank: 17,5 l (stock 3 liters) / 4,5 l.

  Wheelbase: 1.515 mm.

  Weight: 214 kg.