The Honda XL750 Transalp takes inspiration from the original 1986 model. It’s claimed to be a smooth, comfortable, do-it-all crossover that can cope with rough terrain thanks to long travel suspension and a light off-road dynamic.

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Honda says the sleek, simple and clean bodywork is built tough and the screen is optimised for forward visibility and excellent wind deflection. Seat height is 850mm and the riding position is naturally upright, designed to work well when standing up. A rear carrier is standard and there’s a USB socket under the seat for powering devices.

The instruments comprise a 5-inch, full colour high-visibility TFT screen, which offers four types of speed/rpm display (three analogue tachometer styles and one bar) according to rider preference, as well as fuel gauge and consumption, riding mode selection and engine parameters, gear selection and customisable gear shift point on the tacho.

Also incorporated into the interface is the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS), which links the rider to their smartphone while on the move, and allows voice management of phone calls, messages, music and navigation. Connecton is via Bluetooth via helmet-mounted headset.

The XL750 Transalp’s brand-new 755c parallel twin-cylinder engine has a claimed maximum output of 67.5kW @ 9500rpm with usable torque at low to mid-rpm, rising to 75Nm @ 7250rpm. The result is said to be a usable engine for riders of all experience levels.

Throttle-By-Wire (TBW) engine control offers four default riding modes: “SPORT”, “STANDARD”, “RAIN” and “GRAVEL”, adjusting the engine’s delivery and feel. There is also a specific “USER” mode that allows the rider to fine tune their own personal settings.

There are four levels of Engine Power (EP), three levels of Engine Brake (EB), two levels of ABS, and five levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) available; HSTC and rear ABS can also be switched off. Wheelie Control is also standard and integrated to HSTC.

The Pro-link rear suspension with remote reservoir Showa shock has adjustable preload and provides 190mm of travel. The swingarm employs the same castings as big brother CRF1100L Africa Twin, but uses aluminium exclusive to the Transalp.

Compact calipers work dual 310mm discs on a stainless steel 21″ spoked wheel up front while at the rear there’s a 256mm disc and an 18″ rim.

The XL750 Transalp is available in Ross White, Matte Iridium Gray and Matte Ballistic Black and is expected to arrive in Australia in the second half of 2023.

Prices will be announced closer to the release date. Contact your local Honda dealer for more information.

WORDS // BEN PURVIS