Honda XL650V Transalp (1987-2007)

I bought a 2005 Tranny as a second/ winter bike especially to explore the backwaters of N.Wales, however, I currently live in London but intend relocate 2012 on retirement. I use the bike to commute in London and up to Wales on a regular basis and personally rate this bike highly. I also own a Harley Davidson and a Scott Flying Squirrel, and speak as a life long biker. I intend to change things to better suit my needs which will have no significance to the next reader, so, all next readers please view YouTube: TransAlp 650 Long Way Dany. A most inspirational 4 minutes which say's it better than I ever will.

Spent 18 months commuting M4 into London, all weather, never let me down.Comfortable riding position/visibility, you can see the 4 wheeled idiots texting, reading and doing there make-up, well in advance. Then out at the weekend into the country 2-up.

I got this in December because it felt right, not to heavy and comfortable riding position. It goes like a tractor just plodding along putting a smile on my face. It does not have a high sustainable top speed, but at the legal speeds it is comfortable.

I've have had the XL650 now for two months.I have ridden it in the worst weather Scotland has to offer and it has coped with it all no problem .Took it up into the Lammermuirs today with a pillion onboard and it did everything i asked of it. Starts first time and behaves well. It doesnt have too much grunt but you dont buy a Transalp for muscle power. You buy it for its staying power. Overall a very good hard working bike.

I thought I add a few comments on the 600, which was built until 2000. I bought this bike after owning bikes like VFR800, Hornet 600 etc. What a revelation! On paper this bike is a disappointment, not a lot of power, quite heavy. Ignore the specs, this a great bike, more than the sum of it parts. Sure it struggles at illegal speeds, but get to 60/70 pretty quickly, won't scare you in process and is the BEST town and B-road bike I've ridden (out of about 30). So easy to ride, great to blasting on country lanes and the steering geometry allow you to brake (lightly) midcorner if you overcook it. Engine note is quite good and build quality very good. Can't think of many negative to be honest, maybe too tall for some and useless on motorways, but apart from that a great bike.

My 650 Transalp is my first big bike. I've only been riding for 6 months and I'm over the moon with her. I commute 20 miles each way on the bike (mostly motorway) and I get out into the Pennines and Peak Distict at weekends, and the TA has done everything I've asked of it. I'm only 5ft 8in so I'm on tip-toes and she does feel a bit big and heavy when I'm pushing her around but she's smooth as you like once I get going. There's plenty of power for my needs, I love the engine note and I get 50mpg. What's not to like? :)

Well, Ive been riding for 22 years now and I've tried most things from an RGV250 to a GSXR1000, etc etc. Last few year I've used bikes for touring and pleasure. I have to say that the transalp is comfy, will (contrary to whats published) return 60mpg plus if used frugally, and makes riding enjoyable. I actually enjoy throwing it around more than a sportster. Can't reccommned it highly enough. Strengths: Comfort, good road view due to height, simple engine. Weaknesses: None that I know of.

I find it leaves plenty of room for my 6 foot frame. It has been faultless throughout the winter (touch wood). I have ridden constantly and the bike loves it. It's done the 200miles from London to Devon no problem. It does 6 miles commute through heavy traffic every day. It can cruise at slow traffic crawling speeds and filter well. Great for strapping loads of stuff to the back and tank. I've had no complaints from my pillion's - the seat is very comfortable and the riding position is very relaxed. There is increased confidence from greater field of view due to sit-up-and-beg riding position. Strengths: Reliable, good rider view over traffic, powerful twin, versatility (excellent for long journeys and commuting). Weaknesses: Probably not enough go for two-up touring.

I'm 5 foot ten and could just touch the floor, on the standard seat, although a lower seat is available. I test rode one in high wind and I did not even notice it, for a high bike, just a bit of head buffeting at 80mph. Tall screen available. It's a very easy bike to ride, very comfy, very solid ride. Felt light on the move, they say power is week, but I found it very quick and responsive and I'm 15 stone! Corners very well even with the dual purpose tyres. A bit lumpy when in slow moving traffic. Same as most big bikes. Good view allround. Very effective brakes, bike slows down very quickly when accelorator shut, all round a very nice bike to work rest and play on. Strengths: Easy ride, strong solid feel, new fairing, fuel consumption good. Weaknesses: Pegs a bit small and buttons also a bit small fidley.