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Honda XL700V Transalp (2007-current)

Detail	Value
New price	£5,399
Engine size	680cc
Power	59bhp
Top speed	130mph
Insurance group	11

	MCN ratings	Owners' ratings
Overall
Engine
Ride & Handling
Equipment
Quality & Reliability
Value

MCN overall verdict

This latest version of the Honda Transalp is much improved over the last model, but to be honest that was never going to be difficult. The motor is just quick enough, should last forever, and offers a smile when the mood takes you. The new Honda Transalp’s handling isn’t bad, either, considering the market the motorcycle is aimed at. Looks-wise it’s funky, versatile, practical, user-friendly, easy to ride and should prove a top seller for Honda, although it would benefit from a larger tank, bit more power and a sixth gear.

Watch Honda's Transalp riding across the Alps

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The new Honda Transalp’s V-twin 700cc engine isn’t going to impress your mates with breathtaking performance – 59bhp is far from impressive – but it does the job intended, just. It’s punchy low down around town and will happily tour along at 70-80mph all day, just don’t expect too much. It’s just a shame it doesn’t come with six gears.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Like most Hondas, the Transalp is a doddle to ride, quick or slow, and ideal for learners or more experienced riders wanting something different. Around town or down a lovely switch back road the new Honda Transalp turns easily and is very flickable, the smaller front wheel helps, down from 21 inch to 19.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Considering the Honda Transalp’s price tag, it’s not bad. ABS will cost you an extra few hundred pounds but is well worth it, the linked brakes work well on this model. Fuel gauge, clock and speedo are digital, with an analogue rev counter. Hand guards are a nice touch, so is the small rack on the back for carrying luggage. There’s also a huge list of accessories to personalise the motorcycle for touring or what ever you desired requirements.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The new Honda Transalp’s engine (derived from that of the Deauville) will still be going strong when you’re six feet under, their reliability is that legendary. The motorcycle feels robust and well put together (although it’s actually made in Spain not Japan). The motorcycle has a nice finish and looks good, however there are one or two bits of cosmetic chrome parts which look questionable, it will be interesting to see how they last a few harsh British winters.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

For just over £5000 you’ve got a versatile bike that just as happy around town one minute then taking on some serious touring the next, it will even take on some light off-road riding. Reliability should be unquestionable, it should hold its money in the market being a Honda and running costs should be low.

Insurance group: 11

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2007: New model launched.

None.

Specifications

Top speed	130mph
1/4-mile acceleration	11.75 secs
Power	59bhp
Torque	44ftlb
Weight	214kg
Seat height	841mm
Fuel capacity	17.5 litres
Average fuel consumption	45mpg
Tank range	150 miles
Insurance group	11

Engine size	680cc
Engine specification	8v V-twin, 5 gears
Frame	Steel double cradle
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload and compression
Front brakes	2x 256mm disc
Rear brake	240mm disc
Front tyre size	100/90 x 19
Rear tyre size	130/80 x 17

Owners' Overall Rating (4 reviews)

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New Transalp 700 ABS

bikerdoc09

Average rating

Show Details

Overall
Ride and Handling
Equipment
Quality and Reliabilty
Value
Engine

Reliable,smooth,agile.Engine has just enough power but it is never short of breath.Not for cruising at 120 mph on fast motorways with missus- but if you plan a trip to the moon, it will take you there and back. Original tall screen buzzes annoyingly but it provides good protection. This is a bike and a companion.

12 July 2009
transalp 700

glennfromscotland

Average rating

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Overall
Ride and Handling
Equipment
Quality and Reliabilty
Value
Engine

took for a test ride and came back with a big grin,bought demo with all extras, not fast but more than capable to have some fun on a-b roads, brakes good, not had chance to feel abs yet, gearbox very smooth ecconomy above 60mpg even riding fast, taller screen good, now feel I contol power rather than other way round, build and reliability usual honda,nice and light enjoying it

19 February 2009
transalp 700

greenhat

Average rating

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Engine

can't fault it! used for instructing, does 50cc cbt's or advanced equally well, plus i look forward to going out on it and i own a bmw gs 1200!

03 February 2009
Solid - Typical Honda

macasm

Average rating

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Overall
Ride and Handling
Equipment
Quality and Reliabilty
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Engine

Great bike. Comfy, much more exciting than the last model, can handle any job and tours. Shame about the tank range and I hope the gearbox improves with age. Weird looks and needs accessorising to make it much more usable.

16 September 2008

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backroadsofau says

Honda XL700

I just got one. Very versatile and allows you to explore every highway, back road and fire trail around. Love the power delivery and the easy riding position. Feels a little twitchy on dirt roads but once you get the feel for it you can move along at a very good pace.

Only big surprise is the 12volt kit for the new model is $400 AU fitted apparently due to the complex electrics you need to buy some specific parts so as not to disrupt the EFI.

20 May 2009 11:49

lee748says

honda transalp XL700

Just brought one and im very impressed with the bike. Ive had sports bikes i.e R1 Blade and 999 but this bike gives you more Grin Factor around tight B Roads with so few BHP than any sports bike Ive had. Cant recommend a test ride enough. Who needs 170MPH when you can have so much fun with 115MPH and be in front of the weekend sports bike rider on your faviourite B Roads.

13 March 2009 14:54