2024 Honda Transalp XL750 Review

The 2024 Honda Transalp XL750 ($9,999) represents Honda’s triumphant reentry into the middleweight adventure bike market, offering a well-rounded package that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned riders alike. Striking a fine balance between on-road comfort and light off-road capability, this bike showcases Honda’s renowned reliability, modern design, and thoughtful engineering, making it a versatile option for a variety of riding scenarios.

Editor’s note: Also check out the Top 5 Features of the 2024 Honda Transalp XL750 and Top 5 Things We Like About Riding the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp videos. Lastly, take a peek at the updated ‘25 model during the 2025 Honda Transalp XL750 Preview With Video.

At the heart of the Transalp is a 755cc parallel-twin engine, a proven powerhouse borrowed from Honda’s European Hornet platform. Tuned specifically for adventure use, the engine delivers 91 hp and 55 lb.-ft. of torque. Its 270-degree crankshaft lends the engine a character akin to a V-twin, enhancing its low-end grunt and adding personality to the ride. With a smooth and responsive powerband, the Transalp feels equally at home carving twisty roads or navigating gravel trails. The engine’s high-revving nature contributes to its lively top-end performance, all while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency for extended journeys.

The lightweight steel frame of the Transalp ensures agility on technical terrain and a composed ride at highway speeds. Paired with Showa suspension, the bike is comfortable over rugged surfaces, although its suspension setup doesn’t match the heavy-duty capabilities of rivals like Yamaha’s Ténéré 700. Its 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels are well suited for light off-road exploration, adding to its adventurous credentials.

Honda has equipped the Transalp with a robust suite of electronics designed to enhance the riding experience. The five selectable riding modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, Gravel, and User) cater to various conditions, while the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) integrates traction and wheelie control for added safety and confidence. A quickshifter is available for seamless gear changes, but the absence of cruise control and the inability to disable the front ABS for soft sand riding reflect a slight leaning toward road-focused design. The 5-inch TFT display is colorful and Bluetooth-enabled but can feel cluttered, with small fonts that make quick adjustments less intuitive.

Related: 2024 Yamaha Ténéré 700 Review

Comfort takes center stage with the Transalp’s upright seating position, adjustable windscreen, and generous saddle, ensuring long-distance rides remain enjoyable for both rider and passenger. The bike’s 4.5-gallon fuel tank offers a respectable range, while its 459-pound weight strikes a balance between maneuverability on trails and stability on highways. Additional features such as LED lighting and an array of optional accessories, including luggage and crash protection, make the Transalp a highly customizable platform for adventure.

The sleek bodywork of the Transalp combines contemporary styling with practicality. LED lighting adds a modern touch, while the bike’s aerodynamic design improves performance at higher speeds. At a competitive starting price of $9,999, the Transalp delivers exceptional value, blending performance, technology, and comfort into an affordable package.

The 2024 Honda Transalp XL750 excels as an all-arounder in the middleweight adventure-touring class. While it lacks a few off-road-focused features found in more specialized models, its versatility and accessibility make it an excellent choice for a wide range of riders. Whether commuting through urban streets, conquering mountain passes, or exploring unpaved trails, the Transalp is a reliable and stylish companion ready for any journey.