Honda XL750 Transalp 2025 Off-Road Review

Off-roading in the German-speaking regions often comes with restrictions, especially if you want to keep it legal. But here, in the Alpine foothills southwest of Vienna, lies a true paradise for enduro enthusiasts: the Red Stag Enduro Park. With over 50 kilometers of off-road tracks and around 33 kilometers of challenging hard-enduro sections, this terrain offers everything an off-road heart desires. The trails are color-coded—from green to blue—making them suitable for both beginners and advanced riders alike. Large adventure bikes are expressly welcome here. Riders frequently tackle the more or less technically demanding sections with fully loaded beasts to push their machines to the limit. The park is operated by Enduro Extreme, hosting eight events a year from May to the end of October. Those interested can find all the information at www.enduro-extreme.com. It's the perfect place to rigorously test the revamped 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp. Together with McGregor and off-road expert Busty Wolter, we took on the challenge of putting this mid-range adventure bike to the test under real and unforgiving conditions. Right from the first ride, it was clear: something is different with this new version. The Transalp now feels more direct, firmer in its response to bumps, and with more substance in its damping.

Honda stays true to its roots: The Transalp is neither a radical sport bike nor a hardcore enduro. At 210 kilograms ready to ride and with a seat height of 850 millimeters (optional 820 mm), the Transalp remains accessible. It's a great choice, especially for shorter riders. The tank holds 16.9 liters, enough for longer tours. It's a thoroughly sensible, extremely versatile adventure bike that now shines even brighter thanks to targeted updates. The newly designed LED headlight gives it a modern look, while the revised fairing offers improved wind protection. Additionally, the new display with enhanced 4-way controls brings the bike up to date technologically. However, the most significant update for our test was undoubtedly the suspension, eagerly awaited by many Transalp fans.

At this year's Off-Road Test Days, 1000PS is betting on a true classic: the Continental TKC 80. This tire celebrates a remarkable milestone in 2025—40 years in action on expeditions and journeys around the globe. While the rubber compound has been updated over the decades, the core construction and iconic block tread remain largely untouched. It's a testament to timeless design that still proves its worth today. The TKC 80 delivers exactly what counts off-road: solid grip, high traction on loose surfaces, and excellent self-cleaning in muddy sections. The tire truly shines in the rougher sections of the Red Stag. Our test crew quickly agreed: the TKC 80 remains a reliable partner for tackling tough terrain, earning its place as the standard tire for the Off-Road Test Days.

The 755 cc parallel-twin remains unchanged in its character. It delivers an impressively smooth throttle response, producing 92 hp at 9500 rpm and 75 Nm at 7250 rpm. This provides solid thrust in the mid to upper rev range, but it requires some revs to really get going. In the lower range, the power delivery is a bit tame and unremarkable until you cross the 5000 rpm threshold, where it then pulls sportily and energetically towards the redline. In tough off-road conditions, it's advisable to work the clutch occasionally to smoothly navigate obstacles at lower speeds.

Honda has really done a stellar job here. The previously too-soft suspension has been specifically reworked. The 43mm Showa upside-down forks and the Showa rear shock, with 200 mm and 190 mm of travel respectively, have been retuned. The rear end, in particular, is now significantly firmer and works more precisely. In combination with the also retuned front, this creates a harmonious interaction that provides greater riding stability. Especially in fast off-road sections with deep ruts and bumps, the new reserve strength becomes apparent. The Transalp now remains well-controllable at higher speeds and no longer bottoms out. However, the setup is not fully adjustable, which some ambitious riders might miss.

The new control concept feels more organized and intuitive. The large 5-inch display is excellently readable and provides all relevant information at a glance. The configurability of ride modes, traction control, engine braking, and ABS is extensive. In User Mode, you can set up a custom configuration—for instance, with traction control disabled and rear ABS turned off for off-road use. However, a criticism is that these settings reset after each ignition off. This is somewhat inconvenient, especially for an adventure bike intended for long off-road tours.

The braking system doesn't boast big names or overly lavish dimensions, but it works flawlessly. The front brake's bite point is clearly defined, yet not aggressive—ideal for off-road use. The rear brake also allows for precise modulation. Riders who apply the brakes with finesse will be thoroughly satisfied with the performance. The correlation between lever travel and braking force is well-tuned, instilling confidence, especially on loose surfaces.

A highlight is the comprehensive onboard tool kit under the seat, which makes minor roadside repairs manageable. On the downside, changing the air filter is quite labor-intensive, as you have to navigate through several panels and even the display. Additionally, the welded rear frame is a drawback in the event of a crash.

Compared to the Yamaha Ténéré 700, Aprilia Tuareg 660, Suzuki V-Strom 800, or KTM 790 Adventure, the Transalp positions itself as a "well-rounded all-rounder." It's not radically sporty, not ultra-light, but overall very harmonious. The Yamaha is more purist, the Tuareg more technical, the KTM more aggressive, and the Suzuki heavier. The Honda, however, comes across as very balanced, easily accessible, and robust.

At the 2025 Off-Road Test Days, Leatt's two adventure suits impress with functionality, protection, and wearing comfort. The MultiTour 5.5 is the weatherproof all-rounder with a 3-layer construction, a 20,000 mm waterproof inner jacket, and thoughtful ventilation—ideal for 10 to 20°C and changeable conditions. The FlowTour 5.5 features large mesh inserts, a sporty cut, and a waterproof outer jacket—perfect for active riders at 25°C and above. Both offer high-quality Level-2 protectors, smart details like hydration system preparation and adjustable widths. Those seeking uncompromising touring functionality should choose the MultiTour. Those who value lightness, airflow, and flexibility will find the FlowTour ideal.