The Honda XL750 Transalp marks a triumphant return of Honda’s iconic middleweight adventure tourer to the Indian market, blending versatility, performance, and rugged charm. Unveiled globally at EICMA 2022 and launched in India in October 2023, this motorcycle revives the Transalp legacy that began in 1986 with the XL600V Transalp. Designed as an all-rounder, the XL750 Transalp caters to riders seeking a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. Whether navigating bustling city streets, cruising highways, or tackling rugged trails, this adventure bike promises reliability, accessibility, and excitement. Positioned as a younger sibling to the renowned Africa Twin, the Transalp combines Honda’s engineering prowess with modern technology, making it a compelling choice in the competitive middleweight ADV segment. This detailed exploration covers its technical specifications, variants, pricing, features, and how it stacks up against its rivals.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the technical specifications of the Honda XL750 Transalp, compiled and verified from sources like BikeDekho and BikeWale.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 755cc, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, 8-Valve, Parallel-Twin with 270° Crank |
| Displacement | 755 cc |
| Max Power | 90.5 bhp (67.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 75 Nm @ 7,250 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 87 mm x 63.5 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel System | PGM-FI Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Slip and Assist Clutch |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 23 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.9 Litres |
| Length | 2,325 mm |
| Width | 838 mm |
| Height | 1,450 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,560 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 212 mm |
| Seat Height | 850 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 208 kg |
| Frame | Steel Diamond Frame |
| Front Suspension | Showa 43mm SFF-CA USD Forks, 200 mm Travel |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock with Pro-Link, 190 mm Travel |
| Front Brake | Dual 310 mm Discs with 2-Piston Calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 256 mm Disc with 1-Piston Caliper, Switchable ABS |
| Front Wheel | 21-inch Spoke Wheel |
| Rear Wheel | 18-inch Spoke Wheel |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 90/90-21 (Tube Type) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 150/70-18 (Tube Type) |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
Variants
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| XL750 Transalp STD | Single variant available in India with two colour options: Matte Ballistic Black Metallic and Ross White. |
Price in Metro Cities
| City | Ex-Showroom Price | On-Road Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹11,00,000 | ₹12,46,025 – ₹13,20,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹11,00,000 | ₹13,09,000 – ₹13,87,808 |
| Bangalore | ₹11,00,000 | ₹13,56,524 – ₹13,80,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹11,00,000 | ₹12,68,025 – ₹12,81,000 |
| Chennai | ₹11,00,000 | ₹12,98,000 – ₹13,50,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹11,00,000 | ₹13,25,628 – ₹13,70,000 |
Note: On-road prices vary due to RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Prices are indicative and sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho as of April 2025.
About the Honda XL750 Transalp
Design and Exteriors
The Honda XL750 Transalp exudes a purposeful and rugged aesthetic, striking a balance between adventure-ready toughness and approachable elegance. Its design draws subtle inspiration from the Africa Twin, featuring a tall stance, a single-pod LED headlight, and a prominent windscreen that enhances aerodynamics and wind protection. The semi-fairing and slender midsection contribute to a sleek profile, while the large 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel signal its off-road prowess. The bike’s steel diamond frame is both lightweight and robust, weighing just 18.3 kg, which is notably lighter than comparable models like the Honda NC750X. Two colour options—Matte Ballistic Black Metallic with a stealthy, monochromatic appeal and Ross White with a vibrant tricolour scheme featuring white, blue, and red accents with golden spoked wheels—cater to varied rider preferences. The fuel tank, with a capacity of 16.9 litres, is sculpted to offer a comfortable grip for the rider’s knees, enhancing control during long rides or off-road adventures. However, the use of tube-type tyres (Metzeler Karoo Street or Dunlop Mixtour) has drawn some criticism, as tubeless tyres are preferred for easier repairs in remote areas. Despite this, the Transalp’s exterior design prioritizes functionality, with optional accessories like a bash plate, handguards, and panniers available to enhance its touring capabilities.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the XL750 Transalp lies a 755cc parallel-twin engine, a liquid-cooled, 8-valve unit with a 270-degree crank that delivers a smooth yet punchy performance. Producing 90.5 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 75 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm, this engine is tuned for a strong low- to mid-range pull, making it ideal for both highway cruising and technical off-road trails. The PGM-FI fuel injection system, coupled with Vortex flow ducts, ensures quick throttle response and efficient combustion. The engine’s Ni-SiC (Nickel-Silicon Carbide) coated cylinders reduce friction, enhancing durability and power delivery at higher RPMs. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a slip and assist clutch, gear shifts are precise and effortless, reducing rider fatigue during long journeys. The Transalp’s claimed mileage of 23 kmpl translates to a practical range of approximately 350-380 km per tank, as verified by real-world tests reporting 18-21 kmpl depending on riding conditions. For European markets, an A2-compliant variant capped at 47 bhp is available, but India receives the full-power version. The engine’s refined nature, free of excessive vibrations, and its versatility across terrains make it a standout in the middleweight ADV category.
Ride and Handling
The XL750 Transalp is engineered for versatility, with a chassis and suspension setup that excels in diverse environments. Its steel diamond frame provides a lightweight yet sturdy foundation, contributing to a kerb weight of 208 kg—impressively low for a 750cc adventure bike. The Showa 43mm SFF-CA upside-down forks offer 200 mm of travel at the front, while the Pro-Link monoshock at the rear provides 190 mm, ensuring a plush ride over rough terrain. For 2025, Honda introduced revised damping settings to improve compliance and control, particularly during cornering or off-road riding. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels, wrapped in dual-purpose tyres, strike a balance between on-road stability and off-road grip. With a ground clearance of 212 mm and a seat height of 850 mm, the Transalp is accessible to a wide range of riders, though shorter riders may find it slightly tall. The bike’s handling is described as nimble and confidence-inspiring, with a wide handlebar aiding low-speed manoeuvrability in traffic or tight trails. The dual-channel ABS system, with a switchable rear ABS for off-roading, enhances safety, while the braking setup—dual 310 mm front discs and a 256 mm rear disc—offers strong, progressive stopping power. Riders praise the Transalp’s ability to tackle long-distance tours, urban commutes, and light off-roading with equal ease, though the lack of a quickshifter in the standard package is a minor drawback.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles lack traditional “interiors,” the XL750 Transalp offers a rider-centric cockpit designed for comfort and control. The single-piece saddle is well-padded and contoured to support both rider and pillion during extended rides. The upright riding position, facilitated by a wide, slightly raised handlebar, promotes natural visibility and reduces fatigue on long journeys. The 850 mm seat height is paired with a narrow midsection, allowing most riders to plant their feet comfortably at stops. The Durabio™ windscreen, a bio-based polycarbonate, provides excellent wind protection at highway speeds, with a central intake duct minimizing buffeting around the rider’s head. For 2025, Honda refined the fairing’s internal structure to enhance high-speed stability. The footpegs are positioned to offer a relaxed stance for touring while providing leverage for standing during off-road sections. Optional accessories like heated grips, a 3L tank bag, and a 50L top box further enhance touring comfort. However, some riders note that the handlebar position may require adjustment for aggressive off-road riding, as the standard setup is optimized for touring.
Advanced Features
The XL750 Transalp is equipped with a robust suite of advanced features that elevate its appeal in the adventure segment. At its core is a 5-inch TFT colour display, customizable to show essential data like speed, RPM, gear position, and fuel range. The display supports Honda Smartphone Voice Control (HSVC), enabling riders to manage calls, messages, music, and navigation via a Bluetooth-connected smartphone. The Throttle-by-Wire (TBW) system underpins five riding modes—Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and User—each adjusting engine power, engine braking, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and ABS intervention. The User mode allows riders to fine-tune parameters, while HSTC offers five levels of traction control, including an off option for advanced riders. The dual-channel ABS can deactivate rear-wheel ABS for off-roading, enhancing control on loose surfaces. Additional features include full-LED lighting for superior visibility, auto-cancel turn indicators, and an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) that flashes hazard lamps during sudden braking to alert trailing vehicles. For 2025, Honda introduced a new squared LED headlight design and refined switchgear for intuitive operation, along with software updates to improve throttle response and traction control. While the absence of tubeless tyres and a standard quickshifter is noted, the Transalp’s electronics package is reliable and user-friendly, aligning with Honda’s reputation for practical innovation.
Variants and Customization
The XL750 Transalp is offered in a single STD variant in India, simplifying the purchase decision. However, riders can personalize their bike with Honda’s extensive accessory packages, including the Adventure Pack (radiator grill, fog lamps, engine guard), Rally Pack (quickshifter, skid plate, handguards), Comfort Pack (fairing deflector, 12V socket), Urban Pack (50L top box, main stand), and Touring Pack (panniers, heated grips). These options allow riders to tailor the Transalp for city commuting, long-distance touring, or rugged off-roading. The two colour options—Matte Ballistic Black Metallic and Ross White—offer distinct aesthetics, with the latter’s tricolour scheme paying homage to Honda’s racing heritage. The single-variant approach ensures all riders get the same high-spec features, but the accessory catalogue adds flexibility for customization.
Pricing and Value
Priced at ₹11,00,000 (ex-showroom), the XL750 Transalp is competitively positioned in India’s middleweight ADV market. On-road prices in metro cities range from ₹12.46 lakh in Delhi to ₹13.87 lakh in Mumbai, reflecting variations in taxes and insurance. Imported as a CBU (Completely Built-Up) unit from Japan, the Transalp justifies its price with premium features, a refined engine, and Honda’s legendary reliability. Compared to rivals, it undercuts the Triumph Tiger 900 GT (₹15.60 lakh) and BMW F 850 GS (₹12.95 lakh) while offering comparable performance and technology. Its fuel efficiency of 23 kmpl and low maintenance costs further enhance its value proposition. For the first 100 customers, Honda offered exclusive booking perks through its BigWing Topline dealerships, adding to the bike’s allure.
Close Competitors
The Honda XL750 Transalp faces stiff competition in the middleweight adventure segment, with several bikes vying for the same audience. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
- Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
Priced at approximately ₹10.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the V-Strom 800DE is a direct competitor, powered by a 776cc parallel-twin engine producing 83 bhp and 78 Nm. It offers a slightly lower power output but compensates with tubeless tyres, a quickshifter, and a taller 855 mm seat height. The Suzuki’s 21-inch front wheel and 220 mm ground clearance make it marginally better suited for off-roading, but its claimed mileage of 22.7 kmpl is slightly less efficient than the Transalp’s. The V-Strom’s design is more aggressive, but its electronics suite, while comprehensive, lacks the refinement of Honda’s HSTC and riding modes. Riders choosing between the two often weigh the Suzuki’s lower price and tubeless tyres against the Transalp’s superior build quality and smoother engine. - Triumph Tiger 850 Sport
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, priced at around ₹11.95 lakh (ex-showroom), features an 888cc inline-three engine delivering 84 bhp and 82 Nm. Its three-cylinder configuration offers a distinct power delivery with a smoother top-end compared to the Transalp’s parallel-twin. The Tiger’s 19-inch front wheel prioritizes on-road handling, making it less off-road-focused than the Transalp. It includes tubeless tyres, a quickshifter option, and two riding modes (Road and Rain), but its electronics are less extensive than the Transalp’s five-mode setup. With a seat height of 810-830 mm, the Triumph is more accessible to shorter riders, but its fuel efficiency of around 19 kmpl trails the Transalp. The Tiger 850 Sport appeals to riders prioritizing road-biased performance and British styling, while the Transalp offers better versatility. - Kawasaki Versys 650
At ₹7.77 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a more affordable option, powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 65 bhp and 61 Nm. Its 17-inch wheels and lower ground clearance of 170 mm make it primarily a road tourer, limiting its off-road capability compared to the Transalp. The Versys offers tubeless tyres and a basic electronics package with ABS but lacks advanced features like riding modes or traction control. Its mileage of 20-22 kmpl is competitive, and the lower price appeals to budget-conscious buyers. However, the Transalp’s superior power, off-road ability, and modern technology make it a more premium and versatile choice. - BMW F 900 XR
Priced at ₹12.55 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW F 900 XR is a road-focused adventure tourer with an 895cc parallel-twin engine delivering 103.5 bhp and 92 Nm. Its 17-inch wheels, tubeless tyres, and advanced electronics—including cornering ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes—make it a formidable rival. The BMW’s seat height of 825 mm is lower, and its mileage of around 18 kmpl is less efficient than the Transalp’s. While the F 900 XR excels in on-road dynamics and premium features, its higher price and limited off-road capability position it as a less versatile option compared to the Transalp’s all-rounder appeal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The XL750 Transalp shines with its versatile performance, balancing on-road comfort with credible off-road ability. Its lightweight chassis, refined parallel-twin engine, and comprehensive electronics package make it a joy to ride across scenarios. The fuel efficiency and tank range are practical for long-distance touring, while Honda’s reliability ensures peace of mind. The bike’s accessible ergonomics and competitive pricing broaden its appeal, from seasoned adventurers to riders upgrading from smaller bikes.
However, the Transalp isn’t without flaws. The tube-type tyres are a notable drawback, as punctures are harder to repair on long journeys compared to tubeless alternatives offered by rivals like the V-Strom 800DE or Tiger 850 Sport. The absence of a standard quickshifter—available only as part of the Rally Pack—feels like a missed opportunity in a bike of this price range. Some riders find the styling less striking than European competitors, with plastics around the cockpit appearing less premium. Additionally, the seat height of 850 mm may challenge shorter riders, though the narrow seat mitigates this to an extent.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
In India, the XL750 Transalp targets adventure enthusiasts seeking a middleweight ADV that doesn’t break the bank like litre-class bikes such as the BMW R 1300 GS or Honda Africa Twin. Priced below ₹14 lakh on-road, it appeals to riders upgrading from bikes like the Royal Enfield Himalayan or KTM 390 Adventure, as well as those downsizing from heavier ADVs for a more manageable package. Its all-rounder nature suits urban commuters who weekend as tourers, as well as seasoned riders planning cross-country or Himalayan expeditions. Honda’s BigWing dealerships ensure premium sales and service, enhancing the ownership experience for this niche segment.
Verdict
The Honda XL750 Transalp is a well-rounded motorcycle that lives up to its legacy as a versatile adventure tourer. Its 755cc engine delivers ample power and refinement, while the lightweight chassis and advanced electronics ensure confidence across terrains. Though minor drawbacks like tube-type tyres and the lack of a standard quickshifter exist, they don’t overshadow the bike’s strengths—fuel efficiency, reliability, and competitive pricing. Against rivals like the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE, Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, Kawasaki Versys 650, and BMW F 900 XR, the Transalp holds its own with a unique blend of accessibility and performance. For riders seeking a middleweight ADV that can do it all—commute, tour, and explore—the XL750 Transalp is a compelling choice, backed by Honda’s engineering excellence and adventure-ready spirit.
