The 2024 Honda Transalp has arrived, but it’s not the motorcycle enthusiasts were hoping for.
After 37 years, this new Honda model disappoints many, and the blame falls squarely on the EPA, according to the gents at FortNine. With a weight of 460 lbs, it’s designed for adventure, but it seems to have missed the mark in several key areas.
Key Takeaways
- The Honda Transalp is heavier than expected, affecting its off-road capabilities.
- The bike lacks essential features like cruise control and tubeless tires.
- The EPA regulations have led to a disappointing power curve in the engine.
- The design choices seem uninspired, lacking the charm of its predecessor.
Weight and Handling
The Transalp weighs in at 460 lbs, which is quite hefty for a middleweight adventure bike. This weight can make it challenging to maneuver through tight trails or rough terrain.
While it has enough power to reach 200 km/h, the handling feels compromised, especially for those who might not have the best off-road skills. The middleweight class was always seen as the sweet spot for adventure riding, but this model seems to struggle under its own weight.
Features and Specifications
One of the most disappointing aspects of the Transalp is its lack of competitive features. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 liters, which is a step back from the original model’s 18 liters. This means more frequent stops on long rides.
- Tires: The bike comes with tube tires, making puncture repairs a hassle. A tubeless setup would have been more practical for adventure riding.
- Cruise Control: Surprisingly absent, despite the bike being equipped with throttle by wire technology. This feature could have easily been included but seems to have been omitted for reasons unknown.
- Windscreen: The non-adjustable windscreen does a decent job of blocking wind but can be uncomfortable for taller riders.
Engine Performance
The heart of the Transalp is its 755cc engine, which is derived from the new Hornet. While it’s designed to be sporty, it suffers from a significant flaw. At around 8,500 RPM, the ECU starts to close the throttle, limiting the bike’s potential.
This is a direct result of EPA regulations that dictate how motorcycles must perform during emissions testing. In Europe, the standards are different, allowing for a more powerful and responsive bike. Unfortunately, North American riders are left with a diluted version that lacks the excitement of its European counterpart.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the Transalp has also come under fire. It resembles an Africa Twin that has seen better days, lacking the distinctive style that made the original model a classic.
The choice of plastics and overall aesthetic feels uninspired, almost as if Honda played it too safe. The retro elements that once defined the Transalp are missing, replaced by a more generic look that doesn’t stand out in a crowded market.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2024 Honda Transalp is a motorcycle that had the potential to be great but fell short due to a combination of weight, lack of features, and restrictive regulations.
While it may still appeal to some riders, it’s hard to ignore the feeling that it’s just another middleweight bike in a sea of options. The original Transalp was a legend for a reason, and this new iteration seems to have lost its way.
For those looking for a true adventure bike, it might be worth exploring other options that offer better performance and features without the compromises.
Check out the Transalp on Honda’s website.
