It’s been 37 years since the XL 600 V Transalp arrived, the first crossover with a 600 cm3 V-twin engine that would become one of the Japanese manufacturer’s biggest successes. The Transalp has been back in Honda’s price lists for a year, similar to its ancestor in livery but completely new, with a 755 cm3 parallel-twin engine with 75.4 HP and 69 Nm of torque (measured at the wheel): top performance among medium crossovers.
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The chassis is true off-road: 21” and 18” wheels, long-travel suspension (200 mm at the front and 190 mm at the rear) with 43 mm upside-down fork and monoshock (equipped with Pro Link progressive linkage), adjustable in spring preload. To adjust the monoshock preload, however, you need tools: there is no classic (and very comfortable) external knob. The ground clearance could be improved: “just” 210 mm.
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The dashboard connects to the mobile phone which can also be managed via voice commands
The Transalp offers a rich package of electronic systems as standard, including electronic accelerator, 5 riding modes, 5 levels of traction control, 4 levels of power delivery, 3 levels of engine braking and 2 levels of ABS. All at a competitive price, among the lowest in the category. The construction quality is that of a “true” Japanese: valid components, careful construction and quality finishes. The exhaust terminal, for example, is finished with care and shows off a satin aluminum bottom and heat shield. The setup is simple in certain aspects, however: the windshield is not adjustable (not even with tools), but still offers good protection from the air to the torso. On the Transalp we find a 5” TFT screen that connects to the cell phone and, compared to competitors, also allows voice activation of commands via intercom. The handlebar blocks are excellent: on the left one there is a joypad button that allows you to easily manage the various electronic systems. Under the passenger seat there is the classic “well” where you can keep a small disc lock: not bad, especially compared to other bikes in the category.
