The Honda XL650V Transalp has been providing honest transport seemingly since the dawn of time. Revitalised with a bigger motor and a face-lift in 2000, it’s softly-chuffing charm and easy-going manners have won a devoted audience. Mostly blokes more interested in getting from A-to-B than having a giggle buy them up.
Engine
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The carb-fed, SOHC V-twin of the Honda XL650V Transalp should struggle with a weighty 191kg to cart about, but actually it does it quietly and efficiently. It’s the same motor as the Deauville, but feels more fun in this sit-up-and-beg package. There’s decent pull and it’s only when you hit motorway speeds does it begin to feel the strain, with 90mph about as comfortably fast as you’re both happy to travel at.
Ride and Handling
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Although there’s nothing special about the Honda XL650V Transalp's forks (unadjustable) or the shock (adjustable for compression damping only) the set-up works and lasts very well. It’s comfortable over tarmac and light dirt, handles a pillion with ease and only the weak brakes prevent you from exploiting its performance to the full.
Equipment
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The Honda XL650V Transalp’s equipment level is fair – you do get an ignition-based immobiliser, but the bashplate’s plastic not metal and a centrestand’s only available as a factory option. Ideally you’d want the factory heated grips, taller screen and hard luggage in your deal.
Quality and Reliability
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The Honda XL650V Transalp's motor is very reliable. It’s in a soft state of tune and, provided it’s regularly serviced, should go on forever. The older 600cc should be checked closely for worn wheel bearings, the suspension bearings in the Pro-Link shock, rusty exhausts and loose or broken spokes.
Value
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Compared to BMW’s excellent F650S and F650GS the Honda XL650V Transalp seems somewhat overpriced and the GS is much more versatile, boasting genuinely better trail qualities. At the same price point, however, it falls down to which style you prefer, though the Honda is arguably the better road bike.
Model History
1987: Honda debuts its Transalp 600V. Off-road styling, 583cc single cylinder motor, single front disc.
1994: Revised with new fairing and better instruments.
2000: Another revision; 647cc motor, new shock, twin front discs, HISS ignition-based immobiliser.
2006: Sleeker design, black wheel rims, better, brighter headlight.
2008: Honda XL650V Transalp deleted to be replaced by all new XL700V Transalp (see seperate review).
1994: Revised with new fairing and better instruments.
2000: Another revision; 647cc motor, new shock, twin front discs, HISS ignition-based immobiliser.
2006: Sleeker design, black wheel rims, better, brighter headlight.
2008: Honda XL650V Transalp deleted to be replaced by all new XL700V Transalp (see seperate review).
Other Versions
None.
Specifications
| Top speed | 110 mph |
|---|---|
| 1/4-mile acceleration | 12 secs |
| Max power | 53 bhp |
| Max torque | 41 ft-lb |
| Weight | 191 kg |
| Seat height | 843 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 19 litres |
| Average fuel consumption | 46 mpg |
| Tank range | 190 miles |
| Annual road tax | |
| Insurance group | 11 of 17 |
| Engine size | 647 cc |
|---|---|
| Engine specification | 6v V-twin, 5 gears |
| Frame | Ally twin spar |
| Front suspension adjustment | None |
| Rear suspension adjustment | Compression |
| Front brakes | Twin 256mm discs |
| Rear brake | 240mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 90/90 x 21 |
| Rear tyre size | 120/90 x 17 |
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