Do you want what you can't have? Do you pine for the unobtainable? Behold the mysteriously foreign 2008 Honda XL700V Transalp-- exotic, at least, to non-Europeans.Built in Spain by Montesa Honda S.A., a local manufacturing subsidiary established by Honda in 1986, this dual-purpose 700cc motorcycle is a Europe-only model that was originally introduced in 1987. Modernized for 2008, the Transalp is Euro-III emissions approved, and boasts ABS and a v-twin that has been tweaked for improved low-end and midrange torque. In spite of its upgraded mechanicals, the Transalp boasts a definitively old school, large round headlight.
Do you think the Transalp could ever re-conquer the US and other markets? Do you have a burning desire for one, or could you not care less?
Comment on the transatlantic Transalp!
Photo © Honda
Wow — this really looks cool. What are the bike’s specifications, including seat height and weight?
Thanks,
Jim
Yes, I would buy a Translap if sold in Usa.
Honda tried the Transalp (650 then) in Canada in 89-89…not sure if it was in the States. Gutless and heavy …a cool bike nonetheless…. but it didn’t sell then and it won’t sell now. North America just isn’t tuned into most of the very nice bikes that the Europeans have known and loved for years.
Same reason the Paris-Dakaar 750 or the CB1000F/R won’t sell here.
Price point is yet again going to be critical…… if it costs as much as the rockets, it will flounder. If it is priced equal to the KLR (and still offers better features–ABS included) it would have a chance. Honda would have to low ball the market to get it to stick.
If the price is higher than the DL650, it will fail to attract a market.
I don’t know much about it. Yet! But I sure like its looks!
I owned a 1989 Transalp – replaced it with a BMW R1150GS, but the GS was just too big. The TA was good bike with a few weaknesses that all seem to be addressed on the 2008 version. If Honda sells it in the US, and it has available ABS, hard luggage, heated grips and centerstand, as is priced close to the V-Strom 650, I’d buy one in a heartbeat! BTW, there is a Transalp cult in the US and I sold mine for almost a grand more than I paid for it!
We own two 1989 TransAlps in the US with 50,000 and 11,000 miles on them and would gladly trade both of them in for 2 new bikes if only Honda would reintroduce them to the US! And yes, there is a big cult for the TA’s in the US.
I long for this bike to be brought to the US, and I think many others feel the same way (based on the MC boards I frequent).
I would sell my Suzuki DR650 and buy this is in a heartbeat.
I own 2 1989 transalps and I love them. I know a dozen people who have wanted to buy one and instead had to settle on a vstrom or unfortunately the BMWs. It is sad that Honda’s marketing wing isn’t nearly as bright as their mechanical engineers….
Joe…Honda’s marketing dept is every bit as savvy as the engineering side. That is why the Transalp isn’t for sale here…they know it won’t sell.
Pete,
While I admit the average US moto consumer is quite limited in scope, this model would sell very well given the new appreciation for dual-sports. Suzuki, BMW, KTM and now Kawasaki all have good selling models. The Fact Honda doesn’t just illustrates they are a market follower, not a leader (and their engineers are much smarter…)
I’d buy one in a heartbeat here in the US.
Over the years I have owned many Hondas including two ‘89 Transalps (one new and one used), a ‘99 ST1100 and a ‘02 GoldWing. I would have bought a new Transalp or Varadero if available in the US but alas, I bought a new BMW R1200GS, and will probably never buy another Honda.
Kawasaki is rolling out a dual sport (Versys) this year. Triumph sell the tiger in the USA and dare I say it Buell has its XB12X. I think the time for these bikes has come in the USA. Especially with gas prices.
HONDA USA:
Import this one, price it a little better than the competition (i.e., 650 V-Strom), and you will have a winner.
Do it now.
The time is Right.
PS:
I’m the guy who, 30 years ago, sent you a number of letters begging you to build a copy of a Harley Davidson FXE Superglide.
(I seem to remember your replies saying something like, “Thanks for your mail. We’re always interested in hearing from customers.”
Hi Joe…I wholeheartedly disagree. Of the nearly 40 years I’ve been riding, I’ve worked for Honda for 24 of them and 6 before that with a dealer. Have we done everything right? No..there;s been a few world class blunders (CX500) but …Honda is a lot of things..market follower is not on the list. Witness the bikes that have turned the industry upside down and sent everyone else scrambling to catch up in the last 30 or 40 years. Dream, Cub, Superhawk (the original), ‘69 CB750, 900RR, Elsinore, 600 Sport bikes, V4’s, Gold Wing…the Wing has been the standard by which touring bikes are judged for 30+ years, Dual Purpose – Honda stated that trend…that’s just a few truly innovative bikes. Just because Honda recognizes the North American market will not support an admittedly odd ball bike like the Transalp or Veradero does not make them a follower. The Europeans have distinctly different tastes in cars and bikes. Us North Americans have blinders on…we like 3 kinds of street bikes
1 – Hyper sport bikes (that’s me)
2 – Cruisers (not my cup of tea)
3 – Tourers. (not yet…)
It’s a shame in many cases…we miss out on some really cool bikes from all the manufacturers because they won’t sell (also way too expensive) outside Europe.
Cheers!
Give it some real power, Keep the weight down, give it decent components, and make it moderately dirt worthy and it will sell. BMW just made their 100,000 R1200GS. Make it an underpowered pig with poor components and it will not sell.
I am a XALP rider from way back.
Bought a new 1988 when they were sold in the US. Put 50K trouble-free miles on it, including a trip to Panama and back.
Sadly most US buyers turned their backs on this excellent bike, and after flagging sales Honda pulled it off the market in 1991 (I think). Used XALP’s in good shape are still commanding top price after all these years, but given the market flop on the 80’s there is no chance we’ll see the XALP or Varadero in the US.
The XALP is readily available throughout the rest of the world. I bought a new 2005 XALP model in Chile for US$10,000, and am extremely satisfied with it. Usual outstanding Honda workmanship, dependability and handling.
The US market seems to support almost any two-wheeled abomination as long as it weighs 700+ lbs and has lots of chrome, but sadly America is not the land of -motorcycle- adventure.
I’ve recently returned from Greece and the Transalp’s are ubiquitous there. Dual-sports in general seem to dominate in that country. I would certainly consider one if they ever come to NA.
lrb
I’m from Argentina and we’re in love with theme down there, and now I live in the US.I can’t believe that there aren’t TransAlps here. It’s a pity! Honda, please bring’em on!
If anyone is intersted the Veradero is going to be in the 2008 Canadian line up…
I bought my ‘89 TransAlp new, and I still have it with over 105k miles of great riding adventures behind us. I just bought an ‘07 V-Strom ABS to use instead of the aging Honda for longer trips (parts and mechanics are getting hard to find), but would quickly trade them both for this new TransAlp. Alas, Honda does not listen.
I am ready to buy one and get rid of every other bike that I own. This is the one that would fulfill every fantasy….well maybe not every fantasy
I would buy a Transalp if priced like the V-Strom.
The reality is Honda is such a large bureaucracy that does not listen to individuals. As proven when Honda lost Ricky Carmichael to Suzuki, why in the world would they care what a lowly consumer wants. Such a pitty.
I have a 1990 transalp that I love, if Honda ever brings the TA back I would love to teat drive it. The 2008 looks cool, I hope it is a big overall as the 1990 as I like the size. I have not ridden a Versys yet but it appears to have a croutched riding postion and I prefer to stretch out a bit.
America Honda just doesn,t get it..it WOULD SELL in large numbers,there lost..Have a 1990 with over 145,000 miles and going strong..going for the 200,000 mark..bring that Varedero over also.. BR
Yes, I will buy one, please with heated grips and a centerstand. Givi will supply the bag hardware.
How can the bike sale if it’s not available? I have an 89 and if this one was made available, I’d have an 08 as well. If it’s priced reasonably & features & accessories are readily available, I am confident it will sell. Test market it in the US & be surprised how quickly they will leave the showroom floor. Please make them available here.
I would definitely buy one if they were available in the US. The KLR650 and V-Strom 650 seem to be doing fine in the US, I don’t see why the TransAlp wouldn’t.
Hey, what was that dis on the cx? I have an 83 cx650 with 70000 short haul miles on it, an awesome maachine. Anyway, yes I lust after the transalp also.
This is just a shame. And I just don’t get it. Honda already HAS the bike. It’s built. No development needed. With gas prices what they are – combined with the fact that almost every other big motorcycle company that sells bikes in the U.S. has entered the market segment, it seems like a no-brainer. So does Honda know something all these other manufacturers don’t? Somehow I don’t think so.
I too was a lucky owner of a 1989 red white & blue XLR600V, so it is with great intrest that I have followed the Trans Alp sold in other countries. In New Zealand they are the rental bike of choice and I just got back from South America and in Chile they get $12,570 American! Ouch!!! You got to love that kind of reliabilty to justify the poor exchange rate.
I own an ‘89 Transalp. I’ve also gone through many other bikes including a wonderful BMW R1200GS. What bike have I kept? My Transalp. I paid $2500 for it 15 years ago and it’s worth more than that now. (Increased in value? Yikes!)
But, unfortunately, I’m guessing that those darned marketing people are right… the US won’t support this bike. We in the US are a pretty dumb bunch. Look who we elected… twice!
They say timing is everything. Honda’s timing sucked. If they imported it now it would sell. The trend that they were trying to set has now happened and thousands of 40-50 somethings can afford multiple bikes or are looking for one do it all bike. Of course price is important. Is it ever not? but they COULD get more than the KLR650…just not too much. The KLR is one of the best values in the entire US motorcycle fleet.
I own a 1990 transalp with 148,000 miles on it,,great bike,take it everywhere..Honda in the USA has no clue what they can have,,Ones here getting tired of the same junk ther,re trying to sell here..with fuel going out of control the smaller and more useful,,Honda get it USEFUL bikes as these would sell in numbers..let me have one to promote and will show them just what can be..I think we have ones there that are not passionate about the sport..everyone..speak to Honda..let them know…thank you!!
If Honda brought this to the USA, I would buy one right away!
I would also buy the 4 cyl. concept much like the old 750-4cyl. in a heart beat!
Come on Honda, listen to your market!
I’m going to buy a V Strom 650 I’ve always liked the Honda motorcycles for reliability and quality…Honda is making a poor business decision not having this new Transalp here in the US…especially now when riders are looking for diversity and economy.
I would love to see this motorcycle being sold in Canada, I would sell my KLR in a heartbeat for one of those
I’ve owned a lot of different bikes over the years, and I’ve always enjoyed Hondas the most. I personally would buy a Transalp if it was avalible in the U.S., but I don’t think it would do well against the KLR or V-strom in sales. So I’m not holding my breath until Honda imports it. I would buy one from an overseas supplier, but I don’t even know where to begin. Can antbody help me?
Please, Honda…Listen! I dont eve care what color. Just open up an outlet into the U.S. for this Bike.
Practical Comfortable Bikes are in demand with fuel prices soaring. I need to get one for the commute.
Having owned a BMW F650 and ridden it from Seattle to Inuvik then Anchorage, and back to Seattle, I know a bit about adventure touring. I want a new Transalp so bad it hurts. The cruisers bikes and crotch rockets could never have handled the 1000 miles of gravel over permafrost of the Dempster highway. I need a good solid smooth dual sport which can be armored to handle being dropped, can support good wind management, and still handle decently on gravel roads. I’m considering finding someone in the US military to smuggle one into the states for me since all the Honda dealers can’t see that everything they sell won’t even come close to my needs. I think the Transalp’s time is ready, especially in mountainous regions and for long distance adventure touring nutballs like me.
Being a Wee-Strom Rider but a Honda fan, I would definitely consider a TA if offered in the US. Of course, as others have stated, I would weigh the price, performance, etc. of the bike compared to current offerings. If it measures up, it would live at my house!
What’s it going to take to bring the Transalp back to the USA? I had an 89′, but sold it to learn to fly. So sorry I sold. I’ve sent letters to honda asking to please bring it back to the USA, but no reply. All readers of this should do the same.
The Transalp should be available to the U.S. consumer even if only to those of us willing to order and pay in advance then wait a few weeks for Honda to bring them over. I am heading out to buy the 09 V-Strom when they hit the dealers, but I would gladly give Honda my 7K instead.
I was looking at Dual Sport bikes and Honda’s Alp was one that caught my eye. Unfortunately I soon realized it was not available state side.
would I buy it if it were? Yes I would!
If nothing else, Honda should make it available for purchase through there website. Rather than cut off all sales here in the States. *Sigh*
The US might be ready for this bike now, I know I am, but American Honda better hurry up and get it here because I’m very close to popping for the Suzuki 650 V-Strom ABS. Always loved Honda’s and will wait if it looks like it might really come over here. Where do I send the deposit?
Why can’t Honda bring this fine bike into the USA? I’d buy one immediately. Are they available in Canada?
I have seen all the blogs and comments, there are some good arguments for the case of the Transalp to make it’s way back to the U.S. Ijust purchased a KLR 650-08.#1 seller in California right now! If this isn’t an indicator Honda! Then your marketing Dept. sucks! More Americans have to travel by scooter or motorcycle ever than before. That means more time on the bike, they do not want these heavy Harleys, or crotch rockets that become very uncomfortable. Americans are paying ridiculous gasprices now ,that europeans have been payingfor a long time. therefore their needs are changing to a bike that is more multi-purpose and can handle a variety of terrain and inclement weather! Honda better wake before Kawasaki builds a 750cc or more Dual-sport by 2010 guarranteed !
I have been riding a Wing for 4 years now and am in the market for a dual sport. GS1200 too big , KLR too small, 2008 Honda TransAlp – Just Right. Honda don’t miss the Boat, Sell this model in the North American, Market I’ll Purchase (2) if you do. My wife thinks their sexy too, Hop
The `08 Transalp undoubtedly would sell today, and maybe even sell well. The problem is that the trend toward adventure touring bikes started about 5-6 years ago and has now built up to a dull roar, but Honda hasn’t even started spreading the word yet. Honda’s problem isn’t that it doesn’t know how to market the bike in the US market (although that’s a factor), Honda’s problem is that it CAN’T market it to a bunch of mostly fickle American riders. Riders who first ponder if the weather is “just right” before committing to go on a whopping 200 mile ride. These riders make up most of our culture, and would have a hard time purchasing a motorcycle in a category that is not as familiar. Sure, a buch of “riders” would say that it’s a great, capable, or impressive bike, but would shy away as soon as the discussion approached their wallet. Face it, not many Americans are as fascinated with the brilliant concept that the TA was and has become as we are. As an owner of an `89 with 58k, I can confidently state that there are few other MODERN bikes that I would consider owning if I could only own one bike. If Honda does ever bring back the TA, I’m afraid it’ll be much too late. Krap.
It seems to me that Soichiro Honda was first and foremost a motorcycle enthusiast. The original CB750 wasn’t built because it was bound to be a sure fire success, it was risk and if it didn’t pay off, well at least Honda had built a fantastic bike.
Judging by the number of V-Stroms I’ve seen the Transalp wouldn’t be lost cause in the US, but the fact that Honda US can’t be bothered to import it (and other great bikes) demonstrates that they are more a souless money making outfit than the enthusiasts Sochiro’s company was and still is.
I started riding Hondas in the mid-70’s at age 9 (SL100) and have done so ever since (XL125, XL500, XR500). I now find myself at a stage in my life where I need a bike to ride to work and around town, but still want to be able to get off the beaten path. Honda offers NOTHING that suits my needs/desires. I’ll end up with a KLR or perhaps a V-Strom, and I’ll always feel a little sad that I didn’t get the chance to at least test drive the Transalp. How many other customers has Honda lost because they’re so sure that an Adventure class bike won’t sell in the States???
The Honda Marketing Department is filled with morons who, apparently, haven’t noticed the incredible growth in the “Adventure Touring” market since they last tried to sell the TA in North America, way back in 1990.
If, as the author suggests, people in the U.S. will not buy a bike like this, could he please explain the increasing number of BMW GSs (three different sizes no less), Suzuki V-Stroms (two sizes), and KLRs clogging our roads? Just how many $16,000 GSs does BMW have to sell to prove to Honda that Americans actually do have a taste for dual sports?
And this overlooks the fact that when Honda did deign to offer this bike in the U.S., they did it so quietly that it was still almost impossible to find one in a dealership. I’m sorry, but the guys at Honda don’t have a clue about what they are doing these days, and I have the correspondence from them to prove it, all of which is clearly based on sales numbers dating back to 1990. Try writing them to ask why they don’t sell the newer TAs here. The response you get is a form letter written in 1991 whining about low sales volumes of this market segment in the U.S.
As Dr. Evil would say: “Riiiiiiiight”.
As an owner of a ‘07 BMW F650GS I would LOVE to try out the Honda. BMWs changes for next year (09) and long delays for the new F800GS makes it the right time to start bringing the TransAlp to the US. Basically BMW has skipped a model year (o8) and I know so many who are chomping at the bit to get the new 800 bimmer. BMW has had a lot of success with the 650 Dualport, and they are bound to have more with the upcoming GS models.
HONDA!, Send ‘em over! I don’t want to fly to Argentina just so I can buy one and ride it back to the states! (Although that actually might be kind fun, and $$$)
I have wanted a Transalp since I visited France in the late 80’s. It is everything — displacement, size, posture, utility, looks — that I want in a motorcycle. My tastes in bikes are not well served by the US market, and the Transalp is no exception.
Please, please Honda: sell me one of these in my home country, so I don’t have to shell out for a BMW F650GS. Or at least sell in Canada so I can drive one home!
I want the DN-01, powered by the same engine, but a lot more modern look to it.
Man, this isn’t available in the U.S.?????????? That is sad!!!!!!! Does anyone know of anything comparable to this that is available in the U.S.?
Thanks,
Travis
Since they are still being made overseas why not buy on line and have it shipped to the states? There must be a venue that would handle this, does anyone know a way?
These comments I have seemed very funny to realize that there is no Transalp U.S. and think that next week I will be buying one in my country, Costa Rica. And think this machine is better than BMW.
I wrote a letter to American Honda about selling the new Transalp here and was surprised to get a phone call back. They say it definitly helps the cause to contact them in writing. I suggest if you are serious about wanting an opportunity to buy it you do the same.
Gary – exactly what address did you send that letter to? I’d like to send one as well and I hope everyone who reads this will, too.
The address is:
Motorcycle Division
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
P.O. Box 2200
Torrance, CA 90509-2200
Hope that helps.
Thanks for the address. My letter to Honda is already in the mail. Here’s what it says. I encourage everyone else who feels this way to do the same.
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to let you know of my disappointment with the fact that the XL700V “Transalp” has not been made available in North America, and I would like to add my name to the list of those who have expressed a strong interest in seeing this bike brought to the U.S.
I have been a Honda Motorcycle rider since age 9, starting out with a 1970 SL100 handed down to me by my brothers. A few years later I saved up $300 for a used XL125, and later an XL500 and then an XR500R, which I rode almost daily until my career and family made it impractical for me to continue to do so. For a while in high school I even worked in our local Honda shop un-crating and assembling bikes.
Now the demands on my time have relaxed and my financial situation has reached a point where buying a new bike is a possibility and with gas selling for almost $4/gallon, having a bike to ride to work is beginning to make a lot of sense. As I began to look at the choices I realized that my options were not good if I wanted to stay with Honda. I have no desire to ride a Sport Bike, and don’t ever seem myself on a Cruiser. The XR650L is probably a fine bike, but is far too “dirt” oriented to be a practical commuter. The only bike that Honda makes that appeals to me and makes sense for my needs is the Transalp – AND I CAN’T BUY ONE!
Unless the current situation at American Honda changes it is almost certain that I will purchase a Suzuki V-Strom or perhaps a Kawasaki KLR650 next spring, but before I do I will also be looking at the BMW F650 GSand KTM Adventurer. It is sad that I won’t even get the chance to test-drive a Transalp. Those who have them seem to love them.
I hope you will consider bringing this bike to the Americas. The current gas prices alone make the adventure-class bikes very appealing. One of the many web sites that have covered the Transalp has a comments section – you might want to take a look at it.
http://motorcycles.about.com/b/2007/10/02/european-dreaming-the-2008-honda-transalp.htm
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Brad Fanshier
A bike like this is due in the States. A need exists between the awkward V-strom and the popular KLR. Add a little power and style and you serve what’s missing where the larger Adventure and GS aren’t delivering.
Thanks, Gary for the address. I’ve already sent them a letter. I encourage everyone else who reads this to do the same. I’ll let you know if I get a response from them.
This has to be released in the States! I need to find a replacement for my 1993 Yamaha TDM850.
Honda wake up things have changed in the States I would buy a Transalp if given the chance.
I want one! style is waaaay better than the wee strom. Honda doesn’t have anything close to this bike here in the states, closest thing is the xr650- imo not an option for touring!
I love the round headlight and the styling. I would buy one if it was available here. T
Heard back from Honda today – very nice letter. Here’s the meat of it…
“Each year we evaluate different models to bring to the United States. At this time American Honda has not made a decision to bring the Transalp into the U.S. market, but in October, you may want to visit our website, http://www.powersports.honda.com, for announcements of new models available for 2009.”
Make of that what you will… I remain hopeful.
I would buy a Transalp. I am considering the Vstrom 650 now. I would not be considering the Vstrom if the Transalp were here in the USA. . . what can I say. . . I’m a Honda guy and only buy Suzuki ’cause Honda doesn’t have the same selection.
Same with the Hornet. ..I would have bought that instead of the SV650 if Honda sold it here.
I have:
1 SV650 Naked by Suzuki
1 CB-1 (CB400F) by Honda
1 Shadow Spirit 750 by Honda
1 Accord by Honda
1 Odyssey by Honda
Jpad,
The Versys is NOT a dual-sport. And Kawi. doesn’t claim or intend it to be.
Just like the Multistrada or the (new) Tiger it is an all-road bike.
I currently own an ‘02 1150GS, ‘00 K1200RS and XR650R-plated…..I would really enjoy a lighter dual-sport with some weather protection and the ability to commute locally but run down dirt roads.
I ride with folks on KTM’s, BMW’s, KLR’s, V-stroms and think there’s a huge developing market for Adventure bikes.
Honda is the brand losing sales, there’s no guarantee I’d buy a Varadero or Transalp…but there’s also no chance under current conditions…..
Their mistake, IMHO.
suzuki beat them to it with the V-strom 650
They would now have to wrestle those customers away and the current price point makes that impossible
I own both a NX250 and a Transalp. I would buy a new Transalp if they were available. I love my Honda stuff, cars, bikes, outboards, mowers, motorcycles and trimmers…but Honda is being dense about the Transalp. Its not 1989 anymore and the US is ready for these machines. Look at all the BMWs being sold ! Everytime I go for a ride on my Transalp people stop me and ask about it. I am so upset with Honda for not importing this bike that I will likely buy something other then a Honda for my next bike. 30 years of riding Honda’s started at 6 with an ATC70. I hope Honda marketing is reading these commments and gets with the program for 09.
I think honda should take a survery to see how many people are intrested in the Transalp. Maybe even see if there is an intrest in people and or dealers willing to pre-ordered this bike.
I’ve been looking for a bike that would cruise the highway, handle a trail, sometimes carry a passenger and not break. BMW – too fancy & expensive. Finally found the Transalp – perfect! Not available in the U.S. Grrrrr.
I will find myself in Spain in June 2009 and would like to spend the next few months in Europe and the UK. Can anyone tell me what I should expect to pay for a Transalp in Spain? I ride an R1100GS now and have tried the F650 and didn’t like it. I drive a Honda Accord, have a Honda 75hp outboard motor on my boat, a Honda Generator and rototiller, but don’t like their offering of motorcycles available here. Too bad for Honda.
Maybe Honda will eventually bring a next-generation adventure bike to the US market. Lots of us have discovered this form of motorcycling, perhaps inspired in part by documentaries like “Long Way Round”. It would be Honda’s style to up the ante and produce a lighter, more powerful “gotta have it…” bike once they decide to take on that market. By the time I’ve worn out my ‘06 weestrom, it’ll be interesting what the choices will be then – hopefully about 80,000 miles from now….
If the Honda Transalp was available in the US in 2008 I would have bought one. I was looking at dual sport bikes and almost bought a KLR650. I ended up with a Versys and am very happy with it. Nice, just right road bike.(I considered a Wee-Strom but none were to be had a the dealers.) I am now looking at Suzuki DRZ 400 for off road fun. (I had an XR 350 a while back, great bike, regret selling it.)
I see alot of BMW adventure bikes around so there is a market, adventure riding seems to be on the rise. There is definitkey a market although it might be a small niche.
The one problem with selling bikes in america is horse power. The bike makers need to convince the average Joe he does not need at least 100 HP to go any where. The Versys makes like 60HP which is plenty for all around riding. With a 450 pound bike its enough!
One of the things I discovered in my quest for a new bike is that there seemed to be beginner bikes and performance bikes but not lot of middle of the road bikes like the Versys or Wee-Strom.
So what Honda should do is make a version of the Transalp for the US that can compete with the Wee-Strom and Versys, I think it would sell especially if they did some good upfront marketing. How many Wee-Strom or Versys TV ads have you seen? Honda has the brand recognition for reliabilty and longevity (at least in my mind, I have owned all the major Japanese brands at one time or another)so if they had what I wanted I would have bought it.
I will definetly buy it !!!!!
I’ll definitely buy one !!!
I sold my Honda to buy a Kawasaki. I’d buy another Honda if the TransAlp were here. Honda, are you listening?
I would buy one in a heartbeat. Someone said they are sold in Costa Rica. Can you get them into the States? How much are they there?
Interesting reading…I never realized how much of the “good stuff” bike manufacturers hold back from the NA market.
I sold my BMW R-65LS about 15 years ago, and just recently got the itch to get back on two (motorized) wheels again. After moving to California from rainy Western NY, I yearn to spend some sunny days tootling around on a dual sport.
Not too big, mind you. The BMW GS’s are just too much, both in dollars and size. I like the KLR, but just one cylinder? Buddy, can you spare one more?
The wee-strom is the right size, but try and find one with ABS…almost impossible. It’s also kinda butt ugly…
Now I look on here and find the Honda TransAlp…and I have fallen in love. But she is from another country, and isn’t willing to move here…
What’s my solution? Shall I leave the US to find my perfect lover? Bring the Trans Alp to US, Honda!
How do I import one?
I would buy one if available, and will probably be looking into the possibility of having one shipped. The 08 is around 8,000 US dollars, about 1400 more for all around ABS. It seems like you could get a very well equipped bike for around 10,000 US dollars. So why aren’t these sold in the US yet?
So….I bought one!!! Honda Moto Inc., THIS IS MONEY YOU MISSED!!!
Just got a one owner 1990 Transalp. Very nice.
Come on … there are enough things in the USA we Europeans can’t get (at least at an affordable price level) … it’s only fair that Honda ships the nice bikes to us
(I ride a Transalp 650, and it’s a great bike!)
But seriously, I think Honda shoot themselves in the foot by not exporting the smaller bikes into the USA.
would buy one today,
I’d love to have one. I’ve owned two 600 class Honda’s in the past and loved them for the nice balance of agility,power and weight.
I currently have a DRZ400 and am thinking about adding a DL650 for road trips, would seriously consider a Transalp if it were an option. It seems a shame to me that the coolest bikes don’t seem to catch on in this country. I guess that there aren’t enough of us that regard a motorcycle as serious transportation.
The dual sport market in us is booming.Just check advrider.com forums.Honda transalp forum is actualy the longest one.KTM and BMW own the market.Honda would sell so many Transalps and Africa Twins in us right now!!!Too bad Honda USA marketing is runned by SOCCER MOM’s!!!
I own a 2006 TA650 down here in Venezuela, great bike, done lots of heavy duty offroad trips with it, tops out at 120 miles on the highway! what more can you ask for…
In 3 months the new TA700 model will arrive and will change mine in a second, already on a waiting list with more than 70 peolpe on it!!
Honda US give it to them NOW!!
Guys why dont you just import them from south or central america?
I rented a 2008 Transalp for three days. In Switzerland. I’d have to change fork springs/valves on the front and the rear shock. I weigh more than the ‘target market rider’ for this bike. I’d change the seat for a Sargent. Other than those three things – this motorcycle is ready for the U.S. I’d buy one if it were imported.
If Honda sold these in the US the TransAlp would be at the top of the list of bikes I’d consider buying.It seems to be just what I’m looking for.Too bad Honda has lost its way in the US as they built their market here with quality, innovative bikes , not Harley clones. Their product line would be more interesting and appealling if it included more bikes like these and fewer cruisers.
Yeah, guys it would be a great bike to have had ten years ago. Realize that Honda has been dragging its feet on this model (like HD does) in the other markets for many years. They added two more brake disks and a center stand, BUT The bike should have a light weight 750cc with a 6-speed! And the fuel capacity is too small. How depressing is that? Oh, it’s got a cool, retro round headlight! Keep it.
With the popularity of adventure touring (at least up here north of the 49th parallel) and Honda’s own entry into the segment with the Varadero it surprises me they do no bring the Transalp back. Bikes like the V-strom, Bandit, Versys and Tiger are running out of the show room and al Honda has in North america is this mustard-yellow humungoid adventure-tourer impersonator. It kind of looks like what the Transalp is, but really isn’t anything close!
So Honda brings us a metric chopper called the Fury, 3 years late of the chopper boom. And really, what hardcore American chopper rider wants a “Jap bike”. Now the adventure class is booming. Dont believe it? Then you dont own a dual sport and havent participated in a d.s. weekend ride or havent been on ADVrider.com . Check out prices on USED Transalps. Honda, yer gonna miss the boat if the Transalp doesnt come stateside.
i have just toured france ,spain,germany on my 1991 honda transalp 600v and not one problem , this bike is the best for touring. i rode 8000 km of pure bliss,go buy one you want regret it .
Can anyone tell me if it is possible to import one from Australia? I am an Aussie living in the USA and would love to do that. Reidy
You know what, I just sold my BMW 650 Dakar because it was getting on a bit, and being a single it never really felt fully at home at motorway speeds. I’ve been looking at the 1200GS but it’s a big expensive heavy thing that I wouldn’t dream of taking off road. The 800GS is nice but I don’t really like the parallel twin on that thing, and it is also quite expensive. Maybe one of these is the way to go? Nice V-twin, ABS, Honda reliability… wouldn’t break the bank if I dropped it… hmmm… not bad… not bad…. have to remember to check it out at my local dealer.
i’ve always liked them but couldn’t afford one when they were first out. i’m riding a big cruiser now, butif i could i love one as a second bike. possibly the idea would be weird, but i think i’d like even more some cross bettween a transalp and a pacific coast.
Would buy the TA over the Kawi V, the V-Storm or the BMW GS in a heart beat. $8K or less and I’m in.
Yamaha understood the new market shifts, and introduced the Super Tenere this year satisfying the segment in question. Honda on the other hand still offers the nineties XR650L, which is no only bad, but a disrespect for the public, such a reliable brand with such terrible direction in the US markets.
Both my wife and I would love to get our hands on a couple to replace the KLR’s. Whats the hang-up with getting them to US? I agree with keeping the price in check but why shortchange the US market? C’mon Honda get em’ here!!
Oh well, there are also enough things for sale over there that we Europeans cannot buy here (or only at ridiculous prices).
I think Honda (rightly?) assumes there is not really a big market for a small capacity allroad bike over there. After all, it is mainly a city and secondary roads bike, and your infrastructure is completely different from ours.
Remember that they not only have to sell the bike in large enough quantities, but they also need to have spare parts available for a long time.
Dear Honda, hear my plea. I’m going to have to settle for a Suzuki Vstrom, when really I want one of these. Please, please, PRETTY PLEASE, import the Transalp to the US!!! Adventure Touring is the new thang!
Hey Honda USA!
Make It So!
http://www.Honda-Transalp.com
Join The Campaign Today
Apparently Johann (107) hasn’t spent time riding northern California rural roads and urban Bay Area streets. My old TA turns on a dime, hops curbs, and soaks up some of the worst pavement in the world like a sponge. Honda has a great chance at dominating the adventure market in the USA, and they can ensure this by keeping the vendor component costs low…
IF AMERICAN HONDA IS TRULY SERIOUS ABOUT SETTING THE HIGH MARK IN THE SMALLER DISPLACEMENT ADVENTURE TOURING MARKET, THEY’LL UPGRADE THE STANDARD TRANSALP TO A HIGH-COMPRESSION 750cc V-TWIN WITH A TOP NOTCH FUEL FEEDBACK SYSTEM LIKE THE BMW, ADD A 6th GEAR WITH A SLIGHT OVERDRIVE, HEATED GRIPS AND SWITCHABLE ABS AS STANDARD EQUIPMENT, TUBELESS SPOKED WHEELS, AND DITCH THE ROUND RETRO HEADLIGHT.
My apology for the loud talk. It just makes me sick to think of a company this rich in performance technology that steps on its dick at times like these.
Help With The Grass Roots Effort To Bring The Transalp Back To The States! Honda-Transalp.com
Dear sir,
I would like to buy a Honda Transalp model in between 2005-2010.
So please help me to buy a used Honda Transalp.
Regards
Dany
Have a 2009 transalp with 24000km’s trouble free riding. Have it serviced every 8000km at honda and must add it is a great bike for commuting and a weekend ride.Only problem on open road am always looking for 6th gear but if you throttle back and cruise at 145-150km it sits very well.On next service going to fit bigger sprocket to compensate for 6th gear.
All in all – great bike and would highly recommend one.
Be safe..