Motorcycle specifications HondaXL 700 V TRANSALP 2012 Acquisition contact details

here's one of the most unexpected and remarkable new products of 2008. For a long time now, the wise Transalp has gone its own way without being noticed. That's no longer the case with this new 700 version, which boasts increased displacement, power and, above all, style. It's been a long time since we've seen this kind of styling from Honda.

an urban trail bike with a road-going philosophy, the Transalp had to wait 8 years to be seriously modified and adapted to market requirements. This 3rd generation gains in displacement, with the addition of the 680 cm3 twin from the recent 700 Deauville, as well as in performance and charisma. Much more adventurous in its design, suggesting sport trekking rather than city riding, the look of the new XLV is in itself an invitation to ride towards adventure. And it was with this in mind that the first Transalp was born...

"A bit of history: the Transalp made its European debut in 1987, in response to the exceptional popularity of the Paris-Dakar rally. Combining the characteristics of a medium-displacement tourer with the chassis and image of a trail bike, the Transalp ushered in a new approach to motorcycling. Although based on the machines used in these grueling crossings of the African continent, the Transalp stands out above all for its ease of handling and riding, its ergonomics, its neutral behavior and its riding capabilities."

for 2008, the general idea is to be more dynamic. Hence the bubbly, more aggressive look, even if this means making some concessions in terms of protection, which is already announced as being less effective than on the previous generation. But where the Transalp 08 really shines is in its optics. The sweet little look of the 650 takes a beating in the face of this big, bulging, multi-reflector eye. It's a real eye-catcher.
To further affirm its "adventure" orientation, the bike doesn't just inflate its appearance (it really looks like it's put on pectorals and muscle all over the place). There's also a nice nod to GPS: the coordinates on the fairing sides correspond to the highest point of the highest road accessible by motorcycle in Europe: the Col de la Bonette, in the southern part of the French Alps (not far from where I live...). However, we don't have to use the navigation system included in the dashboard (don't dream, it's not a car yet), as this is none other than that of the 2005-2006 Hornet, integrated into a specific plastic frame.
A smaller fuel tank (- 1.5 liters) should have no effect on range, since the 680 cm3 is claimed to be 7% more fuel-efficient.

and more modern. The XLV stole the engine from the new Deauville to bring itself up to date, and the graft promises to be invigorating. Born with 583 cm3 in 1987, the twin was upgraded to 643 cm3 13 years later. Now it's time to put it through the mill again. The new-fashioned Transalp now boasts 5 more horsepower and a lot more torque. How do you get that? In addition to increasing displacement, the recipe consists of swapping the old 3-valve-per-cylinder head for a 4-valve one, integrating PGM-FI fuel injection - the system uses two ø 40 mm injector bodies and high-performance injectors with 12 spray holes - increasing the compression ratio (from 9.2 to 10 to 1), and redesigning numerous internal components such as the pistons and connecting rods, which are lighter yet larger. The machine is also compatible with Euro 3 standards.

as for the chassis, no major modifications were deemed necessary. If it keeps the price down, we won't complain. The double-cradle steel frame and 41 mm fork remain identical to the previous model. Only the wheelbase has been lengthened by 10 mm to improve handling at high speeds. At the front, however, the 21" wheel has been replaced by a 19" model. The rim is fitted with a wider 100/90 tire.
Most interesting of all is the appearance (as an option) of the combined braking system with ABS. This works in the same way as on all other Honda models so equipped. When braking on a slippery surface, the system reacts to the slightest variation in relative speed between the two wheels, countering lock-up even before it occurs. Acting with precision, the system maintains just enough pressure in the hydraulic circuit to ensure smooth, powerful deceleration, with an efficiency that can save fairings and bruises.
The ABS/Combined braking version combines the rear brake pedal with the central piston of the right-hand front caliper (which has 3 pistons), to provide optimum distribution of braking force, especially when the rear brake is used alone and firmly. An integrated delay device ensures that a measured application of the rear brake has little or no effect on the front brake. The other 5 pistons of the front calipers are operated conventionally by the lever, providing optimum braking power.

with the HISS coded anti-theft system, the Transalp is a little safer from thieves. But that's not what she has to worry about. Its main concern will be to support the rider who wants to go everywhere with it. First downtown, then up into the local hills, and after that, she'll have to deal with the urge to cross the Sahel. She seems ready for it - all that's left to do is load up the fleet, a GPS, a blanket and take 4 weeks off work to circumnavigate the Mediterranean.

M.B - manufacturer's photos

honda offers a long list of accessories and equipment for the new Transalp. The list includes

- A 45-liter top case in the same colors as the machine, capable of holding two full-face helmets. Equipped with a passenger backrest and quick-release system, the top-case can be easily installed on the package carrier.

- A set of two polyurethane armrests for installation on the 45 l top-case to enhance passenger comfort.

- A set of special 29-liter side cases.

- One set of brushed aluminum suitcase covers.

- A set of two sturdy nylon bags designed to facilitate transport of luggage in the side cases. 16-liter capacity with a front pocket embellished with a "Honda Wing" emblem.

- A sturdy expandable bag designed to fit the top-case and make luggage transport easier.

- A Honda GPS system that helps you find cities, addresses, points of interest or Honda dealers throughout Europe using a 2D or 3D display accompanied by voice guidance. Bluetooth wireless technology enables voice guidance in the helmet, while also allowing cell phone use with hands safely placed on the handlebars. The GPS is supplied with a special bracket and the necessary cabling.

- An AVERTO-type alarm with motion detector, siren and battery backup. Low-power standby mode protects the battery from discharging.

- Front and rear fog lights for improved visibility in difficult conditions.

- Windscreen with deflectors 17 mm higher for greater protection at high speeds.

- A 20 mm lower seat for easier ground clearance.

- A choice of two sets of heated grips with temperature control and battery protection circuit.

- An aluminum-style instrument panel that matches the tank protector, top-case and pannier panels, and side fairing protectors.

- An aluminum-style tank protector with the same finish as the other trim elements.

- A set of aluminum-style trim elements designed to be installed directly on the fairing. Coordinated with other trim elements.

- An easy-to-use center stand.

- A sturdy U-shaped anti-theft device designed to fit in the compartment under the passenger seat.

- A sturdy exterior UV and rain cover.

- A 12V auxiliary socket to power additional equipment. To be installed under the seat.