Nobody mentioned that the Suzuki is the only one of the 3 with a bolted on subframe. Don't know why Yamaha and Honda didn't do this as it's a big deal on bikes like this...
I tested all of them. Here are my observations: Yamaha Tenere 700 Pros: - Shortest gearing made for offroad. It makes Yamaha really repsponsive even though it has weakes engine of these three bikes - It feels like a big enduro/cross. Riding position is made for offroad - Best looking bike of these three (opinion) Cons: - Slim seat is not very comfortable for longer rides - Short gearing means that max speed on 1st gear is only ~50km/h. To achieve 100km/h you need to to be on 3th gear, so 0-100 time is not great - Riding position is very high. I like high riding positions but this one seemsa little bit too high. I'm 183cm and had problems reversing on harder terrain (slippy gravel) - Most expensive - Worst stock windshield (rider's height dependant) - Very high center of mass Honda Transalp 750 Pros: - This engine is really powerfull. You can really feel the difference between suzuki and yamaha. It's also most responsive - The easiest to change electronics settings. You can control everything with joystick under your left thumb - very handy and intuitive - Riding it gives most fun of these three - Least expensive (but without any must-have equipment like handbars or engine cover) - Best stock windshield (rider's height dependant) Cons: - Honda's advertisement is very missleading and unfair. For example Honda's wet weight is given with 2/3 of fuel and without any (optional) equipment like handbars and engine cover while Suzuki's wet weight is given with full fuel tank and some (standard) equipment like handbars, engine cover and central stand. Not nice, Honda... Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Pros: - Engines is very good. In my opinion almoast as good as Honda's, however some may even like it better. It's more powerfull than Honda in low to mid range revs. It's power delivery is also smoother - Great working quickshifter. Despite larger weight and a little bit weaker engine, thanks to quickshifter 0-100 acceleration in real live is as good as Honda's - The most comfortable suspension i have ever used in any bike Cons: - The sound just isn't right. Other two bikes generate deep sound while Suzuki's exhaust kills it :( - Heaviest of these three, however it's not that dramatic as i though it would be. You can barely feel the difference in weight - Riding position is too far back so i just "didn't feel the bike". It's nice position for tourism and longer adventures but for offroad it just doesn't feel right Conclusion: 1. Honda Transalp 750 - Only thing i wish Honda have it's power centered on a bit lower revs and maybe some more/other painting patterns. Overall it's jack of all trades. Great for roads (but Suzuki is better on longer adventures) and also great for offroad (but Yamaha is better). It just doesn't have any real cons. 2. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE - Minor things made me choose Honda over Suzuki. These were: average exhaust sound, too far back riding position and a little bit too much weight. What i accually loved in Suzuki are it's super comfortable suspension and engine characteristics. I just didn't "feel it" and fun factor was definietly on Honda's side. 3. Yamaha Tenere 700 - As an owner of Yamaha XT 660 Tenere i can say that new Tenere is an upgrade in every way. However i believe it's more like a large cross/enduro rather than adventure bike. It's a little better offroad that other two bikes i tested but much worse on roads. If you just want to ride on roads and then 5-10% go offroad then choose Honda or Suzuki. Considering Yamaha's much higher price, choose it only when you really want to go offroad often (like 50% offroad 50% roads).
I bought the transalp 750. I love how adventure motorcycles look and feel like but im a 95% road rider with 5% gravel roads. So i cant do anything with a KTM or Tenere as I wont use what its designed for. The transalp on the other hand is exactly what ive been waiting for and im super happy with this motorcycle. Its a road bike with offroad capabilities and all the comfort u expect from a big adventure bike.
The Transalp you were riding has a lot of things that cost extra money: Quickshifter, handguards, crash bar, engine guard. If you add these to the base price it is quite the same as the Suzuki V-Strom 800 which already has all those things by factory
People who's going to buy the transalp won't need a crash bar nor an engine guard though. I don't know why suzuki owners are always so defensive when other people have different opinions to them.
The Suzuki doesn't have those things stock . Except for the quick shifter . Which the Honda comes with in the USA . And the Suzuki has a fake skid plate so yeah
Wow, they found the only reviewer on earth that found the Transalp suspension better than the 800DE. Out of the 3, I will be buying the 800DE. Too many reviews out there saying the same.
Makes no sense even on paper. Really strange. The Suzuki is better than both bikes on suspension, especially considering serious riders will probably improve on it further, so the Suzuki has a better baseline.
Sat on an 800DE a couple of days ago and found it unwieldy and badly balanced. For me, of course. On the verge of coughing up for CF Moto 800, which was a real outsider, but very impressive ...
Bigger UA-cam channels never seem to give really good reviews. It seems to be best to wait until more average people own the bikes and watch their videos or read forums for a real world look at these bikes. Look at how much the opinion on the tenere 700 has changed. When it was new all the big publications were saying how great it was. Now we know about the lack luster rear shock and the frame breakage issue...
I’ve owned the T7 , currently bought the 800DE. I feel way different on opinion in the Suzuki felt heavier up top. I always felt the T7 at this current point is the best if 70% of your riding is off road and somewhat aggressive off road along with the Tuareg. I’m 5’10” (add an inch with boots) I do have the lower seat on my 800DE and it’s the perfect 50/50 bike. Can’t speak on the Honda. Just my two cents
Airbox, oil filter, spark plug access?? Seriously ... why is basic maintenance access NOT a thing in these reviews?! It's dealbreaker stuff for me, and good luck finding a salesperson that ... "knows"!!
For one.. most guys bring their bikes back to the dealer for that stuff.. and secondly, who cares! 99% of the time you are riding it, not working on it.. Get your priorities straight.
Been riding over fifty years, the first thirty on tarmac (except for dedicated off road machines) and the present twenty primarily on “dual purpose” bikes. While pure tarmac bikes are intriguing, these days, if I were to only own one, it’s a no-brainer to ride dual purpose. In the last decade this category of motorcycle has evolved quickly and tremendously. In my not so humble opinion, it’s almost impossible to buy a bad dual-purpose bike, they’re all better than my riding skills. Like beer, it’s all a matter of taste ‘n budget.
I have the T7, and the grass always seems greener, but whenever I ride another bike that may be better in some areas, none of them cover all the bases as well as the Tenere. I'm always happy to get back on the Yamaha.
I felt the same. I tried the 800de the transalp, africa twin, 850GS, Desert X and the Tenere. I had the most Most fun with the Tenere while it had the lowest HP it felt so better to ride than the other Bikes.
Honestly one real weakness of T7 is the damn thing is so top heavy, that objectively heavier bike feels lighter. Otherwise, it is a much better machine off-road than Trans Alp and 800DE.
@@victoriazero8869I’ve owned over 50 bikes and don’t really notice my T7 being massively too heavy like you say. I’ve done 3500 miles on it now and have loved every single one of them..this is a special bike
The Transalp is a roadbike in an adv livery. Yes, the T7 is best offroad, but is top heavy and the standard suspension is not suitable for serious offroad. The standard 800DE is the best overall: better suspension, which is fully adjustable, excellent and useable engine power, riding modes, quick shifter, etc. When you add up all the extras it has over the other bikes, it's the best value too. Not sure what you guys have been smoking...
@pw9150 yes, the overall weight is there, but it all depends how it's distributed. The T7 e.g. is lighter, but carries its weight much higher up, evident of how easy (or difficult) it is to pick the bike up after a fall. Just surprised this review goes against everyone else in the world who's ridden and compared these bikes.
@@pw9150 DE is bottom heavy. Ask the metric cruiser guy how hard it is to lift their 250 kg behemoth. Tenere is objectively lighter but harder to lift due to weight distribution. Same issue props up when you compare T7 to KLR.
Honda equipment adjusted for V Strom. Honda accessory prices: Radiator protection €140,- Hand deflector €156,- Skid plate €799,- Quick shifter €290,- Wider footpegs €108,- = €1.493,- or 1.279,85 POUND!!! And yet it still has no fully adjustable chassis at the front and rear, no bolted rear frame, a smaller tank, no additional frame, much cheaper looking levers and screws and absolutely useless electronics. The Honda engine comes unchanged from a naked bike and up to 5000-6000 revolutions absolutely nothing happens! The Tenere 700 comes with a display from 2005, also has no adjustable chassis and a weak, outdated engine. It is the hardest to pick up should it ever fall over off-road because its center of gravity is the highest of the three models. The T7 might be a good bike if it were £2000 cheaper, because it's not worth more than 7500-7800 pounds. The only question I have after watching this video is: Who paid for this? Objectivity and thorough research looks different.
I tried all three bikes. 800DE, Transalp and bought and sold the T7 WR. T7 and Transalp just cannot match the suspension and the seat on the 800DE. Suzuki is just one level above in that. Driving over potholes is so nice and comfy. After the stupidly harsh T7WR I was shocked how comfortable 800DE is. I'm 184cm and thought that wind protection on the transalp will be better, even aded puig deflector on top of it.. well I was wrong. It isn't. For all of you who are are whining over the 230kg of the suzuki with full tank; nonsense. You can't feel it. 800DE it has small vibrations on higher rpm's but if you get over it it's just better in every way compared to the T7 and especially Transalp. Transalp when you look at it from few meters looks nice but when you sat on it you have the feeling thet you sat on bike from aliexpress.
Bought the suzi recently too haven't taken it off road but I do hear about the suspension not being as good for harsh off road but I'm no where at that limit yet but at 188cm I was also very surprised about the lack of wind buffering, still going to get the high windscreen though since I worked it in the package
For the folks interested in a comparison with the European bikes deserve a video, however for a lot of us, these are the only three worth considering purely from a Japanese, reliability standpoint.
Let's face it, The Transalp it's the most balanced bike for most of the riders that are looking to travel and to be able to pass some off-road sections. Only With some proper springs upgrade the Transalp could think about competing off-road with the Tenere. Otherwise it's a 80% road bike.
I love it when skilled riders review bikes........not by the spec sheets or brand loyalty or blah blah blah new gimmicks but mostly by how they ride. Excellent work MCN
Love the two-stroke in the background even though that wasn't planned that came in perfectly and just added that little spark to the show and to the interview.
Just home from the Yamaha Tenere experience in Wales. It's a cracking and comfortable bike to ride. The main issue to address for off road riding is the front springs being soft. Your local suspension expert can order and fit the right springs for your weight.
I met a group of riders last year out on the trail. They had these huge bikes. I had my crf 250l. The trails around the area were too much for the big adv bikes. The guys were telling me, THAT'S the size I wish I had rn etc. They dumped their giant bikes many times I guess. Didn't dump mine once, trails were too easy on my bike. Lesson- keep your giant adv on pavement and gravel roads. Ride small on trails, you'll enjoy it so much more.
Bought a 2023 Tenere. 2400 miles in the first month. Been ringing the snot out of it. I love the simplicity of it. Cable throttle and clutch. Sounds amazing with can or full exhaust. No aids except mandatory ABS. It's a modern big enduro and what Kawi should have turned the KLR into. Got the preload on max at 270lbs haha. Definitely going to re-spring and valve. Cheap and easy fix.
Just shows that we're all different, out of the 3 the suzuki hit the spot for me (I like the grunty engine,riding position, seat and suspension compared to the others). I am at the more mature end of the age scale and tend towards touring and covering miles in comfort and I don't want a tourer or sports tourer (been there) .
Yamaha Tenere 700 is just the bike ive always wanted. I have fun trying my friend's bikes but the moment i get back on my T700 i know this is the horse i love. Only thing it really needs is better rear springs. Just love the T700
Good review but strange outcomes, ridden all three and Suzuki has it for me. To have a 3 year warranty on the Yamaha is £299 and the Honda is £320 plus a quickshifter on the Honda means pricing is very similar. Then you still have a bike with fully adjustable suspension. Suzuki also has extendable warranty up to 7 years with annual Suzuki dealer servicing so very assured buy for the long term. All 3 are great bikes so buy the one that suits!
Sorry guys but the de is like a diesel. Come on. It's far better than what you are saying about it. The suspension is far better than the other 2 and the low down torque will leave the others standing
I've tested tenere and was suprised about budget suspension and power similar to my ktm 640 adv r and lack of comfort, so despite it looks the best of these 3 i would not buy it
@@motorcyclenewsdotcom The Honda XL750 Transalp has become one of the most complete overall bikes in the middleweight class. Putting it basically inside the top 3 of its class. Its really quite habdy base from all the rdiers feedbacks. The only negative thing similar to it's other Honda sibling is that is so Low. For taller riders its a bit uncomfortable. I think they should make it a bit higher next time to accomodate most riders. Also, a High-front Fender design is also a lot better for the adventure bikes not only Honda's. Anyway, another really good review Carl of MCN. I just hope manufacturers are listening to what the people really wanted to their bike because at the end of the day we are the ones who buys & use it.
Interesting thoughts, would have been great to see the Aprilia in here as well... especially with it having a great electronics package that can be switched off completely in the Individual map if desired. Awesome to see a shorter rider in the test too, being only 5'6" with a 29" inseam myself, it is often frustrating seeing reviews of these bikes from people 6' and taller.
@@justsomedude445 if it is anything like the KTM 890 Adventure it felt a bit girthy so although on paper is similar to the Tuareg, the Aprilia is a lot skinnier making it slightly easier to get a foot down and also get off the sidestand too
@@HippoDrones ahh well that makes sense , ive not seen a Tourag in person as theres no dealer near me , i am 6'2" so not first hand info but i have a couple of friends whove had to lower their prior bikes and one of them just bought the 901 std afer trying out others saying it was easier for him to manage , he also bought a seatconcepts cover for it lowerering it a little more
@@justsomedude445 The Tuareg is a great bike, especially on the trails. I have a Seat Concepts seat on my Beta to lower that a little, had the suspension lowered too, and although it is still taller than my Tuareg, it is a lot skinnier still, so very easy to get a foot down for my little legs 😀
It’s interesting that most reviews I’ve seen on youtube between V-Strom vs Transalp, the scale always tips over to Suzuki. But in this video the Honda is considered better…
Tenere and 800DE, suspension fully adjustable (preload, compression and rebound damping. Honda, preload only. The Honda is fine for on road, until you carry a passenger or gear, then it sux.
A nice review. And one that rubbed in the sun & beer, by just the right amount! A T7 owner myself, I was surprised that both Honda & Suzuki had not learnt more from the Yamaha's success. As for the spark plugs? Well I've changed them on the T7 and you won't want to rush to change them again!
@@NMAdv KTM breaks down before you hit your first big service, while everyone else presented here is riding 60.000km without any kind of issues. Thats why KTM does not join any long term tests or statistics.
Agree. I'm 6'2" 220lbs -- with the clickers and pre-load cranked up a bit, I feel like my 800DE is dialed in for me. I have quite a bit left for adding camping gear too. Couldn't be happier with my V-Strom.
Mostly road driver here.. Offroad tenere all the way, but the new vstrom DE beats them on all the rest... I've always driven honda but glad I made the switch for my new bike and if you sit on the bike for hours, your ass will thank you for picking the vstrom (also your passenger). The tenere is same price as the vstrom de here and has nothing compared to the vstrom on electronics. Honda with same options is slightly lower priced but still feels like naked bike compared to vstrom.
In Denmark the Honda is 1300 euro more then the suzuki. And then i would have to get extras Bashplate,quickshifter,rear hyd preloadajuster. So i got the vstrom and i love it. the only thing i need is to get a better windscreen.
in greece the vstrom is 700euro more than transalp!so you bought the vstrom.this is what i m thinking too of them two.can ask if you have problems with annoying engine vibrations and engine heat?
@@thodoris3790 i hawe 5000 km on mine now and i dont feel the vidrations that mutch any more. The wether in Denmark has been vervy poor this summer so the heat on the legs is a good thing 😂
Good review but i suppose its down to personal choice because i seen other reviews putting the suzuki ahead of the honda but near all say Yamaha is really a top bike
I think the T7 is still miles ahead of the competition with that trick chassis, the liniar power surge is a welcomed thing also for an adventure rider, predictable in all the riding situations. Didn't get a chance to ride the V-Strom and Transalp, but the V-Strom seems too heavy and the Transalp was always a road bike disguised asa an adventure bike, a very reliable bike don't get me wrong, but street biased.
Im a honda guy but have had an f 700 bmw gs for ten years which i put 80 odd thousand kms on and really i am not yet tempted by any of these 3 . There does'nt seem to have been much if any progress in this genre in ten or more years. I am not a skilled rider but i do a lot of dirt / fire trails/ back roads and some bush bashing /camping . my only beef is the tall 1st gear , so i had to learn to ride faster/harder. When it wears out i will probably just rebuild it. Bought it on whim and allways impressed on tar or dirt. And plenty of mumbo at 5500 rpm is very useable . Yes its not pretty but it gets the job done very very well. Thankyou guys . John 3:16
Any one of these would do me tbh! I'm kind of hoping the Honda and Suzuki hit used values of the T7 so I can pick one up cheap, otherwise whoever adds cruise control first gets my money.
Without a doubt the Suzuki it is the best all rounder ! Suzuki it a true definition of one adventure motorcycle! Exelant on road, very good ofroad, very reliable, versatile, quite simple bike...... and so one! For me personally if i have to choose a bike for long adventure trip, without much headaches, with etmost respect for all midweight adv bikes, but my choice would be the Suzuki! This is a only review which you gives advetage to Honda over Suzuki! All other videos reviews which i'v seen, gives a priority to Suzuki over Honda!
I was thinking of swapping my KTM390 ADV in for a Tenere now that I have a bit more experience of off roading... This vid has convinced me to book a test ride. Thanks guys.
T7 in offroad does not suit me, the high center of gravity makes it fall to one side at low speeds and maneuvers. Not to mention how hard it is to lift! After the Suzuki test drives, I can see how easy it is to maneuver at low speeds, how easy it is to lift it. In addition, the suspension of the new vstrom really does a phenomenal job. Compared to the ktm890 adventure S it works much better (here the ktm and the Apex suspension failed me) not to mention the comparison to the T7 suspension (considered weak, poorly selecting smaller bumps). Add to this a detachable subframe, good electronics, quickshifter, similar price and I don't see the advantages of Tenere.
@@Theravadinbuto then i guess you are talking about the 890 r with xplor suspension, it is actually the best offroad advneture on the market. but the version S so... quite nice on the road, but in offroad ... worse than on vstrom.
With 11 other bikes all plated and turnkey: '67-'89 Yamaha two strokes, debut Z1000 FZ6 G450X, the VersysX300 checks all the boxes...twice as easy to pick up (dropped on wet clay once), 12 grand red line, 30% more hp than its displacement, 106 top speed. I don't need a swiss army knife which most of the commenters seem to want.
Thank you for the review! I do love the looks of the yamaha! But the seating position for me, as a more onroad rider is better on the Honda. Thats why I bought the Honda! The Suzuki I have not even considered to buy, because it is too heavy. I want a bike that is light, that feels light when you walk with it, to get it parked, or simething like that. I do love my honda, but I also admire everyone who rides a Yamaha Tenere, especially if he or she goes offroad!
Blows my mind that the Transalp is cheaper than the T7 across the pond... I can't even fathom it coming to the states under the T7. 🤯 I'm excited to see this same review stateside. I wonder how they would fair with a plus-6-foot, 200lbs-and-up rider, maybe even loaded.... I dont think the results will be the same. If the TA750 is under the T7 MSRP, boy..... will that stir things up world-wide! I am bias as I bought a VStrom, too impatient to wait for the TA750! lol
Not just the transalp but the KTM 790 is cheaper, and so is the Tuareg. When the bike launched Yahama offered £1,000 discount for pre-orders, then later really jacked the price up.
@daveo226 I was thinking it wouldn't be able to handle the rough stuff, the pictures and it's style makes it look smooth road friendly and not at all suited for any rough rides.
Having had the T7 nearly 2 years and 11k on the clock 50/50 on and off road, I'd forget all three and buy a crf300 rally, which is exactly what I've done! 😂
If all you do is ride roads any large heavy bike will work and be more comfortable. The more off road or the rougher the off roading is the lighter more off road capable it should be. Currently I'm using a KTM 500exc-f for weekend trips 266lbs wet with 9.5" susp travel. The 790 is lighter than most ADV bikes at 462lbs wet or 690 if more off road biased at 340lbs wet. Of these 3 I'd choose the Tenere as a better all around package.
Sicily...i recognise the lava from Mt Etna ...i took a ride down there in 2001 to see it spewing, great trip,came back home via Sardinia and Corsica, back up through France!
I have Watched many reviews of these bikes and an each and every case the reviewers thought this Suzuki was superior off road to the trans Alp You are the 1st to conclude otherwise I like all 3 makes and I have no personal experience on any of these bikes but Hi I have a feeling I wouldn't agree with your conclusion conclusions with respect to the off road capabilities of the Suzuki
Things that was not said in the review. I tried to lift up both Tenere and Transalp 750, and Transalp just seemed to me less top heavy and feels generaly lighter in offroad. Also it looks, that passengers seem to have more space and comfort on the Transalp than that tiny and hard passenger seat on Tenere. The styling and electronics settings of Transalp are questionable for me as well. Altough I must say, Transalp in black colour with knobblies looks pretty neat as well.
Great review. I love the look of the Transalp, but I could not deal with having to reset the modes every time I start the bike. I wonder why Honda would set it up like that?
Agreed. That would be a deal-breaker for me. It's an annoyance that would never go away. The Africa Twin 1100 is similar, compared to the 1000 that didn't have that problem.
@@TimWismer Absolutely love my new Transalp, except for having to reset USER mode for every ride. As I live on a rough gravel road, resetting is now just part of the starting/warm up routine. Takes about 15 seconds. It's a bit like putting on your helmet and gloves. Necessary evil! Other than this minor detail, the new Transalp is totally awesome.
@@mikerichardson415 hello. you can install a switch on the ABS fuse circuit from under the seat to the dashboard. This way you can kill ABS and traction control on the fly, motor running if you want.
Its nice to hear a reviewer say that its nice to not have all the electronic rider aids! I was pretty excited about the vstrom 800 until i found out about all the electronics on the bike.
I bought the vstrom. I didn't like the honda motor, it felt boring. Also i don't speed so much on thr streets to find problems on the suzuki. I don't speed also in the dirt so i don't need the tenere. I feel the Suz right in the middle. Extremely comfortable, fun, easy. Also i do 21km x L. There are, also, things you cannot adjust on the Transalp with aftermarket. The rear suspension. The smaller tank. The bad electronic. Also suzuki made me an offer for the new that was hard to beat. I had to take it.
It is a very simple conclusion. If you want a motorcycle to do off-road, choose the Ténéré, for traveling it is not useful, especially if it is to travel in wind and rain because the motorcycle is too unstable. If you are going to travel long distances, stay for the V-strom, that's the purpose of this bike although it looks like an off-road motorcycle... If it's for shorter trips, stay with Transalp. Chassis on V-strom is a really good one, not a tubular chassis that can potentially give future problems.
Refreshing to hear reviewers saying 10k is alot of money because it is for the majority of us as others have said Maitinece would be interesting to see covered as well as service costs as thats a big impact along with mpg for most of us. Air filter location, valve access etc.
I was hoping Honda/Suzuki were going to make a bike to compete directly with the T7 and Tuareg 660. For the sake of innovation towards more capable off-road middleweight adventure bikes. Maybe the T7 really IS that special? The T7 seems more like an engineering passion project made possible by the success of the MT-07. Aprilia one-upped the T7 with a lower center of gravity. Ducati answered with the DesertX. While the Honda/Suzuki are more of a response to get a share of the T7's market share. They simply didn't make a better T7. They're great bikes, but they don't improve on what the T7 can do. To take the T7's crown, it needs to be able to do what the T7 can do or more AND be better on the road. Beating it in value is going to be extremely difficult. Yamaha was in a special position when they greenlit the T7. As far as comfort or whatever. There's no cruise control on any of the bikes, so just get the T7, lol. Among motorcycle enthusiasts the T7 is going to go down as one of the best bikes of its time and should have a long and loyal enthusiast community as well. It's one of those bikes, akin to a CBR900RR which influenced the competition to play catch-up. Also, the T7 has the best sound and looks IMO. The throttle blip on the T7 sounds NASTY and the gearing is perfect.
i know there's almost too many to choose from... but for some off road, gravel roads, dirt roads, Aussie fire trails... what tyres could you recommend for these types of bikes... (40kmh - 80kmh maximum speeds, off road trails) ??? Any thoughts welcome... Muz from Oz
It's clear that Suzuki has aimed to develop an off road capable machine for the mainstream market. A bike that will work really well off road in more moderate use. Most folks who enjoy off road are not experts; or if they are they are not willing to risk life and limb. Those who have the need to really push things; need to look elsewhere; like a modified T7 with its lighter weight and greater ground clearance. The Suzuki was never intended for that.
If you ride mainly off-road then T7, if you ride mainly on road and have a warranty then GS, if you ride on road and don't have a warranty then Africa Twin
We have a weird situation in South Africa. Honda South Africa has the Transalp priced at the equivalent of £700 more than the V-strom. None of our motorcycle journalists have said a word about this because they need Honda's good will.
Nobody mentioned that the Suzuki is the only one of the 3 with a bolted on subframe. Don't know why Yamaha and Honda didn't do this as it's a big deal on bikes like this...
For price reason and weight. Cheaper to make and you can save some weight what sounds good in marketing materials.
I tested all of them. Here are my observations:
Yamaha Tenere 700
Pros:
- Shortest gearing made for offroad. It makes Yamaha really repsponsive even though it has weakes engine of these three bikes
- It feels like a big enduro/cross. Riding position is made for offroad
- Best looking bike of these three (opinion)
Cons:
- Slim seat is not very comfortable for longer rides
- Short gearing means that max speed on 1st gear is only ~50km/h. To achieve 100km/h you need to to be on 3th gear, so 0-100 time is not great
- Riding position is very high. I like high riding positions but this one seemsa little bit too high. I'm 183cm and had problems reversing on harder terrain (slippy gravel)
- Most expensive
- Worst stock windshield (rider's height dependant)
- Very high center of mass
Honda Transalp 750
Pros:
- This engine is really powerfull. You can really feel the difference between suzuki and yamaha. It's also most responsive
- The easiest to change electronics settings. You can control everything with joystick under your left thumb - very handy and intuitive
- Riding it gives most fun of these three
- Least expensive (but without any must-have equipment like handbars or engine cover)
- Best stock windshield (rider's height dependant)
Cons:
- Honda's advertisement is very missleading and unfair. For example Honda's wet weight is given with 2/3 of fuel and without any (optional) equipment like handbars and engine cover while Suzuki's wet weight is given with full fuel tank and some (standard) equipment like handbars, engine cover and central stand. Not nice, Honda...
Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
Pros:
- Engines is very good. In my opinion almoast as good as Honda's, however some may even like it better. It's more powerfull than Honda in low to mid range revs. It's power delivery is also smoother
- Great working quickshifter. Despite larger weight and a little bit weaker engine, thanks to quickshifter 0-100 acceleration in real live is as good as Honda's
- The most comfortable suspension i have ever used in any bike
Cons:
- The sound just isn't right. Other two bikes generate deep sound while Suzuki's exhaust kills it :(
- Heaviest of these three, however it's not that dramatic as i though it would be. You can barely feel the difference in weight
- Riding position is too far back so i just "didn't feel the bike". It's nice position for tourism and longer adventures but for offroad it just doesn't feel right
Conclusion:
1. Honda Transalp 750 - Only thing i wish Honda have it's power centered on a bit lower revs and maybe some more/other painting patterns. Overall it's jack of all trades. Great for roads (but Suzuki is better on longer adventures) and also great for offroad (but Yamaha is better). It just doesn't have any real cons.
2. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE - Minor things made me choose Honda over Suzuki. These were: average exhaust sound, too far back riding position and a little bit too much weight. What i accually loved in Suzuki are it's super comfortable suspension and engine characteristics. I just didn't "feel it" and fun factor was definietly on Honda's side.
3. Yamaha Tenere 700 - As an owner of Yamaha XT 660 Tenere i can say that new Tenere is an upgrade in every way. However i believe it's more like a large cross/enduro rather than adventure bike. It's a little better offroad that other two bikes i tested but much worse on roads. If you just want to ride on roads and then 5-10% go offroad then choose Honda or Suzuki. Considering Yamaha's much higher price, choose it only when you really want to go offroad often (like 50% offroad 50% roads).
I bought the transalp 750. I love how adventure motorcycles look and feel like but im a 95% road rider with 5% gravel roads. So i cant do anything with a KTM or Tenere as I wont use what its designed for. The transalp on the other hand is exactly what ive been waiting for and im super happy with this motorcycle. Its a road bike with offroad capabilities and all the comfort u expect from a big adventure bike.
So it is.
Until you get a puncture. ;)
@@fredrik999z Just leave it wherever it happens and find the closest shop to buy a new motorcycle, problem solved.
😊
Can you ride with a Pillion?
The Transalp you were riding has a lot of things that cost extra money: Quickshifter, handguards, crash bar, engine guard. If you add these to the base price it is quite the same as the Suzuki V-Strom 800 which already has all those things by factory
Couldn't agree more!!
People who's going to buy the transalp won't need a crash bar nor an engine guard though. I don't know why suzuki owners are always so defensive when other people have different opinions to them.
The Suzuki doesn't have those things stock . Except for the quick shifter . Which the Honda comes with in the USA . And the Suzuki has a fake skid plate so yeah
Exactly the guys sitting here don’t have much idea about practical motorcycling it seems . Suzuki is a no brainer for anyone ❤
Wow, they found the only reviewer on earth that found the Transalp suspension better than the 800DE. Out of the 3, I will be buying the 800DE. Too many reviews out there saying the same.
Makes no sense even on paper. Really strange. The Suzuki is better than both bikes on suspension, especially considering serious riders will probably improve on it further, so the Suzuki has a better baseline.
Sat on an 800DE a couple of days ago and found it unwieldy and badly balanced. For me, of course. On the verge of coughing up for CF Moto 800, which was a real outsider, but very impressive ...
Bigger UA-cam channels never seem to give really good reviews. It seems to be best to wait until more average people own the bikes and watch their videos or read forums for a real world look at these bikes.
Look at how much the opinion on the tenere 700 has changed. When it was new all the big publications were saying how great it was. Now we know about the lack luster rear shock and the frame breakage issue...
@@pigmeal2224 You sat on it? How in the world? I sat on one also, sat on a T7 and it felt heavier. Let us know how the China bike works out.
@@fitzfarm8694 For ADV bikes, I trust BigRockMoto.
I’ve owned the T7 , currently bought the 800DE. I feel way different on opinion in the Suzuki felt heavier up top. I always felt the T7 at this current point is the best if 70% of your riding is off road and somewhat aggressive off road along with the Tuareg. I’m 5’10” (add an inch with boots) I do have the lower seat on my 800DE and it’s the perfect 50/50 bike. Can’t speak on the Honda. Just my two cents
This was better input than the MCN test with inexperienced off road riders
You have summed it up better in 3 sentences than these two managed to in 21 minutes! Thank you! 😊🙏🏼
Airbox, oil filter, spark plug access?? Seriously ... why is basic maintenance access NOT a thing in these reviews?! It's dealbreaker stuff for me, and good luck finding a salesperson that ... "knows"!!
The test riders probably don't clean their own air filters.
Agreed, especially for anyone who really wants to ride off-road
No kidding. They seem oblivious to obvious every day things. This is a big problem in the most famous reviewers
For one.. most guys bring their bikes back to the dealer for that stuff.. and secondly, who cares! 99% of the time you are riding it, not working on it.. Get your priorities straight.
get a ktm
Been riding over fifty years, the first thirty on tarmac (except for dedicated off road machines) and the present twenty primarily on “dual purpose” bikes. While pure tarmac bikes are intriguing, these days, if I were to only own one, it’s a no-brainer to ride dual purpose. In the last decade this category of motorcycle has evolved quickly and tremendously. In my not so humble opinion, it’s almost impossible to buy a bad dual-purpose bike, they’re all better than my riding skills. Like beer, it’s all a matter of taste ‘n budget.
I have the T7, and the grass always seems greener, but whenever I ride another bike that may be better in some areas, none of them cover all the bases as well as the Tenere. I'm always happy to get back on the Yamaha.
I felt the same. I tried the 800de the transalp, africa twin, 850GS, Desert X and the Tenere. I had the most Most fun with the Tenere while it had the lowest HP it felt so better to ride than the other Bikes.
Honestly one real weakness of T7 is the damn thing is so top heavy, that objectively heavier bike feels lighter. Otherwise, it is a much better machine off-road than Trans Alp and 800DE.
@@victoriazero8869I’ve owned over 50 bikes and don’t really notice my T7 being massively too heavy like you say. I’ve done 3500 miles on it now and have loved every single one of them..this is a special bike
so t7 > 800de? (off road / on road / passenger / reliability)?
@@ceva4085 Off road only, reliability should be equal, and the rest are losing to 800DE
The Transalp is a roadbike in an adv livery. Yes, the T7 is best offroad, but is top heavy and the standard suspension is not suitable for serious offroad. The standard 800DE is the best overall: better suspension, which is fully adjustable, excellent and useable engine power, riding modes, quick shifter, etc. When you add up all the extras it has over the other bikes, it's the best value too. Not sure what you guys have been smoking...
Not a spec sheet expert oh no
So, guess you like the 800 DE as well, beside the top weight of 230 Kg 🤷🏻♂️🤪 so what you smoked ?
@pw9150 yes, the overall weight is there, but it all depends how it's distributed. The T7 e.g. is lighter, but carries its weight much higher up, evident of how easy (or difficult) it is to pick the bike up after a fall. Just surprised this review goes against everyone else in the world who's ridden and compared these bikes.
Totally agree. My pops just bought the 800DE and doesn't know what they're smoking either
@@pw9150 DE is bottom heavy. Ask the metric cruiser guy how hard it is to lift their 250 kg behemoth. Tenere is objectively lighter but harder to lift due to weight distribution. Same issue props up when you compare T7 to KLR.
Honda equipment adjusted for V Strom.
Honda accessory prices:
Radiator protection €140,-
Hand deflector €156,-
Skid plate €799,-
Quick shifter €290,-
Wider footpegs €108,-
= €1.493,- or 1.279,85 POUND!!!
And yet it still has no fully adjustable chassis at the front and rear, no bolted rear frame, a smaller tank,
no additional frame, much cheaper looking levers and screws and absolutely useless electronics.
The Honda engine comes unchanged from a naked bike and up to 5000-6000 revolutions absolutely nothing happens!
The Tenere 700 comes with a display from 2005, also has no adjustable chassis and a weak, outdated engine.
It is the hardest to pick up should it ever fall over off-road because its center of gravity is the highest of the three models.
The T7 might be a good bike if it were £2000 cheaper, because it's not worth more than 7500-7800 pounds.
The only question I have after watching this video is: Who paid for this?
Objectivity and thorough research looks different.
I fully agree
Honda is superior to susucki
@@MotoCampAdv what is a "susucki"?
I tried all three bikes. 800DE, Transalp and bought and sold the T7 WR. T7 and Transalp just cannot match the suspension and the seat on the 800DE. Suzuki is just one level above in that. Driving over potholes is so nice and comfy. After the stupidly harsh T7WR I was shocked how comfortable 800DE is. I'm 184cm and thought that wind protection on the transalp will be better, even aded puig deflector on top of it.. well I was wrong. It isn't. For all of you who are are whining over the 230kg of the suzuki with full tank; nonsense. You can't feel it. 800DE it has small vibrations on higher rpm's but if you get over it it's just better in every way compared to the T7 and especially Transalp. Transalp when you look at it from few meters looks nice but when you sat on it you have the feeling thet you sat on bike from aliexpress.
If you are fast off road the harsh suspension is better, if not then yeah agreed
Bought the suzi recently too haven't taken it off road but I do hear about the suspension not being as good for harsh off road but I'm no where at that limit yet but at 188cm I was also very surprised about the lack of wind buffering, still going to get the high windscreen though since I worked it in the package
For the folks interested in a comparison with the European bikes deserve a video, however for a lot of us, these are the only three worth considering purely from a Japanese, reliability standpoint.
Let's face it, The Transalp it's the most balanced bike for most of the riders that are looking to travel and to be able to pass some off-road sections. Only With some proper springs upgrade the Transalp could think about competing off-road with the Tenere. Otherwise it's a 80% road bike.
You live in the UK?
With that statement I suspect you do
@@change_your_oil_regularly4287not really, in Romania.
80% road bike us just what I’m looking for.
I love it when skilled riders review bikes........not by the spec sheets or brand loyalty or blah blah blah new gimmicks but mostly by how they ride. Excellent work MCN
Skilled riders? They both say they are unskilled offroad
@@trevb2308 You mean, just like the majority of people who buy these bikes ?
Love the two-stroke in the background even though that wasn't planned that came in perfectly and just added that little spark to the show and to the interview.
Just home from the Yamaha Tenere experience in Wales. It's a cracking and comfortable bike to ride. The main issue to address for off road riding is the front springs being soft. Your local suspension expert can order and fit the right springs for your weight.
Very nice comparison, again! I already bought the new transalp, and I love it. It's fantastic and fun on the road. It makes me smile.
I met a group of riders last year out on the trail. They had these huge bikes. I had my crf 250l. The trails around the area were too much for the big adv bikes. The guys were telling me, THAT'S the size I wish I had rn etc. They dumped their giant bikes many times I guess. Didn't dump mine once, trails were too easy on my bike. Lesson- keep your giant adv on pavement and gravel roads. Ride small on trails, you'll enjoy it so much more.
Owning a T7 I have to agree this bike needs no electronics. The only thing I wish Yamaha would do is give it better suspension.
Tractive has the solution , just takes $
World raid version have a better suspension..
Bought a 2023 Tenere. 2400 miles in the first month. Been ringing the snot out of it. I love the simplicity of it. Cable throttle and clutch. Sounds amazing with can or full exhaust. No aids except mandatory ABS. It's a modern big enduro and what Kawi should have turned the KLR into. Got the preload on max at 270lbs haha. Definitely going to re-spring and valve. Cheap and easy fix.
And tubeless tyres.
Just shows that we're all different, out of the 3 the suzuki hit the spot for me (I like the grunty engine,riding position, seat and suspension compared to the others). I am at the more mature end of the age scale and tend towards touring and covering miles in comfort and I don't want a tourer or sports tourer (been there) .
Yamaha Tenere 700 is just the bike ive always wanted. I have fun trying my friend's bikes but the moment i get back on my T700 i know this is the horse i love. Only thing it really needs is better rear springs. Just love the T700
Alleen een andere achterveer ?, het zou voor mij ook het eerste zijn om aan te passen wat aan de vering, groet Alexander
Good review but strange outcomes, ridden all three and Suzuki has it for me. To have a 3 year warranty on the Yamaha is £299 and the Honda is £320 plus a quickshifter on the Honda means pricing is very similar. Then you still have a bike with fully adjustable suspension. Suzuki also has extendable warranty up to 7 years with annual Suzuki dealer servicing so very assured buy for the long term. All 3 are great bikes so buy the one that suits!
Dont need the warranty on the Tenere. The other 2 maybe cause they’re new bit the cp2 is the most reliable engine in the last decade.
@@nemerkha when discussing warranties it usually is about avoiding manufacturing defects and everyone screws up on some batch or another
Great to see Neevsey doing a deep dive on ADV bikes. Awesome comparison.
Sorry guys but the de is like a diesel. Come on. It's far better than what you are saying about it. The suspension is far better than the other 2 and the low down torque will leave the others standing
Tenere too man. I go up chunky hills in 3rd at 15mph and I'm 270lbs. Has a fat torque curve from 3-6k.
I've tested tenere and was suprised about budget suspension and power similar to my ktm 640 adv r and lack of comfort, so despite it looks the best of these 3 i would not buy it
That diesel comment is soooooo wrong! My 800DE really rips.
Great review. Carl s input was thoughtful and well spoken and clear. Good addition to the team.
Much appreciated!
@@motorcyclenewsdotcom The Honda XL750 Transalp has become one of the most complete overall bikes in the middleweight class. Putting it basically inside the top 3 of its class. Its really quite habdy base from all the rdiers feedbacks.
The only negative thing similar to it's other Honda sibling is that is so Low. For taller riders its a bit uncomfortable. I think they should make it a bit higher next time to accomodate most riders. Also, a High-front Fender design is also a lot better for the adventure bikes not only Honda's.
Anyway, another really good review Carl of MCN. I just hope manufacturers are listening to what the people really wanted to their bike because at the end of the day we are the ones who buys & use it.
The T7 is the one I'd want... with some Bike Seal in the tyres. Followd by the Suzuki.
Neevesy and 'junior' have the makings of a good team👏👏👏
Weird how you guys don't rate the 800DE but Bike Magazine does and prefers it to the Transalp 🤔
Neevesy is very road focused so probably makes sense.
Interesting thoughts, would have been great to see the Aprilia in here as well... especially with it having a great electronics package that can be switched off completely in the Individual map if desired.
Awesome to see a shorter rider in the test too, being only 5'6" with a 29" inseam myself, it is often frustrating seeing reviews of these bikes from people 6' and taller.
husky 901 std is supposed to be good for shorter riders
@@justsomedude445 if it is anything like the KTM 890 Adventure it felt a bit girthy so although on paper is similar to the Tuareg, the Aprilia is a lot skinnier making it slightly easier to get a foot down and also get off the sidestand too
@@HippoDrones ahh well that makes sense , ive not seen a Tourag in person as theres no dealer near me , i am 6'2" so not first hand info but i have a couple of friends whove had to lower their prior bikes and one of them just bought the 901 std afer trying out others saying it was easier for him to manage , he also bought a seatconcepts cover for it lowerering it a little more
@@justsomedude445 The Tuareg is a great bike, especially on the trails. I have a Seat Concepts seat on my Beta to lower that a little, had the suspension lowered too, and although it is still taller than my Tuareg, it is a lot skinnier still, so very easy to get a foot down for my little legs 😀
@@HippoDrones yes ive read and watched reviews , i wish there was a dealer near me if so id have considered it for sure
missing Tuareg?
and the updated KTM 790 Adventure
Aprilia not getting enough credit for their bikes…
It’s an all Jap shootout please…
It’s not racism it’s just common sense 😂😂😂
If the Suzuki is the best I would pay the extra cash to get the adjustability and quick shifter.
Since it’s not… forget about it
@@BlazinBlades but it is..
It’s interesting that most reviews I’ve seen on youtube between V-Strom vs Transalp, the scale always tips over to Suzuki. But in this video the Honda is considered better…
Shorter rider felt more comfortable on the smaller bike.
Thatz cause it is suck it up buttercup 😂
Honda spend more on advertising with MCN ............. enough said.
@@soaruk3697that sounds about right it really felt like a Honda Baez review they must have been being sponsored
Suzuki riders always get so defensive when people don't consider their bikes the best. It's hilarious.
Great test. As a road rider I prefer the Honda. That engine is a peach 😁
Tenere and 800DE, suspension fully adjustable (preload, compression and rebound damping.
Honda, preload only.
The Honda is fine for on road, until you carry a passenger or gear, then it sux.
One of the things that the honda has on its favor is its weight and lower center of gravity
A nice review. And one that rubbed in the sun & beer, by just the right amount! A T7 owner myself, I was surprised that both Honda & Suzuki had not learnt more from the Yamaha's success. As for the spark plugs? Well I've changed them on the T7 and you won't want to rush to change them again!
This channel is such an honest thing for motorcycling community. Love both of them, these bros being to the point.
Love from India ❤
Interesting vid & conclusion. Out of interest did you guys make any suspension adjustments & if so, did it make any difference?
I’ve just bought a brand new tenere 700 , collecting it next weekend ✅
Had mine just over a year, and still love it, you won't regret it.
I got mine this month too. Waiting for delivery was so bad 😂.
It's a smart approach and like how you can figure out your own shortlist but no KTM or Aprilia feels like a missed opportunity.
@@NMAdv KTM breaks down before you hit your first big service, while everyone else presented here is riding 60.000km without any kind of issues. Thats why KTM does not join any long term tests or statistics.
Not to mention lack of parts, lack of dealerships and poor dealership attitudes.
I wanted an all rounder, road biased though. Chose the TA, thoroughly happy with it. It’s terrific.
Someone telling you what bike feels the best is like someone telling you what food is best, imo
Keep them coming boys. Will just make that Suzuki cheaper for me to get. :). 6’3” here though. Suspect that makes a difference.
Agree. I'm 6'2" 220lbs -- with the clickers and pre-load cranked up a bit, I feel like my 800DE is dialed in for me. I have quite a bit left for adding camping gear too. Couldn't be happier with my V-Strom.
I want the Suzuki
Honda best allrounder 💪💯👍
Thank you Gents, further proof to me the Transalp is the bike for me.
Mostly road driver here..
Offroad tenere all the way, but the new vstrom DE beats them on all the rest...
I've always driven honda but glad I made the switch for my new bike and if you sit on the bike for hours, your ass will thank you for picking the vstrom (also your passenger).
The tenere is same price as the vstrom de here and has nothing compared to the vstrom on electronics. Honda with same options is slightly lower priced but still feels like naked bike compared to vstrom.
In Denmark the Honda is 1300 euro more then the suzuki. And then i would have to get extras Bashplate,quickshifter,rear hyd preloadajuster. So i got the vstrom and i love it. the only thing i need is to get a better windscreen.
in greece the vstrom is 700euro more than transalp!so you bought the vstrom.this is what i m thinking too of them two.can ask if you have problems with annoying engine vibrations and engine heat?
@@thodoris3790 i hawe 5000 km on mine now and i dont feel the vidrations that mutch any more. The wether in Denmark has been vervy poor this summer so the heat on the legs is a good thing 😂
Good review but i suppose its down to personal choice because i seen other reviews putting the suzuki ahead of the honda but near all say Yamaha is really a top bike
I think the T7 is still miles ahead of the competition with that trick chassis, the liniar power surge is a welcomed thing also for an adventure rider, predictable in all the riding situations. Didn't get a chance to ride the V-Strom and Transalp, but the V-Strom seems too heavy and the Transalp was always a road bike disguised asa an adventure bike, a very reliable bike don't get me wrong, but street biased.
Im a honda guy but have had an f 700 bmw gs for ten years which i put 80 odd thousand kms on and really i am not yet tempted by any of these 3 . There does'nt seem to have been much if any progress in this genre in ten or more years. I am not a skilled rider but i do a lot of dirt / fire trails/ back roads and some bush bashing /camping . my only beef is the tall 1st gear , so i had to learn to ride faster/harder. When it wears out i will probably just rebuild it. Bought it on whim and allways impressed on tar or dirt. And plenty of mumbo at 5500 rpm is very useable . Yes its not pretty but it gets the job done very very well. Thankyou guys . John 3:16
what a great wright up and especially John 3 and 16
Any one of these would do me tbh! I'm kind of hoping the Honda and Suzuki hit used values of the T7 so I can pick one up cheap, otherwise whoever adds cruise control first gets my money.
Without a doubt the Suzuki it is the best all rounder !
Suzuki it a true definition of one adventure motorcycle!
Exelant on road, very good ofroad, very reliable, versatile, quite simple bike...... and so one!
For me personally if i have to choose a bike for long adventure trip, without much headaches, with etmost respect for all midweight adv bikes, but my choice would be the Suzuki!
This is a only review which you gives advetage to Honda over Suzuki!
All other videos reviews which i'v seen, gives a priority to Suzuki over Honda!
You don't listen
Good review. I do enough off road that I'm tempted by the Yamaha, but I do enough tarmacadam riding, that the Honda is my first choice.
I was thinking of swapping my KTM390 ADV in for a Tenere now that I have a bit more experience of off roading... This vid has convinced me to book a test ride. Thanks guys.
I traded my 390 for the Transalp . 💯 better
I agree I bought tenere rally edition 12 months ago love it 👍
Thanks, as I’m in the market for a mid-size ADV. It would have been nice to see the mid-level GS included as well. Thanks again.
Aprilia Tuareg 660??
T7 in offroad does not suit me, the high center of gravity makes it fall to one side at low speeds and maneuvers. Not to mention how hard it is to lift! After the Suzuki test drives, I can see how easy it is to maneuver at low speeds, how easy it is to lift it. In addition, the suspension of the new vstrom really does a phenomenal job. Compared to the ktm890 adventure S it works much better (here the ktm and the Apex suspension failed me) not to mention the comparison to the T7 suspension (considered weak, poorly selecting smaller bumps). Add to this a detachable subframe, good electronics, quickshifter, similar price and I don't see the advantages of Tenere.
It all depends on what you want. If you want to push harder off-road, the 890 comes into its own. For road and mild off-road, other bikes are better.
@@Theravadinbuto
then i guess you are talking about the 890 r with xplor suspension, it is actually the best offroad advneture on the market. but the version S so... quite nice on the road, but in offroad ... worse than on vstrom.
With 11 other bikes all plated and turnkey: '67-'89 Yamaha two strokes, debut Z1000 FZ6 G450X, the VersysX300 checks all the boxes...twice as easy to pick up (dropped on wet clay once), 12 grand red line, 30% more hp than its displacement, 106 top speed. I don't need a swiss army knife which most of the commenters seem to want.
Thank you for the review!
I do love the looks of the yamaha!
But the seating position for me, as a more onroad rider is better on the Honda.
Thats why I bought the Honda!
The Suzuki I have not even considered to buy, because it is too heavy. I want a bike that is light, that feels light when you walk with it, to get it parked, or simething like that.
I do love my honda, but I also admire everyone who rides a Yamaha Tenere, especially if he or she goes offroad!
Blows my mind that the Transalp is cheaper than the T7 across the pond... I can't even fathom it coming to the states under the T7. 🤯 I'm excited to see this same review stateside. I wonder how they would fair with a plus-6-foot, 200lbs-and-up rider, maybe even loaded.... I dont think the results will be the same. If the TA750 is under the T7 MSRP, boy..... will that stir things up world-wide! I am bias as I bought a VStrom, too impatient to wait for the TA750! lol
Not just the transalp but the KTM 790 is cheaper, and so is the Tuareg. When the bike launched Yahama offered £1,000 discount for pre-orders, then later really jacked the price up.
In Australia the TA is $15.9k ride away, the T7 is $20.3k ride away.
What about the extras compared to the price? This review drives me nuts! I own a Suzuki 800 DE and I love the Tenere! But come one guys!
What about aprilia Tuareg?
All arounder and more economy transalp is the king, offroad king is tenere, and more of a tourer is the vstrom
Suzuki all the way ❤
I would never have considered the honda till that shot of it jumping. But man that suzuki v strom is so dependable
Are you thinking the honda wouldn't be dependable ? . . You should definitely think again.
@daveo226 I was thinking it wouldn't be able to handle the rough stuff, the pictures and it's style makes it look smooth road friendly and not at all suited for any rough rides.
@@KJ-ek2ze I think it will do fine, just be under-spring for anyone over 180lbs--typical of Honda. But, time will tell! Maybe I am wrong.
T7 does not look like such a bargain anymore imo.
Tuareg is cheaper, and arguably much better.
@@defylifeadventure I would say T7 is still better overall package than Touareg. Specs are not everything.
Having had the T7 nearly 2 years and 11k on the clock 50/50 on and off road, I'd forget all three and buy a crf300 rally, which is exactly what I've done! 😂
Why? You just gonna be doing 100% dirt on it? I was planning on getting a T7 but thinking of an overpriced 300 as well......
@@razorcain74 make sure you buy a second hand T7 as new one's are now also overpriced, good luck 👍🏼
t7 owner, only things i would modify is the pipe (on the way to getting hp corse high exhaust) and sadletank. otherwise all perfect
If all you do is ride roads any large heavy bike will work and be more comfortable. The more off road or the rougher the off roading is the lighter more off road capable it should be. Currently I'm using a KTM 500exc-f for weekend trips 266lbs wet with 9.5" susp travel. The 790 is lighter than most ADV bikes at 462lbs wet or 690 if more off road biased at 340lbs wet. Of these 3 I'd choose the Tenere as a better all around package.
Sicily...i recognise the lava from Mt Etna ...i took a ride down there in 2001 to see it spewing, great trip,came back home via Sardinia and Corsica, back up through France!
I have Watched many reviews of these bikes and an each and every case the reviewers thought this Suzuki was superior off road to the trans Alp You are the 1st to conclude otherwise I like all 3 makes and I have no personal experience on any of these bikes but Hi I have a feeling I wouldn't agree with your conclusion conclusions with respect to the off road capabilities of the Suzuki
Things that was not said in the review. I tried to lift up both Tenere and Transalp 750, and Transalp just seemed to me less top heavy and feels generaly lighter in offroad. Also it looks, that passengers seem to have more space and comfort on the Transalp than that tiny and hard passenger seat on Tenere. The styling and electronics settings of Transalp are questionable for me as well. Altough I must say, Transalp in black colour with knobblies looks pretty neat as well.
Great review. I love the look of the Transalp, but I could not deal with having to reset the modes every time I start the bike. I wonder why Honda would set it up like that?
Software as an afterthought most probably
Agreed. That would be a deal-breaker for me. It's an annoyance that would never go away. The Africa Twin 1100 is similar, compared to the 1000 that didn't have that problem.
@@TimWismer Absolutely love my new Transalp, except for having to reset USER mode for every ride. As I live on a rough gravel road, resetting is now just part of the starting/warm up routine. Takes about 15 seconds. It's a bit like putting on your helmet and gloves. Necessary evil! Other than this minor detail, the new Transalp is totally awesome.
@@mikerichardson415 hello. you can install a switch on the ABS fuse circuit from under the seat to the dashboard. This way you can kill ABS and traction control on the fly, motor running if you want.
Its nice to hear a reviewer say that its nice to not have all the electronic rider aids! I was pretty excited about the vstrom 800 until i found out about all the electronics on the bike.
You can turn it all off except the front ABS....i agree i hate electronics. I know how to ride, i dont need the bike to do it for me
I bought the vstrom. I didn't like the honda motor, it felt boring. Also i don't speed so much on thr streets to find problems on the suzuki. I don't speed also in the dirt so i don't need the tenere. I feel the Suz right in the middle. Extremely comfortable, fun, easy. Also i do 21km x L. There are, also, things you cannot adjust on the Transalp with aftermarket. The rear suspension. The smaller tank. The bad electronic. Also suzuki made me an offer for the new that was hard to beat. I had to take it.
23km/l now
Back in the olden days (get stuffed), sportsbikes come with 19" front wheels, so so much fun with over 100hp on gravel roads
Awesome, I was waiting for this comparison, same question I have in mind
It is a very simple conclusion. If you want a motorcycle to do off-road, choose the Ténéré, for traveling it is not useful, especially if it is to travel in wind and rain because the motorcycle is too unstable. If you are going to travel long distances, stay for the V-strom, that's the purpose of this bike although it looks like an off-road motorcycle... If it's for shorter trips, stay with Transalp. Chassis on V-strom is a really good one, not a tubular chassis that can potentially give future problems.
In sweden the suzuki is cheaper by quite a margine...
Awesome riding, another great comparison!
Thanks! 👍
Refreshing to hear reviewers saying 10k is alot of money because it is for the majority of us as others have said Maitinece would be interesting to see covered as well as service costs as thats a big impact along with mpg for most of us. Air filter location, valve access etc.
Good reviews of the bikes. The tenere would be my choice as well. I think it's the best all-rounder of the three. Also the best looking bike.
Damn straight lads. Tenere for the win.
Did you check the tyre pressures on the Strom sounds like they were half flat
I still don’t know why everyone cares about a colour display/Tft
Tested the Ténéré World Raid yesterday. Absolutely fantastic. Just what I'm looking for. I love my ATAS but boy is she heavy off-road.
I was hoping Honda/Suzuki were going to make a bike to compete directly with the T7 and Tuareg 660. For the sake of innovation towards more capable off-road middleweight adventure bikes.
Maybe the T7 really IS that special? The T7 seems more like an engineering passion project made possible by the success of the MT-07. Aprilia one-upped the T7 with a lower center of gravity. Ducati answered with the DesertX.
While the Honda/Suzuki are more of a response to get a share of the T7's market share. They simply didn't make a better T7. They're great bikes, but they don't improve on what the T7 can do. To take the T7's crown, it needs to be able to do what the T7 can do or more AND be better on the road. Beating it in value is going to be extremely difficult. Yamaha was in a special position when they greenlit the T7.
As far as comfort or whatever. There's no cruise control on any of the bikes, so just get the T7, lol. Among motorcycle enthusiasts the T7 is going to go down as one of the best bikes of its time and should have a long and loyal enthusiast community as well. It's one of those bikes, akin to a CBR900RR which influenced the competition to play catch-up.
Also, the T7 has the best sound and looks IMO. The throttle blip on the T7 sounds NASTY and the gearing is perfect.
i know there's almost too many to choose from... but for some off road, gravel roads, dirt roads, Aussie fire trails... what tyres could you recommend for these types of bikes... (40kmh - 80kmh maximum speeds, off road trails) ??? Any thoughts welcome... Muz from Oz
It's clear that Suzuki has aimed to develop an off road capable machine for the mainstream market. A bike that will work really well off road in more moderate use. Most folks who enjoy off road are not experts; or if they are they are not willing to risk life and limb. Those who have the need to really push things; need to look elsewhere; like a modified T7 with its lighter weight and greater ground clearance. The Suzuki was never intended for that.
or get the 50lbs lighter transalp.
Great review I think Transalp will be the one for me! Can’t wait for the 2025 to arrive at the dealerships !!
I believe message is that Tuareg and KTM 790 are due to its superiority above those three bikes (Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda), or I am missing something?
You ain't missin nuthin
Yea you’re missing the riding season cuz your bike is at the repair shop
@@jeffie0facts and evidente please, or otherwise you'd be considered another bs talking guy.
@@jeffie0exactly 😂
Gotta love the Tenere😉
If you ride mainly off-road then T7, if you ride mainly on road and have a warranty then GS, if you ride on road and don't have a warranty then Africa Twin
Which should you buy?The one you can stand up with ,,,Seat heights are so biased...
Seat height has got to be the most over-considered factor in all of Adv/dual sport riding.
lowering kits for i think any one of them available ?
@@natekerx85 exactly
@justsomedude445 Yeah all good and well but on a spanker it's a warranty void
@@r13gbs i do not think so ill ask i know a guy who lowered his ktm 890 and another who lowered his yamaha t7
I bought TRansalp 750 in Mai 2023 ad had riding all the summertime ...
We have a weird situation in South Africa. Honda South Africa has the Transalp priced at the equivalent of £700 more than the V-strom. None of our motorcycle journalists have said a word about this because they need Honda's good will.
Is the Honda transalp better suited to do road touring with a pillon passenger than the Tenere?
Missing Tuareg and 790 adventure!!!!!!