Honda Africa Twin 1100 Vs Transalp 750
What To Know
- While less powerful than the Africa Twin, the Transalp’s engine is still capable and provides a more manageable ride for beginners or riders who prefer a lighter bike.
- It features a rugged frame, long-travel suspension, and a host of off-road-oriented features, including a low-speed traction control system and a dedicated off-road mode.
- If you’re looking for an adventure bike with exceptional off-road capabilities, advanced features, and a powerful engine, the Africa Twin 1100 is an excellent choice.
When it comes to choosing an adventure motorcycle, two iconic models from Honda stand out: the Africa Twin 1100 and the Transalp 750. Both bikes offer a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two adventure bikes, examining their engines, handling, features, and more.
Engine and Performance
The Africa Twin 1100 boasts a powerful 1084cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 101 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for both on- and off-road adventures, offering a smooth and responsive ride.
In contrast, the Transalp 750 features a 745cc parallel-twin engine that produces 79 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque. While less powerful than the Africa Twin, the Transalp’s engine is still capable and provides a more manageable ride for beginners or riders who prefer a lighter bike.
Handling and Suspension
The Africa Twin 1100 is known for its superb handling and off-road capabilities. It features a long-travel suspension with 9.1 inches of travel at the front and 8.7 inches at the rear. This suspension allows the bike to absorb rough terrain with ease, providing a comfortable and controlled ride.
The Transalp 750 also offers good handling and a comfortable ride. However, its suspension is slightly shorter, with 7.9 inches of travel at the front and 7.5 inches at the rear. This makes it less suitable for tackling extreme off-road conditions but still capable of handling light off-road trails.
Features and Technology
Both the Africa Twin 1100 and Transalp 750 come equipped with a range of advanced features. The Africa Twin 1100 features a large TFT display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a host of rider aids, including traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS.
The Transalp 750 offers a more basic feature set but still includes a digital instrument cluster, cruise control, and a selection of riding modes. It also features a large storage compartment under the seat, providing ample space for luggage or gear.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Africa Twin 1100 is designed for serious off-road adventures. It features a rugged frame, long-travel suspension, and a host of off-road-oriented features, including a low-speed traction control system and a dedicated off-road mode.
While the Transalp 750 is not as capable off-road as the Africa Twin, it is still a competent adventure bike. It can handle light off-road trails and dirt roads with ease, thanks to its durable construction and versatile suspension.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Both the Africa Twin 1100 and Transalp 750 offer comfortable and upright riding positions. The Africa Twin 1100 has a slightly taller seat height, which may be more suitable for taller riders. However, both bikes provide ample legroom and adjustable handlebars, allowing riders to customize their riding position.
Price and Value
The Africa Twin 1100 is priced significantly higher than the Transalp 750. This is due to its more powerful engine, advanced features, and superior off-road capabilities. The Transalp 750 offers better value for riders who prioritize affordability and versatility over extreme off-road performance.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Honda Africa Twin 1100 and Transalp 750 depends on your specific needs and riding preferences. If you’re looking for an adventure bike with exceptional off-road capabilities, advanced features, and a powerful engine, the Africa Twin 1100 is an excellent choice.
However, if you prefer a more affordable, versatile, and easy-to-ride adventure bike, the Transalp 750 is a great option. It offers a comfortable ride, good off-road capabilities, and a range of practical features.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both and experience their unique characteristics firsthand.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which bike is more powerful, the Africa Twin 1100 or the Transalp 750?
A: The Africa Twin 1100 is more powerful, with 101 horsepower compared to the Transalp 750’s 79 horsepower.
Q: Which bike has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Africa Twin 1100 has superior off-road capabilities due to its long-travel suspension, off-road-oriented features, and rugged construction.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Transalp 750 is more affordable than the Africa Twin 1100, offering better value for riders who prioritize affordability and versatility.
Q: Which bike has a larger storage capacity?
A: The Transalp 750 has a larger storage compartment under the seat, providing ample space for luggage or gear.
Q: Which bike is more suitable for beginner riders?
A: The Transalp 750 is more suitable for beginner riders due to its lower seat height, lighter weight, and more manageable power delivery.