The Honda XL750 Transalp costs Rs 10.99 lakh as a CBU, while the locally assembled Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE is priced lower at Rs 10.30 lakh (ex-showroom).
By Reetika Bhatt
The Honda XL750 Transalp and the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE are two of the most talked-about models in the fiercely competitive middleweight adventure touring market. Although both motorcycles are designed to handle light to moderate off-road terrain, highway cruising, and long-distance touring, their approaches differ significantly. Although their displacement and functions may be comparable, their chassis designs, suspension travel, electrical aids, and even rider ergonomics vary. The V-Strom 800 DE markets itself as the more off-road-ready alternative, while the Transalp leans slightly towards road-biased versatility. We examine the main distinctions between these two adventure machines in this spec-based comparison to help you see where they stand and which would be a better fit for your needs.
The XL750 Transalp is priced at Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and is offered as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) import.
Also Read: 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp Launched in India at Rs 11 Lakh
In contrast, Suzuki’s V-Strom 800 DE is more affordable at Rs 10.30 lakh (ex-showroom), thanks to its local assembly through the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route.
The Honda XL750 Transalp is powered by a 755cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers 91bhp and 75Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed transmission. It features five riding modes: Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and User, allowing riders to tailor performance to different conditions. Additional electronic aids include a slipper clutch, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), adjustable engine braking and power levels, and dual-channel ABS for enhanced control and safety.
For 2025, the XL750 Transalp features a 5-inch full-colour TFT display with optical bonding to enhance screen readability in direct sunlight. It also offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, enabling access to calls, texts, music, navigation, and voice control through a switch on the handlebars. Safety is enhanced with an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) that activates hazard lights during hard braking, along with self-canceling turn indicators.
Meanwhile, the V-Strom 800DE comes equipped with a 20-litre fuel tank ideal for long-distance rides and includes the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System. This suite incorporates the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) with three power modes to suit varying terrains and rider preferences, enhancing its all-terrain touring credentials.
Both motorcycles rely on Showa suspension components, but the V-Strom 800 DE has the upper hand when it comes to off-road readiness, offering 220mm of suspension travel at both ends via USD forks and a rear monoshock. The Transalp uses 43mm Showa USD forks and a Pro-Link monoshock as well, but with shorter travel. However, it features a lower overall weight and an 18-inch rear wheel, which contributes to more responsive handling on rough terrain.
Also Read: Suzuki Motorcycle India Clocks 16% YoY Sales Growth in May 2025
In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with dual front discs and a single rear disc with dual-channel ABS. Only the V-Strom, though, provides the option to deactivate ABS at the rear.