Honda NX500, Transalp 750 First Ride Review

In a world increasingly marked by chaos, at times, open roads – or in my case, rugged trails – are the only place where you can find some solace. You see, the allure of off-roading lies in its raw, unfiltered challenge. It’s a test of both machine and rider – a delicate dance between control and unpredictability. And in the pursuit of that balance, everything else fades away. In those moments, nothing matters but the ride – it’s like experiencing pure, unadulterated zen.

With that in mind, you can imagine my excitement as I arrived at 19 Degree North Adventure Park in Aamby Valley for Honda Big Wing’s True Adventure Camp. A haven for off-road enthusiasts, it was the perfect proving ground to push Honda’s ADV duo – the NX500 and Transalp XL750 – to their limits. Each bike offered a distinct perspective on adventure riding, offering a day filled with learning and exhilaration.

The Technical Bits

Starting with the Honda NX500, I took a more measured and subtle approach to ease into the day’s challenges. The 500cc parallel-twin engine, producing 46bhp and 43Nm of torque, impressed with its smooth, tractable power delivery. With no fancy electronics and only switchable traction control, the bike kept things refreshingly simple. However, the initial gear engagement felt a bit choppy – more of a minor inconvenience than a deal-breaker, but noticeable in this technical terrain.

The ground clearance, a key factor in off-roading, of the bike is 181mm. While adequate for mild trails and training drills, it proved to be a limiting factor on more demanding sections of the track. The Dunlop Trailmax Mix Tour tyres offered decent grip on loose surfaces, though a bit more bite from the front would have been welcome. Running stock tyre pressures to avoid damaging the alloy wheels led to occasional front-end washouts and rear-end slippage, which only added to the thrill of off-roading.

Ergonomically, the NX500 strikes a nice balance between on-road comfort and off-road functionality. At 5’6”, I found the bike to be easily manageable, with easy tiptoeing and a well-balanced chassis. The upright riding posture was comfortable, though the footpeg position felt a bit high for serious off-road manoeuvres, making me feel perched rather than integrated with the bike. Plus, the lack of switchable ABS meant that braking required extra care in tricky conditions, adding yet another layer of challenge to the ride.

Let The Trails Begin

Switching to the Honda Transalp XL750, the difference was immediately apparent. The 750cc parallel-twin engine, with its 270-degree crank, delivered a healthy 90bhp and a smooth, grunty powerband across the rev range. A true trail weapon, the Translap felt eager and capable – I only wished we had more avenues to fully exploit its potential.

Its off-road credentials were evident in the compliant suspension and 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup. The riding position was both comfortable and confidence-inspiring, making steep ascents and descents feel effortless. Despite its heavier weight, the bike handled admirably, requiring just a bit more rider input to keep it on track. That said, compared to the similarly positioned Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE that I tested some months ago, the Transalp felt a tad heavier and less balanced on tight trails.

One notable issue was the tall windscreen. At my height, it obstructed visibility when seated, and on rough sections, I occasionally headbutted it with my helmet – a minor but frustrating drawback. On the flip side, the handlebar height was spot on, contributing to a comfortable and controlled riding experience.

The Transalp’s electronic rider aids, which included five riding modes (Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and User), provided ample flexibility. While the standard modes limited the ability to fully disable traction control and ABS, the User mode allowed for complete customisation, unlocking the bike’s full off-road potential.

What We’ve Learnt

Our day at the event put my off-road riding skills to the test. The NX500 proved to be an excellent training platform, highlighting the importance of throttle control and weight distribution on challenging terrain. It reinforced the idea that even a ‘mild’ adventure bike can handle off-road demands, provided that the rider is willing to adapt. The Transalp, on the other hand, was a true trail hunter. Its powerful engine, capable suspension, and customisable electronics made tackling the Park’s most demanding obstacles feel almost effortless.

We navigated rocky inclines, tackled loose gravel descents, and powered through muddy sections, each challenge revealing the bikes’ strengths and limitations. While the NX500, despite being limited by its ground clearance, proved its agility and tractability, the Transalp’s superior power and suspension allowed it to dominate every obstacle with ease.

The experience also underscored the importance of understanding a bike’s capabilities and limitations. The Honda NX500 is a capable adventure bike for riders looking to explore wide open roads and mild off-road trails. Its smooth engine and manageable weight make it an accessible option for riders of varied experience levels. However, its limited ground clearance, alloy wheels, and non-switchable ABS restrict its potential in more challenging terrain.

The Honda Transalp XL750, on the other hand, is a true all-rounder. Its powerful engine, compliant suspension, and customisable electronics make it a formidable off-road machine. While its weight may be a factor for some riders, its overall performance and versatility are undeniable. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the rider’s skill level and intended use.

As I left 19 Degree North Adventure Park, covered in dust and grinning from ear to ear, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment. These bikes pushed me to my limits and expanded my understanding of off-road riding. If I had to pick one for my next adventure, the Transalp would most certainly be my weapon of choice.