New 08 Transalp and member

[Plasnart]

Hi all, just picked up a new XL700 'alp to replace my previous 'collection' of bikes as I'm busy with my family more these days and just wanted one bike to take care of everything!

I just had the NT700 Deauville for just over a year and you might think that's the ultimate do it all bike but at well over quarter of a ton fuelled up it was damn hard work to get in and out of the shed and commute on every day. I'd been chugging about on a 125 trail bike while I decided which big bike to get next and had a great time exploring trails in South Wales, I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed being off road after years of road bikes. I was chuffed then when I found the alp with the same 700 engine and ABS, just a hell of a lot lighter, taller and could still go trail riding.

I've only got 100 miles on the bike so far so won't pass a judgement yet, it feels like a great bike though, responsive throttle and lovely quality feel. I've been off road and it's good considering the tyre design, the cost is preventing me from really throwing it about in the dirt, I'll feel differently once it gets some scratches (and will look even better probably!!!).

I've ordered it with the taller screen (very good), centre stand (good too, it serves as an underguard for the cat box) and Honda pannier kit instead of the top box. I found the large top box on the Deauville made it handle poorly and the large mount plate ruined the looks of the bike. I'm going to use a soft tailpack on the rear instead which will just squash down when I don't need it but is always there if I do.

The only thing now is the bike shop have rung back and asked for another £100 as they undercharged me for the accessories! I told them I'd look into it but am not keen to give it to them. After all, I asked for a price for a bike with those particular accessories, it's a cheek to ring up after and want more??

Anyway here's a pic.... I'll post a proper review when I've done some proper riding!!

Plas

[Recycler]

Nice shiney new bike.
Yum Yum.

As for the shop holding their hand out - possession is nine tenths and all that.
Just hope they don't nick some of it back at the break in service!

[StumpyFingers]

Nice bike, I was looking at the NT650 when I came across my XL650v and for the same reasons as you mention the shear weight moving it around the Transalp is easier.

[Chad]

happiness is a shiney new bikewelcome aboard dude

[Graeme C]

As I am in a similar position this seemed to be a good place to try my first posting here. If this works? I pick up my new machine tomorrow as well and in the same lovely colours as above. I did not go for additional kit ( panniers / top box as I was a bit shocked at Honda price ) Anyone care to comment am I , tight or are there alternative good but cheaper options. What do you guys do to lift the wheels for servicing etc I think £170 for a center stand is crazy , lots of optons but always had a bike with one as standard.
Been pretty wet here so I hope it stays dry tomorrow when I pick up my new baby two new tyres and wet roads?
Looking forward to it though a bit different , last bike was a yamaha 600 fazer

[johnlich]

I have had mine a week and I am well chuffed with the way it goes and handles though with my age, bulk and lack of agility I find that I can't swing a leg over when it is on its centre stand and have to put it on its side stand before I can clamber aboard.

I am intrigued by the high screen in the picture. How well does it work?

[fat-mal]

Hi there greetings from another welsh transalp owner. Just passed the 1000 miles on my new TA and I am finding it one of the most ridable bikes I have come across. The grey one is well liked around here (Caerphilly and Cardiff) thats the colour of mine. the only bits I have fitted to it so far is alarm and engine bars (givi) bought through M&P, hopefully to keep scratches off.
Take care hope you enjoy your TA............fat-mal

[Heather]

AM JEALOUS. (Although in another thread I was a bit outspoken about the yellow/gold colour!) I was shocked by the prices of extras.
Honda heated grips were twice the price of after markets. The honda luggage does look COOOOOOL though
Hope the weather stays fine all bank holiday so you guys who have them can enjoy them to the full! (sniff sniff grumble grumble.... I WANT one....)

[phil w]

Looks good dude High screen suits better as well.Where you from? Theres a few around Wales who seem to be up for a jaunt out an about.

[Sharribee]

Nice looking bike, where did you take those photos?



Have a look in the meetup and rideouts the Welsh lads are always up for a ride and there are loads of us in the area so post there if you fancy a bit of an outing.

Enjoy your lovely new bike