First Bike

[MREGAN]

Hey All
New to biking and thinking of buying the new Transalp XL700. I am due to do the test soon and on passing I would like this as my first bike.

Whats your thoughts as a first bike?

I have rode a few sports bikes and at 6ft 1" I dont feel comfortable on them. I love the look of the African Twin and Transalps but have never rode either. I would love to do a bit of touring and hear reports the 08 XL hasnt the best tank for mileage.

Cheers
Mickey

[Sharribee]

Hi Micky and welcome to the site, I can't comment on the new transalp because I haven't ridden one but there are loads of members here who have them and in general many of the comments have been really positive.

THe transalp has some very good breeding so should be an excellent bike I am sure you'll love it.

[peelerfart]

Hi Mickey,
I'm due to pick up my TA Tomorrow so all I can add is ,I made the decision to buy a transalp for several reasons.
I'm 6'0 tall and so look a bit silly on a sports bike.I tend to look like a preying mantis draped over a fuel tank I've no interest in speeds that will result in instant licence removal and finally -
They are a lovely looking bike that I've wanted for years.

I got the decision down to two ,the V-Strom and the TA and went for the Alp 'cos it was a Honda .The alleged tank range thing isn't a problem to me but if you look too deeply at any bike you'll uncover it's shortcomings.

If range is an issue then maybe something else would suit you better,
but deep down you want one sir ,don't you ?????

[MREGAN]

but deep down you want one sir ,don't you ?????

That I do!! I liked them in the photos but they look even more impressive in the flesh so to speak. Did you go for any extras Paniers etc? Let me know what you think when you get it.

[MandoBear]

I've also nearly got an Anchor grey Transalp (tomorrow... tomorrow...) and I'd also reckon it's a good place to start if you're going the Direct Access route. My first bike was (and still is until tomorrow lunchtime) a Honda Varadero XL125v, and though it's only a 125 it's physically a pretty big bike.

I was concerned that going up to the 700, I might find the substantially greater power (and somewhat greater weight) rather unnerving, but no. I found the Transalp to be wonderfully manageable - plenty of power and grunt where you need it at realistic speeds and rpm but no sudden surprises, and it carries its weight well too - low-speed handling is as easy and nimble as you like.

I've got nothing against the V-Strom, but to me it just didn't seem as well put together, nor half so nice looking..

[peelerfart]

I think there are three Transalps getting picked up tomorrow, all grey !
Just hope there is a UK wide spate of overcast,dry weather with little or no wind ,but I've always been an optomist . I 've haven't had a bike for years,the last one I had was a GPz305,and before that a plastic maggot.
So the Alp is going to be revelation to me

I ordered my Alp with a centre stand and a scottoiler fitted 'cos Mrs peelerfart was there with her steadying hand on my soft dangly bits.
Otherwise it would have been top box,crash bars and heated grips for me.

[MREGAN]

Health to wear and tear ya luck f...ers One day

[Pondlife]

Get an Alp!! Get an Alp!! Get an Alp!!

I too looked at the V-strom, think it was the X version very nice (although everyone thinks they're ugly) but to be honest the build quality is where Suzuki saved their money.

At the moment I have a Honda Varadero so this will be my first big bike and like others on here always liked the African Twin so it made sense to go for the Alp, plus it's Honda built so should last forever.. especially riding all year round in English weather!

Did I mention it's being delivered tomorrow???????


P.s. I went for center stand and 360 heated grips and scottoiler fitted for quite a good deal.

Plus you'll then be able to use this Forum and get lots of good advice, One condition though, You must provide photos of your new bike.

[GW_elder]

I have the 2002 650 - your welcome to have a look (not a spin sorry) if you're in the Dublin area. If its your first bike..
a. it might be a bit too powerful - better off starting on a Vara 125 ?
b. your licence won't allow you to ride it for the first 2 years (over the 33bhp limit unless restricted) - no 'Direct Access' in Ireland unless you're up North
c. maybe better off picking up a 2nd hand bike -cheaper insurance, less worry if you drop it

[Dominic_the_TA]

Hi all

My 2007 silver Alp is / was my very 1st bike. (Besides the ER5 on my DAS).
i'm technically a short arse - only 5'8" but i love my Alp to bits.
A few mates have all kinds of bikes ranging from VFR's / 1200 Bandits / R1's which i've only sat on - non are as comfy as the Alp (although they are all different styles of bikes)
Range on my 650, i can comfy get 150 miles when having fun !