Honda xl 650 transalp defects?

[davidstanbridge]

I've just bought a 2001 xl650 transalp, and I was wondering if there are any defects about the bike anyone knows of? I'm planning to go touring come the summer time hopefully France or further!

Thanks

[Lutin]

No real defects as such, but there are a few things that should be checked (as with any bike really) -

1) The chain should not be too tight, as this can wreck the gearbox output shaft bearing. Just stick with what the handbook says regarding chain tension.

2) The alloy wheel rims can corrode if not looked after. So, when you change the tyres take the time to have a good look at the rims inside and out. Also have a good gander at the spokes, as some people have reported problems with them. But I've had no problems with my '04 Transalp.

3) Brake calipers can seize on the pins if not kept nice and clean. Especially true if the bike is, or has been, used through the winter.

Hope that helps.


Oh, and welcome to the forum.

[davidstanbridge]

Thanks very much for your speedy reply and cheers... it seems to be quite a good forum site so you might be hearing from me again! Yes I did those checks when i got the bike last Thursday, the bike has a Scotoiller which should help increase the chain life...

Thanks

[Lutin]

Glad you like the site.

Someone will be along shortly to ask where the photos of your bike are.


You have been warned!

[ADE THE BLADE]

Glad you like the site.

Someone will be along shortly to ask where the photos of your bike are.


You have been warned!

um.....excuse me !

[StumpyFingers]

Welcome to the forum.
I also have an '04 Transalp, it is a great bike.
Please post some photos of your bike.

[davidstanbridge]

Yea i'll try and get some pics of my bike up soon!

[alpslapper]

Theres one huge defect but Honda have yet to find a fix for it.

You start to ride it, and just keep on riding.

All day confort. You just dont want to stop.

You end up doing things like going 509 miles for a pint of milk.

Enjoy the bike.

And welcome

[davidstanbridge]

Ha Ha Ha when I started to read your comment I really got worryed... good one thanks...

[jarl]

Theres one huge defect but Honda have yet to find a fix for it.

I know what you mean. Annoying, that one....

Other genuine issues: Output shaft and bearing. The shaft isn't very hard, so can be seriously damaged by cheap front sprockets. Fit a genuine Honda if at all possible, but good quality sprockets such as JT also work. If you have a knackered front output shaft but the bearing is fine then a new sprocket can be welded in place by a good welder for another chain's worth of life.

The output shaft bearing also gets knackered by the chain being too tight as stated. Check for wear by checking how much the shaft moves- a healthy one will move in and out slightly but not side to side or up and down.


I've got an '03, lovely bikes. You'll probably want to do an oil change and brake fluid flush fairly soon, as with most second hand bikes.