Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

The Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 has an in-line engine with a bore of 87 mm and a stroke of 63.5 mm. It produces 92 HP of power and 75 Nm of torque. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 755 ccm. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a V-type engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm. It delivers a higher power output of 125 HP and a torque of 109 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is also chain-driven. Similar to the Honda, it has 2 cylinders but a larger displacement of 1050 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 has a Showa front suspension with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, also from Showa, and a travel of 190 mm. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a WP front suspension with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 185 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, also from WP, and a travel of 190 mm.

Honda XL750 Transalp 2023

In terms of chassis, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 has a steel frame with a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 111 mm. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a slightly steeper rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 120 mm.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 uses Nissin brakes, while the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 uses Brembo brakes.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS and traction control. The Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 also has riding modes, ride by wire, and advanced connectivity features such as Bluetooth and a TFT display. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 does not have these additional features but does offer adjustable ergonomics and a height-adjustable windshield.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight of 208 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 16.9 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It also has a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight of 228 kg (with ABS), and a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

In terms of equipment, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 offers LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and connectivity features such as Bluetooth and a TFT display. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 is praised for its accessible and fun engine, making it suitable for both small and big riders. It is also well-made, offers good value for money, has a low weight, and is easy to handle in all situations. Additionally, it has low fuel consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is praised for its very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range. It also offers performance modes, the ability to switch off the ABS, adjustable traction control, and agile and safe handling. It has adjustable ergonomics, a height-adjustable windshield, a low weight, and a comparatively low price.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda XL750 Transalp 2023 lacks cruise control and components that are optimized for comfort may struggle under tougher conditions. It also only offers a top quickshifter as an optional feature and has relatively little lean angle clearance. The electronics are also carefully tuned. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is criticized for its outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures. Additionally, its suspension fork is not adjustable.