looked at a Ducati desert X. Lined up a test ride in about a month once the snow clears.
Isn't that thing heavier than the Transalp?
You bet it is. Don't worry just going riding.
It looks like it is 33 lbs heavier but it does have 110 HP so 19 HP more to lug that extra 33lbs... Plus it is a 90 degree layout vs the parallel twin.. Sounds oh so nice.
Nice 4 piston brakes up front and 2 piston in the rear. 9" of suspension travel. 2 fuel tanks for almost 30L.
But... but... but... the Honda is too heavy to take off road! So you're sticking to the street with the pricey desert machine?
Transalp has a 270 degree crank and sounds pretty good.
I think we are getting crossed up on the term "off road". These big bikes make fine gravel explorers but I don't consider that "offroad". For street legal single track machines the only decent choice is a properly prepped KTM 500/Husky 501 on full knobbies. Maybe a CRF450 but again it has a weight problem.
Come on Honda, do better.
In my opinion the Honda Trans Alp's biggest problem(s) are:
1)it's low slung exhaust headers. Honda makes a skid plate but it eats up the limited clearance.
2) The "low" seat making the transition from sitting to standing a pita for taller riders.
3) the smaller diameter suspension components although any of these bikes would need a re-spring and revalve to make them as good as they can be.
As a smaller bike for those who find an Africa Twin intimidating it will be ok but I think there are better choices for rough stuff. In this class the best rough stuff ready candidates are the 1) Tenere 700 rally (raises the seat a couple inches) and fancy parts may reduce weight. Hopefully Yamaha decides to offer it in North America, otherwise I think it is possible to build up a normal Tenere. 2) Aprilla Tuareg 660 is interesting but not sure about reliability and lack of dealer support. The light weight is intriguing.
As for the Ducati. Well I'll give it a ride on the road and the track and we will see if it hides it's pounds as well as Ryan F9 says it does. If he puts it on par with the Tenere T7 then that is high praise and he is skinny and weak lol/.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcFqVIadWYo