KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- V-Strom 800DE offers stronger off-road hardware and better value
- Transalp XL750 brings premium tech, better road manners, and higher refinement
Adventure is no longer just a passion, it's becoming quite famous these days. With the popularity, there comes a high demand for the ADV segment in the market. Looking at the demand, Suzuki has updated its V-Storm 800DE, but does it remain a worthy opponent to the Honda Transalp XL 750?
We'll find out in this comparison. However, before moving ahead, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
Design
At first glance, the V-Storm 800DE looks ready to pounce with its aggressive and sharp front. The signature'front fender extends forward, giving it a bird-like face. The split LED headlamp setup is vertically stacked, adding to its modern look. On the side, you'll notice the muscular fuel tank, making the bike look more brawny. Interestingly, it has a single-seat setup, which flows towards the end. At the rear, you get a neat LED taillamp along with a big, bulky exhaust peaking from the right. Additionally, the colour palette is youthful and sporty, bold yellow, deep blue, or stealthy grey with contrast graphics.
Meanwhile, the Honda Transalp XL 750 brings modern flair to the design. The Headlamp setup gives a modern commuter-like feel along with a tall windscreen. Not just this, the front fairing smoothly blends into the fuel tank without any sharp lines or cuts. This bike also holds a similar single-seat setup flowing towards the end. While at the rear, it maintains a slim profile with an integrated taillamp. Moreover, Honda offers the Transalp in two shades in India: Matte Ballistic Black for stealth lovers, and Ross White Tricolour.
Powertrain
While both bikes use a 270-degree crank and twin-cylinder layout, their personalities differ. The V-Strom 800DE delivers a punchy mid-range and low-end grunt, perfect for trail riding and quick overtakes. In contrast, the Transalp XL750 feels smoother and more refined, with a rev-happy nature that suits long-distance touring. One's more playful off-road, the other shines on open highways.
| Specification | Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | Honda Transalp XL750 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 776cc | 755cc |
| Engine Type | Parallel-twin, OBD-2B compliant | Parallel-twin |
| Power Output | 83 bhp@8500 rpm | 90.5 bhp@9500 rpm |
| Torque Output | 78 Nm@6800 rpm | 75 Nm@7250 rpm |
| Crankshaft Type | 270-degree | 270-degree |
Hardware
Both bikes share an adventure-ready DNA with long-travel Showa suspension and 21-inch front wheels. However, the V-Strom 800DE feels more dirt-biased with equal 220mm travel front and rear, plus a 17-inch rear wheel for quicker handling off-road. In contrast, the Transalp XL750 leans slightly towards highway highway-friendly nature with a softer Pro-Link rear (190mm travel) and an 18-inch rear wheel that adds better stability for touring.
| Component | Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | Honda Transalp XL750 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Showa adjustable USD forks | Showa adjustable USD forks |
| Front Suspension Travel | 220mm | 220mm |
| Rear Suspension | Showa adjustable monoshock | Pro-Link monoshock |
| Rear Suspension Travel | 220mm | 190mm |
| Front Wheel Size | 21-inch | 21-inch |
| Rear Wheel Size | 17-inch | 18-inch |
Features
Both bikes come equipped with all the necessary tech that one would need. The V-Storm comes with a 5-inch TFT colour display along with day/night mode. Apart from this, it boasts three ride modes, dual-channel ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, a bi-directional quickshifter, four traction control modes, a Gravel mode, low RPM assist, and a USB port.
On the other hand, the Transalp offers a 5-inch TFT screen with some additional features like Emergency Stop Signal, Honda Selectable Torque Control, and Wheelie Control. Apart from this, it gets a gear indicator and a USB charging port.
| Feature | Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | Honda Transalp XL750 |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | 5-inch TFT colour display with day/night mode | 5-inch TFT colour display |
| Ride Modes | 3 (Active, Basic, Comfort) + Gravel mode | 5 (Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, User) |
| ABS | Dual-channel, rear ABS switchable | Dual-channel, mode-sensitive |
| Traction Control | 4 levels + Gravel mode | Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) |
| Quickshifter | Bi-directional (standard) | Available as optional accessory |
| Throttle | Ride-by-wire | Ride-by-wire |
| Low RPM Assist | Yes | No |
| USB Port | Yes | Yes |
| Gear Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency Stop Signal | No | Yes |
| Wheelie Control | No | Yes |
Pricing
The pricing remains unchanged with the 2025 update. The Suzuki V-Storm 800DE is available at a price tag of Rs 10.30 lakh (ex-showroom) in only one single variant. On the other hand, the Honda Transalp XL750 is also available in a single variant only, priced at Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
| Model | Variant | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | Single Variant | Rs 10.30 lakh |
| Honda Transalp XL750 | Single Variant | Rs 10.99 lakh |
Read More: 2025 Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE Launched At Rs 10.30 Lakh!
Verdict
The V-Strom 800DE excels with its off-road focus, offering superior suspension and torque for tough terrains. It's perfect for adventure lovers on a budget. The Transalp XL750, with its smoother ride and advanced tech, is ideal for those seeking long-distance comfort and refinement. Choose the V-Strom for rugged trails or the Transalp for road-oriented versatility.
