American Honda has announced the return of its flagship Africa Twin adventure lineup, which has been updated for the new model year. The 2024 Honda Africa Twin will be available in in four variants: the off-road focused Africa Twin and the more on-road focused Adventure Sports ES, both of which will be offered in either a manual transmission or Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) model. The DCT models feature automatic shifting or the option to use paddle shifters, as well as four settings: Drive, Sport 1, Sport 2, and Sport 3.
“The Africa Twin is a mainstay of Honda’s adventure lineup, and we’re happy to bring this platform update to our customers for 2024,” said Brandon Wilson, manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda. “With the recent addition of the midsize Transalp, and now this updated Africa Twin, it’s clear that Honda is committed to the adventure category, and to delivering capable machines to fuel enthusiasts’ desire to explore.”
Both the Honda Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES are powered by a liquid-cooled 1,083 Unicam SOHC parallel-Twin with 4 valves per cylinder and 270-degree crank mated to a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. The engine’s intake/exhaust has been redesigned, and compression has been increased to 10.5:1.
Both bikes also feature cruise control and throttle-by-wire with seven levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control and four power delivery modes: Tour, Urban, Gravel, and user-programmable. The Africa Twins have a new five-position windscreen, tubeless tires, and a revised fairing design, and the Adventure Sports ES features heated grips.
Stopping power remains the same on both bikes, with dual 4-piston calipers biting 310mm front discs and a 2-piston caliper and 256mm disc in the rear. Both models have switchable cornering ABS with two modes: on-road or off-road.
For suspension, the Africa Twin still has a 45mm inverted telescopic fork and Pro-Link monoshock, but travel has been reduced to 8.0 inches in front and 8.7 in the back (down from 9.1/8.7, front/rear on the 2022 Africa Twin and Adventure Sports ES). The seat height remains at 34.3 inches for the standard position, with a low position of 33.5 inches. The Africa Twin still rides on 21-inch/18-inch front/rear wheels, and with its 5-gallon tank full, it has a wet weight of 510 lb or 535 lb for DCT.
The Adventure Sports ES also has a 45mm inverted telescopic fork and Pro-Link monoshock, both now with electronic adjustment offering five suspension damper settings: hard, medium, soft, and off-road, as well as a customizable “user” setting. Travel has been reduced to 7.3 inches/7.9 inches, front/back. Seat height has also been lowered to 33.7 inches for the standard position and 32.9 inches for the low position. The Adventure Sports ES has a new 19-inch front wheel (still 18 inches in the rear), a 6.6-gallon tank, and a wet weight of 535 lb or 559 lb for DCT.
The Africa Twins feature a 6.5-inch touch-panel LCD multi-information dash with three display options and compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth.
The 2024 Africa Twin will come in Grand Prix Red starting at $14,799 for the manual transmission and $15,599 for the DCT. The Adventure Sports ES will come in Pearl White starting at $17,599 for the manual transmission and $18,399 for the DCT. Both bikes will be available in May.
Joining an already growing list of 2024 Honda motorcycles are 11 returning models. Included in Honda’s latest announcement are color options, pricing, and availability.
This announcement adds to the list of new, updated, and returning models for 2024, including the new 2024 Honda Transalp middleweight adventure bike, which we tested in November, and the updated 2024 Shadow Phantom bobber-style cruiser, which we tested in September. See the previous Honda announcement for news on other returning models, including the Gold Wing family, the Rebel family, the NC750X, the Fury, and others.
The 2024 Honda CBR1000RR sportbike is powered by a 998cc inline 4-cylinder engine with dual-stage fuel injection. The RR also boasts a TFT display, full LED lighting, and your choice of ABS or conventional brakes.
The 2024 Honda CBR1000RR will be available in Grand Prix Red for $16,699 without ABS and $16,999 with ABS, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in March.
CBR600RR| 2024 Honda Motorcycles
With eight World Supersport titles under its belt, the Honda CBR600RR returns for 2024, ready to take on the racetrack or your favorite canyon roads with its high-revving inline four-cylinder engine and high-performance Showa suspension.
The 2024 Honda CBR600RR will be available in Grand Prix Red for $12,199 without ABS and $13,199 with ABS, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in March.
CB1000R | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
The CB1000R naked streetfighter is a versatile machine with the power and torque of a liter bike and an open, upright riding position. It’s powered by a 998cc inline four-cylinder engine and has a blacked-out design.
The 2024 CB1000R will be available in Black for $12,999, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in March.
SCL500 | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
Released last year, the scrambler-style SCL500 is built for fun and features the same 500cc parallel-Twin from the Rebel 500, an upright riding position, a flat seat, and a high-mounted exhaust. The SCL500 also lends itself to personalization through Honda’s range of SCL500-tailored accessories.
The 2024 Honda SCL500 will be available in Candy Orange, Matte Laurel Green Metallic, or Matte Black Metallic (new color for 2024) for $6,799, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in April.
PCX | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
Designed for urban environments, the Honda PCX scooter features a liquid-cooled 157cc Single, convenient underseat storage, and standard front-wheel ABS.
The 2024 Honda PCX will be available in Matte Brown Metallic with an MSRP of $4,249, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in April.
CRF300L | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
The Honda CRF300L is an approachable dual-sport that provides an entry point for riders new to off-road riding. It’s powered by a liquid-cooled 286cc Single, and it’s available with or without ABS, as well as a low-seat ABS version.
The 2024 Honda CRF300L will be available in Red with an MSRP of $5,749 with ABS and $5,449 without ABS. The CRF300LS low-seat version will be available in Swift Gray with an MSRP of $5,749. These models will arrive at dealerships in April.
CRF300L Rally | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
The Rally version of the CRF300L dual-sport features comfort-focused enhancements like a windscreen, handguards, and larger fuel tank. Like the CRF300L, the Rally also comes with the option of ABS.
The 2024 Honda CRF300L Rally will be available in Red with an MSRP of $6,499 with ABS or $6,199 without ABS, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in April.
XR650L | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
Introduced in 1993, the Honda XR650L dual-sport features a simple design with a focus on reliability. It’s powered by an air-cooled 644cc Single and features a rugged steel frame and long-travel suspension, built to perform in the dirt while being street-legal for around-town transportation.
The 2024 Honda XR650L will be available in White with an MSRP of $6,999, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in March.
XR150L | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
For a more affordable dual-sport option, the XR150L features an air-cooled 149cc Single, an approachable and accessible design, and a convenient rear cargo rack, ideal for around-town commuting or transportation around the campground.
The 2024 Honda XR150L will be available in Black or White with an MSRP of $3,099, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in February.
Trail125 | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
The Trail125 minimoto nods to Trail models of the 1960s with a classic design, but its current version includes convenient modern features like fuel injection, an electric starter, and front-wheel ABS.
The 2024 Trail125 will be available in Turmeric Yellow with an MSRP of $4,099, and it’ll arrive in dealerships in March.
Montesa | 2024 Honda Motorcycles
The Montesa Cota 4RT trials bike has been tested and proven to perform, capturing an FIM World Trials Championship Crown in the hands of Toni Bou. It features top-shelf Showa suspension, programmed fuel injection, and a dual-map ECU. The Montesa comes in the competition-ready 4RT301RR version and the standard 4RT260R.
The 2024 Honda Montesa Cota 4RT301RR will be available in White or Red with an MSRP of $11,899, and the Montesa Cota 4RT260R will be available in Red with an MSRP of $9,299. These two models will arrive in dealerships in February.
Slotting between the CB500X and Africa Twin, the 2024 Honda Transalp is a new adventure bike powered by a 755cc parallel-Twin. The original Transalp was sold in the U.S. for only two years (1989-1990), but the model continued to evolve in Europe. The iconic bike returns to America to compete in the red-hot middleweight ADV segment.
We put the Transalp through its on-road and off-road paces during a two-day, 250-mile test amidst the vibrant autumn foliage of central Pennsylvania. Our route included the rugged Section 4 of the BDR-X PA Wilds and challenging twists near State College.
Making its much anticipated debut in the American market is the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp, fresh off a successful year in Europe. Equipped with off-road features like 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels and a quickshifter, the Honda Transalp has inspired debates about whether this bike is a step-up or step-down in adventure capabilities.
Nestled between the entry-level CB500X and the liter-class Africa Twin in Honda’s current lineup, how does the Transalp fare?
We took it for a two-day 250-mile test run amidst the vibrant autumn foliage of central Pennsylvania. Our route included the rugged section 4 of the BDR-X PA Wilds and challenging twists near State College – Penn State’s home turf.
To give the Transalp an off-road credibility check, American Honda fitted our test bikes with Bridgestone Adventurecross AX41 tires, one of my favorite tire sets for ADV riding. This decision enabled me to put the Transalp through its paces on demanding off-road trails.
For the consumer version, expect either Metzeler Karoo Street or Dunlop Mixtour tires in sizes 90/90-21 and 150/70R-18. (Take note: They’re not tubeless, which might be a minor drawback for some.)
Have you ever questioned whether to “step up” your adventure game or “step down” for something more manageable? The Transalp may provide the answer for both.
A Storied History and Design
After a successful year in Europe, the Honda Transalp finally landed on American soil this October, reviving a saga that originally began in 1986.
While American riders had only a fleeting encounter with this storied machine – curtailed after just two years due to the prevailing motorcycle culture and the bike’s dual-purpose nature – the Transalp has continually evolved overseas.
Originally debuting in Europe in 1986, the Transalp reached the U.S. for the 1989 model year with a liquid-cooled 600cc 52-degree V-Twin engine, 3 valves per cylinder, a full-cradle frame, and a box-section swingarm. Its 41mm fork offered nearly 8 inches of travel, while the rear featured Honda’s Pro-Link system and provided 7.5 inches of rear-wheel travel – a remarkable feat for its era.
In the subsequent years, the bike underwent several iterations, morphing into the XL650V in 2000 and later the XL700V in 2008.
Fast-forward to the present, and the fourth-generation Transalp – now labeled the XL750 – is a modern adventure bike. It inherits its 755cc parallel-Twin engine from the CB750 Hornet, a platform that regrettably remains exclusive to overseas markets.
Honda Transalp: Engine, Clutch, and Transmission
Upon starting the Transalp’s 755cc Unicam parallel-Twin with 4 valves per cylinder, the 270-degree crank immediately makes its presence known. This short-stroke crank generates a pulsating effect that optimizes torque distribution across the rev range, making the engine particularly efficient in the mid- to upper range.
Honda’s new Vortex Airflow Ducting induction system enhances this power range by accelerating the intake-charge airspeed between 3,000 and 8,000 rpm, thereby improving throttle response.
Making a claimed 83 hp at 8,500 rpm, the engine offers a well-balanced power output suitable for both on-road and off-road riding, and it operates efficiently throughout the rev range. During our two-day test, I preferred keeping the revs high, switching between 3rd and 4th gears in faster BDR sections and dropping to 2nd gear for more technical challenges.
On Pine Flat Road, an optional rocky and muddy trail, I kept the bike in 2nd gear throughout. During slower sections, I manipulated the clutch for better traction before revving the engine up to 8,000 rpm to accelerate. The bike wheelied best in 2nd gear, either when navigating large obstacles or simply splashing through puddles.
Honda’s slip/assist clutch, featuring F.C.C. Leaning Segment discs, reduces clutch drag torque by 30%. The system is especially noticeable in technical terrain, requiring only one finger to operate the clutch. Equally impressive is the quickshifter for clutchless up and downshifts. It operates smoothly, even between 1st and 2nd gears.
Honda also optimized the bike’s 459-lb curb weight with a 16/45 final drive ratio and a 520 chain. This configuration minimizes high revs while cruising at 75-plus mph and contributes to fuel efficiency. Even after rigorous use, the bike averaged around 46 mph. With a 4.5-gallon tank, expect over 200 miles between fill-ups.
The engine counterbalancer ensures a smooth ride. It is driven off the crank’s primary gear, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining engine compactness.
The Unicam engine design, like the one used on the Africa Twin’s 1,084cc powerplant, originated from Honda’s CRF450R motocross bikes. To improve reliability, Honda employs nickel-silicon-carbide cylinder plating, which is also used in the CBR1000RR-R and CRF450R.
Honda Transalp: Electronics
The Transalp has throttle-by-wire with 46mm throttle bodies and offers five ride modes: Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and a customizable User setting. Each mode allows customization, enabling adjustments to engine power, engine braking, traction control (aka Honda Selectable Torque Control), and ABS.
In contrast to bikes that reduce power across different modes, all five settings on this bike maintain access to full power. The variability lies in the power delivery. The Transalp yields a more subdued throttle response in Rain and Gravel modes while ramping up responsiveness in Standard and Sport modes.
Adjustments to these parameters are only possible when the bike is stationary. However, a conveniently located button on the left control panel allows quick mode-switching while in motion. After selecting a mode, simply releasing the throttle engages it.
During my evaluation, I found each mode to be highly effective in its designated setting. On dirt sections, I primarily used my customized User mode, configured for maximum power, minimal engine braking, and with both TC and ABS deactivated. This setup offered optimal traction and stopping capabilities, aligning perfectly with my riding preferences.
One issue to note is that turning off the ignition automatically reactivates the TC and ABS settings. To counter this, I left the ignition on for the majority of the day, making exceptions only for stops exceeding 10 minutes. This tactic also had the added benefit of keeping my grips heated during the cold morning hours. The heated grips have four intensity levels, and they’re among the warmest OEM grip warmers I’ve encountered.
Finally, all this information is prominently displayed on a 5-inch full-color TFT dash. Users can choose four display layouts, including a rally-inspired design featuring bar graphs rather than circular indicators.
The dash provides data on speed, rpm, fuel level, engine mode, trip distance, and gear position, as well as levels of TC, ABS, power output, and engine braking. The sole missing element is an ambient temperature readout – a feature I find particularly useful given the significant temperature fluctuations often encountered in backcountry rides.
Honda Transalp: Suspension and Brakes
Unfortunately for such a capable middleweight ADV bike, suspension adjustability is limited to spring preload. The Showa system includes a 43mm SFF-CA fork and a Pro-Link rear shock.
On paved roads, the bike demonstrated admirable stability, even under aggressive throttle and braking inputs. While the suspension felt slightly softer when navigating dirt terrains, it proved capable of handling the most demanding and intricate BDR gravel sections I encountered.
Suspension travel is 7.9 inches at the front and 7.1 inches at the rear. I weigh 185 lb, and I bottomed out the fork only twice during harsh landings, experiencing no issues with the rear shock. Ground clearance is 8.3 inches.
My test unit was equipped with an optional skid plate, adding an extra layer of engine protection. Without a skid plate, the bike’s exhaust system would be vulnerable, making off-road travel ill-advised.
As for the braking, the 2024 Honda Transalp performed flawlessly throughout my test. It employs 2-piston front calipers working in conjunction with dual 310mm “wave” discs and a single-piston rear caliper squeezing a 256mm wave disc. Off-road, with ABS disengaged, these offered a well-balanced braking experience; a single finger sufficed to engage the front brake, and applying ample pressure to the rear brake facilitated effective slowing.
On-road and with ABS activated, the system exhibited minimal pulsation during planned emergency braking exercises. It’s important to note that to maintain a competitive price point, the Transalp lacks some preferable on-road amenities, such as cornering ABS and cruise control. However, it does come with the convenience of self-canceling turnsignals!
Honda Transalp: Ergonomics, Seat Height, and Fairing Protection
Contrary to its specifications on paper, the Transalp’s ergonomic design performs impressively in real-world conditions. With a seat height of 33.7 inches and an optional lower seat at 32.6 inches, the bike comfortably accommodated my 30-inch inseam. This allowed for confident stops in uneven, rocky off-road terrains where taller bikes often pose the risk of a rider losing footing.
The seat’s design offers ample room for positional adjustments, even letting me sit close to the gas tank during fast off-road sections to roll my back forward, sit upright, and maintain front tire traction. The handlebar is sufficiently wide, offering good steering leverage. The rider triangle felt just right, and my 5-foot-11 frame never felt cramped.
The stock footpegs are roomy enough for my size 11.5 boots and provide good grip once the rubber padding is removed. Whether standing or seated during high-speed sections, my feet enjoyed unrestricted movement, avoiding any uncomfortable contact with passenger pegs or engine components.
Designed by Honda’s Italian R&D team, the Transalp sports an unmistakable Italian flair in its fairing design. Although budgetary considerations led to a nonadjustable windscreen, the aerodynamics are still effective. Throughout my ride, even at speeds exceeding 80 mph, I experienced no head buffeting.
The Final Tally
At $9,999, the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp is competitively priced, undercutting key rivals like the Yamaha Ténéré 700 by $800 and the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE by $1,350. When compared to European models such as the KTM 890 Adventure, the price difference climbs to nearly $4,000, though we’re not necessarily comparing apples to apples anymore.
Back to our original question: Is the Honda Transalp built for riders stepping down from a larger adventure bike or for those stepping up from a smaller machine? I’d argue that Honda has navigated this dilemma masterfully, providing one of the most balanced middleweight platforms available.
The bike lends credence to Honda’s attempt to provide a harmonious blend of features tailored for both the beginner stepping up and the experienced rider who might be looking for a more approachable yet capable alternative.
The step-up or step-down argument is put to rest – not by compromise but by balance. This balance is a hard-fought victory in product development and felt at the heart of the riding experience. In the Transalp, you’ll find a motorcycle that doesn’t ask you to choose between worlds. Instead, it encourages you to explore them all.
The models in this announcement, except for the NC750X, receive new colors for 2024, and the bagger-styled Rebel 1100T will now come in a 6-speed manual transmission version to join last year’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) version.
2024 Honda Gold Wing
The ultimate touring motorcycle returns for 2024. Powered by a liquid-cooled 1,833cc opposed 6-cylinder engine with a 7-speed manual transmission or DCT, the Gold Wing family includes touring accommodations and conveniences for the most comfortable long-distance ride available. Technologies include throttle-by-wire, four ride modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (Tour models only), Hill Start Assist, optimized cruise control, and electronically controlled combined braking system with ABS. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay allow riders to take advantage of the 55-watt speakers, and 121 total liters of storage provide plenty of space for long-haul travel needs.
The 2024 Honda Gold Wing will arrive in November 2023, and the base model will have an MSRP of $24,700 and come in Matte Armored Green Metallic. The Gold Wing DCT in the same color will be priced at $25,700. The Gold Wing Tour will be $28,700 in Gray Metallic/Black or Pearl White, and the Tour DCT will be $29,700 in the same color. The top-line Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT will have an MSRP of $33,000 and come in Pearl White.
2024 Honda Fury
The Honda Fury is a chopper-styled cruiser powered by a liquid-cooled 1,312cc V-Twin. The front is raked out to 32 degrees, and the hard-tail styling and low seat height complete the look. It has adjustable front and rear suspension, a 336mm front disc with a twin-piston caliper, and a 296mm disc with single-piston caliper in the rear. ABS comes standard.
The 2024 Honda Fury will be available in December 2023 in a new Adventure Green color with an MSRP of $11,499.
2024 Honda Rebel 1100
Introduced for 2021, the Rebel 1100 cruiser is the next step up from the popular Rebel 500. It’s powered by a liquid-cooled 1,083cc parallel-Twin with a 6-speed transmission available in either manual or DCT. Last year, the bagger-styled 1100T DCT joined the family with hard saddlebags with a combined 35 liters of storage and a fairing with a short windscreen. For 2024, Honda has added a 1100T with a manual transmission.
The 2024 Honda Rebel 1100 will arrive in January 2024. The base model with a manual transmission will come in Gray Metallic or Metallic Blue with an MSRP of $9,549. The 1100 DCT will come in the same colors with an MSRP of $10,149. The bagger-styled 1100T with a manual transmission will come in Metallic Black or Matte Armored Green Metallic for $10,699, and the DCT version will come in the same colors for $11,349.
2024 Honda Rebel 500
The Rebel 500 is Honda’s highly popular modern cruiser and is powered by a liquid-cooled 471cc parallel-Twin. It features a peanut fuel tank, LED lighting, and blacked-out engine components. It’s available in standard and ABS versions, as well as the ABS SE version, which includes add-ons like a diamond-stitched seat and a headlight cowl.
The 2024 Honda Rebel 500 will be available in January 2024 in Matte Laurel Green or Pearl Black. The standard model will have an MSRP of $6,499, and the ABS will be priced at $6,799. The Rebel 500 ABS SE will come in Pearl Smoky Gray with an MSRP of $6,999.
2024 Honda Rebel 300
The Rebel 300 is Honda’s most approachable and affordable cruiser. With a low seat height, comfortable ergonomics, and predictable power delivery, the Rebel 300 is designed to provide new riders with confidence and fun without breaking the bank. It’s powered by a liquid-cooled 286cc Single and, like the Rebel 500 and 1100, includes a peanut fuel tank, blacked-out components, and LED lighting.
The 2024 Honda Rebel 300 will be available in January 2024 in Pearl Black or Nitric Orange. The standard model will have an MSRP of $4,849, and the ABS version will be priced at $5,149.
2024 Honda NC750X
The do-it-all Honda NC750X commuter bike is powered by a liquid-cooled 745cc parallel-Twin and comes standard with DCT. It features an upright riding position and a large front storage compartment. Also included is the Honda Selectable Torque Control, which allows riders to choose between some rear-wheel spin for gravel and dirt or reduced spin.
When something has been around for four decades, it’s usually because of a combination of inherent quality and general likability. Take a look at Rider magazine, for example. Next year, we celebrate our 50th birthday. There’s a reason for that. But quality doesn’t live in a vacuum. To survive – and even better, to thrive – there has to be change. Honda has succeeded in finding the next step in the evolution of the Honda Shadow Phantom, and the company hopes the changes, combined with a 40-year history, will help the bobber-style bike succeed in the middleweight cruiser market.
The Spirit of 750
The Honda Shadow was introduced in 1983 with two options. The larger of the two cruisers featured a liquid-cooled 745cc 45-degree V-Twin with SOHC and 3 valves per cylinder. It had a 6-speed gearbox, a slipper clutch, and shaft final drive. More than 19,000 Shadow 750s were sold that year.
There were several other chapters in the Shadow story, but if we’re following the lineage to the Phantom, significant mileposts included the shift to a 52-degree V-Twin in 1988 with the 583cc Shadow VLX. The 52-degree V found its way to the larger displacement 750cc Shadow ACE in 1998, which dropped down to a 5-speed gearbox, chain final drive, and no slipper clutch. The Shadow Phantom was introduced in 2010 with blacked-out styling (the exhaust was still chrome), the introduction of fuel injection, and a return to shaft drive.
The 2024 Honda Shadow Phantom sees the blacked-out styling now carried through the exhaust – a good look that represents a more modern appeal. It still features a liquid-cooled 745cc 52-degree V-Twin, but machine-cut cylinder head fins add a nice visual contrast that makes the engine pop. There’s also a new two-tone paint scheme on the tank (Deep Pearl Gray or Orange Metallic), LED turnsignals, fork boots, shortened fenders, and a new single seat (a passenger seat and footpegs are available as accessories).
Colin Miller, American Honda assistant manager of public relations, said members of Generations Y and Z are more attracted to Honda’s Rebel platform, partially because of its more aggressive styling, and Honda is leveraging some of that style with the Shadow Phantom. Whereas the Shadow Aero still has the more laid-back appearance of a traditional cruiser with a swept-back handlebar and more relaxed seating, the revamped Phantom takes a more contemporary approach, with a new handlebar and clamp that puts the rider in more aggressive forward position. A graphic during the presentation showed the handlebar position close to that of the Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight.
And from a customization standpoint, while the previous model’s rear fender and license plate holder was one piece that had to be cut if a customer wanted to make changes, the holder on the new model can be unbolted to aid customization.
Another significant update to the Phantom is its stopping power. Braking in the front is still provided by a 2-piston caliper gripping a 296mm disc, but the previous rear brake drum has been replaced by a 276mm disc and 2-piston caliper, and a new ABS version is available for an extra $300.
Front suspension travel has been increased by half an inch (to 5.1 inches) but remains the same 3.5 inches in the rear courtesy of dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability. Otherwise, seat height is essentially the same at a very cruiser-like 25.6 inches. Even though fuel capacity has been bumped 0.2 gallon to 3.9, curb weight of the 2024 model is 6 lb lighter at 543 lb.
Unlocking the Phantom Zone
The middleweight cruiser market exploded during the Covid pandemic. The wave crested in 2021, but Miller said Honda is hoping the Shadow Phantom will bring in both new riders and existing cruiser fans looking for something new. I don’t know about the younger generation – in more ways than just their riding preferences – but I can say this Gen X cruiser guy sure enjoyed the ride.
The first thing I noticed when firing up the bike was the rumble, which was surprisingly satisfying for a Japanese bike with the stock exhaust. The Phantom continued to impress as we rolled through the streets of San Dimas, California. When we tested the 2013 Shadow Aero, it made 44.7 lb-ft of peak torque at the rear wheel, with more than 40 lb-ft available between 2,200 and 5,000 rpm. I appreciated that level of low-end grunt when pulling away from intersections in town, and it held its own as we climbed 6,000 feet on State Route 39 to Crystal Lake.
The rear suspension was a little squishy in some of the bumpier parts, but that was likely a result of the preload being set for someone a little lighter than my two-plus bills. Fortunately, the new saddle is nice and cushy and didn’t give me any grief during the four hours I was on it.
The pull on the clutch lever was a little heavy, and I would rate it “medium.” Since I own an older cruiser, it’s not anything new to me, but many bikes today are equipped with slip/assist clutches, and once you get used to this feature, you notice when it’s not there. I was okay with the lever pull – although a slip/assist clutch would’ve lightened it – but there was a moment going up the twisty, narrow one-way route to Crystal Lake where a quick downshift, combined with some debris in the road, gave a hop of the rear wheel on a curve that was a little bracing.
At just $8,399 ($8,699 for the ABS version), the 2024 Honda Shadow Phantom may not have all the bells and whistles, but it is a very attractive proposition for either a new rider or someone looking to add another steed to their stable from a segment without a lot of competition.
Only Breath and Shadow
I had only one other issue with the Phantom. The bike has a decent 27.4-degree lean angle. However, when I put the arch of my boot on the forward-mount footpegs, if I didn’t want my toe resting on the brake pedal, the heel of my boot found the road surface before the pegs did. This required a shifting of my right boot to various positions, none of which were as comfortable or confidence-inspiring as having the peg positioned directly under my arch.
This is not to say that I was high-speed slaloming up the canyon. In fact, I was the most conservative of the riders that day on the winding SR-39. As to those peg scrapes, I was once advised by my colleague and editor-in-chief of our sibling publication American Rider, Kevin Duke: “Ride your own ride, but challenge your limits when your confidence grows.”
So I did. Most riders won’t treat the Honda Shadow like a sportbike, but it certainly responded to my prodding enough to make it a spirited ride up the winding SR-39. When it comes to riding my own ride, I like to cruise, take in the scenery, breathe the air, and get my heart pumping enough to remember I’m alive.
If you are of a like mind, you’ll be very happy with the Phantom. And for those of you wondering if it’ll haul a little ass, the Phantom has something for you as well, as I can attest based on the taillights winking in the distance ahead of me from some of the other riders in my group.
The new Phantom has brought the Shadow into the light, and it looks to be a bright future indeed.
American Honda has announced that the highly anticipated Honda XL750 Transalp is coming to the U.S. market for the 2024 model year.
The Transalp was originally introduced in Europe in 1986, first showing up in the U.S. for the 1989 model year with a liquid-cooled, 600cc 52-degree V-Twin with 3 valves per cylinder bolted into a full-cradle frame with a box section swingarm. A 41mm fork provided almost 8 inches of travel up front, and Pro-Link suspension offered 7.5 inches of rear-wheel travel.
Unfortunately, timing and American attitudes about motorcycles, combined with the on-road/off-road orientation of the bike, meant the Transalp only lasted two years in U.S. market.
However, fast forward three decades, and not only have times changed, but so has the Transalp, and after seeing considerable success in the European market, U.S. buyers are clamoring to give this new-generation middleweight adventure bike another spin.
“As the adventure category continues to thrive and evolve, customers are more eager than ever to get out and explore,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda manager of Racing & Experiential Marketing. “The all-new, midsize XL750 Transalp joins Honda’s iconic Africa Twin and pocket-adventurer CB500X to complete our popular True Adventure lineup, ready to deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences to U.S. ADV enthusiasts from coast to coast.”
In the company’s announcement, Honda called the XL750 Transalp, “friendly but tough—perfect for extended touring trips, as well as the urban cut and thrust, and all points in between.”
The 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp features a liquid-cooled 755cc parallel-Twin with Honda’s Unicam design, 4 valves per cylinder, and 270-degree crank. It has a 6-speed gearbox, throttle-by-wire, a slip/assist clutch, and a standard quickshifter. The bike now comes with five ride modes – Sport, Standard, Rain, Gravel, and rider-customizable – that regulate power delivery, engine braking, and ABS intervention. It also has Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for increased or decreased rear-wheel spin.
Speaking of wheels, the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp rides on 21/18-inch front/rear spoked wheels. For stopping power, gone is the rear drum brake, replaced by a 256mm disc, and the front now has dual discs (310mm) instead of the previous single. ABS is standard and can be turned off for the rear wheel. Suspension travel is still comparable, with a 43mm Showa SFF-CA inverted fork offering 7.9 inches of travel and Showa Pro-Link rear shock providing 7.5 inches.
The seat height is 33.7 inches, and Honda offers an available 32.6-inch accessory seat. It has 8.3 inches of clearance, a 4.5-gallon fuel tank, and a curb weight of 459 lb.
The Transalp has a 5.0-inch full-color LCD display with four display options, self-canceling turnsignals, and a USB-C port under the passenger seat. The 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp will be available in October in Matte Black Metallic starting at $9,999.
It’s been a few weeks since our test ride on the 2023 Honda SCL500, and we still have a smile on our face. The SCL500 doesn’t make much power (about 46 hp at the rear wheel) and it doesn’t have any fancy features, and that’s what we love about it. Like the ’60s-era Honda scramblers that inspired the SCL500, it’s a basic, cool-looking runabout that is ideal for cruising around town or taking short jaunts on backroads. Its simplicity is its virtue. Just pure, uncomplicated fun.
Watch the video to see the 2023 Honda SCL500 in action and read our full review.
We were honored to attend the grand opening of the American Honda Collection Hall, a 20,000-square-foot museum dedicated to Honda’s rich history in the United States. It is serves as an extension of the massive, multistory Honda Collection Hall located on the grounds of the Twin Ring Motegi racetrack in Tochigi, Japan. American Honda’s press release below provides more details, including how the public can visit the museum. Scroll down to see photos of all 20 iconic motorcycles currently on display in the hall. –Ed.
The new American Honda Collection Hall officially opened its doors on Sept. 12, 2023, in Southern California. The hall offers visitors a glimpse of more than 60 historic and significant Honda and Acura automobiles, motorcycles, power equipment, race machines, engines, and concept models, as well as images, graphics, and video presentations. The products on display represent the more than six decades since American Honda Motor Co., Inc. was established in 1959 as the first Honda company outside of Japan.
Community leaders joined Honda officials, associates, and retirees for the grand opening, celebrating the new 20,000-square-foot display connected to the main lobby of American Honda headquarters in Torrance, California.
“Our new American Honda Collection Hall reflects the important connection between the dreams and passion of Honda associates and the joy experienced by customers who love their Honda products and racing fans thrilled by our checkered flag successes,” said Noriya Kaihara, President & CEO and director of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief officer of Regional Operations (North America). “Everyone at Honda is honored to share the expressions of our history in America that are on display in the form of products and technology that have helped move people and society forward.”
Open to the public free of charge during scheduled public “Cars, Bikes & Coffee” events, the American Honda Collection Hall pays tribute to Honda’s unique contributions to American’s lives and highlights significant milestones in the history of Honda in the U.S.
Some examples of products currently on display:
Motorcycles at American Honda Collection Hall:
1962 Honda 50/Super Cub – One of the first three models Honda sold in the U.S. The Super Cub is now the overall bestselling vehicle globally with over 100 million sold to date.
1970 Honda CB750 – Widely considered the first superbike and called “the Motorcycle of the Century” by Motorcyclist magazine.
1973 Honda CR250 Elsinore – Honda’s first production motocross motorcycle and the first product Honda manufactured in the U.S., named after the famous Elsinore Grand Prix.
1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing – Redefined long distance touring motorcycles with a revolutionary horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine.
1981 Honda CBX1000 Super Sport – Honda’s first motorcycle with over 100 hp, powered by a 1000cc 6-cylinder engine.
1983 Honda VF750F – The revolutionary VF750F used a liquid-cooled DOHC V4 engine and a stiff square-tube frame that also helped it dominate superbike racing in the mid ‘80s.
1990 Honda VFR750R/RC30 – A homologation special created for competition in the World Superbike Championship.
1992 Honda NR750 – The most technically advanced motorcycle at the time, iconic for its oval-piston engine design and other innovations.
2004 Honda RVT1000R/RC51 – A street version of Honda’s championship winning V-twin superbike.
(Scroll down to see more motorcycles in the American Honda Collection Hall.)
Cars:
1965 Honda N600 Coupe – The first Honda automobile sold in the U.S. used an air-cooled 600cc 2-cylinder engine and retailed for just $1,395.
1975 Honda Civic CVCC Hatchback – The first car to meet the emissions standards of the 1970 U.S. Clean Air Act without the need for a catalytic converter.
1979 Honda Accord CVCC Hatchback – The first Accord debuted in 1976 as a three-door hatchback powered by Honda’s revolutionary Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) 4-cylinder engine.
1985 Honda CRX Si – The first performance Honda Si model sold in America, a sporty 2-seat coupe with Honda’s advanced PGM-FI fuel injection.
1986 Acura Legend – The performance luxury touring sedan that launched the Acura brand alongside the Integra.
1991 Acura NSX supercar – The revolutionary hand-built, exotic mid-engine sports car that showcased Honda’s technical prowess.
1997 Honda CR-V – Honda’s first in-house SUV helped establish a new breed of compact sport utility vehicle with car-like ride and handling.
2006 Honda Insight – Introduced in 2000, Insight was the first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid passenger vehicle sold in the U.S.
Power Equipment:
1964 Honda CB30 Marine Outboard Engine – Honda’s first outboard marine engine featured a revolutionary four-stroke design.
1965 Honda E300 Generator – The first generator to combine 300-watt output with quiet and easy-to-use operation in a compact enclosure that could be carried with one hand.
2023 Honda GF5 Marine Outboard Engine – Compact and lightweight portable outboard engine provides a complete performance package for small boats and dinghies.
Racecars:
1992 Acura Spice GTP-Lights – Powered by a modified Acura NSX V6 engine, carried veteran driver Parker Johnstone to the Drivers’ championship in the IMSA Camel GT Lights series.
1996 Reynard 961-031 Indy Car – Honda/Reynard driven by Indy Car Drivers’ Champion Jimmy Vasser and Rookie of the Year Alex Zanardi.
1997 Acura Integra Realtime – RealTime Racing and the Acura Integra Type R forged a race-winning record that remained unbroken after nearly two decades.
The display at the American Honda Collection Hall will be updated several times a year to showcase different products and themes.
The Collection will serve as an educational and cultural hub for the Southern California community. Honda will begin hosting regular “Cars, Bikes & Coffee” events at its Torrance campus on the third Saturday of every other month, with attendees welcome to tour the American Honda Collection Hall.
The inaugural event will take place Saturday, October 21, and will include special activities, such as giveaways, special displays, vendors, food trucks, music and more. All interesting automobiles and motorcycles from all manufacturers and eras are welcome for attendees to display. To learn more about the Collection Hall and event information, visit HondaCollectionHall.com.
Public “Cars, Bikes & Coffee” Event Schedule
Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 20, 2024, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 15, 2024, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
More Motorcycles on Display at American Honda Collection Hall
Scramblers had their heyday during the ’60s, which was before my time, but I’m a big fan of their spirit and style. They embody a carefree attitude and the freedom to go wherever, as well as a simplicity not offered by many modern, hyper-focused bikes. The best word to describe the new 2023 Honda SCL500 is “playful.” It blends cool retro style, a user-friendly engine and chassis, and a budget-friendly price.
Scramblers are perfect for Ventura, California, the coastal surf town that I call home, and that’s exactly where Honda hosted its press launch for the SCL500. A lightweight, no-frills motorcycle is great for bopping around city streets, cruising up the coast, exploring backroads, and even getting a little frisky in the dirt, though the only time we left the pavement during our test ride was to turn around in dirt pull-outs during photo stops.
Inspiration for the SCL500 comes from Honda’s own back catalog, namely the 250cc CL72 from 1962-65 and the 305cc CL77 from 1965-67. Like the SCL500, these early scramblers were based on streetbikes, and all three models share common styling elements: fork gaiters, knee pads on the gas tank, bench seats, high-routed exhausts, and twin rear shocks.
Another thing the SCL500 has in common with those early CLs is a parallel-Twin engine, though the older versions were air-cooled while the modern one has a radiator. The SCL’s 471cc Twin is a versatile mill that’s also found in the CBR500R sportbike, CB500F naked bike, CB500X adventure bike, and Rebel 500 cruiser. (The last time we put any of these bikes on the dyno was 2017. The CB500F made 46 hp and 31 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel, and the Rebel 500 made 41 hp and 30 lb-ft.)
As much as I appreciate high-tech features on many of today’s motorcycles, there’s something to be said for a bike with nothing to figure out. Swing a leg over the SCL500, thumb the starter button, drop it into gear, and then just ride. Throttle response is user-friendly, power delivery is linear, and the slip-assist clutch makes gear changes effortless. The engine is smooth and doesn’t vibrate much, nor does it radiate excess heat. But it doesn’t exude much character either.
A sturdy tubular-steel trellis frame holds everything together, and the bike, which has a narrow 3.2-gal. tank, is slender between the knees. The SCL500’s suspension, a nonadjustable 41mm fork and dual shocks with two-step preload adjustment, has 5.3/5.7 inches of front/rear travel, which is more generous than its adventure-ish CB500X stablemate (4.7/5.5 inches).
For a sub-$7,000 bike, the ride is surprisingly plush, though the suspension’s softness leads to some fork dive during braking and seesawing over big bumps. More rebound damping would be nice, at least for a 200-lb galoot like me.
The SCL500 rolls on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast wheels shared with the CB500X, and the SCL is shod with Dunlop Mixtour block-tread tires that provide reasonably good grip and handling. ABS is standard, and there are single-disc Nissin brakes front and rear, with a 2-pot caliper pinching a 310mm disc in front and a 1-pot caliper slowing a 240mm disc out back. The brakes don’t offer much power or feel, but they’re perfectly fine for riders who are newer, lighter, or less aggressive than I am.
The SCL500’s chassis geometry favors stability over agility, which further adds to the bike’s approachability. But its lightness (just 419 lb ready to ride), the width of its handlebar, and the narrowness of its tires (110/80-19 front, 150/70-17 rear) mean that the SCL can be tossed around like a ragdoll.
With my 34-inch inseam, I was a little folded up on the SCL500 with its low 31.1-inch seat height and high footpegs. The cleated footpegs have vibration-damping rubber inserts that can be removed to add a skosh more legroom, but the better option for me was the accessory tall seat, which adds another inch of foam for more height and support. At $64.95, it’s reasonably priced, though it only comes in brown.
The SCL500 is the kind of bike that lends itself to customization. In addition to the tall seat, other factory accessories include a headlight visor, a high front fender, handguards, a number plate-style rear side cover, rally footpegs, a center tank pad, a 14-liter left-side soft saddlebag, a rear carrier, a 38-liter top case, heated grips, and a 12V socket. Vance & Hines also offers a high-output slip-on exhaust that is compliant in all 50 states.
Other than limited legroom for my frame, my only real complaint about the SCL500 is its instrumentation. It has a single round instrument panel that’s light-on-black LCD. Available features includes a clock, a gear position indicator, a speedometer, a fuel gauge, and multifunction display that can be scrolled through for different info (odometer, tripmeter A/B, average mpg A/B, instant mpg, and reserve fuel tripmeter). The instrument panel lacks a tachometer, it’s difficult read in bright sunlight, and it’s all but useless when wearing polarized sunglasses. For a retro bike like this, an analog speedometer with an inset multifunction display would be sweet.
After logging just over 100 miles in and around Ventura, mostly on backroads where I did my best to wring the SCL’s neck, the bike’s fuel economy reading was 60.6 mpg. That translates to 194 miles of range, which would be even higher for a typical owner who cruises around or commutes in a less caffeinated, type-A state of mind.
All in all, the Honda SCL500 is a helluva lot of fun, and in Candy Orange, it turns a lot of heads (a more subdued Matte Laurel Green Metallic color option is also available).