CFMOTO are really starting to stand out in 2024, with their 450MT flying off showroom floors thanks to glowing reviews. But how does their bigger sibling, the 800MT, fare against the established and well-respected Honda Transalp? Let’s find out if CFMOTO’s momentum carries over to this larger displacement category.
Both bikes are built for adventure, but when you look closely, the CFMOTO 800MT often comes out on top. Let’s see why it might be the perfect ride for your next journey.
Engine Performance
The core of any adventure bike is its engine, and this is where the CFMOTO 800MT takes a significant lead:
CFMOTO 800MT:
- Engine: 799cc parallel-twin
- Power: 95 hp (70 kW) at 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 77 Nm at 7,500 rpm
Honda Transalp 750:
- Engine: 755cc parallel-twin
- Power: 90.5 hp (67.5 kW) at 9,500 rpm
- Torque: 75 Nm at 7,250 rpm
While the numbers might seem close, the real-world implications are significant. The CFMOTO’s extra displacement and power translate to:
- More confident highway passing, especially when fully loaded with luggage and a passenger
- Easier hill climbs on challenging off-road terrain
- A more relaxed riding experience at cruising speeds, with less strain on the engine
The CFMOTO’s engine, derived from KTM’s proven 790 platform, offers a broader powerband that adventure riders will appreciate in diverse scenarios. Whether you’re navigating through city traffic, cruising on the open road, or tackling steep off-road inclines, the 800MT’s power plant adapts seamlessly, providing a more versatile and enjoyable ride.
Suspension and Handling
Both bikes offer capable suspension setups, the Transalp offering a better set-up for those spending more time off-road, while the CFMOTO 800MT edges ahead with its more advanced components for those bridging rougher terrain with stints on the road:
CFMOTO 800MT:
- Front: KYB 43mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable, 160mm travel
- Rear: KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, 150mm travel
Honda Transalp 750:
- Front: Showa 43mm SFF-CA fork, 200mm travel
- Rear: Pro-Link system with Showa shock, 190mm travel
The CFMOTO’s fully adjustable suspension offers riders:
- The ability to fine-tune the setup for different terrains and riding styles
- Better handling when fully loaded, as preload can be easily adjusted
- Improved comfort on long rides, as damping can be tailored to road conditions
While the Honda offers more travel, which can be beneficial in extreme off-road scenarios, the CFMOTO’s adjustability gives it an edge in versatility. Riders can easily switch from a plush setting for motorway comfort to a firmer setup for spirited off-road riding, all without tools.
Technology and Features
The tech features of an adventure bike can significantly enhance the riding experience. Here’s where the CFMOTO 800MT really shines:
CFMOTO 800MT:
- 7-inch TFT colour display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Cruise control
- Bi-directional quickshifter
Honda Transalp 750:
- 5-inch TFT colour display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Apple CarPlay (with optional headset)
- Cruise control (optional)
The CFMOTO’s larger display and standard features like tire pressure monitoring and a quickshifter offer tangible benefits:
- Easier readability of crucial information, especially in varying light conditions
- Enhanced safety with real-time tire pressure data
- Smoother gear changes both on and off-road, reducing fatigue on long rides
While Honda’s Apple CarPlay integration is impressive, it requires an additional Bluetooth headset, whereas the CFMOTO’s navigation works right out of the box.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Adventure riding often means long days in the saddle, tackling a variety of terrains. Both bikes prioritise rider comfort, but the CFMOTO 800MT offers some advantages:
CFMOTO 800MT:
- Seat height: 825mm
- Fuel capacity: 19 litres
- Adjustable windscreen
- Heated grips (standard on some models)
Honda Transalp 750:
- Seat height: 850mm
- Fuel capacity: 16.9 litres
- Fixed windscreen
- Heated grips (optional)
The CFMOTO’s lower seat height means:
- Easier manoeuvrability at low speeds and when stopped
- More confidence for shorter riders
The larger fuel tank on the CFMOTO translates to:
- Longer range between fill-ups, crucial for remote adventure riding
- Less frequent stops on long highway stretches
The adjustable windscreen on the CFMOTO allows riders to:
- Customise wind protection based on riding conditions
- Reduce fatigue on long highway stretches
Value Proposition
Adventure motorcycles often come with premium price tags, but CFMOTO challenges this norm with the 800MT:
CFMOTO 800MT:
- Priced competitively, often significantly less than comparable 800cc adventure bikes
- Comprehensive standard feature set
- Generous 4 Year warranty (check with your local dealer for more information)
Honda Transalp 750:
- Priced in line with other premium mid-size adventure bikes
- Some features (like heated grips and cruise control) are optional extras
The CFMOTO 800MT offers exceptional value, providing features and performance that compete with much more expensive models. This means:
- More budget left over for accessories, gear, or actual adventures
- Access to higher-end features without breaking the bank
The Final Result? The 800MT Takes the Crown
While both the CFMOTO 800MT and Honda Transalp 750 are very capable adventure bikes, the CFMOTO comes out as the more well-rounded and value-packed option for the majority of riders. It offers:
- More power and torque for confident riding in all conditions
- Fully adjustable suspension for a tailored riding experience
- Advanced tech features as standard
- Comfortable ergonomics designed for long-distance touring
- Exceptional value for money
Unless your primary focus is extreme off-road riding where the Honda’s longer suspension travel might give it an edge, the CFMOTO 800MT offers a far more compelling blend of capabilities that make it the smarter choice for a wide range of adventure scenarios.
Ready to experience the CFMOTO difference? Contact DMC Motorcycles or book a test ride below for the 800MT and feel the advantages for yourself. With its combination of performance, features, and value, the CFMOTO 800MT is ready to take your adventures to new heights. How far do you want to go?