Honda XL 650 Transalp vs Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin (2003)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda XL 650 Transalpstacks up against the Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda XL 650 TransalpHonda XRV 650 Africa Twin
Model year20031989
Price
Engine647 cc647 cc
Horsepower53 hp50 hp
Torque55 Nm
Weight191 kg
Seat height33 mm
Fuel capacity5.0 L6.6 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed5-speed
Front brakesDouble discSingle disc
Rear brakesSingle discSingle disc
Tires90/90-21 / 120/90-17 90/90-21 / 130/90-17

Honda XL 650 Transalp vs Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda XL 650 Transalp and the Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda XL 650 Transalp brings 53 hp in a 191 kg package, while the Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin counters with 50 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: