2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp vs 1989 BMW R 65
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | Orange, blue, red, gray | - |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 177 mm | - |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 7.0 inches | - |
| Seat Height | 841 mm / 33.1 in. | - |
| Wheelbase | 1,515 mm / 59.6 in. | - |
| Height | 2,250 mm / 88.6 in. | - |
| Length | 2,250 mm / 88.6 in. | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | 218 kg / 480.6 lbs | - |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.50 litres / 4.62 gallons | 22.00 litres / 5.81 gallons |
| Wet Weight | - | 205.0 kg / 451.9 lbs |
| Performance |
| Top Speed | - | 147.0 km/h / 91.3 mph |
| Max Torque | 60.00 | - |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.2712 HP/kg | - |
| Engine |
| Stroke | 4 | 4 |
| Fuel Control | SOHC | OHV |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 3.2 x 2.6 inches | 3.2 x 2.4 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 81.0 x 66.0 mm | 82.0 x 61.5 mm |
| Engine Type | V2 | Two cylinder boxer |
| Displacement (ci) | 41.51 cubic inches | 39.60 cubic inches |
| Displacement (cc) | 680.20 cc | 649.00 cc |
| Fuel System | Injection. PGM-FI electronic fuel injection | - |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Ignition | Digital transistorised with electronic advance | - |
| Starter | Electric | - |
| Valve System | 4 | 2 |
| Drivetrain |
| Final Drive | Chain | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Chassis |
| Suspension - Front | 41 mm leading-axle telescopic fork,177 mm axle travel | - |
| Suspension - Rear | Pro-Link with adjustable compression damping, 173 mm axle travel | - |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) | 240 mm | - |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) | 9.4 inches | - |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) | 256 mm | - |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) | 10.1 inches | - |
| Brakes - Front | Double disc | Single disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc | Expanding brake |
| Tyres - Front | 100/90-R19 | 90/90-18 |
| Tyres - Rear | 130/80-R17 | 120/90-18 |
Verdict
🏆
Winner on specs
2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp
The 2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp edges out the 1989 BMW R 65 thanks to its fuel injection and dual front discs. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.
Key Differences
2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp - Advantages
- 🔧Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.
- 💿Dual front discs: Greater stopping power and better heat management under hard braking.
1989 BMW R 65 - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 1989 BMW R 65 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp vs 1989 BMW R 65 - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp and 1989 BMW R 65?
The 2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp uses V2, while the 1989 BMW R 65 is powered by Two cylinder boxer.
Which should I buy, the 2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp or the 1989 BMW R 65?
Both are strong choices. The 2009 Honda XL 700V Transalp has the edge in fuel injection and dual front discs, while the 1989 BMW R 65 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.