Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Which Bike?
Yam xtz 750 super tenere or Honda xlv750 AT? Yam xtz 750 super tenere or Honda xlv750 AT?
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
Photo by Alessio Corradini, on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia, of two locals

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Alessio Corradini,
on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia,
of two locals



Like Tree1Likes

Reply
Page 1 of 3 1 23
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 13 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Oslo, Norway
Posts: 521
Yam xtz 750 super tenere or Honda xlv750 AT?
Oh, don't you just love to read comparisons on "which bike"? ;-)

Anyway: My latest sweet itch is choosing between a 91 or 92 Yamaha XTZ 750 Super Tenere or a Honda XLV 750 Africa Twin 92 or 93 model.

The one I finally choose is going to be the bike I use when I for example tour Iceland with one of my kids riding pillion (my wife bringing the other kid on her F650 Funduro), no serious off-roading (obviously), some asphalt touring in Ireland and stuff, and maybe a trip to Morocco in a couple of years time.

Which one, which one? (No, not BMW this time - just one of the two brands mentioned.)

Take care out there!

Kind regards
Indu
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 13 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Porto, Portugal
Posts: 185
Ok so i'm no expert on either but being an XTZ660 rider I supprisingly would say go for the Africa Twin...

Biggest reason -Spares must be easier to get hold of, the XTZ750s are so few and far between that I would expect you to have to wait for all parts to be delivered at least theer are loads more ATs on the road...

Don't get me wrong I love MY XTZ660 but since you haven't offered that as a choice then AT - I we can change your mind the 660 is a great bike, ideal for one but no problems doing 2, easy to get parts and it's simple to work on... with all the characteristics of the other 2 in fairings and comfort.... think on it....

Ciao, Tony.
__________________
Tony Robson
I'll try anything once, twice if it didn't kill me!
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 13 Jan 2004
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Norway
Posts: 70
Hi, I would go for the Africa Twin! In Norway there are many ATs, so the price are good. Easy to get parts for also.. but change the seat, its not that good on longer tripps..

Når skal du til Island?? Hadet gøy!
-yngve-
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 13 Jan 2004
chris's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: GOC
Posts: 3,335
AT
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 13 Jan 2004
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Central Portugal
Posts: 315
Africa Twin for the above reasons plus build quality,reliabilty and the smooth v-twin engine.
__________________
\"Bon Chance\"
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 13 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Oslo, Norway
Posts: 521
I see, I see. Good arguments for the AT so far. No, thumpers are out, Tony, but thanks anyway. I know several of you 660 owners are raving about your bikes, and probably for good reasons. I choose twin for comfort - a smoother ride, also according to mcdarbyfeast - although I know the Thumperistas might prove me wrong. Parts availability seems like a good point, of course.

Right. I'll wait for others who might have a comment on the issue before deciding, but it seems like the AT takes it all.

Yngve: Jeg reiser til Island først neste år. Kona må ta lappen og kjøre seg inn på Funduroen i år. Hvor holder du til i verden?

Kind regards
Indu
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 14 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Perth
Posts: 263
hello

I wouldn't go near an xtz750, all Ive heard about them is bad news, I don't know anyone who Ive asked about them to reccommend one. I am also looking for a simular bike, AT or BMWGS series, I ruled out the yamaha due to build quality etc.. however they are considerably cheaper and you would get parts within 2 days anywhere in europe but the AT is good and is my first choice with BMW coming in second only because they need a bit more looking after.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 14 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: the netherlands
Posts: 266
Hello,

Met the brothers orr in Africa who rode down on XTZ 750's, the frame did not last... Drop them an email for some great stories.

http://www.brothersorr.com/transafrica/home/home.htm

Then again i drove a NX650 down, and errrhhh the frame did crack but only the rear subframe.. so thats ok.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 14 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: Padova Italy
Posts: 130
Here in Italy absolutely no problem for XTZ 750 spares ..it had its problems (rectifier) like also Africa Twins (Fuel pump) AT's are reputed as more sturdy and more stable on road , but is 25% less powerful than XTZ so the difference it's relative ... both needs serious streghtening work for raid/offroad use...but XTZ is more protected (better bashplate)

Since here the used AT are really overpriced (even the double of an XTZ for same conditions) I would surely go for a XTZ.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 14 Jan 2004
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Norway
Posts: 68
Hello

Be aware that there was a model shift for the AT between 92 and 93. From rd04 to rd07 there is quite a few differences, worth taking in consideration. Send me an mail if you have questions, email in my profile.

One last important notice!!
There have been some cases of broken frame on the first year of rd07 (93)in germany.

Frode

Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 15 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: bizovac, croatia
Posts: 240
Even I ride later model of XTZ 660, dont think much, choose Africa Twin. It is true that AT is slightly underpowered for V-twin 750 ccm engine, but smooth runing and reasonale torque make it better option that revvy XTZ 750, which I owned previously. XTZ 750 has lots of power but also take a lot of fuel, and my overall impresions are that AT offers more.
Regards,
AnteK
__________________
AnteK
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 15 Jan 2004
POB/London's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: London / IOW
Posts: 486
AT, definitely.

More aftermarket parts
More comfortable on asphalt & better off
More reliable - has the magic Hona badge
Engine understressed
Lots about - you'll find a good one
Build quality is brilliant

Everyone who has a SuperTen has one because they couldn't afford an AT, in my experience.


I rode one with 128,000 miles on it the other day and it felt like new. Amazing.
__________________
=-=-= ON THE EDGE! =-=-=
My XR650L Pan-Med Expedition Site!

Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 16 Jan 2004
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Oslo, Norway
Posts: 521
Thank you all for your replies. It seems to me that the AT is the way to go (or ride?), even if giorgioXT makes a good point regarding the XTZ. And thanks for pointing out the model shift issue, Frode. Wasn't it also a different and somewhat higher bhp output in the earlier 750 models (91-93?)than in later ones?

Again: Thank you all. AT it is for me, then.

Ride safe!
Regards
Indu
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 29 Jan 2004
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Norway
Posts: 68
If i'm not wrong about bhp
RD03 58 bhp 1988-1989
RD04 59 bhp 1990-1992
RD07 62 bhp 1993-1995
RD07/a 60 bhp 1996-2003

And as i see it:

RD04
+ Suspension-better and rebuildable
+ Stronger frame
+ Higher
+ Fuel light

- Weight
- Fuel economy
- Airfilter

RD07
+ Lower center of gravity
+ Airfilter
+ Lighter

- Suspension not rebuildable
- Fuel pump
- No warning light for low fuel

RD07/a
As RD07 but with even cheaper suspension parts with no adjusment besides spring preload on the back.

RD07 and up is equiped with safty rims that makes roadeside repair more difficoult.But may save your ass when having a puncture, loaded up with passenger and equipment.



[This message has been edited by frnas (edited 29 January 2004).]
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 26 Oct 2005
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Margaret River, WA, Australia
Posts: 5
Some confusion here... the XLV750 is Honda's offroad shaft drive (1985 and 1986). Africa Twins are all chain-drive XRV650s and XRV750s. All great bikes, mind you.

Just rode my 1990 AT 12,000 km through Europe. No problems. My 1992 AT has now done 70,000 km around Oz and still feels like a new bike.

My four Honda V-Twins (XLV750, XRV600, XRV750, XRV750) have done a total 250,000 km without any major problems. Sold the 1990 XRV750 to a young bloke in Holland... and he's rapt. He rode a similar AT around NZ
and crossed Oz the hard way, without any problems.

Africa Twins rule. OK?

Paul



------------------
ozcan
__________________
ozcan
Reply With Quote
Reply
Page 1 of 3 1 23

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-15
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 02:08.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top