GRAVEL MODE is actually GREAT on the Honda XL750 Transalp 

@outdoor_wanderer commented that there will soon be a dongle to save the abs and tc settings in user, Here is the link: www.lskelectronics.com/store/Honda-XL750-Transalp-Off-Road-Dongle-p688645581

You are so right. "Gravel" mode is perfect for people who are scared of offroad. If you are experienced with offroading, you should be in "User" mode.

I started riding dirt bikes from 13 to 18 and then duel sport for a decade or so and then finally road only bikes. So my journey is the opposite way to yours, I've never dragged a knee! I bought the TA to get back to the dirt, it's great, just slow down and it all works. Momentum is your friend. I use "user" mode off road, max power, max engine brake, ABS off (rear) and I manually turn off the TC which is a bit of a nuisance but no biggie. With regard to ADV bikes, firstly if you are doing long road miles, then, right off the bat, your gearing sucks for off road. Likely your tyres suck too. So the only thing left to do is slow down for tricky work, steep, rocks, mud, most ADV bikes are a tough gig. Enjoying your videos.

What a refreshing real life video … thank you

I was in the same boat with my TA. I recommend you ride with people that are better than you. You’ll get better the more exposure you get. Eventually you’ll see why people turn of traction control and rear abs. But most important part is exposure. Nothing wrong with gravel mode while you get comfortable. Keep riding! Love your videos

Nice work mate, I took it out with Honda for some trials. Gonna take it out for first real hardcore dirt in two weeks.

There is no way to turn off the front ABS. Off road mode is still keeping the ABS on back wheel but not that invasive. If you get to a big downhill with loose gravel or rocks you will notice it. And you will notice TC on a loose rock uphill when the bike will not go further uphill because the ECU is cutting the power. But you are right it is with more practice that you notice what the bike is doing. And there is a company that has preorder for a offroad dongle.LKS Electronics.

Is it an untethered airbag on you? I recently flew off my transalp in a helite riding some sand, unfortunately forgot a gorpo at home, would have been a nice video :) me and the guy behind are still unsure wether the airbar engaged in midflight or when I hit the ground. I was obviously occupied with trying to survive and the guy behind - not to roll me over :) but eventually all went well the bike was saved by only lower hepco and becker crash guards, I did not have a handguards at the moment. And I was lucky to peacefully land on the grass. Nice glasses btw :) better do offroad with some buddy for safety

Great video , as a transalp owner with previous extensive off road experience , haven’t tried off road on this until I get radiator guard bash plate crash bars ect . Does anyone know how long the Stock Karoo OEM tyres will last if only used on road at moderate speeds? Currently have 7300kms tyres look ok .

Gravel mode is crap. It's parameters are set way too low. Riding on dirt is a different animal. It requires a different technique. The TC cuts in and immediately pushes the front. Not ideal on dirt. I'd encourage you to do a little rider training before that TC sends you gardening.