The Honda Africa Twin has made a significant impact in the adventure motorcycle market. Since its reinvention in 2016, Honda has consistently updated its models, incorporating advanced technology and features to stay ahead of ADV trends. This article dives deep into the features, performance, and overall riding experience of the Africa Twin, providing valuable insights for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike.
First Impressions
The Africa Twin makes a strong first impression with its rugged aesthetics. The front lights exude a serious, business-ready look, while the overall proportions resemble an overgrown dirt bike eager for adventure. However, the initial engine sound can be surprising. Instead of the expected buttery smooth hum, it produces a loud clattering, more akin to a single-pot dirt bike. The cockpit, with its numerous switches, buttons, and dual screens, may initially feel cluttered, but familiarity grows with use.
Engine and Performance
The 1084cc parallel-twin engine delivers 100 horsepower and 76 lb-ft of torque. While these figures might seem modest compared to competitors like the Ducati Multistrada V4 S, the Africa Twin provides ample power for most riding conditions. The engine offers consistent power delivery from idle to the 8000rpm redline, making it easy to modulate the throttle both on and off-road. The 270-degree firing order contributes to a V-twin-like power feel, enhancing traction and control.
According to other reports, the Africa Twin has roughly 94 horsepower, so it is not the most powerful ADV bike you can buy. It’s quite a way off of the 150 hp of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure but it's right in the mix with the 1050 and 1090 (maybe) Adventures and just a bit more than the 800cc Triumph Tiger XC.
On the road, the 1000L has more than enough power to deal with anything you’ll encounter. Like all 270-degree twins it’s hard to dislike the motor; the stock pipe makes a fruity sound and the temperature bars never budge. Crossplane they call it (Yamaha’s ‘CP2’) - it’s good for traction and it feels and sounds like a Ducati.
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Yamaha Tenere 700 vs Honda Africa Twin - On and Off Road Comparison Test
Transmission and Riding Modes
The Africa Twin offers multiple riding modes to suit various conditions. These include Tour, Urban, Gravel, and Off-road, each with tailored levels of electronic intervention. Riders can also customize power, ABS, traction control, engine braking, and shifting aggressiveness using the User mode. The optional Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) provides automatic shifting capabilities, which can be particularly useful for touring and off-road riding.
The four preset modes are Tour, Urban, Gravel, and Off-road. Each mode has appropriate levels of electronic intervention, and allows for easy switching in different riding conditions. The Africa Twin I tested has the dual clutch transmission (DCT, an $800 option). Love it or not, it works very well.
DCT is essentially an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch system that operates two overlapping clutches simultaneously-one clutch manages startup, first, third and fifth gears, while the second handles second, fourth and sixth gears. During operation, the system pre-selects the upcoming gear for shifting through the disengaged clutch. Then, the clutches switch roles, and power is transferred.
DCT Modes:
- Drive: Straightforward and easy to use.
- Sport: Offers higher rev levels between shifts and quicker downshifts.
- Manual: Allows riders to shift gears manually using triggers on the controls.
Handling and Suspension
The Africa Twin's handling is a standout feature, balancing stability and nimbleness. The adjustable Showa suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride. While the bike isn't as quick in transitions as some sportier models, it maintains composure and inspires confidence in various riding conditions.
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One good thing about spending big on a modern, top-of-the-range adv is you get decent suspension. I didn’t meddle with it much off-road as both ends felt good enough. It’s only when you go fast off road that limitations become apparent, and I wasn’t going to be doing that.
The Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (EERA) suspension system is an Adventure Sports exclusive in the Africa Twin range. And much like DCT previously mentioned, it fits on the big-daddy adventure touring weapon perfectly. While the overall travel is down a bit from the standard AT’s, this thing still has plenty of travel for all road and light off-road use. The EERA system takes ride diagnostic information from the bike’s ECU, IMU and a stroke sensor in the suspension itself to calculate damping changes in about 15 milliseconds.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Africa Twin offers a comfortable riding experience, especially for long journeys. The bike's ergonomics are well-suited for various rider sizes, with a height-adjustable seat and a natural reach to the handlebars. The seat provides a good balance of firmness and support, while the narrow tank enhances comfort whether sitting or standing.
The good thing about a big bike is that for once I don’t feel cramped. Everything is a natural distance away for my size and the excess of power does have a certain relaxing effect. It wasn’t until I got to the turn-around point 50 miles from the Mauritanian border (and following a quick ‘how-do-you…’ youtube vid) that I finally managed to lower the saddle. I’ve only just realised just how tall the AT is at 900mm or 35.4″ - a bit much for a bike this heavy.
Sat down, the 30mm bar risers felt little different from stock, but enabled standing without stooping and doing so - often on the rod to give the backside an airing -the bike felt comfortable, just like the oversized trail bike it is.
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Off-Road Capabilities
The Africa Twin truly shines off-road, thanks to its well-tuned suspension, 21-inch front wheel, and manageable power delivery. While its weight can be a factor in challenging terrain, the bike maintains composure and inspires confidence. Turning off ABS (allowing the rear wheel to work without it but the front still does) was obviously the best way to go.
However they managed it, the AT feels like a giant trail bike; it must be down to the scaled-up triangle of the ‘bars, pegs and seat, plus the 21-inch wheel’s rake and trail. Whatever, once you turn onto the dirt the AT tracks naturally for what it is, so you don’t give it a moment’s thought providing the trail is easy. But you could say the same for a any bike.
The Africa Twin's claim to fame is its capability off-road. As far as I can tell, the DCT is certainly an awesome feature that - once you get used to it - makes the riding experience a bit more... simple. It takes the mundane task of shifting out of the equation and allows you to enjoy the ride, soak up the scenery, and focus on the road ahead.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy varies depending on the riding mode and conditions. In 'Gravel' mode, the Africa Twin achieves approximately 19.8kpl (19.1 indicated), while in 'Tour' mode, it can reach 22.7kpl (21.5 indicated). The 18.9-liter fuel tank provides a potential range of around 430km in Tour mode.
Cruising along at a very modest 105kph/65mph - in other words, with a barely open throttle:• ‘Gravel’ mode (‘P3’). True 19.8kpl (19.1 indicated). Potential true range: 374km/232 miles• ‘Tour’ mode (‘P1’): true 22.7 (ind: 21.5). In P1 Tour the engine felt noticeably smoother and crisper and what’s more, the range jumped to nearly 430km which was good to know.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent off-road capabilities | Complex dash interface |
| Comfortable for long-distance touring | Heated grips placement can be problematic |
| Advanced technology and riding modes | Weight can be a factor in challenging terrain |
| Reliable and durable | Power output is lower compared to some competitors |
