Honda Africa Twin details unveiled
Details of Honda Motorcycle’s highly anticipated CRF1000L Africa Twin have been released.
The 1000cc adventure motorcycle is tipped to set a new benchmark in the adventure market when it goes on sale in Australia in 3 models – Standard, ABS and ABS-DCT.
Honda’s newest dual-purpose motorcycle is based on its hugely successful predecessors, which helped set the performance standard for large capacity adventure motorcycles, both on and off road.
At the heart of the new thrill-seeking model, the 1000cc parallel twin engine delivers impressive power and torque. The strong power output promises instant response right throughout the rev range, accompanied by a satisfying, throaty growl. A 270-degree crank shaft provides a distinct character to the power delivery and excellent feel for rear wheel traction.
The lightweight and robust six-speed manual gearbox utilises the shift-cam design from the CRF250R/450R models, with the option of Honda’s innovative Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) technology for adventure.
The DCT features the standard manual mode, allowing the rider to shift gears through a handlebar trigger, as well as two automatic modes. ‘D’ mode offers a fantastic balance of fuel economy and comfort cruising. ‘S’ mode has been revised to give extra levels of sports performance, with three different shift patterns to choose from: S1, S2 and S3.
In the spirit of adventure, the DCT technology has also been customised for the Africa Twin, with a ‘G’ switch on the right side of the instrument panel improving traction and machine control by reducing clutch slip. The new system also features incline detection, which adapts the gear shift pattern to match to the grade of incline, aiding overall control.
Ready to tackle any conditions on or off-road, the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system offers three levels of control, while the rider is also able to turn off the ABS system for the rear wheel.
The compact and lightweight chassis ticks all the boxes with outstanding off-road performance, touring comfort plus agile handling for everyday use. The steel semi-double cradle frame provides the perfect balance of high-speed stability, off-road agility and sheer strength.
The CRF1000L Africa Twin offers practical bodywork design available in three colour options. The standard model is available in Sliver and the ABS models come in CRF Rally or Tricolour.
Honda’s all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin remains true to the go-anywhere ability, rugged durability, easy-handling and all-day riding comfort that its predecessors used to define the adventure motorcycling segment, plus adds the expertise and learnings from Honda’s exploits on and off the road over the last decade.
One of motorcycling’s most celebrated and evocative names, the Honda Africa Twin, perfectly encapsulates the adventure motorcycle ethos and will no doubt prove an ideal and versatile option for Australia’s rugged environment.
