honda africa twin tft display brands

In an effort to help existing and potential customers better understand the extensive capabilities of the 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin’s advanced Multi-Information Display (MID), Honda has released a new interactive simulator on its consumer website.

All four CRF1100L Africa Twin versions—the manual and DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) iterations of the standard Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES—are equipped with a 6.5 inch touch-panel TFT LCD Multi-Information Display (MID) and handlebar controls that offer features including Apple CarPlay integration; activation/cancelation of ABS and G-mode; and adjustment of settings for Honda Selective Torque Control (HSTC), wheelie control, riding modes, user mode and—on applicable versions—suspension and DCT; as well as other data like time, speed, etc.

“The electronic technology of the 2020 Africa Twin is amazingly capable, and Honda’s new Multi-Information Display simulator enables customers to more easily get the most out of their machines,” said Chris Cox, Manager of Experiential Marketing & P.R. at American Honda. “We encourage customers—whether they already own an Africa Twin or are in the market for a new adventure bike—to give the tool a try.”

The tool is best experienced on desktop and can be accessed by scrolling down within the website’s Africa Twin section, clicking “Check it out,” selecting the appropriate language and distance units, and clicking “Start.” Users are encouraged to first explore the “Information” and “Navigation” sections, accessed via buttons in the top-righthand corner of the screen, in order to familiarize themselves with the simulator.

The new 2020 Honda Africa Twin, no matter what type of Africa Twin you get, has the 6.5-inch touch-panel TFT LCD Multi-information Display with handlebar controls and features like Apple CarPlay and settings for the ABS, Torque Control, wheelie control and more. To help folks understand what’s what before they get out there knot the real-world,

“The electronic technology of the 2020 Africa Twin is amazingly capable, and Honda’s new Multi-Information Display simulator enables customers to more easily get the most out of their machines,” said Chris Cox, Manager of Experiential Marketing & P.R. at American Honda. “We encourage customers—whether they already own an Africa Twin or are in the market for a new adventure bike—to give the tool a try.”

Honda has posted an online simulator that lets you play with the Africa Twin’s TFT display.   The online simulator offers current or potential future riders the means to introduce themselves to the display’s functions without having to be on or own one of the machines.

Perhaps the online resource is a hidden nod to the complexity that these types of displays bring.  But kudos to Honda.  They are taking the initiative to allow riders to use and understand the system before making an Africa Twin purchase.

The website provides a simulation of the Africa Twin’s TFT display and left and right-hand control switches.  The simulator allows a rider to adjust the multiple settings available on the bike.

Once at the website, you will see a simulated TFT LCD instrument cluster with technical information on the display.  The visitor can customize the readouts with a click of a button on the left-hand control switch.  It’s found on the lower right portion of your monitor.

Unfortunately, there are no detailed instructions on how to use the simulator.  So you’ll have to fiddle a bit with the controls to understand what they do and how to change its settings.  Still, it’s a decent way to get a feel for the display and what it can do for you.

Model updates: A major evolution for Honda’s AfricaTwin Adventure Sports: its sights are now set more firmly than ever on the far horizon, as a comfortable, long-haul, go-anywhere adventure machine. Engine capacity is increased, boosting power and torque, with EURO5 compliance, while weight is reduced by 5kg. A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit now manages riding modes and HSTC as well as three additional systems - Cornering ABS, Wheelie Control, Rear Lift Control, plus new cornering detection functionality on the DCT version. Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™) is also now an option. A full colour 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen incorporates Apple CarPlay®and Bluetooth connectivity. Dual LED headlights feature Daytime Running Lights (DRL) technology and Cornering Lights. Cruise control, heated grips and an ACC charger are also fitted as standard.

It’s been over three decades since the Honda XRV650 Africa Twin first rolled into Europe and while the motorcycle that now bears its name – launched in 2016 as the CRF1000L Africa Twin – was a brand-new motorcycle from the wheels up, it fully inherited the essence and spirit of what made the original so popular.

It was the balance between power and weight that was at the heart of the original bike’s appeal, just as it was for the new model. With its unique, athletic appearance, an enjoyable, usable engine and capable, comfortable chassis, the CRF1000L Africa Twin proved itself a true modern-day all-rounder and has been hugely popular with round-the-world adventurers, around-town commuters and weekend tourers alike.

2018 saw the Africa Twin, in both manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) form, receive Throttle By Wire (TBW) control plus 3 riding modes, expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) options, as well as intake and exhaust development for improved engine response and sound. The platform also expanded: the Africa Twin Adventure Sports – with the same updates but featuring improved wind protection, greater tank range and longer-travel suspension – extended the machine even further into long-range off-road territory.

Building on strong European (and global) demand for both models, with over 87,000 Africa Twins sold worldwide since its 2016 relaunch, 2020 is set to be a landmark year.

The CRF1100L Africa Twin* is comprehensively redrawn with an aggressive, compact rally style and concentrated off-road focus. Meanwhile, the touring comfort, technology and all-round capability of the new CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports are significantly enhanced – with the added option of Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™).

The new CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports shares the frame, engine and riding position of the off-road focussed CRF1100L Africa Twin, but has a role very much of its own: to offer riders real continent-crossing long-haul ability and practicality both on and off-road. This comes in the shape of a larger 24.8L fuel tank, extended wind protection (from both the fairing and fairing side panels), height-adjustable screen, large engine sump guard, aluminium rear carrier plus tubeless wheels and tyres. ACC charger and heated grips are also standard fit.

For optimum suspension damping front and rear the Africa Twin Adventure Sports is also available with Showa EERA™ as an option. Four default modes – SOFT, MID, HARD and OFF-ROAD – cover every type of riding situation, and there’s a USER mode for further fine-tuning. Rear spring preload can also be adjusted while stationary.

Just like the 2020 Africa Twin, its engine produces 7% more peak power and 6% more peak torque and is much stronger everywhere in the rev-range compared to the previous design. It’s also EURO5 compliant.

The frame too has been revised and now features a bolt-on aluminium subframe; the swingarm is aluminium and based on that of the CRF450R. And at the centre of the Africa Twin Adventure Sports, the addition of a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) allows control not only of the 7-level HSTC but also (new for 2020) 3-level Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS (with off-road setting) Rear Lift Control and DCT cornering detection.

Dual LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are highly visible, improving safety, and cruise control is standard-fit. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports also features three-stage Cornering Lights – also managed by the IMU – that automatically adjust the field of illumination depending on the lean angle.

Tailored for control and comfort, the riding position features a slimmer-section seat, which is also set 50mm lower than before. A full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen offers immersive engagement with the machine’s systems (including the Showa EERA™) plus Apple CarPlay® and Bluetooth connectivity.

Designed for the long-haul, the expanded front fairing offers plenty of wind and weather protection, multiplied by the 5-level height adjustable screen. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports now shares its seat height with the Africa Twin at 850-870mm (down considerably from the 900-920mm of the previous model).

The riding triangle is now common with the Africa Twin itself, giving an upright riding position and comfortable control. Large knuckle guards are standard, as are heated grips and ACC charger.

The full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen keeps the rider in control of all of the Africa Twin’s systems and each of the riding modes­ are selected through the top left of the screen. The MID can also be customised to show various levels of information relative to the riding mode chosen, and is easy to use even when wearing gloves.

It also has Apple CarPlay® allowing use of an Apple iPhone® through the touchscreen. Navigation apps can also be accessed and displayed and via a Bluetooth helmet headset calls can be made or received. The iPhone® itself plugs into a USB charging port on the right of the MID. Hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity is also an option for an iPhone® or Android device and all control inputs are made from the left-hand switchgear.

At the very heart of the Africa Twin Adventure Sport’s elevated handling performance is a Bosch MM7.10 six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit tucked away toward the centre of the machine, that measures in real-time roll angle/rate, pitch angle/rate and yaw angle/rate. It manages rear wheel traction via TBW and HSTC, front braking grip through Cornering ABS, front wheel lift through Wheelie Control and also adds Rear Lift Control.

In conjunction with the addition of IMU control for its 2020 evolution the strength and rigidity balance of the steel semi-double cradle frame was completely re-examined by Honda’s development engineers to reinforce its all-round ability on- and off-road.

To tailor damping force front and rear – and spring preload to suit load and riding conditions – Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment is an option from new on the Africa Twin Adventure Sports.

The Africa Twin Adventure Sports is also available with standard Showa suspension. With stroke length of 230mm, the 45mm cartridge-type inverted front fork offers long-travel bump absorption and features revised internal settings to improve all-round performance. Rebound and compression damping are fully adjustable. A cast aluminium top yoke and forged bottom yoke – joined by hollow aluminium stem shaft – clamp the fork legs with two bolts each top and bottom.

The SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin engine’s essential architecture remains unchanged for 2020 but has a larger displacement of 1,084cc, up from 998cc. And as a result peak power goes from 70kW to 75kW @ 7,500rpm with peak torque going from 99Nm to 105Nm @ 6,250rpm. Significantly, the obvious increase in both power and torque makes itself felt from 2,500rpm all the way through to the redline.

As before, the 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval create the engine’s distinctive throb and feel for rear wheel traction. The cylinder head however is completely revised, as is the larger diameter 46mm throttle body; the bore and cylinder pitches are also now aligned to create a smooth air intake profile. The ECU setting is new and the injector angle has been modified to deliver a more direct spray into re-shaped twin-spark combustion chambers.

Honda’s SOHC Unicam valve train is a feature of the MX competition-specification CRF450R and the low-set position of the cast camshaft contributes to the compact nature of the cylinder head. For 2020 the valve timing has been optimised and inlet and exhaust valve lift increased to 10.1mm inlet and 9.3mm exhaust (from 9.2/8.6mm).

The Africa Twin’s engine received the benefits of Throttle By Wire (TBW) control in 2018, allowing much finer management of engine output and character as well as expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for rear tyre grip; for 2020 the system has smartly evolved and now works in conjunction with a six-axis IMU*.

Honda has sold over 100,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F a decade ago in 2009. Testament to its acceptance in the marketplace, during the last financial year, DCT accounted for 48% of European sales on models where DCT was an option.

The result is a consistent, fast and seamless gear change. Furthermore, as the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption of the drive to the rear wheel, any gear change shock and pitching of the machine is minimised, making the change feel direct as well as smooth.

DCT for the Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment, with off-road functionality enhanced by the G switch accessed via the TFT touch screen display. Activating the G switch in any riding mode improves the feel for available traction and machine control by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes.

A new feature for the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports’ DCT system is cornering detection. When the IMU recognises the bike is cornering, the system subtly adjusts the shifting programme for the most natural gear changes.

The range of Honda Genuine Accessories for the Africa Twin Adventure Sports has been expanded with luggage options that includes premium 42L aluminium top box and panniers plus large (58L) plastic top box and panniers, two seat heights (a lower 825-845mm and taller 870-895mm option), screen extender and deflector set, 4.5L tank bag, side tank pads, engine guards, side pipes and LED fog lights and centre stand.

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

Model updates: Honda’s definitive full-size adventurer was comprehensively updated for the 2020 with harder-edged off-road performance from a lighter chassis, slim rally-style bodywork and revised riding position; the newly-EURO5 compliant engine’s capacity was also increased, boosting power and torque. A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit was introduced to manage riding modes and HSTC as well as three additional systems - Cornering ABS, Wheelie Control, Rear Lift Control, plus cornering detection functionality on the DCT version. A new full colour 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen incorporated Apple CarPlay®and Bluetooth connectivity, the new dual LED headlights featured Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and cruise control was fitted as standard.

2021 sees the addition of the much-loved Pearl Glare White Tricolour colour scheme, previously only available on the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports version, for the Africa Twin itself.

It’s been over three decades since the Honda XRV650 Africa Twin first rolled into Europe and while the motorcycle that now bears its name – launched in 2016 as the CRF1000L Africa Twin – was a brand-new machine from the wheels up, it fully inherited the essence and spirit of what made the original so popular.

It was the balance between power and weight that was at the heart of the original bike’s appeal, just as it was for the new model. With its unique, athletic appearance, an enjoyable, usable engine and capable, comfortable chassis, the CRF1000L Africa Twin proved itself a true modern-day all-rounder and has been hugely popular with round-the-world adventurers, around-town commuters and weekend tourers alike.

2018 saw the Africa Twin, in both manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) form, receive Throttle By Wire (TBW) control plus 3 riding modes, expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) options, as well as intake and exhaust development for improved engine response and sound. The platform also expanded: the Africa Twin Adventure Sports – with the same updates but featuring improved wind protection, greater tank range and longer-travel suspension – extended the machine even further into long-range territory.

Building on strong European (and global) demand for both models, with over 87,000 sold worldwide since its 2016 relaunch, 2020 was a landmark year for the evolution of the Africa Twin. The touring comfort, technology and ability of the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports* were further enhanced – adding the option of Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (SHOWA EERA™). Meanwhile, the CRF1100L Africa Twin itself was comprehensively redrawn with an aggressive, compact rally style and even sharper off-road focus. Packing more power and torque, it was also significantly lighter – in keeping with the first principles set out all those years ago.

The 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin was given a sharply-renewed focus on off-road core ability, that brought with it the look – and feel – of a true rally machine. Smaller, slimmer and 4kg lighter than the previous model, it offered even more athletic performance, thanks also to changes to the engine, which produced 7% more peak power, 6% more peak torque and much greater strength everywhere in the rev-range. It also became Honda’s first EURO5 compliant engine.

The frame was completely revised and featured a new bolt-on aluminium subframe. The new swingarm, too, was aluminium and based on that of the CRF450R moto-crosser. And at the centre of the Africa Twin, the addition of a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) controlled not only the 7-level HSTC but also 3-level Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS (with off-road setting), Rear Lift Control and DCT cornering detection. An OFF-ROAD setting also joined the URBAN, TOUR and GRAVEL default riding modes.

Tailored for complete control, the riding position featured a new slim-section seat and high-set handlebars. A full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen brought immersive engagement with the machine’s systems, plus Apple CarPlay® and Bluetooth connectivity. The new Dual LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) gave optimum visibility, improving safety, and cruise control was added as standard-fit.

For 21YM, the technical package is unchanged, but the new Pearl Glare White Tricolour brings the classic red, white and blue Africa Twin colour scheme back to the latest generation of the machine.

Aggressive and compact. Two words that sum up the Africa Twin’s taut rally-style bodywork. And it’s for a reason – to work better off-road. The fixed screen is short to allow for easy scanning of the trail ahead and, with a seat height of 850-870mm, the handlebars mount 22.5mm higher than the previous 1000cc model, giving a more upright riding position and comfortable control, whether standing or seated.

The full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen keeps the rider in control of all of the Africa Twin’s systems, with each of the riding modes­ selectable through the top left of the screen. The MID can also be customised to show various levels of information relative to the riding mode chosen and is easy to use even when wearing gloves.

It also incorporates Apple CarPlay®, allowing use of an Apple iPhone® through the touchscreen. Navigation apps can also be accessed and displayed and via a Bluetooth helmet headset calls can be made or received. The iPhone® itself plugs into a USB charging port on the right of the MID. Hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity is also an option for an iPhone® or Android device and all control inputs are made from the left-hand switchgear.

The SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin engine’s essential architecture remained unchanged for the 2020 update, but displacement increased to 1,084cc, up from 998cc. And as a result peak power went from 70kW to 75kW @ 7,500rpm with peak torque going from 99Nm to 105Nm @ 6,250rpm. Significantly, the obvious increase in both power and torque made itself felt from 2,500rpm all the way through to the redline.

The 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval create the engine’s distinctive throb and feel for rear wheel traction. For 2020 the cylinder head was completely revised, as was the larger diameter 46mm throttle body; the bore and cylinder pitches were also aligned to create a smooth air intake profile. The ECU setting was updated and the injector angle was modified to deliver a more direct spray into re-shaped twin-spark combustion chambers.

Honda’s SOHC Unicam valve train is a feature of the MX competition-specification CRF450R and the low-set position of the cast camshaft contributes to the compact nature of the cylinder head. For 2020 the valve timing was optimised and the inlet and exhaust valve lift was increased to 10.1mm inlet and 9.3mm exhaust (from 9.2/8.6mm).

The Africa Twin’s engine received the benefits of Throttle By Wire (TBW) control in 2018, allowing much finer management of engine output and character as well as expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for rear tyre grip; for 2020 the system evolved to work in conjunction with a six-axis IMU*.

Honda has sold over 140,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F a decade ago. Testament to its acceptance in the marketplace, in 2019 DCT versions of Africa Twin (including Adventure Sports version) accounted for 45% of the model’s sales in 2019.

The result is a consistent, fast and seamless gear change. Furthermore, as the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption of the drive to the rear wheel, any gear change shock and pitching of the machine is minimised, making the change feel direct as well as smooth.

DCT for the Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment, with off-road functionality enhanced by the G switch accessed via the TFT touch screen display. Activating the G switch in any riding mode improves the feel for available traction and machine control by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes.

A new feature for the CRF1100L Africa Twin’s DCT system for the change to the 1100cc model for 2020 was cornering detection. When the IMU recognises the bike is cornering, the system subtly adjusts the shifting programme for the most natural gear changes.

At the very heart of the Africa Twin’s elevated on- and off-road performance is a Bosch MM7.10 six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) tucked away at the centre of the machine, that measures – in real-time – roll angle/rate, pitch angle/rate and yaw angle/rate. It manages rear wheel traction via TBW and HSTC, front braking grip through Cornering ABS, front wheel lift through Wheelie Control and also adds Rear Lift Control.

In conjunction with the addition of IMU control for its 2020 evolution, the strength and rigidity balance of the steel semi-double cradle frame was completely re-examined by Honda’s development engineers to boost off-road ability – at the same time reinforcing its all-round on-road manners. Rigidity around the steering head was optimised to enhance feel for front end grip; the main spars were made slimmer and straighter and did away with the front cross pipe. Frame weight of the CRF1100L Africa Twin is 1.8kg lighter than the previous 1000cc model.

The range of Honda Genuine Accessories for the Africa Twin includes premium (42L) aluminium top box and panniers plus large (58L) plastic top box and panniers, two seat heights (a lower 825-845mm and taller 870-895mm option), touring screen, radiator guards, engine guards and side pipes, knuckle guard extensions, heated grips and an ACC charging socket.

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

It’s been five years since the rebrandedHonda Africa Twin made its debut, wowing the world’s adventure riders with a mix of easy handling and a silky-smooth motor that refused to get into the power arms race currently consuming some of its European counterparts. And now, Honda has unveiled a heavily revised Africa Twin range for the 2020 model year.

The $14,399 base model and up-spec $17,199 Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES still reflect the mission of the original Africa Twin—true adventure—with Honda aiming the machine as a rugged off roader capable of reliably reaching far away destinations. (Both versions also have a Dual Clutch Transmission as an option at $15,199 for the base model and $17,999 for the Adventure Sports.)

Part of the selling point for the first-generation Africa Twin was the conservative use of electronics. Basic traction control, ABS and four riding modes was all you got—but that has all been changed with the latest iterations. Along with a six percent capacity increase for the parallel-twin motor (to 1,084 cc), the models now feature a reworked chassis that’s lighter and nimbler than the 2015-2019 editions and wrapped in sleeker bodywork with LED headlights that adapt their brightness according to the ambient light. The base model and the Adventure Sports now utilize a six-axis Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit that will govern the new lean-sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control and rear-wheel torque control algorithms.

And, at long last, Honda has fitted cruise control to the Africa Twin platform—a small but significant update that long haul riders have been yearning for. This brings the Africa Twin into line with class leaders like the KTM 1090 Adventure R and BMW R 1250 GS, with the electronics accessed by a beautiful new 6.5-inch TFT display that puts the Gameboy-like digital dash of the first-generation edition firmly in the past.

Interestingly, Honda has swapped the designation of the base model and the Adventure Sports, with the latter taking on a more road-focused approach and the base model aimed squarely at conquering the world of off piste. The Africa Twin has become one of Honda’s most popular and important models since its release and this new edition puts Honda firmly at the pointy end of the big bore adventure segment. Deliveries are scheduled for March 2020 and we’ll have a full review of the new Africa Twin range in the coming months.

Not only has the basic performance as a motorcycle been thoroughly refined, the new model also features a touch panel TFT LCD multi-information display for infotainment, cornering lights, and other features. It offers a wider range of riding pleasure.

This sensor is capable of measuring yaw, pitch, and roll in six axes. By detecting the vehicle"s attitude accurately and in real time, it enables more precise control of the quickshifter, DCT, HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control), wheelie control, electronic suspension, ABS, cornering lights, etc.

“Actually, it is not so difficult to work on the development of each control system. The difficult part was that there is a lot more information coming from the IMU and all the controls are intertwined in a complex way; for example, if you change the meter program, the engine feeling could change .......”

“You would think so. But despite that impression, all programs are intricately intertwined, and unexpected things often happen when something conflicts with some other instruction. It was a difficult development, as the more we tried our best in each section, the more problems we encountered. However, it was worth working hard for, as we were able to create a system with a high degree of perfection, in which many devices work in harmony and faithfully follow the rider"s will during cornering, acceleration, and deceleration ....... I hope you will try it out in a variety of situations.”

Wheelie control is newly added to Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). When the front and rear wheel speed sensors detect deceleration of the front wheel and acceleration of the rear wheel due to front wheel rise, the engine torque is controlled based on the vehicle pitch angle information from the IMU sensor.

The front face has been completely redesigned while retaining the identity of the previous Africa Twin models. Under the headlight is a cornering light that changes its illumination range in three stages depending on the cornering bank angle (Adventure Sports only). This improves visibility at night.

"My personal recommendation is to display a map on the meter. Even if you don"t have to be navigated, just having a map within easy reach gives you a completely different sense of security.

We also paid attention to the position of the display to ensure that it is neither too high nor too low so that you can always keep your eyes on the road ahead and get information without interfering with your immersion in the riding experience.

“Living in Japan, it may be difficult to take full advantage of the Africa Twin"s potential and use it to blast through the desert. But that"s not the only kind of "adventure" you can have. I hope you"ll take advantage of the CRF1100L"s electrical components and challenge yourself to create your own adventure!”

Atop a ridgeline, I stopped to catch my breath. I’d been riding the 2022 Honda Africa Twin for nearly three hours off-road. I’d crossed two saddle-deep rivers, splashed through the mud and dirt, and bounced down some seriously steep grades of silty slick rock faces. But it had brought me here, overlooking this beautiful expansive valley.

It was early fall, and the cooler-than-normal temperatures and snow the week before had caused the aspen leaves to become a vibrant yellow. They fluttered in the wind, giving the forest ahead a shimmering effect. Very few folks had been to where I was standing, apart from those with little mechanical sympathy. Or horses. But with the Africa Twin, I could skirt around most obstacles, ducking and diving the hazards that stopped others in their tracks. Including this overlook.Jonathon Klein

Honda’s Africa Twin isn’t billed as the best, most hardcore adventure motorcycle on the planet. This particular bike even has the company’s dual-clutch automatic transmission and less-than-optimal dual-sport tires. Yet, after years of refinement and Honda’s penchant for delivering over-engineered everything, the Africa Twin is capable of so much more than what its spec sheet may suggest.

This is a motorcycle that’s comfortable, tall, athletic, and powerful, and it will give you the confidence to ride more. To ride further. And that’s exactly what you want in an adventure motorcycle. Something to push you off the map and find the untouched and peaceful. You want a motorcycle that helps you see a mountain, and the Africa Twin will do just that.

I’ve ridden the Africa Twin a few different times since its 2016 debut. From the twisty, turny mountain roads of Los Angeles to logging long-distance mileage, this is a motorcycle that’s always impressed me with its on-road capabilities. That sounds antithetical to something that bears the name “Africa” and conjures images of the Dakar, but a ton of folks are going to use the Africa Twin as a long-distance tourer and for good reason: it’s comfortable.

A height-adjustable seat takes center stage, as it accommodates riders of differing sizes—I’m six-foot-four—and allows them to comfortably plant their feet at a stop. Honda also paid special attention to the Africa Twin’s balance, as at 529 pounds wet, it’s a porker, and a top-heavy bike is the last thing you want. But there’s a sense of groundedness whenever you throw a leg over that can be lacking in other motorcycles of the same breed.Jonathon Klein

Powering the motorcycle is a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine that puts out 100 horsepower and 76 lb-ft of torque. If I’m being honest, that’s pretty low compared to other full-size competitors, like the 170 hp in Ducati’s Multistrada V4 S. But throughout my travels with the Africa Twin, I’ve never been left wanting more. Power is delivered quickly and efficiently through the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and that DCT has been retooled over the years to be better than it was when first introduced.

The one option available from Honda that I would’ve liked on this particular bike was heated grips. The Africa Twin got dropped off late in the year and the temperatures dropped precipitously coming into November. While the brush guards kept the wind off my hands, and a set of Dainese and Alpinestars gloves did their best keeping my fingers warm, they couldn’t compete with 15-degree temperatures. Heated grips would’ve gone a long way.

Other than the lack of heated grips, I haven’t found too much to take issue with. But being the picky journalist I am, I’ll call out the dash interface. The bar-mounted controls and how it interacts with the TFT display feels needlessly complex when you first sit down. And if you’re not up on how to use it, it’s super annoying while riding and trying to scroll through the four riding modes—Tour, Urban, Gravel, and Off-road, plus two custom settings. I actually found myself picking a ride mode before I set off and sticking with it until I came to a stop. It could be more intuitive, especially when riding off-road.Jonathon Klein

Just after the Honda arrived, I suited up and pointed it at the mountains across our valley. While I started at a trailhead I’d been to before, I veered off onto one of the unknown branches just before a section littered with deep sand. It was a choice, and one I almost regretted.

This particular trail was not built for a full-size ADV, as it was narrow, tree-lined, and on a steep decline. But the Africa Twin actually handled it pretty well. That wasn’t necessarily my own experience, though. I felt a bit squeezed, but I kept chugging along with confidence, at least until I got to the base of the trail. Lying before me was a set of three two-foot-tall steps, and thank you, off-road ABS, for stopping me on a dime in the dirt.

Now, it’s more than likely that pro off-road riders would’ve seen this obstacle and just jumped it. But again, the Africa Twin is 529 pounds. That’s a lot of weight to just yeet off a seven-foot drop, especially when it’s not your motorcycle. I decided to hop off and walk it down which worked. But I wasn’t out of the proverbial woods.

A short distance after the steps, a small 30-foot-wide river welcomed me. Without thinking too hard, I grabbed a heaping, handful of throttle and powered the Africa Twin right through it. It didn’t even stutter and a smile crept onto my face. That elation quickly turned into anxiety as a mile up the trail, a far larger water crossing entered the picture.

What I want you to take away from those stories is two-fold. First, the Africa Twin showed up on dual-sport tires. They’re grippy, but they aren’t the off-road spec rubber that either the Ducati or the CRF300L Rally had equipped with. Yet, even with that handicap, it handled everything without issue thanks to a combination of excellent engineering and somewhat idiotic confidence on my part. This is a motorcycle that’s so well-engineered that you’d have to really put it out of its comfort zone to trip it up. Or be a complete moron.

Honda’s Africa Twin is seriously good as both an on-road tourer or far-flung adventurer, and it does little wrong, including how much cash it commands.

Priced at $15,299, it’s a bargain compared to its classmates. Just look at its competition: the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 starts at $17,699, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure sits at $19,499, then you have the $22,500 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally, followed by the $24,495 Zero DSR/X, the $25,259 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, and finally the $27,195 Ducati Multistrada V4 S. The Honda might not have as much horsepower as some of those other motorcycles, but nothing comes close to its price-to-capability.

Even after all these years, the Africa Twin remains one of the best adventure motorcycles available. It’s a motorcycle that you can just jump onto and ride off into the wilderness, taking you somewhere you’ve never experienced. It’s the platonic ideal of an adventure motorcycle and you’ll love it for years to come.

LONG-TRAVEL FRONT SUSPENSION: The Africa Twin doesn’t just look like an adventure bike—it’s the real deal. Exhibit A: Check out its long-travel front suspension. The inverted Showa fork is fully adjustable with huge 45mm tubes and 9.1 inches of travel—the most front-end travel in the 1000cc off-road class.

STEEL FRAME: This second generation of Africa Twin features a frame that is almost four pounds lighter than our earlier bikes. And while it may be lighter, we fine-tuned it by making the steering head more resistant to twist.

SEMI-DOUBLE-CRADLE-FRAME: The Africa Twin’s semi-double-cradle frame layout has been proven in countless Honda dirtbikes. In principle it’s similar to the design we use on our CRF450R Rally factory Dakar racebike—a machine that’s designed to perform in the challenging Dakar rally and similar events.

FOUR-PISTON CALIPERS: Up front, the Africa Twin features twin four-piston brake calipers for powerful braking performance. The radial-mount design also helps make them stiffer, increasing brake feel and control.

43-DEGREE STEERING LOCK: With 43 degrees of steering lock both left and right, the Africa Twin provides excellent maneuverability on tight trails. This is one of the reasons the Africa Twin feels so much more nimble than many of the other bigger adventure bikes out there.

HOLLOW AXLE SHAFTS: The Africa Twin uses large-diameter hollow steel axles front and rear. They’re super strong, durable, but also light: a combination which describes just about everything associated with this bike.

Honda SELECTABLE TORQUE CONTROL: The Africa Twin’s throttle-by-wire system lets us offer Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). You can dial in exactly the kind of power delivery you want for the conditions at hand. Honda Selectable Torque Control features seven settings for a wide range of conditions, from pavement to fast, loose fire roads to challenging singletrack. You can also turn it off. New engine settings for 2022 make a great feature even better.

WHEELIE CONTROL: Front and rear wheel-speed sensors working with the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) let you dial in three levels of wheelie control. There"s also an "off" position—you"re the wheelie control here.

REAR SUSPENSION: Not only is the Africa Twin’s rising-rate Pro-Link® rear suspension fully adjustable, it offers a 220mm stroke for 8.7 inches of rear-wheel travel. Even better, there’s a special remote preload adjuster—you just turn a convenient knob, and you can compensate for varying loads like a passenger or full panniers.

TIRES AND WHEELS: Real adventure bikes use spoked wheels because they better survive the dings and hits of off-road riding. All Africa Twin models feature a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear for superior performance, especially when it comes to off-road riding.

Anti-Glare: Provides the same scratch resistance and protection as our Ultra-Clear protectors, but also helps to remove the glare/reflections associated with LCD/TFT dashboards. Anti-glare protectors have a matte appearance once fitted.

We take great care to ensure that our screen protectors fit accurately and that we have listed the correct protector for your model. We never release a product for sale until we are certain that the fitment is as accurate as it can be. Generally manufacturers retain the same dashboard shape for their entire model range, even if the dashboard displays themselves change.

Anti-Glare: Provides the same scratch resistance and protection as our Ultra-Clear protectors, but also helps to remove the glare/reflections associated with LCD/TFT dashboards. Anti-glare protectors have a matte appearance once fitted. If anti-glare is not listed then it is not currently available.

We take great care to ensure that our screen protectors fit accurately and that we have listed the correct protector for your model. We never release a product for sale until we are certain that the fitment is as accurate as it can be. Generally manufacturers retain the same dashboard shape for their entire model range, even if the dashboard displays themselves change.

Has there ever been a better time to be an adventure-bike rider? And has taking your next vacation on an adventure bike ever looked better either? Honda’s Africa Twin lineup is so good it’s an embarrassment of riches. Technology. Comfort. Reliability you can count on, come rain or shine, continent-crossing journeys or weekend getaways. Features like cruise control and touch-screen technology make it a great tourer, while its rugged construction and off-road refinements let you wander from horizon to horizon on the path less travelled.

The CRF1100L Africa Twin sports one of the best engines ever in an adventure bike. The parallel-twin design is narrow, and delivers torque everywhere from idle to redline. You’ll have more grunt down low, and cruise easy on the open road.

Available on the Africa Twin DCT and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT, this is the transmission of the future. Inside, it’s as tough as a conventional manual, with steel gears throughout. You can let it shift for you, or paddle shifters in the manual mode give you full control. Four settings (Drive, Sport 1, 2, and 3) let you pick what’s right for your riding conditions.

Apple CarPlay™ seamlessly integrates your compatible iPhone®* into your new Africa Twin. That means you can use your iPhone® to access Apple Maps, Apple Music, and other services easily. You’ll have access to

The Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES and Adventure Sports ES DCT are equipped with SHOWA EERA® (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) electronically controlled suspension. You can choose between five suspension damper settings: hard, medium, soft, and off-road, as well as a customizable “user” setting. It’s easy to switch between them, too, so you can choose one for the highway and another when the going gets rougher.

HONDA Africa Twin fans rejoice, some new tech functionality is coming to your TFT display, in the form of Android Auto! It’ll be integrated into the new 2021 CRF1100L Africa Twin, and can be installed on older models.

If you didn’t know what Android Auto is, it’s basically a reduced version of your phone"s home screen on the dash display, which will allow you to access Google maps, music services, messages and calls, and other services on-the-go through touch and voice-commands.

Current owners can get their Africa Twin (or Africa Twin ‘Adventure Sports’) up-and-running with Android Auto by simply visiting their nearest Honda dealership, who will be happy to do the upgrade for you. Unfortunately, it’s not yet specifiedexactly which model years are eligible, but at the very least it will be the 2020 and 2021 models.

The Honda Africa Twin is Honda’s best selling motorcycle in 2020, selling over 10,000 units across the year. With the ‘Africa Twin’ moniker appearing in Honda’s line up in 1988 with the XRV650 Africa Twin, derived from the Paris-Dakar rally-winning NXR750, you can only imagine how much Android Auto would have come in handy then…

We’ve used Android Auto quite a bit here at Visordown - and it’s genuinely a go-to option when it’s available. So it’s well worth looking into if you fancy some new tech on your Honda Africa Twin!