Today we’re riding the standard Africa Twin and standard Africa Twin Adventure Sports. We’ll be bringing you our first thoughts on both new bikes throughout the day.
The Africa Twin is designed to push limits with its off-road performance and sharp handling , with a lightweight mainframe and CRF450R-style aluminium swingarm matched to long-travel Showa 45mm inverted front fork and remote reservoir rear shock.
Yesterday, we spent the day riding the Africa Twin Adventure Sports. Touted as a sports tourer rather than an off road weapon, it’s a big step forward for Honda and brings the Africa Twin much closer to the big boys in the adventure motorcycle market. We’re thinking BMW’s R1250GS, Ducati’s Multistrada 1260 and KTM’s 1290 Adventure.
Enjoy everything More Bikes by reading the monthly newspaper, Read FREE Online.
As such the price has stepped up significantly to suit. The top of the range (DCT) bike will set you back a fraction less than £17,500 – so with some luggage and Honda’s aftermarket quickshifter you’re knocking on the door of 20 grand. That’s a lot of cash. But after spending the day in the saddle, I’m convinced it’s well worth it.
We’ve spent the day pushing the bike hard on tight twisties, fast sweepers and wide, undulating gravel trails. It’s incredibly capable. Agile, lightweight and more planted than it deserves to be. The new Showa semi-active is brilliant. It’s lighter, more powerful, slimmer and easier to get on with. What more could you ask for?
Don’t go anywhere, stay tuned on MoreBikes for more details, videos, reviews live from Italy at the Africa Twins launch.
Advert
Enjoy everything More Bikes by reading the MoreBikes monthly newspaper. Click here to subscribe, or Read FREE Online.
