Hello, “Africa”: test drive Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

RU-MOTO rating

• Reliability
• Chassis
• Appearance
• Comfort

4.5

Verdict

The company had a difficult task - to outdo themselves 13 years ago. In our opinion, they succeeded. It turned out to give a new round to the development of this class. As for personal preference, if we get the opportunity to circumnavigate the world, it would probably be riding a Honda Africa Twin.

Friends, today we will tell you the story of one iconic motorcycle, which is difficult to keep silent about. In our review we have the Honda Africa Twin. And we will start with the life history of this motorcycle.

Motorcycle CRF 1000 Africa Twin

The great-grandfather of the modern motorcycle was Honda Africa Twin XRV750 RD04 , and he was born back in 1990. In 1993 it was updated, received a new marking RD07 and existed in this configuration for another 3 years. Since 1996, it underwent some more improvements and was produced until 2000. After which the production of this model was discontinued until 2013. Why the break, Honda? To replace Africa, Honda released the XL1000V, although the motorcycle turned out to be quite good, Africa remained much deeper in the hearts of fans.

The company was thinking about re-releasing the legendary model, and this happened in 2013. Then the CRF 1000 Africa Twin was introduced to the world. We'll talk about it today.

Specifications

By tradition, let's start with the most important thing - the engine. The new model has a volume of 998 cc. cm, which is different from its ancestor, which has 750 cubic meters in stock. cm. Power is 95 hp, not very much for a “liter,” but that’s not the point. The engine is tuned in such a way that the torque is distributed over the entire speed range. This is an important point for a motorcycle of this class, since movement on various types of terrain requires the elasticity of the engine and uniform operation both at the “bottoms” and at the “tops”.

One of the main features of this engine is the presence of only one camshaft. We have eight valves, and all of them are activated by rockers. This system was called “Unicam” and was already used by the company on motocross motorcycles.

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The motorcycle gearbox deserves special attention - it is automatic. Here Honda was undoubtedly an innovator and began introducing automatic transmissions in 1975. The transmission is called DCT - dual clutch transmission, the principle of operation is similar to a car gearbox: there are two stacks of clutch discs. When switching, one of the stacks is open, at this moment the second is closed; on the open half, the servo drive is already partially preparing to engage the next gear. This principle of operation allows you to change gears quickly and smoothly both down and up. Despite the good mechanical design of the box, there were still problems with its setup.

For many, such a box still aroused skepticism. But practice has shown that it not only does not cause discomfort off-road, but also helps preserve traction. However, it is worth mentioning that as an alternative, a version with a manual gearbox was also released.

As for the design of the motorcycle frame, everything is quite familiar for the touring-enduro class. High ground clearance, conservative suspension without electrical adjustments and inverted fork. Our suspension travel is 229 mm at the front, 218 mm at the rear, and saddle height is 851-871 mm.

The electronics can no longer be called conservative; the motorcycle has received modern equipment: there is a stabilization system with three operating modes and a full-fledged anti-lock braking system. The combination of such solutions makes it possible to facilitate movement and take on some of the tasks when moving in difficult conditions.

Technical characteristics of the CRF 1000 Africa Twin motorcycle

Engine

Fuel system

Transmission

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Frame

Chassis

Suspension

Tires and wheels

Brake system

Electrical equipment

Back to the Future

Alas, in some places the Japanese turned out to be too conservative: there are less electronics in the motorcycle than necessary: ​​of all the assistants, only ABS with an off-road mode, traction control with the ability to select intervention and... Curtain. No cruise controls, quick shifters, servos, heating or other massages for the pensioner’s prostate; the version with a robotic gearbox doesn’t count. Get in and drive, stop drooling over the electronic throttle!

The dashboard is also there - a monochrome monitor, divided into 4 cells, every now and then showing the reflection of the steering wheel, overloaded with information. Excellently readable indicator lamps help, but in comparison with competitors, the tidy looks boring. However, the modesty of the interior decoration is more than compensated by the high quality and attention to assembly - the keys are perfectly adjusted, the tactile sensations are excellent.

It’s comfortable in the saddle, even though it’s positioned high, the narrowness of the device’s waist allows you to not notice this, and it’s also comfortable to lean on while standing, although tall people will probably want to raise the handlebars. However, unlike the saddle, the height of which can be easily adjusted from 850 to 870 mm, for the steering wheel you will have to look for and order spacers.

On the asphalt, even taking into account the off-road dimensions of the wheels and suspension travel, the motorcycle is not bad - the chassis is sufficiently rigid, there are no hints of rocking. And if they suddenly appear, it won’t take long to adjust the suspensions to suit you, albeit with tools, not “wires”: the front inverter and the rear monoshock absorber, operating through powerful progression levers, have a full range of adjustments. By the standards of touring enduros, the Africa Twin feels light and docile, and can be ridden quite dynamically, adjusted for the ABS that activates too early.

Wind protection is a B minus, it doesn’t blow into your hands, but the fly swatter is too modest, and there is no way to lift it. Yes, and your feet are practically not protected from wind and water from the front wheel, but in the heat, thanks to two radiators located on the sides of the front pipe of the frame, you won’t be able to freeze! The engine is peppy, there is enough torque in the lower and middle speed ranges, the power increases linearly and predictably, and most importantly, the 270-degree spread of the flashes provides the pulsation that is so necessary on soft ground like sand. It is there that the device with the 21-inch wheel reveals itself to its full potential - you can throw all your money at it.

Price

For a new device you will have to pay about $17,000, which is not that cheap. But a used version can be found for $10,000 when it’s still new. Older models are difficult to evaluate unambiguously; sometimes owners love their equipment so much that they significantly overestimate its value.

Screenshot 1. Prices for used CRF 1000 Africa Twin

Appearance

Honda CRF 1000L Africa Twin looks impressive. This is a large motorcycle, mostly black. The seats for both driver and passenger are comfortable and made of quality materials. There is no cheap plastic or low-budget equipment to be seen anywhere. Considering the cost, nothing like this should be here.

The wheels here are spoked. It is immediately obvious that this is a heavy motorcycle, taking into account the dimensions of the frame. Based on the ground clearance, it is clear that the element of this bike is off-road. The front wheel is large, and therefore on mountain passes (on the highway) this car is inferior to many other models. But for rough terrain this is a plus.

Maintenance and repair

Although it’s difficult to call this motorcycle gentle, it still requires attention. If we are talking about ordinary maintenance, then it is worth paying attention to the chain, since when using a motorcycle for its intended purpose, it will have to be cleaned much more often than on motorcycles that live on asphalt. As for the rest of the consumables, a simple motorcycle algorithm applies here - be prepared to replace consumables frequently.

Regarding the repair, here Honda reinforced the stereotype about the reliability of its equipment; the motorcycle really turned out to be durable. But nothing lasts forever, and if an incident occurs, then the experts will help you fix it. Fortunately, Hondas undertake repairs with ease.

Comfort

The only thing that will be “uncomfortable” for many is the cost of the bike. About 900 thousand Russian rubles - that’s how much such a car costs. And no wonder: this is a durable bike for any occasion, designed to cover thousands of kilometers across dozens of countries and different latitudes.

According to the description of those who have already traveled a lot on this bike, spare parts are not difficult to get, but repairs are rarely required. So no one complains about the service here. This enduro touring bike is perhaps the most reliable bike in the world today.

Comparison with analogues

Despite the variety of motorcycles in the touring-enduro class, analogues are not so easy to find. Many companies have moved a little more towards comfortable and bulky tourists. But we still managed to identify Honda’s main rivals. We will now compare them with them.

Model history

2015-2016 — the beginning of official sales of the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin. First generation. Model: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (ABS), Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (DCT) (All markets). Frame number: SD04-100XXXX. Factory designation: CRF1000G, CRF1000AG (ABS), CRF1000DG (DCT).

2017 - no significant changes. Model: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (ABS), Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (DCT) (All markets). Frame number: SD04-110XXXX. Factory designation: CRF1000H, CRF1000AH (ABS), CRF1000DH (DCT).

2018 - the appearance of the Adventure Sports modification. Basic version update. Second generation. Model: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (ABS), Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (DCT) (All markets). Factory designation: CRF1000AJ (ABS), CRF1000DJ (DCT), CRF1000A2J (Sports), CRF1000D2J (Adventure).

2019 is the last year of production. Model: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (ABS), Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin (DCT) (All markets). Factory designation: CRF1000AK (ABS), CRF1000A2K (Adventure), CRF1000DK (DCT), CRF1000D2K (DCT Adventure).

Owner reviews

This model is quite actively discussed by experts on forums, but at the moment we were only able to get feedback from the real owner in a video recording.

We also present to your attention reviews from “experts” and “amateurs”.

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Screenshot 2. Discussion of Honda Africa Twin on forums

What do the owners say?

Some people note that there are vibrations on the road, as if it has a V-twin engine (although this is not the case, the engine here is in-line). One review says that for people shorter than 180 cm, such a machine will be uncomfortable and therefore dangerous. According to reviews from many motorcyclists, this is indeed the case.

They note that the motorcycle provides good “sound accompaniment,” especially in tunnels. At first it may even seem that the bike is quiet. However, if you drive the car a little, it becomes clear that this is not the case. It is important to take into account that if you ride a bike all day (according to all the rules, wearing a helmet), by the evening you may get a headache from strong and prolonged noise.

IMPORTANT! Don't forget that this is a heavy bike. So when buying a used one, it is important to check the brakes first. Moreover, this is an enduro-tourist, which means the mileage can be high. Negative operating conditions in the past are also possible. If you have no experience in how to choose such bikes, it is better to buy a new one.

Some people complain that the fork bites. But this is normal, since the suspension travel is large. It is important to just get used to it and train your skill in handling such a fork. Then there will be no problems. As for protection from rain, only the knees do not get completely wet. As for the rest of the legs, tuning will help.

The CRF 1000L Africa Twin is a beautiful, bright bike that is perfect for traveling alone or as a couple. All components are justified, you can’t find fault with them. Perhaps, compared to the old motorcycle with the same name, this bike is inferior in terms of resource, but it’s too early to judge. However, when it comes to purchasing a new enduro tourer that is still in production, it’s hard to imagine a better option.

Modifications

In parallel with the main basic version, a sports modification of the model is produced.

New for 2022 is the Honda CRF1000L Adventure Sports . Despite the different name, this is a modification of Africa. It is distinguished by longer suspension travel, a fuel tank increased to 24 liters , and an extended windshield. For a separate surcharge, you can get safety bars (with a record of their presence in the vehicle title, which, of course, will upset the traffic police inspectors).

and competitors

• Introduced in 2014 , Honda became a competitor to the Yamaha XTZ1200 Super Tenere, which entered the market in 2010 . However, the engineers of the latter considered that one competitor was not enough, releasing another Yamaha Tenere 700 2017 .
• In the same 2017, Suzuki also had a child. In addition to the V-Strom 1000 , the DL1000 V-Strom XT .
• Kawasaki introduced the Versys 1000.

Brakes

I was very pleased with the double disc brake (with a wave-shaped profile) with its good predictable deceleration. True, if you press the brake handle quickly, the long-travel soft suspension makes itself felt. After a BMW with anti-dive electronics, I had to get used to this behavior, but, on the other hand, this behavior is typical for all motorcycles (except BMW), and even more so for SUVs with soft suspension. I have not checked how sudden braking at high speed can result. The engine and brake braking combination works best, as usual.

Peculiarities

The ability to adjust the seat height makes the motorcycle comfortable for both tall riders and shorter riders.

Since at the last motorcycle show Honda announced the start of work on Africa for the new 2022 model year, this section is divided into 2 parts. And the first is what already assembled bikes can boast of.

This:

• RbW (Ride-by-Wire system) - electronically controlled throttles.
• ABS , complemented by the ability to switch depending on the track.
• ASC (Assist and Slipper clutch) - assistance when working with the clutch.
• HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) - traction control.

The second part contains what is expected in the new version as an addition to what is already installed. It should be noted that all the features described below will be optional, with the exception of the first:

• ABS , complemented by the ability to switch over a wider range ( Onroad/Offroad ).
• DRL (Daytime Running Lights) - daytime running lights.
• Control of turn signals - a couple of seconds after the maneuver, the motorcycle can turn off the light itself. The Adventure Sports modification also promises automatic activation before a maneuver.
• Heated steering wheel grips - no comment.
• Cruise control - the ability to electronically support a given speed.

The section specifically does not include any data such as excellent maneuverability, excellent handling and driving performance . After all, this is an Africa Twin - it simply cannot be otherwise.

Reliable accessories from Honda

Regardless of the tasks, you can choose everything you need. For carrying luggage, side cases with a volume of 33 and 37 liters and a central aluminum trunk with a volume of 42 liters are available, as well as textile bags with a total volume of 58 liters. A tall touring windshield and heated grips are available. Two seat options with heights of 875-895 mm and 825-845 mm will help increase comfort and adapt the driver's seat.

Luggage stowage

Comfort

Protection