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ADV BikesHonda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs

Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs

Africa Twin specs, color schemes, options and pricing revealed by Honda.

Published on 07.24.2015

Further details on the new CRF1000L Africa Twin have now been officially released by Honda today. The full specs are now confirmed and Honda has provided the press with a huge gallery of Africa Twin action and studio photos. The bike will be available in three different versions — standard, ABS and DCT.

Official statement from Honda announces full specs for the CRF1000L Africa Twin:

Honda is pleased to announce further technical details on the new CRF1000L Africa Twin, which will be in Honda showrooms across Europe in late 2015 and the United States in early 2016. Like its celebrated forerunners, the CRF1000L Africa Twin is thoroughly equipped for true adventure, with a potent engine and dynamic chassis ready to explore continents, on- or off-road.


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From the start of the CRF1000L Africa Twin project there was one motorcycle that consistently impressed with its balance of usability, poise and handling, on the road and in the dirt—the seminal XRV750 Africa Twin. It proved a worthwhile benchmark, even when set against today’s myriad choice of adventure motorcycles. The machine that now bears its name shares no common parts with the old model but it inherits the full the essence and spirit of what made the XRV750 Africa Twin so good.

The “true adventure” approach starts with the engine, which has to perform in off-road situations as well as on-road long-range touring and all points in between. The CRF1000L Africa Twin’s 998cc parallel-twin power plant draws heavily on Honda’s off-road race experience with the CRF250R/450R competition machines, and uses the same four-valve Unicam head design for compact overall dimensions. A lightweight cast camshaft—using the same materials as that on the CBR1000RR—operates the valve train, and twin spark plugs fire the fuel/air mixture in each combustion chamber.

New Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin standard
2016 CRF1000L in the Red/Black/White Dakar Rally color scheme.
CRF1000L Africa Twin white
The 2016 Honda Africa Twin shown here in the White/Blue/Red Tricolor color scheme.
New Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Silver
The new Africa Twin will also be offered in this stunning silver color scheme.
CRF1000L Africa Twin black
The CRF1000L looks sinister in all black.

Strong and linear power and torque deliver instant response anywhere in the rev-range—accompanied by a satisfying, characterful deep growl as rpm rises. A 270° phased crankshaft gives the power delivery a distinct character as well, delivering excellent feel for rear-wheel traction. Biaxial primary balance shafts cancel vibration.

The engine’s short height contributes to the CRF1000L Africa Twin’s excellent ground clearance—another prerequisite for a true adventure machine. It also uses clever packaging of componentry to both dynamic and aesthetic effect. The water pump is housed within the clutch casing, and the water and oil pumps are driven by a shared balancer shaft. Further reducing engine size is the lower crankcase design, which stores the oil and houses the pressure-fed pump.

The lightweight six-speed manual gearbox uses the same shift-cam design as found on the CRF250R/450R to ensure positive changes and is equipped with an assist slipper clutch.

For the CRF1000L Africa Twin’s chassis, three key attributes—highlights of the original XRV750—were targeted: off-road performance, touring comfort and the everyday agility that makes for a great all-rounder or day-to-day commuter.

new Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

A steel semi-double cradle frame provides a balance of highway touring capability—even while fully loaded—genuine off-road performance, agility and sheer strength. Mass centralization—with items like the battery packaged at the rear of the cylinder head—contributes to a low center of gravity.

The long-travel Showa inverted fork is fully adjustable and features dual radial-mount Nissin four-piston brake calipers and 310mm “wave” style floating discs. The Showa rear shock has hydraulic spring-preload adjustment. Like the CRF450R Rally, the CRF1000L Africa Twin uses 21- and 18-inch front and rear spoke wheels, wearing 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tires.

Following its design theme of “unlimited adventure,” the Africa Twin is styled with minimum bodywork in a tough, lightweight form that offers both weather protection for the rider and a slim, agile feel. Dual headlights maintain the original’s signature presence and the seat height adjusts .8 inches to either 34.3 or 33.5 inches. A large 4.96 gallon fuel tank—coupled with the engine’s fuel efficiency — provides a range of up to 250 miles (400km).

CRF1000L Africa Twin

To tailor the overall electronics package to capably tackle any conditions on- or off-road, the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system offers three levels of control, and it is possible for the rider to turn off the ABS system for the rear wheel. (HSTC and ABS not available on base version; equipped as standard on DCT/ABS version.)

The CRF1000L Africa Twin will be available in two color options in the U.S.: Red/Black/White Dakar Rally and Silver. Europe will have two other available colors: Tricolor and Black.

There will be several versions of the CRF1000L Africa Twin, with prices starting from €12,100 (prices vary according to local taxes) in Europe. U.S. pricing has not yet been released.

2016 honda crf1000l guages

 
Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) will be available as an option on the CRF1000L Africa Twin, with the use of a common crankcase keeping the width the same as the manual transmission version.

It features the standard manual mode—allowing the rider to operate gear shifts through triggers on the left handlebar—and two automatic modes. D mode offers the best balance of fuel efficiency and comfort cruising. S mode gives extra levels of sport performance, with three different shift patterns to choose from: S1, S2 and S3.

In certain situations on the road, such as during low-speed maneuvers, the DCT partially disengages the clutch to reduce the effect that quick throttle movements have on the chassis. Of course, DCT for the CRF1000L Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment. With the G switch on in any riding mode, the connection between the throttle and the rear wheel is more direct, which can be desirable in certain off-road situations.

Further new functionality for the DCT system comes in the form of incline detection. During ascents, upshifts are delayed in order to allow a higher rpm to be held; on descents, downshifts happen earlier to enable better engine braking.

Full Technical Specs for the 2016 Honda CRF1000F Africa Twin

European Pricing: Starting from €12,100 ($13,200 USD)
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and Unicam
Engine Displacement: 998cc
Max Power: 93.9 hp (70 kW) @ 7,500 rpm
Max Torque: 72.3 lb-ft (98 Nm) @ 6,000 rpm
Bore x Stroke: 92.0 x 75.1 mm
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate with coil springs, aluminum cam assist and slipper clutch
Final Drive: O-ring sealed chain
Gearbox/Transmission Type: Constant mesh 6-speed manual / 6-speed DCT with on- and off-road riding modes
Honda Selectable Torque Control System (HSTC): HSTC 3-levels + switch-off (DCT/ABS model only, not on STD model)
Frame Type: Steel semi-double cradle type with high-tensile strength steel rear sub-frame
Turning Radius: 8’2”
Dry Weight: STD – 458 lbs (208kg), ABS – 467 lbs (212kg), DCT/ABS – 489 lbs (222kg)
Wet weight: STD – 503 lbs (228kg), ABS – 511 lbs (232kg), DCT/ABS – 534 lbs (242kg)
Fuel Capacity: 4.96 gallons (18.8 liters)
Length x Width x Height: 91.9 x 34.4 x 58.1 inches (STD), 91.9 x 36.6 x 58.1 inches (DCT/ABS)
Wheelbase: 62.0 inches (1,575mm)
Seat Height (STD position / Low position): 34.3/33.5 inches (870/850mm)
Ground Clearance: 9.8 inches (250mm)
ABS system type: ABS 2-channel with rear ABS off switch (DCT/ABS model only, not on STD model)
Front Brakes: 310mm dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminum hub and radial fit 4-piston calipers and sintered metal pads
Rear Brake: 256mm wave hydraulic disc with 2-piston caliper and sintered metal pads. Also Lever-Lock Type Parking Brake System on DCT/ABS model
Front Wheel: Wire spoke with aluminum rim
Rear Wheel: Wire spoke with aluminum rim
Front Rim Size: 21M/C x MT2.15
Rear Rim Size: 18M/C x MT4.00
Front Tire: 90/90-R21 tube type
Rear Tire: 150/70-R18 tube type

Photo Gallery

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda Africa Twin

New Honda CRF 1000L

New Honda CRF 1000L

New Honda CRF 1000L

New Honda CRF 1000L

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Honda Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

New Honda CRF 1000L

New Honda CRF 1000L

New Honda CRF 1000L

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Honda Africa Twin

2016 New Africa Twin

2016 New Africa Twin

2016 New Africa Twin

2016 New Africa Twin

2016 New Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

2016 Africa Twin

New Africa Twin

New Africa Twin

New Africa Twin

Honda CRF 1000L

Honda CRF 1000L

Honda CRF 1000L

Honda CRF 1000L

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.

Author: Rob Dabney
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27 Comments
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varaquiero
varaquiero
July 24, 2015 4:53 am

when you own a Honda that says it all !!!!!

Paulo
Paulo
July 24, 2015 8:18 am

Wish they would bring the white HRC color to the USA

Sean
Sean
August 22, 2015 1:36 am
Reply to  Paulo

i agree. maybe the black too.

Dan
Dan
March 13, 2016 3:33 pm
Reply to  Paulo

White would be my choice.

Dan
Dan
March 13, 2016 3:37 pm
Reply to  Paulo

I injured the third finger on my clutch hand last year. This is the perfect solution, (in white please.)

Ken Bourgault
Ken Bourgault
July 24, 2015 8:39 am

Want.

Waleed
Waleed
July 24, 2015 9:57 am

They stop the Varadero and rebuilt the Africa Twin, well done Honda

trackback
CRF 1000/ African twin - Page 15
July 24, 2015 10:41 am

[…] Posted by bigkuri Where'd you get those wheel sizes? Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs 950 Adventure (Current) R1 (Awesome, stunning, widow maker) RSV1000 (Beautiful but […]

trackback
Here's What It's Like to Ride the New Africa Twin
July 24, 2015 10:48 am

[…] News Update 7/24/2015:Honda has now official released the specs, pricing, options, color schemes and more stunning imagery of the CRF1000L Africa Twin. […]

trackback
Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L | Fotografo Sportivo e per Eventi
July 24, 2015 1:25 pm
Casper
Casper
July 25, 2015 5:27 am

Sad, 28kg heavier as first expected, and 2000€ more expensive. They will have to pull a white rabit out of the hat to be able to compete with BMW and KTM who actually have been sitting on the market for years, especially as the BMW is more or less the same price, the KTM has more power and slightly more expensive (1050 / 1190R).

This is sad, as lots of people where hoping for 180-190kg, and a price around 10.000€.

Garuda
Garuda
July 25, 2015 1:49 pm
Reply to  Casper

How is a €16500 BMW1200GS (in Germany) is “more or less the same price” as €12100?
You can compare prices only with the KTM1050 which is still €500 more expensive. In regards of price they placed the bike perfectly. I’m a KTM guy but I can say finally there is a Japanese bike with the same spirit and good look. I’m sold on this one if a test ride gives me the grin.

Sean
Sean
August 22, 2015 1:38 am
Reply to  Garuda

ditto

Zanos
Zanos
January 30, 2016 7:58 am
Reply to  Casper

Not any chance to be able to compete with the 1190R! Most of us were Honda people for many years!.. look at us now!

trackback
Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB
July 25, 2015 3:52 pm

[…] specs and pricing released. Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs And a video: […]

Stephen Fischer
Stephen Fischer
August 7, 2015 3:22 pm

Interesting, but slightly disappointing for those wishing for something that breaks the mold for a lighter weight mid-range adventure/dual sport bike. Comparing the specs to the BMW F800GS ADV, they are quite close:

F800GS-ADV African Twin
Wet weight 505 lb. 503 lb.
Horsepower 85 93
Front wheel 21″ spoke/tube 21″ spoke/tube
Rear wheel 17″ spoke/tube 18″ spoke/tube
Tank capacity 6.3 gal 5 gal
clearance 9″? 9.8″
seat height 35″ 33.5″/34.3″

This assumes the baseline non-ABS version. Also, the F800GS-ADV with this spec weight includes the lower side crashbars and side pannier mounts.

Having both a DRZ400S and the F800GS-ADV, and former owner of Honda bikes, I also wished they would have broken the paradigm here with something positioned in between them. I have been extremely happy with both of these bikes, and they both have different roles. The DRZ is great for a go-anywhere on and off road from single track to highway that can take a real beating and still recover. While the F800GS is good for longer distance treks but quite capable off-road in less extreme circumstances. But frankly I don’t see this 1000cc African Twin changing the dynamics here, other than being another competitor to the F800GS and hopefully helping the manufacturers up the ante.

trackback
The Africa Twin is back! CRF1000L Africa Twin confirmed for 2015. - Page 63
August 11, 2015 2:42 am

[…] Honda Announcement Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs Growing old is inevitable… Growing up is optional Reply With […]

Philip Le Roux.
Philip Le Roux.
August 12, 2015 10:46 pm

Very well done.It’s about time for Honda to give the other competitors in the adventure class stiff competition.Not only is it good looking but a Honda on top of that.This will definitely be my next bike.
Thank You Honda!.

trackback
Additional Specs and US Pricing Revealed for Africa Twin - ADV Pulse
September 1, 2015 4:01 am

[…] here for full specs on the 2016 Honda Africa […]

Martin Pettitt
Martin Pettitt
September 1, 2015 12:05 pm

Is there going to be a 600cc version please?
Why the weight and size please?

Moto Scro
Moto Scro
September 1, 2015 1:28 pm

Meh

trackback
2016 Honda Africa Twin May Not Be What We Hoped
September 7, 2015 8:23 pm

[…] News Update 7/24/2015:Honda has now official released the specs, pricing, options, color schemes and more stunning imagery of the CRF1000L Africa Twin. […]

Craig Freger
Craig Freger
October 10, 2015 9:47 pm

“HSTC and ABS not available on base version; equipped as standard on DCT/ABS version.” That kills it for me, and probably a lot of other riders who are interested in this bike. Honda, you suck.

Brandon
Brandon
October 16, 2015 8:41 pm

I love the whole jumping scenes and badass photos. I think it’s the only thing missing from BMW campaigns is to be more bold.

But I’m still not impressed otherwise. My hat goes to the CCM as they actually decided to do what everyone wants. A capable off road machine that is not a dirt bike
Not a fat heavy pig machine

Robby Long
Robby Long
March 15, 2016 12:36 pm

Epic fail
1- too heavy for real 3rd world use
2- too complex to fix in 3rd world countries
3- too small a fuel tank

Come on mister Honda -build a real travel motobike, a 650 or 750, single or V twin, 25 litre tank, less than 145 kgs dry, decent rebuildable suspension.

woolyb
woolyb
April 25, 2016 3:54 pm

How much extra for a centerstand?

trackback
Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs – ADV Pulse | AMD.bike
September 8, 2017 12:14 pm

[…] Honda Officially Releases CRF1000L Africa Twin Specs – ADV Pulse […]

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