EICMA 2017: Honda gives first look at the Africa Twin Adventure Sports

Honda reveals a tougher CRF1000L2 version with updates for the base CRF1000L

Honda’s major Africa Twin reboot has been a tremendous hit since its release, but riders have expressed the desire for more comfort, more features, and more range. The Japanese industry giant has listened to the feedback and revealed a higher-spec version at EICMA: the 2018 Honda CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports. The motorcycle takes the “True Adventure” philosophy behind the Africa Twin and dials it up with purposeful upgrades for off-road riding. The Adventure Sports model slated for next year can go farther off the beaten path.

The CRF1000L2 Adventure Sports model boasts a 5.4-liter fuel capacity increase, bringing the tank volume up to 24.2-liter for longer range. A larger, more robust sump guard and light bars come standard — along with a protective cage, a 12-volt socket, and heated grips. A flatter seat at a taller height and repositioned handlebars afford a more upright riding position.

Longer suspension travel from Showa makes the Adventure Sports ready to hit the trails, while a taller windscreen affords more coverage. On top of new bodywork and fairings, the CRF1000L2 will be available in a retro paint scheme to pay tribute to the 1988 XRV 650 Africa Twin's 30th anniversary.

The base CRF1000L Africa Twin also receives updates that carry over onto the Adventure Sports version. The 998cc parallel-twin engine has a new airbox, lighter balance shaft weights, and revised a revised exhaust system. The changes should improve on the Africa Twin’s mid-range power and response. Meanwhile the adoption of a lithium-ion battery shaves a bit of weight off the overlanding liter bike.

The 2018 Africa Twin offers throttle-by-wire with three riding modes and seven levels of traction control (which can be switched off). However, the motorcycle keeps the same suspension and brakes. Africa Twin buyers can opt for a quick shifter, and a dual-clutch transmission that provides three shifting modes with a G switch that reduces clutch slipping for off-road riding.

EICMA is currently being held at the exhibition center of Fiera Milano in Rho-Pero, Milan from November 7 to 12, 2017.