The CRF 1000L Africa Twin CRF 1000L is Honda’s contender in the rapidly growing adventure-touring segment. While the 2017 model ran out of stock in no time, Honda introduced the 2018 model in June, priced at Rs 13.23 lakhs. We recently got a chance to test the Africa Twin’s mettle in its natural habitat. Here is a photo gallery of the 2018 Honda Africa Twin from the ride -
The CRF 1000L carries over the full fairing with dual LED headlamps, which pay homage to the original 1989 XRV750.
The 2018 model might look similar to the previous year’s bike, but under the skin are a slew of technological upgrades.
For one, it gets a redesigned instrument cluster, which Honda claims offers a better view while standing up and riding.
The 998cc parallel-twin engine gets a longer airbox and a lighter balancer shaft. The output is slightly higher at 87bhp and 93Nm of torque.
Like before, the Africa Twin is available only with a DCT transmission in India. It also gets a lighter lithium-ion battery to shave weight.
The electronics package has been updated with four individual riding modes and a seven-level traction-control system.
The switchgear has also been revised. The manual mode selector has been repositioned, while the Neutral and Drive/Sport are now an up/down toggle.
The Africa Twin continues to ride on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels, although these are now shod with Bridgestone tyres in place of Dunlops.
The suspension setup consists of 45mm cartridge-type Showa inverted front forks and a Pro-Link rear monoshock.
The brake setup consists of dual 310mm discs at the front and a 256mm disc at the rear. ABS is offered as standard, and can be turned off for the rear wheel.
The 2018 Africa Twin is available in a single red paint scheme. Only a limited number of motorcycles will be sold in the Indian market.