Honda Africa Twin-based roadster under development?

- Patent images reveal two different frames

- May use a middleweight parallel-twin engine

- Production-spec model may take at least two years to show itself

Leaked patent images reveal that Honda could be working on an Africa Twin CRF1100L based naked roadster motorcycle. The patent images show two different frames – a cradle-style unit and a trellis chassis. Thus, we may see two different motorcycles that could use the same engine platform. While the details are scarce, we may see a scrambler and a naked roadster. It’s too early to make any concrete comments.

The wheel setup and the relatively lower suspension travel hint at the road-biased nature of the motorcycle in the patent images. The compact dimensions further suggest that the naked roadster may come with a relatively lower displacement engine (750cc-900cc), and we could see a middleweight product or products from the two-wheeler brand.

Mechanical specifications will include a parallel-twin cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine. A middleweight parallel-twin cylinder motor makes a stronger case, as the new model will represent Honda against the likes of Yamaha MT-07 and the KTM 790/890 Duke. Moreover, the company already has a naked roadster in the litre-class segment, the CB1000R, and thus middleweight models make even more sense.

The hardware on the motorcycle in the patent images includes upside-down telescopic front forks and a rear mono-shock. Comprehensive rider-aiding electronics could also be part of the package.

Considering the global situation and the issues in production, we may not see the final product for at least two years.

Image source: Bennetts