2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin: Five Things To Know

Here’s all you need to know about the newer, lighter and more powerful Africa Twin!

Honda has unveiled the 2020 iteration of its adventure tourer, the CRF1100L Africa Twin. And while it may seem like just another cosmetic update, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Honda’s engineers have updated almost every component on the bike to make it lighter and faster than before. New bits range from the new LED headlamp to the tyres. So here’s a quick look at the 2020 Africa Twin.

More Power = More Fun 

The heart of the new Africa Twin is possibly the most talked-about change. The Japanese manufacturer has increased cubic capacity from 998cc to 1084cc by increasing the stroke from 75.1mm to 81.5mm. However, at 92mm, the bore is similar to that of the previous version. Thanks to the additional 86cc, the motor now produces 102PS of power and 105Nm of torque, which is 7PS and 7Nm more than before.

It’s Leaner, Meaner And Lighter Than Before! 

Honda claims that the semi-double cradle chassis seen on the 2020 Africa Twin is stiffer and lighter compared to the older-gen model. Additionally, the subframe is now bolted on to the bike rather than welded to the main frame as seen on the previous version. All these changes have made the new Africa Twin 6kg lighter than before. And now, it tips the scale at 236kg (DCT variant). The seat is now 140mm narrower than before and the seat height has been increased as well. 

Same Cycle Parts As Before:

Just like the older bike, the 2020 Africa Twin comes equipped with Showa suspension setup and Nissin braking hardware. However, Honda has revised the spring rates at the front and rear.

It Gets Apple CarPlay Along With Other Goodies! 

To make sure you are planted on road (or off it), Honda has equipped the 2020 Africa Twin with several electronic goodies. For starters, it gets HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control), cornering ABS, wheelie control, rear lift control as well as a new six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). All of this tech is controlled by a new 6.5-inch TFT display with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. Yes, it gets Apple CarPlay too! 

Likely To Come To India Soon:

Honda will start selling the new Euro 5-compliant Africa Twin in European markets soon. So expect the Japanese manufacturer to bring it our shores by the end of this year, making it the first big bike to be BS6-compliant. As far as the price is concerned, we expect the new Africa Twin to retail at Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), making it around Rs 1.5 lakh more expensive than the older model.