2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports Review | Lessons Learned

[@leetrowsdale3515]

I seem to be getting a high pitched whistle on the video which spoiled the review a bit, is it only mine?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I was waiting for someone to notice! Sorry about that....

[@TheAegisClaw]

I thought I had tinnitus for a while there 😂

[@leetrowsdale3515]

TheMissendenFlyer no problem thought it was my setup for a minute. Good to see you aren’t afraid to say the bike isn’t for you! Too many vloggers will only say positive things about bikes provided to them.

[@g.b.agricola7362]

I'm hearing it too...

[@johnpaul3806]

Listened to it 08.30 22.6.20, no whistling. Good honest review as ever.

[@alyeanna]

Your negatives about the bike being tall and big are actually positives for me. I'm 195cm (6'5") and a big bike is exactly what I'm looking for

[@TheFrankencrx]

i'm 6'4 and looking for a bike thats built like a brick shithouse and you're right.. every negative he mentions make it perfect.

[@andrewkitchenuk]

Same. I have a 36" inside leg and have fitted the tall option seat to increase the height to 895mm. Perfect. 👌

[@jasonwilliamson990]

I agree. 6’ 5 too weighing in at 315. Finally a bike fit for ME!!

[@henkondemand]

Same, I want something reliable and huge and I feel this bike ticks the boxes. I've seen it and it's a big ass sturdy thing, love it.

[@neilconfesor9845]

Me too. Im 6"3. 110kg. I m looking for a bike looks just right for my height. Not aiming for the dct but i also want the electronic suspension. 👍

[@peterwells5424]

A good review. I agree with your points except the low speed manoeuvring. After two years on a 2016 DCT model I have learned to use a little back brake against throttle. This gives me very accurate low speed control. DCT in the mountains of Japan is an absolute pleasure. If I come across as biased, I am! I love my bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No worries with that Peter! ....and yes a few have commented on trail braking, I did miss having a clutch to feather but I guess you get used to it with time and practice...

[@nicomonkeyboy]

Honestly, all bikes should have DCT. If it weren't for that fact that we'll all be riding electric bikes in 10 years, they would be.

[@chrisredfield3240]

@@nicomonkeyboy not everyone wants the extra cost or the weight

[@landedzentry]

I had assumed he meant it was snatchy *with* some braking in a u turn...well....TMF is a bit of a perfectionist - its probably not noticible! This is the man who was irritated by a slow triumph fuel guage(after a fill up - u know its full !). But - he does name all the faults when I tend to miss them mainly cos i grew up on 70s bikes " focus only on those aspects of a bike that are trying to kill you". As for u turns -if its becoming urgent or needs to be fast with a lean angle i end up using the front brake and higher revs - again, maybe a 70s throwback where squeezing up the bike between front and back helped handling,idk.

[@mickohara9138]

@@landedzentry I like perfectionists though. Spot things on my behalf. Been driving thirty years, swapping back to bikes. I really appreciate reviews if they're heavy on useful 'real world' information. Advancing relentlessly to fifty, practical advice is gold.

[@MrBaileys38]

Regarding Apple CarPlay. You don’t need to connect a headset. Plug in your phone, when tft tells you to connect a headset, just push and hold the “return” button on left handlebar and voila - CarPlay enables.

[@cjskeptic8931]

DCT all the way my 2019 is brilliant on and off road here in Australia...love it to bits..

[@khaccanhle1930]

Does it come with training wheels?

[@kierenmoore3236]

Khắc cảnh lê - I’m sure you can get some aftermarket ones, child.

[@964tractorboy]

What do you reckon to the low-speed manoeuvring?

[@Rdodo67]

@@khaccanhle1930 show us all your GP riding experience, you must be such a badass rider

[@midnightcowboy3611]

Great review, I like the fact that even though you wouldn’t have one, you haven’t put me off wanting it. Keep up the good work, best out there

[@Banditmanuk]

How far are manufacturers going to take the over complication of the electronics on motorbikes? Surely it's more important to be concentrating on watching the road than trying to get Lady Gaga to play on your Apple CarPlay.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I 100% agree BM - I'm sure you could get used to it but this bike was waaay to complicated for me and not particularly intuitive, I'd rather manufacturers got the key stuff right (handling, feel, comfort, sound, looks) and made the price more appealing than just adding more electronic gizmo's....Maybe the mooted "baby" AT will be the way to go.....

[@chr11sf]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Another 100% agreement here!

[@landedzentry]

"Fuel 23.4%, temperature engine okay, temperature ambient 20.4 thats okay, abs on, traction control setting maybe turn that up" ...SPANK you hit a truck !! I listen to the revs and judge the speed from experience , learn the switchgear by feel- i watch traffic and hardly ever look down at instruments....all that TFT would be too compelling for me i know I would tape over most of it in black electrical tape. I want to live. *A TFT is trying to kill you*

[@peterlivermore2177]

@@landedzentry Yep, absolutely no need for TFT displays on bikes, in fact it's a turn-off for me. Weirdly (and thankfully) Honda's VFR800 touring machine has the minimum of electronics and faffery, it doesn't even have cruise control which tells me it's a tourer for people who enjoy RIDING a bike.

[@iainian]

Too true BM.........on the modern Honda's I keep blowing the horn when trying to indicate (Buttons reverse like the old Aprilias)

[@Stevemax07]

Really enjoyed the format of this review and the content. I really liked to hear the practical experience kind of review vs many others I've seen online. Quick and to the point. Now its time to get me one of your blue shirts.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Be careful Steven - women can’t resist a bloke in a TMF shirt!

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Great review - I bought the black version with the manual gearbox - I am 6ft tall. Love the engine and I have the tall seat (Much more comfortable) - Hand on heart I absolutely love the bike, coming from: in 2010 BMW R1200GS in 2013 BMW F800GS and BMW 2015 GSA, I have finally converted back to my Hondas - The only thing I miss is from the 2015 GSA, the total wind protection it's not as good on the Honda and the shaft drive. Other than that I love every single thing about it. Cheers!

[@ian-c.01]

The only 2 points that appeal to me are the comfortable riding position and the low seat height, this would not be my first choice for a new bike. Interesting and fair review though, it's good to hear someone saying exactly what they think and not what is best for the manufacturer.

[@carlosandleon]

I find a lot of bikes to be too short for my taste and I'm not even that tall. Well 6 feet but barely. I think I'm pretty average

[@Omsracer1]

Very honest and accurate review Andy. I have the 2018 non adventure sport DCT and agree about the size and handling. But he DCT has split opinion in the AT world, but personally I love it. Slow speed manourvers can be tricky I agree but nothing that can't be mastered. Personally whilst the electronic suspension might be good and the TFT screen 'amazing' but complex, I would not fork out several thousand pounds to move from mine to the 2020 model. I think I probby knew what you would say about the bike so was not disappointed in the review. As usual you call it like you see it which refreshing. Keep up the honest reviewing.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Peter - I'm glad we concur!

[@plymouthjanner8940]

For me it's missing Shaft Drive. I couldn't go back to a chain on a touring bike.

[@ShikiKaze]

Probably the reason why it feels like it's more than 100 hrspwr( rated 101 Horsepower) is the 77-lb/ft of torque at the low and mid end rpm where you find it as it's all down low and steady till mid range it mellows out completely. And yes totally agree the DCT is throttle jumpy at low speed cause of the gearing and torque delivery. The manual by far is my favorite one. My friend's dad owns the old 1988 XRV650 Dakar replica when it came out and the new one now. I wish it wasn't a liter bike but say 650cc - 900cc engine to make it a bit lighter on dirt. It bogs down heavily on silty hill climbs and digs in too deep cause of the weight but the only redeeming feature is the torque to just tear through it. Great review as always. You still haven't convinced me to buy a R.E 650 INT yet... But I'm close too pulling the trigger, because Honda dealers here doesn't have the 2020 Rebel 500 in store xD

[@SBKPete]

That’s an excellent honest review of the AT.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Pete!

[@5280Woodworking]

I’m a tech freak so I’d probably love that about the bike. That said I’m old school and love the slow speed feathering a clutch gives. So, unless they gave you a way to get that feel or gave a slow speed clutch lever, I’d pass on the bike since not getting DCT seems like a crime if you got this bike.

[@Kendoji1]

I just LOVE the lumpy engine on my 17 DCT, it’s the main reason I bought it. Who would ever have imagined buying a Honda for the engine character. 😀

[@stevekelly6500]

Great review sir, so glad I never brought now. Don't think you made any friends at Honda with that review, but admire your honesty and integrity. 85 year old car driver just killed my 3 year old Ducati Multistrada Enduro. So replaced it with a R1250gs HP, what a cracking bike. So easy to ride, does so many things well. Plus looks a treat with the Billet pack option.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well it’s just my opinion and although I like pretty much all bikes, and am a Honda customer and fan, I can’t love all their bikes! Sorry to hear of your off, hope you weren’t injured??

[@BikingChap]

I’ve just done a second hand review of the Africa Twin. Interesting to see the 2024 changes, especially the 19” front on the ATAS!

[@coconutz247]

fair enough. your review is refreshingly honest. i own one and i have to say, i agree with a lot of what you say. the trump card for me is, when it's in motion, it's a dream.

[@nikoscosmos]

So refreshing to see people not knocking the conquering GS! The switch gear is beyond ridiculous! There I go. All the best, Nick

[@everythinggaming7938]

When you do slow maneuvers on DCT make sure you put it on sports mode 3

[@cwarren4396]

While Honda has done a great job with tech and the DCT, I agree that the manual transmission is the way to go. Especially offlroad. This review was excellent as usual. I appreciate the time it takes for testing and the importance of an honest opinion. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and expertise.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words! All the best - TMF

[@ryoder]

What I want is an Africa Twin chassis, with a Street Triple engine, and a BMW TFT display.

[@phillipsandusky3795]

I know theres a lot different but you can get the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 in the SCS trim which is close to DCT, using a recluse clutch system. Beautiful bike and expensive.

[@rodrigoafonso1995]

Amazing review! I am a long time follower so it's no surprise, but in this one I can confirm that it looks like you own this bike. I have one for 4 months and 4000km and agree in almost everything you said. The on/off throttle issue in the dct for slow manoeuvres improves drastacly if you adjust the power modes to 3/4 (less abrupt deliver of power). The dct makes a lot of sense for city riding and commuting, in my opinion even more than for touring. You just cruise more comfortably and don't have that clutch work for start/stop in the city. I never fell that glare on the dash interfering but I don't have other bikes to compare like you do. The vibrations are there if you drop 2k rpm and this is no diesel engine, but in the S modes it almost never happens. I only use D mode for driving when there are no hills. The way I found to deal with the size and weight is try to move the bike only when seating on it. I am 6 2(1.88m) and use the seat in the tallest position. Hope this feedback helps! Cheers from Madeira Island

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great real world feedback thanks!

[@accordiondr]

I got that exact bike..(.I'm 6'2")....love it...its like a "sports car"...being a pilot i love all the electronics 👍

[@rockcliffe91]

Same here 6'2, loving mine, lots of hate on here...🤔

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I certainly don’t hate the bike, my list of positives was longer than the negative one. I personally just found it too physically large and top heavy - and a little complex for my taste. They are good sellers and and I know they have many fans, I was just offering my point of view....

[@thepanel2935]

Don't let the chain get loose! Keep it properly tensioned.

[@mikaellindroos1594]

40000km with DCT never back to manual.

[@TheZakkmylde]

Interesting. Have you ever tried any off-roading. Curious how it works as a dct. Also the low speed turns ect they mention a lot it downshifts when you don’t want it. Is that the case ?

[@stargazerhu]

@@TheZakkmylde You can use it in manual mode.

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

I think I'm over my Africa Twin fetish. I'm loving my CB500X more and more. The Yamaha T700 looks much more like a unicorn. I'll be either getting a new CBx or a T7 i think. Hell, i can get both for the price of the ATAS.

[@Jayzonk]

Not quite sure how you can call it heavy to move around in the garage when you personally own an R1200GS. I've had both bikes and found the GS to be in the same ballpark, with the added issue of trying to get around the cylinder heads to move it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The difference is the GS has a low centre of gravity (thanks to those cylinder heads!) and hence it is easy to move around than the AT with its higher COG

[@Jayzonk]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm having a hard time being convinced that the center of gravity is going to matter much if you're holding your bike straight up and down and moving it in one dimension in the garage. The COG is largely irrelevant in those circumstances, unless you like to push your bike around while it is leaning over. Seeing that I've own a AT AS and previously had a 2018 R1200GS Rallye, I can attest that the Africa Twin is not top heavy in comparison, nor is it any more difficult to move around in the garage.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Try it yourself and see - the position of COG makes ALL the difference I can assure you.....

[@RichyVida]

Seat - Come on, I rode this actual machine almost to the top of Scotland in one hit in early Jan. 14hrs in the saddle. There's no discomfort in that seat. The harder the seat, the more comfortable on long rides. If it's a comfy soft seat, your arse will be in bits after 200 miles ;-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Clearly you have more padded buttocks than me! Probably your collossal weight took all the comfort out of it by the time it reached me!! 😘

[@RichyVida]

TheMissendenFlyer 😂😂😂 lets not get on about your buttocks, pal! ;-)

[@nikoscosmos]

Oh, go on!

[@paulsmyth497]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Andy - I am not siding with Rich, just cos' he's a Northerner - but you are indeed a Southerner - so obviously wrong 😊 Just kidding mate - I watch your channel also, but I am DEVASTATED by your review. You are the first person to say the AT is not a great bike. Like you, I have a collection, mostly Honda's, but a couple of Duke's, a very special Kwak (1972 Z1) etc as investors. I am planning one all year round bike when I return to the UK (from Egypt) to retire in a year or so, and the Africa Twin is THE one I am sure. You need to buck up Andy 🤣. Honda is THEEEEE past - and also the future in my small village mentality . Incidentally Andy - awesome "Security review" a couple of weeks ago mate. Cheers mate. Try to be more Northern, I PROMISE - you will be happier 😘

[@thehighlander9723]

Richy I watched your review and clearly shows the AT is an awesome bike. Unfortunately for TheMissendenFyler I do not believe he can properly review anything as right from the start he was negative towards the AT due to its size. I say don't review bikes you are not capable of handling. Thanks for your true review of the AT Richy up in Scotland that was truly something of a trip.

[@robchisholm72]

At the Honda off road 'school' Honda Adventure Centre, most of the instructors prefer the DCT. Also, off road, the DCT allows the novice as well as the more experienced rider to concentrate on their lines and obsticles and forget about stalling the bike. For low speed maneuvering, put a DCT bike into Sport, open the throttle slightly, then feather the rear brake instead of feathering a clutch. Agree'd the bike does lean over somewhat, however, when I've had an Africa in my garage, I use a small block of rubber or wood under the side stand to keep the bike more vertical. I have to agree though, the screen is to tall, like you, I prefer to look over a screen.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Interesting Rob what you say about the Adventure Centre....and yes, feathering the rear brake seems to be the answer....

[@mickynicky82]

There’s not a lot of people out there that could review a bike like you mate... 👏🏻👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Err I'll take that as a positive!!! ;0)

[@mickynicky82]

😁

[@gdfggggg]

@@TheMissendenFlyer lol

[@40scotsman]

I've had a dct great on the motorways but on the Alps like Grimsel or Furka was a let down kept changing half way round and the DCT slow manoeuvrability was crap... Layman opinion...i went to a VFR and now going back to ATAS which I pick up cpl weeks. Good honest video people wanna see this kind a thing before making their minds up. Thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words....

[@stevebolton8471]

The DCT on the Africa Twin 2020 doesn’t change gear on corners which it can detect because of the IMU.

[@stevenfebvre5151]

Met a fella at a local meet today that has the 1ltr version. Your comments mirror his. He said in slow moving traffic it was awkward to modulate slow speed, he missed not being able to feather the clutch! Also the wheels had rust, the hubs and other various engine parts. And I’d agree... it’s a total beast of a bike, I was quite surprised how barge like it was! 😮

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm glad we concurred!

[@michaeltomlinson7245]

Love your review, no bias, just honest information on how the machine works for you. That said, I'm surprised that you think the AT is bigger than the GS (to me it felt like the GS was HUUUUGE !). Also, from what I've read and heard elsewhere, everyday users of the AT seem pretty keen on the 'quickshift' rather than the full auto 'box DCT malarkey. Agree with your comments on complexity of left-hand switchgear (far too much for a single thumb). Looks and price are the persuaders though. AT is a far better looking bike than the GS, and I simply could not justify the extra 4 grand for similar spec GS. Top job man, keep 'em coming !

[@thepickerooney1578]

I love your honest reviews... cos in my opinion they are hard to come by on You tube. Well done yet again!👍

[@thepanel2935]

I have been told by a Honda dealer here in Australia that *_40 percent_* of Honda bikes sales are now DCT (automatic) not manual/geared bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow- that’s quite something....

[@mikewarner888]

I have owned the manual version of this bike with a quick shifter since December. 8k miles later and I still love it. I test rode a 1250 GSA last year and felt it was too heavy to commute on. Also rode the 1250 GS but then the new ATAS was released and it was a no brainer with servicing cost etc. Keep up the great work Andy.

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Just watch out for fork issues and fuel tank/pump issues on the AT - That could add quite a cost!!

[@rodbowes5309]

I tried the 2019 version of this. I liked the DCT, especially how it would 'kick down' a gear when you gave the throttle a good twist and then reel in the horizon. However, it was little lighter and actually taller than the Triumph Explorer that I was getting trading in, so I chose to go back to an 800 Tiger instead. It is good that they have reduced the seat height to something sensible, but the switch gear..

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Very honest and straight to the point. Excellent as always :)

[@thehighlander9723]

Thanks for sharing your review. It's all about rider and bike balance some riders don't fit the bikes well. Honda really don't build a bad bike. I have the 2017 DCT AT and just bought the 2020 DCT AT ES and am 5ft 7inch love the bike it has what the 2017 model was needing. For me the bike is perfect in every-way best AT ever made.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough - ride safe and enjoy!

[@redryder3868]

I have a 2018 NC750X and your comments about size of bike and hard to see screen are bang on for it as well. I got the clutch version and am glad I did. Like a sail boat, it is most unstable when stopped or going very slow. I would not want a jittery engine/transmission combination adding to the feeling of not being in control.

[@adventurehobbies1272]

I own a 2017 Africa Twin DCT. Not sure if I can go back to manual. Gives me two less things to worry about (clutch and gear shifter). Just the fact that you can leave it pinned while shifting wins me over. Check out my vids when you have a chance. They're not to the level or quality of yours but is getting better. Cheers

[@stanton20002]

That high pitched squeal kills

[@grumpsrides42]

It's nice to have a completely "honest" review, not ALL channels do this. "Would I own one? No!" not many are that honest, I presume, incase said manufacturer doesn't offer another loan bike?! Always good videos, and great reviews, keep up the good work.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Grumps Rides - I see no point in pretending to love a bike if I don't, if a manufacturer then decides not to loan you another bike of course that is their choice (but says more about them than me!!). I think it's a huge credit to companies like Honda that they are willing to let me say exactly what I think about a bike and continue to lend me more even if I'm not gushing about it. In the case of the AT it is undoubtedly a good bike, just not for me....only my opinion and I'm no expert!

[@lord.onk99]

Good honest review as usual Andy, well done.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks 👍

[@marty_krygs]

Well done TMF. Excellent review without any fluffing about.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you kindly

[@colindeans5972]

The bike looks fantastic, that's a given. The sensible seat height was a long time coming. The tech overload and left hand switch mess would put me off, I wouldn't use or be interested in a tenth of it. For me, riding a bike is about getting away from my day, relaxing, just enjoying being out on the road in the fresh air and not bothering with Apple car play etc blah blah, who really cares. The new Street Triple R has taken a step back from tech and improved the machine with the cost saving. A bold and positive step in my opinion. Top review TMF, thanks again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn’t agree more Colin...

[@stephtraveler7378]

Wow. and honest reviewer thats not afraid of Honda pulling back on future demo models.... for being honest.... Great review. Thanks for pointing out the pros and cons.

[@bobtaylor5263]

great honest review better to be honest. yes now you have pointed them out I can see where your coming from

[@mickthemaverick5998]

Watched the vid, read the comments, so scale the whole bike down to 85%, ditch the elecs other than abs and traction control, fit a pair of clocks instead of the tft and I might have bought one. Looks are superb with a sensible screen fitted and I love the dct cos it means I could ride it with my gammy ankle, but mainly its too big and cumbersome to live with!!

[@mikewarner888]

Mickthemaverick you just need to buy the 2019 CRF1000l then 😀

[@spacecoasttactical]

You don't need an aftermarket screen. The big screen is an option, it comes as standard with a really good small screen.

[@jamesfisher1827]

Great review. I agree with the looks, the Red, White and Blue and gold wheels works. However I think overall I’d spend the extra and get a new GS.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough!

[@szaneman791]

Excellent honest review as always Sir! Thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching

[@Michael_Mears]

"on-line simulator" to learn the switch gear, hahahaha! I love the look of the Africa Twin, but I'd sooner have a Tenere or a Himalyan and skip all that tech. Great video and good points.

[@themisinformedfryer8140]

I bet you still have a flip phone and dial up Internet.

[@SteveInskip]

TheMisinformed Fryer not if he’s watched that already! 😉😉

[@jonpram1737]

Main takeaway from this was it's a great bike but would have been better without a DCT and most of the electronics ... ... which TBH I think everyone but honda knew already.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@jonpram1737 That's it in a nutshell - smaller would be good too!

[@SteveInskip]

@@jonpram1737 totally agree. My bikes got no rider aids but it has got infinite rider modes.....it's called 'me'.

[@raycollington4310]

I completely agree with everything you've said in this review. As an AT owner, the DCT fraternity are a tad sensitive on the forums and there is a fair bit about undocumented features. Great review TMF, shaft, boxer and tele-lever it is then, a close second none the less!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@andrewhull365]

Great review, weird high pitch noise throughout tho! Review the ninja 1000sx please!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry about that - I hope this is the last video where you have to suffer that - I've since replaced the mic adaptor and it seems to have cured it...

[@ian-c.01]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm not hearing any annoying high pitched noise here, I have noticed people complaining about it on a few videos but it's not an issue for me even on headphones with the volume uncomfortably loud. I can hear a lot of things in the background like birds singing and leaves rustling, at one point I could hear voices and what sounded like someone sweeping up leaves or litter so the audio is quite clear. I watch your videos on a high quality desktop setup with dedicated soundcard and a very high quality speaker system, I also am a Linux user so the software is top quality too. I wonder if the people getting the problem are using hand held devices to watch your videos or if they all use a certain brand of device which adds to the problem ?

[@chrisw4215]

@@ian-c.01 latest MacBook pro, high noise highly noticeable

[@Justwanthavefun_100]

I’m still choosing manual instead DCT

[@peterducodil9890]

S C so what?

[@evgenychirilenko9366]

yet better to stay with steam engine

[@SebastianD1977]

@@evgenychirilenko9366 no man, the engine is the same in manual and DCT ;)

[@evgenychirilenko9366]

@@SebastianD1977 manual shift is thing of the past, thing of the future - no gears at all, xept reverse. For now the DCT is the least one can get.

[@someguy5035]

I did. Didn't want the additional complexity/maintenance nor the added weight.

[@randypullman1155]

It's the most exciting looking bike I've ever seen! I can't wait to get approved and drag knee on it! I especially like the size. I don't appreciate honda catering to short people on their biggest bike. If it's to big there's dozens of other choices.

[@xontheweb2376]

In a mist of 'good 'n bad' reviews I bought the ATAS manual soon after it was out. Tested the automatic too. Was coming from a ZZR 1400 3 year blissful experience. Almost 2 years later, ATAS is an amazing bike in every way. I cant see why I would want to fork out a few extra grounds for comfort. I rather not try too much luxury so I dont become hooked. Regular ATAS is so good I am not sure who this 'upped' version is for. Usually people who can spend this little fortune on 2 wheels will go for a beemer. Shame as it probably is an amazing bike. But Honda seem to make some bikes that dont do so well (CrossTourer 1200VFR, vfr 1200) because of release timing or/and competition at those times, while some of their products keep bringing in the big cash (NC750). This new ATAS is probably amazing, like some of those less successful Honda bikes, but most people will never know.

[@AutoDIY]

Manual for me my man, I appreciate your thorough review.

[@vishwav20]

I had asked you which one would you choose between this and a tiger rally pro on your previous video. If I decided to actually go for this AT DCT tell me I'm not making a purchase that I would feel different about down the lane.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm unable to do that ;0)

[@stevebolton8471]

You need to ride them both and make your mind up about it. If you are unsure keep trying bikes until you find one you do like. 😀. I would never buy a bike in someone else’s recommendation alone and I will never buy a car or bike that I haven’t test ridden for at least an hour.

[@jasonwilliamson990]

Clutch! I love my AT base. What’s with all the automatics?

[@YTisDumb]

Nice review. I think it's pretty cool that we have so many choices. There seems to be an ADV bike to suit all comers these days. Good time to be a biker. Cheers!

[@xcaliber7779]

Is that the standard seat that came with the bike or is that lower seat option?

[@svendusmcveteraner]

Thank you for an earnest review Yes with lean mixture injecktion on a bike with DCT gearbox you actually MUST put a finger on the brake to get full control on slow maneuvers , but to thange gear with with left hand are absolutely lowly especially when standing on the bike off road 👍

[@baldandbiking]

Ive had one for only a few months now before winter hit so not a lot of experience on it yet, but so far I can say I've had some issues with it being a bit jerky between throttle and engine braking. It takes a bit of tweaking if you want to smooth it out, particularly at lower speeds around 50-70km/h. You definitely want it in sport mode. I go with sport II myself as I find in regular D mode it kind of lugs like a tractor and it's not very fun. After about 1500kms riding it now I've smoothed out these minor bugs and I'm getting much more used to it, and I do find that the more I ride it, the more I enjoy this bike. The electronics are complicated at first, but just remember to try not to overcomplicate what you don't need to do. You don't need to have perfect customized settings right off the bat, you can go with the default modes and do quite fine until you really get used to the bike and how to tweak the settings into one of the user modes. I haven't done much offroad with it yet, so will be exploring that this summer as best as I can, but I can say that any experienced offroader that has spent some time with this bike absolutely loves it, especially the DCT.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So is yours a DCT? I love it on my GoldWIng I must say. makes so much sense on a big ol' tourer......

[@baldandbiking]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I think you will see a lot more of them in the future. Just think when automatics first came out for cars, now almost everyone drives one.

[@johnbainbridge8805]

I have 2016 dct and love it, put it auto and use the paddle to change through the box as i would with a quick shifter, as for slow turning you soon get great throttle control plus a dab of rear break makes turning easy. Thanks for all your work and sorry i missed you in the land of smiles, never cold here....

[@neiloakey5183]

Had one of these for the weekend while my 2018 model was in for service... Loved it, but I'd probably never get around to understanding the electronics.... biggest quirk for me.. the indicator is tiny and hard to find with gloves, and only moves a tiny bit, so your never quite sure if it has worked or cancelled. The indicator repeaters on the dash are also tiny. But overall a great bike... Would I replace my 2018 model? No... in my opinion the 2018 has tons more character, and sounds much better... Thanks for a great vid.

[@kwak1k]

Regarding the jerky dct during u turns, dragging the rear brake,with your revs up a bit as you go round should eliminate that problem.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Indeed, thanks for the tip....

[@corujariousa]

Slow maneuvers with the DCT require control of acceleration with rear brake use. It takes practice. Using the manual control might make things easier for some riders. The switch gear button (left handle) not being illuminated are a bummer.

[@Bazza47]

As ever these types of videos you do can be very useful to potential buyers. Being a (short) GS fanboy one of these would never be an option for me because of the things you mention about it's size and how it carries its weight. As far a DCT is concerned part of the pleasure I get from riding a bike is getting the gear right for the situation I'm in and one thing the DCT can't do is look ahead and plan which gear I want, be that because of the terrain coming up or the way I'm riding so for me it would dull the riding experience. To me (and other opinions are available) the sweet spot on a bike is a manual box with a good up/down quick shifter. If you're a tall person and want to do some green landing etc like The Crumble does then the AT could be for you but I suspect for most riders who just ride on the road then one of the other ADV bikes will suit your needs better.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

100% agree Barrie....

[@Bazza47]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks Flyer 😂

[@markhorton7013]

Gr8 honest review and clarified some points worth knowing.... cheers Andy

[@Pyro-1251]

When I was in the Bike trade, we once had two used Africa Twins in stock - one standard and one DCT. The weight difference between the two was very noticeable. The weight of the extra clutch on the DCT even though low down made it quite a bit harder to manoeuvre in and out of the shop. For the slow manoeuvres you could always put it in manual? Good review as usual!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hmm interesting, maybe I should try the manual version then.....

[@myronhorvathsk]

Good review! I've rode a 2016 AT and loved the bike. I'm accustomed to a bike that is about 750 lbs so this coming in at about 200 lbs less feels so easy to move around. I would NEVER get the DCT though. I'm old school, I'll take care of my own gears. Lol

[@leumas1996]

I saw you purchase a BMW GSA Rally 2018 model. Would u recommend ATAS 1100 Or the GSA😌🙂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’d recommend the GS personally

[@leumas1996]

@@TheMissendenFlyer damn.. is it the suspension? I rode the GSA and damn the suspension is pretty damn amazing. I didn't get to test ride it on the highway so I can't compare that area..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that and the low centre of gravity and better tft/controls

[@leumas1996]

@@TheMissendenFlyer appreciate it mate :) gonna down for the GSA rn😌

[@landedzentry]

Its HUGE and top heavy. Put anything heavier than woolly jumpers in the top box and it will fall over everywhere! If you dont go offroad , the "adventure" is wondering why you didnt buy a Gold Wing - LOL.

[@ewenbruce5851]

Funny you should say that; mine fell over the other day for no good reason.... Stupidly top-heavy

[@landedzentry]

Yeah, ....but note, I 'm not saying I dont like it...I was trying to be funny - I actually think theyre rather cool, and the automatic gearbox thing - amazing.

[@broadsworddannyboy5057]

@@ewenbruce5851 how did that happen?

[@powderhounding]

What is that gate that you have across the inside of your garage door?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It's my Guardsman - link in the description + discount below (Image4security)

[@johnschotz1614]

Absolutely love the design of this one. Looks so much better than my also good looking BMW GS. Never drove one (yet).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn’t disagree more!

[@johnschotz1614]

@@TheMissendenFlyer that’s the great part of free speech.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

100% agreed!

[@gatti493]

just regarding horse power , you have to remember where this motorcycle is aimed ! too many people are putting this bike up against the likes of the GS 1250 , it wasn't made to go in that bracket or priced to go in that bracket , it was priced to go up against the 850cc , oranges with oranges sir ! Africa Twin £13,050, BMW 850 £12,600. Africa Twin BHP 101, BMW 850CC BHP 93, Africa Twin 105NM , BMW 850 92NM THERE IS £450 IN THE PRICE DIFFERENCE

[@JayKay730i]

Great review as always! However, I’m a little gutted about your bad points 😕 I’ve had my 1100 for almost a year now and the only thing that bugs me is the “can only use CarPlay through a headset”. I’ve ridden GS’s and I had the 2018 (1000cc) ATAS, I find the 1100 to feel smaller, lighter and more compact… it’s strange how this can be subjective(however, mine is manual). Mine is also tricolour but has a full stainless Akrapovic exhaust and sounds absolutely beautiful, it gets a lot of attention wherever I go 😊 Happy riding!

[@JayKay730i]

I must say I agree with your point about the seat. Also the power, I’d be interested to see the figures on a dyno as it really does feel like more than 100bhp (or 96 or whatever the quoted figure is!)

[@peter2679]

It's good to hear a honest review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Peter - I always try to be honest in my reviews!

[@viveksoty]

I still cannot wrap my brain around getting a DCT just yet. Thanks for the pros and cons of this bike mate.

[@Spad562]

That's why quick shifters are better.

[@nigeltankard6977]

Thanks for this. I am looking at either this or a GS, just not sure which

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

GS obvs....

[@bikeman7756]

Great short very informative review. 👏

[@airevalleyclassics]

Can I ask for some details on the security bar thingy you have inside your garage door? Tnx

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sure - check out my video from last week on the “top security products of 2020” - I go into all the details there..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqrMomyKp9B7ZsU

[@herculanomorais]

I have the NC750x DCT and It suffers from the same low speed problem. I can get round it by using the rear break, but I just love the DCT Box. My Spec has the shift pedal and it is simply amazing, best "quick shifter" on the market.

[@wontondestructxn]

Any plans to review the V-strom 1050?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

None at the moment but never say never!

[@bartjaspers240]

It is not specifically heavy on the scale but it is for sure TOP heavy, and therefore hard to handle when parking (i assume it is because of the tall suspension and the huge fueltank?). If i put it in the garage or handle it from the side, i allways take care to keep it upright, it makes a big difference.. I agree with the side stand issue, it has a big angle and due to the height of the bike it takes up a lot of room. I allways park it on the centerstand. I have short legs (32 inch inseam), and have some trouble getting on and off the bike especially with the panniers on. I have one usermode where i have the electronic suspension lowered to the max just to get on and off properly. (I feel like an old guy). How do you feel about this topic? Once i am on, the suspension sinks under my obese weight and i can put my feet down. In this usermode 2 i also put engine braking and powermode to soft. Its great for maneuvering the bike in parking spots or walking from the side on enginepower.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’m completely with you Bart - feels very tall and top heavy when manoeuvring it around...puts me off the bike somewhat.

[@tempestandacomputer6951]

No centerstand stock? Is there at least an aftermarket one?

[@timktm1]

Yes

[@hadtobe4502]

One thing I am really interested in is the headlight array which is seldom to never talked about in reviews. On low beam, do both the headlights come on or just one. On high beam do both the headlights come on or just the other one not on low beam. Do the auxiliary lights come on with the DRL's or just the main headlights. Appreciate any light (no pun intended) on the subject.

[@JayKay730i]

You’ve probably found out by now, but both headlights are high and low beam. You can set them to auto for DRL only in daytime(no headlights) and you can choose to have the fogs come on full time or off full time. The cornering lights are magical in the dark (and I’m not a fan of cornering lights, I turned them off completely in my cars and truck)! Every light is also LED apart from the number plate light, annoyingly!

[@paulwood7798]

Do you know what. The more reviews I watch the more I don't want to watch reviews. I tried the bike and for my six six frame i found a bike that did not give me a slouching posistion while riding. Bought the bike and five months later quite happy to say for me its the most comfortable easiest bike I have had in thirty biking years.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you love it Paul - it’s definitely more suited to a six foot six fella than it is a shortie like me at 5’8”!!

[@ccgg3913]

Once DCT never go back, simply stunning technology, I am old school clutch and manual transmission, or rather was...

[@justindoonerwind6076]

Be nice if it was android as well, is there a link arm to make it higher, looks really low...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

😜

[@scaff3450]

i Agree with most of your bad points having had mine for a few months the seat is bad after 100 miles or so and screen is rubbish changed mine and much better switch gear complicated at first but great when used to it mine not DCT and better for me .Great Review good to hear a different view of the bike All in all im very happy with mine.Keep safe and keep em coming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you're happy with it TS - and also glad we concur!

[@nigelgreen7657]

Hi TS what screen did you put on the bike ? Thanks.

[@SuperchargedLlama]

I wondered if you were going to mention the low speed manoeuvring. It's top heavy in slow filtering too but I've found your specific issue is solveable by riding the rear break and having constant throttle. It's a different way to ride for sure, but it becomes second nature after a while.

[@fevziatilla]

one quick question... would it be possible to change the front wheel with size 19', instead of size 21'? with the current tire sized 21' , bike looks much taller which makes it harder to ride for shorty bikers. i am aware, it may have to change the entire suspension system as well. thank you.

[@tHaH4x0r]

2:00 I think the reason why its glossy is mostly to do with the fact that it is a touch screen. Afaik doing matte touchscreens is really hard. Although, honda could have done what phone manufacturers do to circumvent the glare issue: increase the backlight brightness (and maybe dynamically adjust it based on ambient light).

[@JayKay730i]

It does have auto brightness and you can change the display to white on black.

[@robb8773]

YES, I find that too with the DCT, i.e. disengaging mid slow speed turn, hate it. Its like pulling in the clutch mid slow speed turn. I "trick" the bike by applying rear brake (more than usual in a slow speed u turn so the rev's stay higher and the transmission stays engaged. Give me 6 speed manual trans any day!

[@richardrh3623]

Another very useful review. Thank you. I have a 2019 manual A T at the moment and am thinking of swapping it for the new version because of the tubeless tires, the quick shifter ( loved it on my S1000 XR ) and hill start brake. But if the new engine is that lumpy then I'm not so keen. Having you point out the short falls ( I Y O ) is very useful as on an hour's test ride it's very difficult to take it all in but now I know what to look out for. Thanks.

[@MrBanjokat]

I have a manual '19 standard as well. I've ridden the manual version of this one and don't get the lumpy comment at all, feels the same so don't worry. I'm with you on the TFT and tubeless wheels but not sure I'd swap mine for one.

[@SW8-n1h]

Lumpy? Not at all in my opinion...its the same engine with a bit more piston travel...