New 2022 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 1100 DCT ES Review!

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[@motobob]

Find out more about Sizzapp here, and use "MOTOBOB" to get a 15% discount: www.sizzapp.com/

[@orhankoc6856]

Yutup altyazi(Türkçe) dili ekleme yaparmisin ?

[@fuckedupswede]

Can we get 15% on African Twin also? :)

[@zyonsdream]

I lost my 2017 Africa Twin In an accident in November. That accident broke my left leg in 4 places, including a compound fracture that required a nail from my knee to ankle. I broke my left arm in two places and pulverized my right calcaneus (heel.) throw in a torn right MCL and broken bone in my knee and It’s 6 months before I get to walk again. I just purchased a 2021 Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT. I found a leftover 21 because I wanted black. My old bike was Tri-color and I don’t think I’d want that level of reminder when I ride. My old AT was manual transmission but I went DTC because I’m done with dirt due to my injuries but I love the AT and it’s ergos. I lost motion in my left ankle which means I can’t tilt my foot upward to shift up. It might come back as the nerves heal but right now, I’ll be perfectly happy with DTC.

[@pabloblascocarrascosa5425]

You're a H-E-R-O. Hope enjoy it!!! Stay safe folks

[@waynepantry7023]

@@pabloblascocarrascosa5425 Don't ride motorbikes then if you want to stay safe . . .

[@GCTO239]

@@waynepantry7023 seriously?

[@phammanh2689]

Stay safe mate.

[@phammanh2689]

@@waynepantry7023 Sorry, i don't want to risk my life and others on the road.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

I own this identical bike in 2020 fashion. Just over 20.000 km on it and love it. We ride multi-week adventures in a mixture of wilderness camping/hotels. Mostly through BC, off road, mountain passes, highway and urban riding. This bike has been true Honda quality for me, and two buds the same. I know you touched on the electronic suspension, but this has been the game changer for me. On the fly 100km'hr on highway i can toggle the suspension setting to offroad, bike softens up and I transition onto a forestry road. Bike is instantly compliant and removes the wanted stiffer anti dive suspension of tarmac needs. If I put on my panniers or a pillion or pillion plus panniers, i can select preset settings again via toggle, or screen via finger if stopped. Bike rises and stiffens suspension in 5- ten seconds. Done! Super super easy, and immediately noticeable. Stock tires I feel are poor, so put on a pair of Mitas E07's and this bike eats up two track and forestry roads effortlessly. I see reviews of BMW's often, and maybe one day I'll even get to ride one. But in Canada, especially BC you can't glance sideways with-out hitting a Honda dealer. So parts and service are never far. One cool function is Honda carplay on TFT linked to my Cardo, making it a wonderful tool, You can voice command phone calls through the bike, or toggle through roladex. When you are using google maps it will direct you via you Cardo, and you can toggle your main screen from bike operating (speed, rpm, ect) to maps, to phone easily once learned. You can listen to music off phone, hear it fade out to receive a call (notifies on screen), then fade back in once call is complete. Three of us were caught in "heatdome" in Okanogan in 2021. Rode for days in 42 to 46'C. Past numerous forest fires, over mountain passes and evacuation. Our bikes not once had a hiccup. It was like driving in an oven! My buds bike ambient temp gauge just flaked out. I guess Japan never expected these bikes to be ridden in these temps? Worked fine once ambient cooled. Both buds ride Baja, and racers. All three of us ADV all over Western Canada and at 3-7000 Km trips we prefer the DCT. Chill, kick back, let the bike do all the work, or when life gets spirited go manual and use paddle shifters. We're not jumping these bikes, hitting whoops, hill climbing, or running uber tight single track on these. So DCT is a perfect combination for us. But note. If your new or fairly new to riding, DCT might not be the ticket? No emergency clutch. Whiskey throttle must remain front and center of your brain. And slow maneuvers for newbies will be harder. Glad you enjoyed the bike, we sure do! Thanks for sharing a great bike with the net, Bill.

[@justinabbiss5456]

I just bought an Africa Twin DCT after five years of spanking my KLR 650 as a learner. With full licence in hand and the nod approval from the Kiwi govt, I went to the Honda showroom to buy a manual but then ... There was a choice of a new, unsold 2019 DCT or the brand new 2022 Manual which I watched built out the crate and a whopping 28% price difference! I was of course slathering for the latter and was allowed to test ride both of them a mere 10km each on only tar seal - There's no supply here in NZ and the new pup was going to be sold by day's end. I just couldn't understand why the DCT was such an orphan which made me slightly sceptical, I must say. At any rate, the manual turned on and the enormous screen with all its incredible information was almost intimidating. There are just so many options. The ride was grunty, fast and fun but she just didn't like slowing down to in-town speeds; like a lusty thoroughbred stallion just champing at the bit. The 1100cc engine was discernably more powerful than the 1000cc DCT I jumped on next but I just couldn't have cared less. Engaging "Drive" on the DCT, setting off and immediately testing the manual override paddles and feeling the utterly seamless gear changes and the effortless power and poise brought the biggest, dumbest smile to my chops. I then slid it into Sport mode to hold the gears longer and lower and had a burst of outright Manual mode too which was stupendous - even without the clutch peddle. Just total, seamless control. Coming back into town, slightly too hot I'll admit, and paddling quickly down the gears had everyone in the high street stop and look up as the simply wonderful exhaust notes farted and chuckled their way across town. Unlike the wild 1100cc steed, the 2019 was very happy to idle around town and make you forget the arm lengthening pull of full throttle just a minute before. Add to this a smaller FAR less tech-laden screen with simpler options and I was in love. Half an hour later, a delighted sales guy and a more delighted me parted company. I have smoked 700km in the five days since then and no longer give a second thought to the crusty old "manual til I die" mantra I used to preach. This DCT technology is a thing of beauty and wonderment, folks. Try it!

[@lenetisg]

I ve test ride all the big adventure bikes and for me the most reliable, best handling, comfort from dct, cheap services is Africa twin adventure sport. It has 21 inches front tire so cerbs, bad road, bad surfaces it just flying.

[@GCTO239]

Totally agree. I have got a 2020 AT with DCT. I just love this bike. DCT is magnificent. Worked perfectly on the race track. The 1100 cc engine is great. This year the focus will be shifting to offroad adventures. The bike can do it all. And yes, it is a gorgeous bike. I have the standard version in red. Every time I look at my Twin her beauty strikes me. Regards from Germany.

[@SamiNami]

Please be careful if you plan to take this heavy bike offroad

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

For me manual with quick shifter is the way to go.

[@GCTO239]

@@MagicAyrtonforever good for you. Have you tested DCT for a longer period of time?

[@rocket2811]

did you have upgrade software on your 2020 dct to 2022?

[@GCTO239]

@@rocket2811 not yet. My 24k service is due in two weeks. Hopefully I will get my update then.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

I agree . I get many many comments on my Tri-color 2020 ATASes. It is stunning! 17000 km and running like new! Off road Rockies, Van Island, throughout BC, on and off road. 100% reliable, and comfortable. I would buy this same bike tomorrow if it was ever stolen or ruined. I have a garage full of various toys. This one is what I dream about, when my eyes close, lol. Smiles per mile, Africa Twin DCT. I have plenty of accessories to make it my style, and fortunately their are plenty available :-)

[@BrokeDownBob]

I think the Africa twin from Honda is a great bike! I would love to own one. But the obsession with big power plants is getting out of hand. I would remind you that "Itchy Boots" is going around the whole damn world on a 300cc Honda! I rode all over Europe in the 1960's on a Triumph 650 with a whopping 26 bhp as I recall. So, the bike is great but remember HP is not everything. (Had a cracking good time too!)

[@SimonBrisbane]

I’d much rather travel the world on an AT than a 300CC. My only concern would be getting spares in third world countries and jealous eyes that would want to steal it.

[@jthompson6189]

I actually find that very amusing, how someone who is on a real adventure is only using a 300cc bike, yet people here blow their entire pay cheques for adventures bikes so they can ride to the next town over for ice cream

[@michaelg7011]

I follow Itchy Boots and while impressive, C90adventures tops the smallest bike almost around the world crown in my book. I know a guy who rode around the world on a Harley Sportster. What's impressive is not the bike but Dave Barr is a double amputee. Mind over matter.

[@Sailordudeayeaye]

And you're probably not 6'3" at 250 pounds before putting on riding gear then adding panniers and top box full of stuff either. Power is good to overcome those things. I take my 500# CBR 1100XX Super Black Bird on gravel roads and my 600# 84 wing on gravel and some single tracks. Had to ride through a river to get back to pavement. My 900# 2015 wing 👀 gravel a lot... So 500# and 100 hp with ground clearance is a great thing. Been looking at the Honda 450L though for light weight. Reflash the ECM and you have plenty of power but the maintenance schedule solved that quandary.

[@chamaileon81]

Me and my best friend just fell in love with AT from the first time it was re-introduced by Honda, it's by far the most gorgeous of the lot. My second best pick is Tiger 900 Rally Pro and his, the Norden and we kinda fight over them, so it's nice that you covered both in this video, hehe!

[@PapaDougsAdventures01]

I have the DCT on my Goldwing Tour and a Quickshift on my 890 Adventure R and my R1250GSA. On this type of bike I’d definitely get the Non-DCT and add the quickshift.

[@WRXXXual]

Agreed.

[@TF-qy6bx]

What u do for a living?xD

[@theonlyredspecial]

Dct works better on the goldwing. In all modes it's excellent due to the 6 cylinder engine. I always found on the Africa twin that it only worked well in the higher sport settings. It would often have you sitting at 40mph in 6th gear and the twin felt awful at those settings.

[@SimonBrisbane]

The quick shifter is a ripoff. Not a huge performance gain either, only a tiny bit faster.

[@barkindustry8150]

Always appreciate your personal insight on the bikes. I personally love the looks of the bike and the reliability of Honda since I'm a '20 CB500x owner but I wish more people would cover the little quirks that could drive you mad. Like many others in my category, I'm looking for a bigger bike but have you seen how incredibly difficult it is to remove/replace the air filter on the AT vs the Tiger 900 for example? That being said that DCT makes you rethink the other offerings lol

[@kirank1012]

Look at that engine. Anyone can easily fall in love with it. ❤️

[@AmitPal-hj1ze]

This is the sweet spot in the realm of adventure bikes.

[@rondar2]

AT is one of the most underrated bikes simply because of the majority of the community who uses it. I see that mostly people who want to get into big ADV class but too afraid to go directly with a GS buy the AT and get used to adv bikes. So they drive slow and also do not use not even half of its capability. I owned a 2018 AT for a little over a year and done 25k kms on it. I am 170cm and I comfortably used it in heavy city traffic with seat on low position. It is a very balanced bike and because its quite thin compared to other big ADV's its much easier to reach the ground. As per performance it had the same acceleration and top speed of a 1200gs. Despite the 21" front wheel it is quite capable in corners. I have taken corners with over 200kph on highways and scraped the pegs many times on mountain roads. The only drawback was the IMMENSE fuel consumption on high pace highway rides. I once emptied the 18l tank in less than 150kms. You can easily see over 10 l/100km if you constantly drive at full gas. Maybe it is now improved with the 1100cc engine. On our long trips I stopped at least 4 times more than my friends with the GS's with CRF1000L.

[@maxmorgan4453]

I have a 2020 adventure sport manual box. Never had a quickshifter or DCT so don't miss them. With a bit of experimenting you can set up the user modes to suit your riding style, then you don't really need to fiddle any more. I like minimal engine braking as for me it flows better through corners. Get a centre stand, makes chain maintenance easy. For me bike is very comfortable and you can see over cars, has great road presence.

[@gangdoggviper]

I am loving the fact they are bringing DCT to more and more bikes especially to adventure bikes! I love bikes but I hate manual shifting especially in dense city trafic, so hondas dct option is just amazing!

[@scottlandmcc]

Really looking hard into the Africa Twin Adventure Sport. I'm in love with it and it's a Honda so it'll run forever!

[@jthompson6189]

God this bike is a work of art, can't wait to grab mine next year. I want this exact setup, tri color included

[@godsmack7734]

That was an awesome review! Super detailed!

[@garthlundquist3623]

I have owned a 2017 AT standard model since new, and a buddy has owned both the standard model AT, the ATAS with DCT, and a 2021 GS 1250. We have spent quality time swapping bikes and riding different conditions including some difficult off road scenarios. A few observations.. All three are excellent bikes. The BMW is the fastest, heaviest, and torquiest. The opposed twin design helps to lower the CG and makes it easier to pick up when it tips over. The BMW also has the best suspension. The ATAS with DCT is a luxury liner on the road. Bob’s comments on two up riding are spot on. That transmission works better than you expect. But.. it offers less control in sketchy off road riding, especially at low speeds. The DCT adds a noticeable amount of weight to an already heavy bike, and is much more susceptible to damage in a tip over. If you rarely go off road then it isn’t an issue. The standard. AT is by far the sportiest ride due to the considerably lower weight and conventional clutch and transmission. It is a simple matter to change final gearing ratios to match load and terrain via a countershaft sprocket swap. Not so with the BMW. I think all three bikes are too heavy for offroad and would suggest a Norden 901 or KTM 890 if that is your focus. The Honda has a better reputation than the BMW for not breaking and should cost less to service. I personally like top quality bikes that are simple, light, and durable. Unfortunately there seem to be more consumers who demand lots of features. This drives up the weight, complexity, and price, and reduces reliability and serviceability. But I am the guy who thought the 1969 Honda CB 750 was a huge leap forward..

[@arnaudvasquez7637]

Totally agree. I’ve got the 2021 DCT ES and it’s a dream to own. DCT brings an additional safety factor as well as pillion comfort. You can play with the gearbox as you like while leaving it in auto mode, you can tell it was made by riders. After 31 alpine mountain passes with countless hairpins and tiny roads in 8 days, it’s a winner. I tried to use Apple car play and I stopped. Too much distractions and too complicated to setup ( Bluetooth + cable + helmet coms…) The engine is punchy, fun and doesn’t feel weak riding two up with luggage.

[@peelypeelmeister6432]

Hi Mate. How did it handle on tighter smaller roads. How do you think it would handle in cities like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh?

[@Teja81990]

@@peelypeelmeister6432 get a 750 cc version of it. It is much more versatile and usable power.Theres really no need of more power than a 750cc in asia or unless one is a pro or really plan on riding more than 200kmph lol.

[@joshuajimenez]

Just took my 2020 AT AS out for the first time in a few months today 😆 (winter). Definitely is a big and intimidating bike. I’m 5’9 but you get used to it. Previously had a 2019 NC750X but once I saw the Africa twin I traded it in for it 2 months later lol. Great video 👍 I will also say the DCT is incredible and honestly can’t see myself owning another bike without it. Only exception is my 2021 Honda Trail 125 (incredibly hard to find nowadays) but that one has a semi automatic transmission so you get the picture 😂😊

[@robinwhite716]

Just bought second hand. (1,000 miles on the clock) 2021 Africa Twin Adventure manual non electronic suspension love it suits me, have I got my head around the electronics no not yet, next challenge, it’s one of those bikes when you park it you always look back at it and smile, on the road it’s got enough grunt for me.

[@mda1856]

For all the guys who complained that DCT is for wimps and taking the fun out of motorcycling, you have a choice and you can vote with your money. I have a 2021 Base model DCT and I love it on and off road. I am an older guy and have owned plenty of sport bikes, sport touring bikes, and dirt bikes over the years. The AT is one of the best all arounders I have ever ridden and I had a BMW GS for many years. I also own a KTM 350 and DR650 for off road riding where they are better tools than a 500 lb beast. I haven't forgotten how to shift nor will I ever do so. DCT is a great thing if used properly and you take the time to learn that. I doubt any of the naysayers spent any significant time riding a DCT bike if they rode one at all. Last point is that I have owned German, Austrian, and Italian bikes. Honda reliability is a thing and those who complain it makes them boring, must like spending more time wrenching than riding. I loved riding my euro bikes but they definitely were much more needy than any of the Japanese bikes I have owned.

[@imopn]

Definitely my favourite big adventure bike and the one ill get next when I sell my GS800. Love the engine too and that you dont have to get to the red line to get good power. That with the DCT should make for a relaxing ride.

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

Great review. Another thing to take into account when comparing cost though is the cost of ownership. I’m not sure how it is in the UK, but for those of us in the US, owning a Honda has significantly lower costs than a BMW. Everything from the cost of an oil change to parts to regular maintenance visits to whenever something inevitably breaks and needs to be repaired or replaced, the Honda will almost always be notably less expensive to own. People don’t make the joke lightly that BMW means “Bring My Wallet”.

[@donwasinger6654]

Digging the new studio. Keep up the great content bruv 👍

[@motobob]

🙏👍

[@Honda_Africa_Twin]

I ordered the same specifications bike. Can’t wait for the delivery, mid April. For me it’s almost perfect, the two things I’ll change immediately are the OEM tires and seat padding. That’s it. Looks amazing, DCT is X amount of times better than any quickshifter (I had my doubts about DCT and engine breaking but this bike offers so much personalization through the system you can make it truly one of a kind and no other bike can do it to such extent). And yes, I’m biased as I rode it, loved it, paid for it but if I were to chose on looks alone it’s #1 spot in my eyes.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

I have 17k on mine. Driven all kinds of back country mountain roads, highways, cities all across BC and Alberta, on my 2020 ATASes. We've been +2 in rain to + 46'c last year, and not an issue. This bike is remarkable! So comfortable and confidence inspiring in everything, others than super tight single track. It's not a 250 trials bike, but everywhere else a very very worthy bike. Things I've done. Guglatech Mazinga fuel filter upgrade for Adventure Sports weld flake issues. Barkbusters, Mitas E07 tires (tires make a huge huge difference off road. Can't stress this enough), OEM wind deflectors beside signal lights, nice, (don't get bottom deflectors they suck). Changed foot pegs to optional Honda offroad/Enduro pegs (much more comfortable and supportive). OEM crash bars (I like, fit well), OEM center stand ( is awesome), OEM Honda pannier racks and aluminum panniers (made by Givi I believe for Honda, which I absolutely love!). Used factory skid plate, but coated bottom with John Deere graphite Anti skid paint. Looking to get Denali driving lights with plug and play harness. I have had and have many toys. Z06, mountain sleds, RZR, dirt bikes, quads, duramax ect. They all operate diffently. My buds and I have AT's and all enjoy DCT, over manual. Very few instances a clutch on a bike this big where it is ridden, is an advantage we find. DCT has many options, and is just easy, for this type riding. Welcome to the club my fellow Honda rider :-) You are in for a world of fun! P.S. my ass hurt for first 500 to 1000 km. Not sure if my ass broke in or the seat, lol. Be patient maybe you get lucky also? My seat is great now. I'm 6'2 and 220 pounds. Cheers 🇨🇦

[@Honda_Africa_Twin]

@@billmcmeekin7909 Thank you for the warm welcome. I forgot to tell that the deal I made with the Honda dealership included OEM lower and upper crash bars, skid plate, top case with backrest and center stand. I wasn’t sure about the OEM panniers, so I opted to look for alternatives. I know how much difference tires make, already ordered Continental TA3 tires, and I am thinking or getting Regina HPE chain with Stealth Supersprox sprocket, but those might be an overkill for now. I did not notice buffeting but a lot of owners say one should get wind deflectors, as do you, so I guess no harm in getting those. And thank you for sharing the experience with the seat, it made me definitely give the stock seat a chance at least up until the first service. Regarding Denali, HEX ezCAN made Honda specific accessory manager, installs on the IMU, amazing piece of tech. You can install it easily, and it’s configurable with a PC or Mac, endless variations. I got my eye on it too. Cheers.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

@@Honda_Africa_Twin Well done Mike :-) Looks like you're well on your way to setup. Nicely done! We're about 2.5 months away (-30'c this morning) from riding. Counting the days now :-) Happy trails/roads, and closed lip smiles for miles :-) 🇨🇦

[@Honda_Africa_Twin]

@@billmcmeekin7909 Same, same. See you on the road once you come visit Europe :)

[@greyanaroth]

Usually love the music on your channel, but this song is my favorite. That bass oooohhh

[@bobbazley5376]

Great review and just confirms my decision to go for the AT Adventure manual with ES/Quickshifter, crash bars and panniers kit. I’m moving to it from a Triumph Rocket 3 GT and I’ve gone from what in my mind is a beast of a machine into something that is more suited for some long overseas trips I plan on doing. Luckily for me I live in the far Northwest Scottish highlands and actually on the NC500 so the AT is going to be used a lot on my local single track roads. As for the choice between DCT/Manual ? Well my first bike in 2014 was the Honda Vultus (yes I’m the person that bought it !) and it came with DCT and I loved it to begin with but then realised that I just didnt feel as engaged with the bike as I would have liked to be, its all just kinda sit there and not really think about the bike just twist and go. I changed through about 7 bikes since then and all manual apart from in 2018 when I had the new Goldwing which is a brilliant Bike with DCT and perfect for such a large touring bike but once again its a different mindset, on the Goldwing its nice to have the gears taken care of because you are literally using it for long relaxed tours. The DCT on the wing was the Hondas second iteration of their DCT and it was an improvement from the original one I had on the Vultus (less clunky and not downshifting during simple corners etc) I’m sure the 3rd Gen in the AT is great but that bike is made to be engaged with and really feeling each upshift and downshift as you ride it in many different conditions. Trying DCT during a short test ride always feels great as you just open the throttle and it does all the rest but the long term feel of the bike and how you engage with it on the road changes after that initial impression. A quickshifter IMHO is the way to go for this type of bike (I have a quicker shifter on my Rocket 3 GT and I still use the clutch as it feels right but also good that i can just kick up the gears without) While the DCT option has the so called manual choice of using the paddles to up/downshift that to me is like playing space invaders going left and right. Finally the use of Apple CarPlay and Android (I use apple CarPlay) on a bike is great, I love it for the ease of use when it comes to satnav and selecting music/radio and taking calls etc it just makes it so more intuitive. I had it on my Goldwing and the big screen really makes a difference when travelling. The added advantage of the AT is it has the dual screen so all your Apple CarPlay stuff is on the big colour central screen and the Bike info speed, gear, etc is on the small screen. Having said that it would be nice to place the phone away from the front in a safe dry slot on the bike. I pick my new AT up from Edinburgh Two Wheels on 1st March and I cant wait to drive it back up the 5 1/2 hours back to my highland home! Summer is going to be awesome !!

[@SonOfTheMostHighGod777]

Awesome 🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪👏👏

[@wentbackward]

I have the same model even the same colour and pretty much agree with your review, I'm about 4 months and 1,300 miles in, ridden through rain, hail and crazy winds this winter including M25 in that big storm. This bike is stable! Takes quite a while to get used to so many buttons on a bike and the lack of illumination is actually a PITA. Otherwise it's a smooth, pretty much flawless bike, lovely to ride and that twin is just gorgeous. These big bikes are not particularly flickable so power is really more than adequate.

[@bricetetrick1457]

Love my 1000 dct. Awesome video!

[@LloydGrace1]

Big ADV bikes aren’t really my thing but I do think the AT is probably the best looking of the lot. I don’t think I would want any bigger than the T700 as the off road aspect is more important to me than cruising tarmac at speed. After following Itchy Boots, I would definitely even consider something like the 300L Rally. Another quality review Bob, keep them coming👍

[@kawabungah20]

This is a brilliant review that gives me a lot of confidence about possibly buying an ATAS. It's a larger bike than I was wanting to buy. However, I live in a remote part of California and the dealerships for Triumph, Aprilia, Husky, etc. are way too far for service and support. Honda sport is strong here and that may be the ticket for me. Thanks for your excellent effort.

[@Firestorm637]

DCT Shifts instantly vs an automatic transmission with torque converter in many cars with delayed shifting. DCT is a manual transmission but computer controlled shifting of clutch.

[@neilmackinnon3371]

Nice review. Every time I am in Fowlers I look at the AT's as they are right by the parts dept. And every time I end up thinking they are just too big for what I want. IF I were looking at bikes in this category I would certainly try one, but I think the Norden looks pretty cool, and a little less intimidating. I did consider the NT1100 when it came out, but they are a little ....erm bland / invisible, I like to be seen when I'm riding, it saves me practicing my emergency braking techniques!

[@SimonBrisbane]

The norden is physically larger to sit on and is pretty much the same weight. People assume because it and the Tiger 900 are smaller capacities that they are smaller bikes. It’s a huge misconception.

[@gsxraiders]

There are so many great bikes to choose from nowadays. I can't even decide from categories or brands, let alone models.

[@THELASTRID3R]

Lol that’s a 💯 on point!

[@stephenlepore4476]

great review! thanks man! well done!

[@AdiRaj12B]

The studio really looks good

[@UncleWally3]

As always, a solid and professional discussion, but . . . which other solid and professional reviews claim the Africa Twin is underrated? In my viewing, the majority of reviewers say it’s a great bike, evolved and certainly worth considering.

[@kalimarus]

I have the 2021 ATAS DCT. I’ve owned larger ADV’s in the past like the MG Stelvio, and lighter bikes like the Versys 650 which I had prior. Some of the things I’ve noticed, it handles far better than a 21/18 bike I’ve ridden in the past, including the first gen AT, probably due to the frame tweaks and much firmer suspension in Tour mode espiecially. The DCT at low speeds. I don’t know what all the complaints are about. IF you can turn around at low speed on a clutched bike without having to constantly chop power you’ll have zero issues or stress. It does have some slip to it like a clutch and if you need just drag some rear brake. I find Uturns very easy at low speed. For some technical off-road situations sure the clutch may be better, but why do you have a 550lb bike in those situations? Most won’t need to worry about that or ever get it into that kind of place. Gravel roads etc, it’s fantastic, just what it was intended for. Off-Road suspension setting soaks everything up, hit pavement go to urban/tour and it handles twisty’s 95% as well as a Versys 650, and I was extremely critical about the 2016 AT in twisty’s. CarPlay is just the best solution imo. As for where to put your phone? Tank bag. Vibration kills flagship phones on handlebars. All the major apps are there, apple/google/tomtom/waze and you have Gaia which is excellent for topo and a array of specialty maps. Rever is there, as well as all the podcast/music you would expect and Siri to read/answer texts hands free. The DCT is exclusive to Honda, nobody else has it. I love it personally. It’s faster than anyone can shift a manual (including quick shifters) and you can use it in sort of a hybrid auto/manual by downshifting into corners (it autoblips which never gets old) and letting the DCT upshift out. I find that works best for me. The IMU can’t see the corner coming and will downshift if you get on the brakes but why not just flick it down exactly as you would with a manual. At a stoplight who cares if it’s 100hp. I’d bet money it will outaccelerate the average rider on a Ducati or KTM just due to how fast it can upshift, maybe not with a quick shifter, maybe. It’s fast. Aside from that who cares as 100hp is more than plenty for anything under 100mph where these things are used 99.9% of the time. On a positive note that means upper 40’s in MPG and with a 6.5 gal tank your at @ 300 miles to a tank. Weight wise it feels identical to my prior Versys 650 which was a 475lb bike, the CG is low and it does not feel anything like the MG Stelvio in weight, it feels 100 lbs lighter. Honda did a great job in keeping weight down low. Picking it up probably sucks like any 500+ bike. The trifecta for this bike is huge range on 87 octane btw, CarPlay, DCT. A combo you can’t find anywhere else.

[@scottieray]

Thanks for mentioning vibration and newer phones. The vibration interferes with the OIS of the cameras and will wear them out quickly.

[@jasonprevilon9555]

Thanks this helps. I'm considering a Pan America 1250 special. But, your points are valid.

[@kalimarus]

@@jasonprevilon9555 The Pan America was a bike I considered as well. No DCT or Carplay there but hydraulic valves are a huge plus. The Pan we’ll probably cost quite a bit more out the door too which is a consideration. Either way you’ll have a great bike. I wouldn’t discount the Husqvarna Norden 901 either, really low CG and weight for this type of bike, has cruise and a quick shifter as standard and costs a lot less than a Pan America or ATAS. It’s supposed to have a great stock suspension.

[@kalimarus]

@@scottieray It’s something to watch out for with flagship phones over 1k these days. No need to ruin them on the handlebars with carplay and a tank bag.

[@NoWay-xu1ie]

I've put over 10k miles with my Samsung on the handle bars ,no problem. on a 21 AT DCT.

[@NBMBC40]

Great video I got my ATAS DCT in late Nov 2021 went for a year old model as the 2022 is no differant apart from the graphics and got a mega deal on my used one. Really love it especially the looks and just how great it is all round. I'm 6'2" so the size of it is fine for me. Need to get down to the Dave Thorpe off road centre for a day's off road riding looks great fun.

[@Parkyste]

Hey Nathan I’m currently on a cb500x and looking to do the exact same as you and go for late 2021 because I prefer the black/gold graphics…. Are you in the Uk? How much did you get knocked off thanks…

[@Zamishere014]

Regarding what you sait at 6:52 .... i bought few months ago NC750 DCT , brand new...i had the same problems..i know it's not the same bike..but after i did DCT software update after 1k miles everything was okej...mybe it's that. Next season ill buy Africa ... im in love with this bike.... Nice review, keep the good work buddy !

[@Firestorm637]

I would buy DCT. DCT is use in Ferrari and Lambo as it is a computed controlled manual gearbox. It is not an automatic with a torque converter. That would be too heavy for a bike. Most car owners do not want manuals. DCT will Make more customers interested in motorcycles

[@ShineBright__]

Always super detailed review 👌 👍!! If she was only a bit lower would have been perfect for myself !!

[@memolano100]

I just sat on one last weekend. It can be configured as a super low bike. I was blown away as I am a short person. I’m 5’5” 1.67m and have an inseam of 28”. Despite being short it felt so easy to manage because the weight in a low bike is easy to handle. I decided that is going to be my next bike when I upgrade from my Honda NC750X. It is actually shorter than my bike, just much more expensive.

[@julianhawkins9423]

Great video and a gorgeous bike

[@msims1250]

Last year, I bought a 2021 base model AT in the tri-color, because here in the states, the Adventure Sports model only came in black, and I really love the red, white, and blue. I got the manual transmission rather than the DCT, because I’m not ready to give up clutch control just yet. I’m really enjoying the bike. It’s a little big for me and my 28” inseam, but with the factory low seat in the lowest position, I can get my toes down with both feet or flat-foot with one foot down. I have a couple of other bikes, but the AT is my favorite one to ride. I don’t do much off-roading with it, other than a few gravel roads. It just seems too heavy for that, and besides, I’ve got other bikes if I want to go in the mud. Overall I think it’s a fantastic bike, and about the only thing that would take its place, for me at least, would be an R1250 GS.

[@THELASTRID3R]

You still have the AT? How’s it holding up? I’m trying to figure out if I should go 1250 GSA or AT..

[@tobybowditch5404]

Lovely looking bike always liked the Africa twin

[@TheSterlingY]

Nice work. Saw one the other day in this color way and it’s tuck with me. Thanks for the info. Btw, where the studio’s hexagon ceiling lights come from?

[@dpinedoblog]

Very timely - definitely have this bike at top choice to pick up this year. Just need to decide quickshifter vs DCT.

[@Honda_Africa_Twin]

I am a changed man since i tried the DCT on the MY21. You can equip a foot shifter for the DCT model too. Go for a test ride, that will help with the decision, just remember to change the DCT mode into Sport 2 or 3.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

I agree with Mike. Put DCT in sport 2 when in city or sporty rides. Bike is alive! My bud raced Baja, his kids moto x nuts. We travel on 5-7 km trips. Across backroad Rockies, hiways, cities. Everywhere but tight tight single track. We prefer DCT. More variety of options more comfortable. I realize it's personal choice, some can't give up a clutch, but after about 2000km you become in tune with a different riding style. Non of us would go back. I still love rowing gears in my Z06, but on a twin, it's DCT for me!

[@vietnameseloempia]

Totally agree about the looks. It is just by far the best looking adventure bike. I have a KTM 1190 that I rode over 110.000 KM on since I bought it new in 2013. I'm on a road trip in Chiang Mai now and rented the Africa Twin Adventure Sport with DCT and absolutely love it. I really want the AT now. Good review and good points all around! The lighted switch gear is very relevant to me now; I got down from the mountain when it was dark and couldn't find the high beam. Thankfully the low beam is pretty good with the cornering lights as well. Of course the KTM still has more power which I do love, but don't miss as much as I like the DCT and the looks of the AT. So for me I'd have the AT now. If the AT got 150 HP, it would be a total no-brainer for me.

[@Ozwigan]

Definitely the best looking adventure bike for the last 5 years

[@DM-hw4cr]

Love the 80's Honda colors.

[@NoWay-xu1ie]

BMW GS , premium fuel .no way ,I wouldn't own a bike that requires premium fuel. I own a 21 AT DCT standard. Will be trading for a new 22 AT DCT Adventure next week. I've put 12K mile on my 21 AT in less than a year. Awesome bike.

[@NoWay-xu1ie]

I have 5500 miles on the 22 AT DCT ADVENTURE ES. The AT has way more than enough power. The DCT makes up for all the passing power you need. I do like the bigger fuel tank ,usually I go 300 miles on a tank. I put a wind deflector on the windshield, I'm 5'10 and run the windshield in the low position and get very little turbulence. Other than lubeing the chain every few hundred miles it's as good as gets. Mine has all the honda Panniers . I'm getting close to replacing the Karoos Not bad milage for my spirited riding. Great part of Honda is the dealer network. You can't beat that. And reg. Gas

[@lr_spb]

Looking forward to a comparison between AF and the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro, think AF Adv will face tough competition from the new Tiger, which delivers 40% more power, comes with a driveshaft, and has the same weight. Especially when the price difference seems to be small.

[@michsky46]

good video gonna buy one soon...is very good looking bike

[@bikersoncall]

Midroll ads drive traffic away and lower 'Retention' scores. No one lets Midroll Ads run. I let opening and closing ads run, in support of content creators, and encourage others to do the same.

[@claudiosakaeshigemi6889]

I loved the lamp

[@shahfacekillah]

I think this will be my finisher bike.

[@GDJOLLY]

Nice video . But you forgot to add HD Pan America in your list…watching you from Baguio city PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭

[@ansomriding9542]

Nice looking bike!🥰

[@Jimo368]

A similarly equipped GSA here in Canada is 35% more expensive than the ATAS.

[@felixlechat1780]

buy a 125cc scooter it enough for u

[@Jimo368]

@@felixlechat1780 You have no idea what my point was do you?

[@felixlechat1780]

@@Jimo368 ya you right buddy but for 95% people dont need a 1000cc bike

[@Nibbles37]

The headlights on this seem much nicer! I have the 2020 NC750X and I had to stop riding at night with it because the headlights are built in led and they are quite terrible.

[@ofershragay]

Yes that it is the best looking adventure bike

[@ridewherever]

The only thing that puts me off all ATs are the peeling paint jobs and wheel corrosion complaints from AT Facebook groups

[@firdausrosman8871]

Making a big decision on whether to get the Africa Twin ADV Sports of GS r1250. Bikes, or vehicles in general, in my country is extremely expensive. So im gonna have to really think hard on this. Just for comparison, the Africa Twin ADV Sports stated in this video is 14,649 pounds, whereas in my country, when converted to the same currency, is 34,199 pounds. I could buy 2 Africa Twins in the UK with that price 😢 Just looking to get the right bike for my dream big trip in the future, Singapore to Norway….

[@peelypeelmeister6432]

Hi Bob. How do you think it would handle in big busy cities like Ho Chi Minh. I know it's not a scooter but in auto mode would it handle okay in heavy traffic? I live in Western Australia and would like to do a trip from here to China through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam (where I'll be retiring) through China and wherever else we can go. My Vietnamese wife will be with me. I'm trying to decide between the Safari Twin or the CB500X. I owned a brand new Honda Winner 150 in Vietnam and it was adequate but a bit uncomfortable on long runs.

[@brucekendall52]

A great bike for sure but the GS wins on simplicity of switches and if you ride a lot of dirt the GS takes 5 min to clean air filter.The GS is also easier to check valve clearances.Thanks.

[@RogierYou]

Did they improve the time it takes to boot up the computer?

[@steveh7857]

Keyless is just one big problem, I'm glad Honda left it off. TPMS would have been nice.

[@TheSweetasanut]

Beautiful bike

[@McAmber]

I wonder what kind of maintenance DCT needs during usage of this bike.

[@JEmmertz]

It seriously tickles my fancy! The DCT on the 2022 model should have a more convenient gear ratio and behaviour on the first gears, I think, but I don't hear anyone mention that in reviews. Might be that it needs to be ridden and not only displayed on the stand in a garage for that comparison. From what I understand the Adventure Sports 2022 model also appears cheaper, but much of that could be down to that the Extra Elegant Exquisitely Enhanced Electronic Suspension (not sure about exact name, but it does come with a load of E's) now is an option that you have to pay extra for.

[@Dan-56]

Ok Bob, we’ve seen your new “Review Studio” and its impressive lighting a number of times now, so it’s time for you to go to your “other channel” and give us the rundown 😉👍!

[@motobob]

Got a vlog on this bike coming up in the next few days - just needs editing! 👍

[@giannisoikonomou8746]

Great work & greedings from Greece. New Owner (June 2022) Adv Sports with DCT & electronic suspensions. Initially I was excited about my choice but regret to admit that I am very disappointed with the various issues I came across. 1. On speeds between 60-90 KLM only and when you lift your hands from the wheel, then the wheel is trembling like crazy!!! If you just touch the wheel, then it stops... I report it to HONDA and they told me that is known & acceptable. I don't have a topcase and they told me that if I put one, then trembling will be increased.. It's really disappointing and unexpected for a motorcycle that expensive. 2. Suspensions. Although it's electronically adjustable, no matter how much I ve tried to adjust it, I constantly feel that suspension is very hard and all dumpings passing through my body. 3. Headlights are not sufficient or strong enough I believe. 4. The electronics are very very slow, the menu is changing options very slowly. This maybe can be solved with an update at the 1st service I guess. All the above thoughts might be there because of my motorcycle past, as I was Ducati owner for about 10 years. I had multistrada 1100s, multistrada 1200s, multistrada 1260s and finally multistrada 950s. I have to say that I didn't expect these from HONDA and I certainly can say that I dont feel proud about my desicin to change to Honda. i think that Ducati is miles ahead in technology nowadays.

[@enriquejaimes3368]

Beautiful bike, I love mine.

[@punkrockdidi]

Honestly this is in my top 3 "unicorn" bikes,would love to own one but they are so damn expensive!Even second hand I think the price is too much... my other 2 dream bikes are a Triumph scrambler 1200 and a KTM 1290 adventure 😅

[@markgiles8527]

Are they a good bike for off-road riding?

[@dillcarver7731]

Nice bike. Looks like a 90's Liverpudlian Shell Suit though.

[@moocw91]

In Malaysia, everyone will go for BMW 1250GS Because Africa Twin is cost almost the same with 1250GS

[@igigig27]

I love your studio / garage , where is the lighting system from ?

[@motobob]

Hexagonlighting.com

[@forestmotoadventures]

Love my CarPlay on my Darkness Black 21 edition ✊💪🏻😎

[@ShibayanMondal]

Great review. Does Honda provide a heated seat option for this?

[@mickfinn2596]

I'm just about to take delivery of a 2022 ATAS manual having previously owned a 2019 CRF1000L manual and a 2021 CRF1100L DCT. I just couldnt get on with the DCT box which is the main reason I am changing the 2021 bike. I don't like the lack of clutch control at slow speed and I just can't find a gearbox mode which suits my style of riding. In D mode the box just doesnt change down when I think it should often leaving me chugging through corners or going for overtakes in too high a gear. In any of the S modes, the opposite happens and the box is constantly hunting for gears and on more than one occasion has changed down mid corner which is just what you dont want. Yes you can override it and change gears manually but then whats the point in having the DCT box in the first place. In other respects the bike is excellent, comfortable for my 6' 1" frame and with good wind protection. In fact the ATAS is the first bike I've owned in a long time on which I havent changed the screen. I find the bike easy to handle at slow speeds but it also feels very stable punting it through bends. For me, the engine is only just powerful enough and I wish it had an extra 25hp. Now we come to the elephant in the room and thats the price. My 2019 CRF1000L was significantly cheaper than a GSA, the 2020 CRF1100L was modestly cheaper than a GSA but the 2022 CRF1100L is only marginally cheaper than a GSA. And the thing is that the CRF1100L is not as good a bike as the GSA and I know because I also own a 1250GSA. Its mainly down to the engine. The 1250 boxer engine is a peach which never feels like it lacks either power or torque at any speed I ride at and apart from that, the BMW's TFT screen is way better and easier to use. So you may well ask why I'm buying another CRF1100L? Well as Motobob alluded to in the video, it is just a great looking bike and I'm a sucker for its looks!

[@mizzle299]

The AT is a great bike...but I never take mine off the road. Would love for the nt1100 to come to the US...

[@WRXXXual]

I really do like the Africa Twin, heck I had an original 2016 model when the 1,000 cc models first debuted in the US. I'd still be riding it if the bike didn't get stolen (😥). That being said, if I were to purchase another Africa Twin I would like it to have at least 120 hp at the crank. A little more zip at the throttle would not have hurt it.

[@Parkyste]

Great video Bob… I’m currently on a 21 cb500x…. I’m looking at getting a last of the line 21 ATAS DCT…. because prefer the black/gold graphics. I’ve heard of a few people getting good discounts…. Has anyone bought similar and how much did the dealer knock off thanks….

[@musamusa2961]

Thank God I will buy one for myself

[@serdark6006]

Thx mate for talking about height, I'm 1,72 m and it's hard to sit on that Africa Twin.... I do not feel safe when I'm not moving.. 🙄, but I love that ting 🤔

[@rahulshah-vo5by]

I love this bike

[@57410320]

I have just started to see your video, even before to know about your experience, I want to say that I don't have an Africa in my garage only because can't afford it !!

[@klauspeters7434]

To me, this bike (DCT / ES) is the best bike on the market, besides the new Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer …

[@nixonkutz3018]

Is the 270 degree crank just a gimmick for exhaust sound? Or trying to capture that elusive XR flat-tracker powerband?

[@bassert2816]

When I was looking for a new bike, the Honda Africa Twin was surely a conteder. However, because of the weight and price, i went with the Tenere 700 instead.

[@THELASTRID3R]

How’s the T7? I’m on the same boat, considering AT or T700..

[@bassert2816]

@@THELASTRID3R The T7 is great! If you want to tackle some mud, then the T7 is much easier to pick up. Also: if you want to instal crash bars, then a bigger bike will become even more bulky, while the T7 goes from slim to slightly larger. It is nog without it's faults though. On long highway stretches I think a larger bike would be more comfortable. Also: in unfamiliar area's I go to tank gas around 250km, just in case. It could get to 350km (if you ride economicly 400km), but then you'd be sweating and praying for a gas station.

[@THELASTRID3R]

@@bassert2816 yea that sounds right on point, both are great! I’m on road 99% off the time.. Thank you for the info!

[@hawkslayers1]

I have had over 10 Hondas from the 70s until 2021 and I can honestly say the fit and finish isn’t anything near what it used to be they are more concerned with making cars now than motorcycles which is a real shame Honda used to over engineer to make things last 😭

[@steeltube195]

Any old Honda, even little bikes are better built than the AT... I guess it´s something that happened to all bikes.

[@odarge]

Where is located the electric plug on the AT where you connect your heated pant and jacket ? Thanks.

[@speedy_blondy]

this is my adventure dream bike

[@robRobblah]

Well after years of riding a Ducati Multistrada, I have moved to a mountain town that has loads of gravel "fire roads" to explore...much more so than beautiful paved roads. So the 17 inch front wheel of the Multistrada is seeming like its a bit of a deficit. So I'm thinking ATAS. I have a KTM 500EXC for more technical off roading. The ATAS should be great for two and for riding in the mountains on gravel fire roads and occasional two-track jeep trails, yes???

[@MirdenLayra]

A friend told me that this bike was only off-road focused, but with your explanation I think this bike is very reliable (no big issues with the engine and long-life term quality) and this motorcycle can be probably used on city traffic as a daily bike, open highways (long roads as a touring) and go hard in off-road, I'm wrong?

[@TheZakkmylde]

Isn’t the Honda by far cheaper then the GS in a similar trim ?