2024 Honda Africa Twin CRF1100L Review - Key updates & changes for 2024

[@meinekleineweltreise]

I think the 2024 Africa Twin just became even better. Thanks for the Review! But my good “old” 2020 Africa Twin DCT carried me over 85.000 km from the southern tip of South America to the Arctic Ocean of North America. And I’m still in love with it! 😅 Best bike ever!

[@hovishill2779]

Honda have finally made an Africa Twin I’m gonna buy 👍🏻. It’s got everything I want on an adventure tourer that will take me down any road or track. 👍🏻

[@DaleMt09sp]

One of these with a manual box and qs is getting ever more appealing need to get out on one

[@thodoris3790]

The best bike.for a lifetime

[@AuldhannRua]

A nice review of a great bike. Makes it more usable for the average rider

[@africa_twin_for_the_win]

Hi, just a quick few words to say thanks for your content. Denali and Hexcan installed on the AT on your recommendation and I've just added an Android dongle which solves the 'will the cable work or not' issue. Ready now for June's trip to Rome. Thanks, all the best.

[@mrjay4000]

Nice! Standard Manual with quick shift for me. 👍 I've played with dirt bike suspension adjustments my whole life. Once dialed in, only quick minor adjustments are necessary, like increasing preload for adding luggage. The standard model is much leaner than the AS, ES, DCT and the rare occasion I may tackle big remote miles, I'll bring a fuel bag or have a roto pax.

[@windinthewillows6248]

Adjustable screen, Yes, Tubeless rims, Yes, Yes, Yes, Electronic Suspension, Yes, CC, Yes. Honda you have just got another customer, will be px my T7WR. 👍

[@fernandok5947]

Center stand ?

[@windinthewillows6248]

@@fernandok5947 Not standard! But as I did, you negotiate it and other things into the deal. 😉👍

[@FilthyForce]

@@windinthewillows6248 what other things did you get beside the center stand?

[@brianhoward9217]

Thanks for your very well-balanced review. The 2024 Africa Twin is an incredible improvement on the release of the 2020 model when it was upgraded to the current 1,084cc motor. The torque has increased and is much smoother and more measured in its deployment from zero to high rpm. It really is a pearler of a twin motor with a great traditional 'twin' sound with the upgraded 2024 muffler. I'm a fan and a Honda tragic from way back and can hardly wait to own one. I would very much like to buy the '25 model next year. HOWEVER, Honda will NOT be getting my money until at least some or all of the following glitches/negatives are resolved: 1) The atrociously long time it takes to boot the TFT screen and THEN it requires a touch on an 'OK' button before giving you access. WTF Honda?! No other manufacturers spoil the ride experience like this so WTF Honda?! 2) The switchgear needs an overhaul - simplify it AND include backlighting 3) An easy way to get the seat height BELOW 800mm. Please don't try to tell me it can't be done Honda. I'm 5'6" (167cm) and I would like to be able to flatfoot. 795mm seat height is a worthy goal Honda. 4) For the top-of-the-line model (mainly road use owners) ditch those ridiculous spoked wheels and give us some tasteful forged cast aluminium wheels. Cleaning spokes is an absolute nightmare. We already have enough cleaning with the chain drive, so, please Honda - some alloys. 5) For two-up touring it most definitely needs some more power. They should either bump the capacity to 1250cc for another 30hp OR, preferably, finally release the supercharged model on which they hold a Japanese patent and as such has been in development since 2019. One would think that simply in the name of competition with the Multistradas, GS1300s, Triumphs et al, Honda would want to increase the power at least somewhat. It is great for low speed stuff but 2-up with luggage on the highway it does need quite a bit more. Please! (from all reports the supercharger design is for low-mid range torque - not meant to be a high-rev Kawasaki H2 competitor). 6) Not mandatory for my purchase but, with DCT, a reverse gear for parking such a heavy baby would be handy. You'd only need 'impulse power' Scotty :-) 7) Does that great sounding rear muffler really have to be the size of a boat anchor? So there's my list of gripes for a bike I love a lot. My wishlist. How about it Honda - all for '25?

[@benkelly2190]

Nearly pulled the trigger, on the new standard AT, with SA suspension! Lovely ride. Definitely not DCT , tho!

[@RHaidar-PJ]

Did you consider the 2023 models with Honda offering 4 grands on them? I’m like you weighing my options. 😊

[@UncleWally3]

Based on my experience, DCT may automatically shift gears but learning how to maximize its potential is far from automatic. After hating it, I’ve learned to love it. Thing is, no component is an island, it works in conjunction with the bike as a whole. After manual shifting for fifty years I had to learn that the team of engineers knew what they were doing and that DCT warrants different throttle response and that features like adjustable power delivery, traction control, engine braking, modes and suspension actually make a difference. That said, if adjusting learned behavior isn’t fun, I’d stay away from DCT - it’s not for everyone.

[@jgoogleheim8880]

Good concise review. I remember when 100 hp was a lot! The weight at 560 lbs can be a lot for offroad but a lot of people like this for touring where the extra weight gives stability in the wind. Good bike but the KTM1290 is rippier and rides like silk over potholes and bumps on the tarmac.

[@tHaH4x0r]

The changes are mostly good, especially the adjustable screen, and the option for the electronic suspension. Wish I had the option when buying the bike 2 years ago. As for tubeless rims, I am not so sure. I think they should have given the option to the buyer of picking what they like. But it's not that big of a deal. The increased compression I am less of a fan of. I liked the low compression rating of the AT, as it goes hand in hand with lower engine stresses, and thus higher reliability. I value that far more than a couple of extra HP or Nm. Also the weight! nearly 10kg over the 2022 model... That brings it much closer to the 'pavement monsters' and further away from the mid level adv bikes like the T7 and the likes. What I thought was great about the AT, was that it was the only bike that offered a nice compromise between the heavy road focused machines, and the off-road focused mid range ADV bikes.

[@mancavemoto]

Fair point, but you can always put a tube in a tubeless tyre in case of emergency. Compression has only gone from 10.1:1 to 10.5:1 so shouldnt cause any excess stress. But it was interesting that the weight has increased, i havent checked back on all previous models just how much, but it is certainly a little higher.

[@JP-vs2li]

Great review as usual keep up good work👍🏼 how is the interceptor I’ve just rewatched the build series again can’t wait to see more on that series hope you have a great Easter weekend

[@mancavemoto]

Thanks, it’s slowed up a little, but I’ve got an update episode coming soon. Thanks, you too!

[@alessandrotorrescampos522]

Too bad we don’t have the option for the 21” wheel on the Adventure Sports model anymore.

[@jabsy5094]

Non-issue. Put good off-road tires on the 19’ wheel and it’ll perform better off-road than a 21’ wheel with a 60/40 tire (road/off-road) bias.

[@trekkydelirium-vroom5821]

Hi, which wireless CarPlay dongle did you bought & installed? Is it fully waterproof? Thanks & best regards from Montreal.

[@mancavemoto]

There’s a link in the description showing the dongle and it’s proved to be waterproof so far!

[@man16812]

I always laugh at the “too heavy 💅🏼” comments.

[@Angry-Lynx]

It's fucking tiring. It'll get you in and out of everything that u need. But it is definitely bike for experienced rider if u take it offroad

[@man16812]

@@Angry-Lynx yes, I have the Adventure Sports ES, full kit crash defenses, tool box, etc, etc and I take it offroad.

[@ScubboNZ]

if you group ride or tourer gravel on dry loose roads, the airfilter changing is a bitch for multi-day rides (though most people sell their bike after a 12xKM making it next buyer problems)

[@SteveLawrance]

Blimey, that’s quite good value…. Not what I was expecting…

[@motobickers1584]

What gloves you wearing Tony? They look great.

[@mancavemoto]

They are Rev'it Redhill gloves

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

0:02 What a good-looking motorcycle. It's best angle. Tubeless rims: yes! Heavy, though. Almost as weighty as my SCR950. I think I'd prefer the CRF Sport to the L. It's a long time since I had an Africa Twin: a 1991 XRV750 RD04. Nick

[@brisprott2451]

Great video thanks. I believe the ATAS also has a thicker seat. Would love someone to comment on two up touring when reviewing these bikes as that is what a vast majority of them are now used for. Is there enough “oomph” whe fully loaded to zip past cars on UK “A” roads for example.

[@mancavemoto]

yep, same profile seat but a thicker 'comfort' foam inside it. i've ridden the ATAS fully loaded with aluminium luggage full of kit and its been fine. The torque and power delivery are great

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Nice review Tony. Thank you. As you own an Africa Twin, are the changes enough to make you want to upgrade to the 24 model?

[@mancavemoto]

I do like the new Adventure Sports, if i owned the a previous 'standard' bike i'd definitely think about moving to the 24 model

[@davidz8]

All good changes explained so even I could understand, I think the base model really looks a bit of bargain now with tubeless tyres, adjustable screen etc.

[@mancavemoto]

Yep, more appealing to more riders potentially?

[@Kanae1986]

When they offer the normal at with 19 inch i may give it a try

[@stepheneldridge6998]

Hi Tony, nice review...what trousers are you wearing please..? Cheers Steve

[@mancavemoto]

Cheers, they are Klim Switchback Cargo pants

[@RHaidar-PJ]

Great review sir! Does the front tyre width have increased too in the new model? Looks wider

[@mancavemoto]

I don't think so, pretty sure it’s the same

[@RHaidar-PJ]

@@mancavemoto Thank you. One more question, do you think investing in a quick shifter worth the money? thanks

[@mancavemoto]

I would

[@disekjoumoer]

Thing with the AT and especially the new AS version being on offer, is that a weighty, top heavy bike is a bit of a nightmare to pick up off-road. The AT has drifted ever more into being a road tourer, which is what most people buy it for anyway. The 21" front standard version is a bit of a waste. I think Honda would be better off offering an adjustable suspension version of the Transalp.

[@kokilimonke]

You have obviously not tried them both. The Transalp feels like a CB500x with a bit more high speed. The Africa Twin has a much more substantial feel and a loads more torque in the right Rev range. Not really compatible bikes at all. People who only look at the hp numbers don't see the full picture.

[@gerokatseros]

Wonderful video sir! I would like to ask you, which one is easier in the city ? the 19" adv or the 21" standard that weights 20Kg less than the adventure? I am 1.78 tall and only will use it on road and never off road. I know that the 19" is more precise and easier to turn than the 21" hence the question :)

[@mancavemoto]

The 24MY adventure sports is slightly lower and thus has a lower centre of gravity, but theres not much in it.

[@MrAndrew1953]

So does the electronic suspension have auto ride height adjustment? I’m 5’8” so could I ride this bike ?

[@mancavemoto]

It doesn’t no, it has semi active damping and you can set the preload, but not the ride height.

[@user-gt4eghh8vei]

There is a rumor that the sheet has become a little softer than the previous year. Is it correct? 😮

[@mancavemoto]

They changed the seat on the Adventure Sports, but as far as i can see not this model. However i've always found it to be pretty comfortable!

[@user-qd4wf2tt4o]

I'm curious about the difference between the 21" and 19" wheels and which one is better.

[@pawelostr]

19" - less unspring and rotational mass, making it better on road; 21" - bigger wheel can go over obstacles easier (and bigger ones), also deflects less, making it better off-road

[@gordonjames8811]

How is the comfort of the seat? And is 2025 the total revamp ? Like you I'm steering towards the standard model did you notice a big difference with the 21 compared to the 19 inch? Thankyou

[@mancavemoto]

I’ve always found the seat on AT’s to be pretty comfortable, and this is no different. To be honest once you’re rolling there’s not much difference. Easy at low speed and when you start pushing harder you can feel the difference with the 19.

[@TheZakkmylde]

That dongle. Is it waterproof? Looks to be a good option 😊

[@mancavemoto]

It is yes

[@daxmonster3429]

Sad Honda went to a 19 inch front wheel. I wouldn't even consider it now.

[@mancavemoto]

Only on the Adventure Sports... try it, I would say you'd hardly notice any difference riding it. Although of course the standard bike in this video retains the 21 inch front

[@gerokatseros]

So? For everyday use in city and short fast roads which one should one buy? this one (that is also lighter) or the adventure which is 19" and also more expensive?

[@mancavemoto]

Both are good, if you're staying on the tarmac the ATAS is a great bike

[@Angry-Lynx]

Why get AT if u don't ride off-road. Kinda defeats the purpose. Get GS or fjr or something like that if.u ride on roads only

[@KairyuRider]

How top heavy does it feel compared to the transalp 750?

[@mancavemoto]

Overall it’s heavier, but it doesn’t feel more ‘top heavy’ as a direct comparison

[@KairyuRider]

@@mancavemoto thanks for the note

[@ts-cj2ym]

Why not 21 up front

[@mancavemoto]

It does have a 21 inch front…

[@brianhoward9217]

@@mancavemoto Only the top model - Adventure Sport - has the 19 inch, specifically for sharper on-road handling.

[@vasokrunic]

What do you think will there be a new model in 2025? Wait or buy? Thanks

[@mancavemoto]

There may be some minor changes for 2025MY, but then you could argue to wait for the 2026 model. If you want to enjoy riding the bike i'd alwasy say buy now!

[@vasokrunic]

@@mancavemoto I am big fan of dct. And I am riding only on roads. And my xadv 750 is a little bit small 😀 Because of all this conditions I am thinking about Africa and convincing myself that is pretty but it isn’t 😀😀😀

[@mancavemoto]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, that’s true. I still thinks it’s one of the best looking adventure bikes on the market. 🤷‍♂️

[@TheFbiFilesRepeat]

2026 might see a huge step up, 10 years since the 2016 release. 1200 cc with shaftdrive please

[@vasokrunic]

@@TheFbiFilesRepeat i bought this one 😀 I am waiting 4 more days 😀

[@Red-74-]

Like all electronic rear suspension, "unless its Ohlins" that you can't service💥

[@mancavemoto]

The Showa system is fully serviceable

[@martinboskovic4143]

Africa twin seat is nightmare, wind protection is poor and engine is jerky and not smooth. How does it make for longer distances I really ask my self why I bought this bike. I should have bought Gs instad of this offroad tractor.

[@mancavemoto]

I would have to disagree with you

[@martinboskovic4143]

@@mancavemoto maybe Gs is not different I do not know, but after Varadero 1000 Africa is much more unconfortable.

[@motorcyclistfromholland8856]

254 kg and just 100hp and that’s without any luggage. I’ll pass. To heavy.

[@razorwired130]

The ATAS weighs less than a GS 1250 Adventure and has similar range. Name another bike that has that range. As far as HP - more than enough. Then there’s the DCT and it’s priced $10k less than a GS.

[@motorcyclistfromholland8856]

@@razorwired130 i have not mentioned any other bike but now you mentioned it….A new GS1300 weighs 237kg and has 145HP, a Triumph Tiger 1200 weighs 255kg and has 150HP. A KTM 1290 weighs 245 and has 161 HP. The new Honda is a fantastic looking bike but it’s just too heavy with just 100HP. So basically they all have 50% more HP. 50%!

[@maxgusatz5644]

NEVER buy a bike on paper - it’s daft. Ride one YOURSELF then make a decision, stats count for very little, you might just be very surprised…

[@motorcyclistfromholland8856]

@@maxgusatz5644 i had several Honda’s, Suzuki’s, Yamaha’s, BMW’s and so on. Its to heavy

[@hovishill2779]

Standard AT is 231kg wet, AT ES is 233kg wet and the AT DCT ES is 244kg wet, so where’s the 254kg one? If your use to a sports bike 103bhp might seem too slow, but most people that ride around with 100 plus bhp think it’s perfectly ok for an adventure bike.

[@rudyberkvens-be]

Too heavy. ADV above 200 kg is bullsh**

[@JoLXP]

I wouldn't go as far as bullsh** but I chose the Tuareg 660 over the AT, or any other of the big ones.

[@rockstargrader]

Just go to the gym for 6 months and you will be fine mate

[@bobanppvc]

Overpriced and too heavy...