2024 Honda Africa Twin CRF1100 DCT Review – Purpose-Built for Africa
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Built for the Continent
Amidst a category dominated by European behemoths such as KTM and BMW, Honda’s Africa Twin continues to be a real African legend. Its 1084cc twin-cylinder powerplant and go-anywhere construction have seen it become a favourite among long-distance travellers tackling the continent’s diverse terrain.
We recently took the new model deep into South Africa’s semi-desert plains and winding mountain passes to test it in real-world conditions, and it didn’t disappoint.
Design & Presence
With its bold red and black finish, the Africa Twin presents itself as a true adventure companion. Despite having road-biased tyres, they performed surprisingly well off-road, especially on loose gravel. The 850mm seat height suits taller riders, and the elevated ground clearance makes it ideal for rugged trails and remote expeditions.
Engine & Transmission
Powered by a 1084cc SOHC liquid-cooled 8-valve parallel twin engine, the Africa Twin produces 75kW and 105Nm of torque. Engine enhancements like refined cylinder heads, throttle body, and injector angles improve airflow and combustion, leading to smoother and more responsive power delivery.
Gear shifts are handled by Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). This advanced system, with separate clutches for odd and even gears, ensures seamless gear changes that quickly become second nature. It’s compact, quick, and perfect for long-distance rides.
Technology Package
Since 2018, the Africa Twin has featured Throttle By Wire (TBW). The 2024 version enhances this with improved torque control and a six-axis IMU. Riders interact with a 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen that supports gloves, offering access to ride modes and bike settings.
Android users benefit from full Android Auto integration, enabling navigation and media control through voice or touch. iPhone users, however, will need to use Honda’s RoadSync app, as native iOS support is still absent.
How It Rides
We spent an extended weekend in the Klein Karoo, encountering everything from sweeping tar bends to rocky gravel switchbacks. In Sport Mode, gear shifting via the handlebar felt intuitive, while Gravel Mode provided excellent control on steep climbs and descents.
What truly stood out was rider comfort. Even after multiple full-day rides, fatigue was minimal, thanks to the relaxed riding triangle and naturally balanced handling. This motorcycle was built with long-haul touring in mind.
Pricing in South Africa
- CRF1100 Africa Twin ABS – R270,999
- CRF1100 Africa Twin DCT – R292,592
- Africa Twin Adventure Sport ABS – R314,999
- Africa Twin Adventure Sport DCT – R353,699
Bonus: All new Honda buyers in South Africa receive complimentary rider training. Just check with your nearest Honda dealership.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional long-distance comfort | Windscreen position could be improved |
| Smooth and reliable power delivery | No native iOS support (only via Roadsync app) |
| User-friendly Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) | |
| Confident handling on mixed terrain |
Final Verdict
Despite tough competition from established European adventure bikes, the 2024 Honda Africa Twin holds its own with understated confidence. It may not boast the flashy styling of a KTM or the ultra-modern tech of a BMW, but it delivers where it counts: performance, comfort, and durability.
Above all, it feels like it was made for Africa. Whether you’re exploring the backroads of the Karoo or heading north into uncharted territory, the Africa Twin is the motorcycle that belongs here.
