Honda CRF 1100L Africa Twin

From a press release issued by Honda:

For its tenth anniversary, Honda's benchmark adventure machine receives its most comprehensive update yet. The 27YM CRF1150L Africa Twin delivers more power, more torque and greater capability across every aspect of its design, while remaining true to the balance of performance, agility and all-round usability that has defined the Africa Twin name for nearly four decades.

At its heart is the same extensively revised 1,131cc parallel twin-cylinder engine found across the 27YM Africa Twin range. Peak power increases by over 12kW to 87.5kW, with torque rising 7Nm to 119Nm, thanks to increased capacity, a redesigned intake system, larger-diameter throttle bodies, revised valvetrain and cylinder head and a higher compression ratio. Also driving the increase in output, detailed development extends throughout the engine, with revised pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft and balancer shafts, alongside updates to the manual clutch and six-speed transmission. Honda's proven six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) remains available as an option.

A revised suite of riding modes enhances adaptability across changing conditions. New default SPORT, TOURING, URBAN and RAIN settings are joined by OFFROAD and the new OFFROAD+ mode, developed specifically for more challenging terrain. All riding modes now feature in-mode customisation, allowing riders to tailor machine performance more precisely to their preferences and riding conditions.
The chassis has also undergone significant development for even greater cornering agility and enhanced dynamic performance. Together, the steel frame and aluminium swingarm are 1.4kg lighter, while a reduction in centre of gravity has been achieved through careful mass centralisation and a new fuel sub-tank arrangement that positions a portion of fuel beneath the rider's seat. The riding position has been refined, with narrower handlebars positioned higher and further forward, footpegs moved slightly inward and rearward, and a reshaped seat featuring revised foam density and contouring to improve long-distance comfort.

For 27YM, Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™) suspension is fitted as standard equipment. The system now incorporates Honda Skyhook technology, which continuously manages damping force according to the vertical and pitch movement of the motorcycle's sprung mass. The result is enhanced ride comfort and stability during straight-line riding, while preserving the precise handling and cornering performance expected of an Africa Twin. Alongside the existing suspension settings for rider, passenger and luggage combinations, a new Minimum setting lowers seat height by 10mm. Spring preload remains fully adjustable.

The 27YM Africa Twin’s refreshed design is driven by its all-new package layout. While the revised architecture delivers significant advances in performance, comfort and technology, it has also enabled a fundamental evolution of the motorcycle’s proportions. The riding position and mass distribution have been visually shifted forward, creating a more dynamic stance while maintaining the Africa Twin’s balanced and approachable character. The result is a slimmer visual impression, enhanced presence and a more sophisticated, upright silhouette.

New dual LED headlights feature a more compact design, with integrated cornering lights and Daytime Running Lights (DRL), while a new electrically adjustable screen offers 130mm of height adjustment and 10 degrees of rake adjustment for improved wind protection and rider comfort.
Technology and connectivity have also taken a significant step forward. A new 5.7-inch vehicle information display integrates with a 7-inch full-colour TFT touchscreen, which now starts up in just five seconds and includes a dedicated off-road display and compass function. Operation is via the touchscreen and new backlit switchgear designed for intuitive use in all conditions.

Practicality has been further enhanced through the addition of a lockable storage compartment within the fuel tank cover, large enough to accommodate a smartphone and incorporating a USB-C charging socket. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® connectivity are standard, while a Honda SMART Key system now controls the ignition, steering lock and fuel cap. Cruise control, heated grips, knuckle guards and an aluminium rear carrier are also fitted as standard equipment.

The 27YM Honda CRF1150L Africa Twin will be available in the following colour options:
- Pearl Glare White (Tricolour)
- Mat Sandstorm Beige

Engine
- New 1,131cc engine produces 16.5% more peak power
- 87.5kW @ 7,500rpm with torque of 119Nm @ 5,750rpm
- Performance upgrade derived from new intake system feeding revised, high-compression combustion chambers, new valves, springs, cam timing/lift, pistons, con-rods and crankshaft
- New MT clutch and gear ratios for sharp acceleration response and relaxed highway cruising
- New exhaust optimised for emissions performance and power output.

The new 1,131cc parallel twin-cylinder engine sits at the heart of the 27YM CRF1150L Africa Twin's development programme. Delivering more power and torque throughout the rev range, it reinforces the machine's reputation for effortless versatility, whether covering long motorway distances, tackling demanding trails or simply enjoying everyday riding.

The numbers tell the story. Peak power rises by 16.5% to 87.5kW at 7,500rpm, while peak torque increases to 119Nm at 5,750rpm, up from 75kW at 7,500rpm and 112Nm at 5,500rpm respectively. Capacity increases to 1,131cc through a 2mm increase in bore, to 94.0mm, while the 81.5mm stroke is retained. Compression ratio also rises significantly, from 10.5:1 to 12.1:1, helping deliver stronger performance across the entire operating range.

The result is noticeably stronger acceleration, improved roll-on response and even greater long-distance touring ability. While top speed remains unchanged, the Africa Twin now boasts more immediate drive through gears one to five. Highway cruising is also more relaxed, with revised gearing reducing engine speed.

Achieving these gains required comprehensive development throughout the engine package. The airflow path, from the larger-diameter intake duct through the airbox and into the inlet ports, has been redesigned to improve efficiency, increasing both power and throttle response. Larger 52mm throttle bodies, up from 46mm, feed the higher-compression combustion chambers, while air filter access has also been simplified to ease routine maintenance.

Honda's proven SOHC Unicam valvetrain, derived from the competition-specification CRF450R motocrosser, remains central to the engine's compact design. The low-mounted cast camshaft allows a tightly packaged cylinder head, while revisions to port and combustion chamber design support the increased compression ratio and improved airflow requirements.

Further refinements include revised cam timing, valve lift and valve spring specifications. Intake valve diameter increases by 1mm to 37.5mm, while exhaust valves adopt a revised profile. To ensure long-term durability, cam chain width has been increased and the cam chain tensioner, guide and plate have all been optimised.

Internal component development extends throughout the engine. All-new pistons feature revised crown profiles, skirts and pins, together with redesigned compression, scraper and oil control rings. Lightweight aluminium cylinder sleeves contribute to overall mass reduction, while the con-rods and crankshaft have been rebalanced to accommodate increased combustion pressures.

The engine's characteristic feel remains a defining feature. The 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval continue to deliver the distinctive pulse and traction characteristics for which the Africa Twin is renowned. Secondary vibrations are neutralised by the reciprocating action of the pistons, while revised biaxial balance shafts effectively manage primary inertial and coupling forces, ensuring smooth operation across the rev range.

The engine architecture itself remains highly compact. Horizontally split crankcases house a water pump integrated within the clutch casing, while the thermostat is incorporated into the cylinder head. Manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) versions share common crankcases, differing only in minor external details. Both the water and oil pumps are driven by the engine's balancer shafts, contributing to packaging efficiency.

A semi-dry sump design stores oil within the lower section of the crankcase, allowing reduced sump depth and helping minimise overall engine height. For 27YM, internal oil passages have also been revised to improve lubrication flow throughout the engine.

The manual transmission version receives a new clutch designed to handle the increased power and torque output, while revised gear ratios contribute to both stronger acceleration and more relaxed cruising. Enhanced surface treatment of the shift forks further improves shift quality and durability.
Completing the package, the dual exhaust downpipes have been redesigned upstream of the catalyser to achieve the optimum balance of emissions performance and power delivery.

Engine Electronics Package
- Throttle By Wire and IMU-managed HSTC upgraded to match new engine output
- Six new default riding modes: SPORT, TOURING, URBAN, RAIN, OFFROAD and OFFROAD+
- HSTC and ABS enhanced for on- and off-road use
- All modes can be adjusted in-mode
- New Dynamic or Comfort throttle response option

Throttle By Wire (TBW) management, plus six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and Electronic Control Unit (ECU) remain at the heart of the electronic package and now, with just one mode change, the rider can match the engine output, character and feel to suit the conditions or riding situation. The system offers adjustable levels of Engine Power (EP) and Engine Braking (EB) that can be tailored to suit rider preference. New for 27YM, 2 levels of Dynamic or Comfort throttle response are built into the default riding modes, and it is now possible to make some adjustments within each mode as USER.

There are 7 levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with each level’s amount of intervention optimised to work with real-time input from the IMU. It’s also been fine-tuned to allow the rider a finer choice of the amount of rear tyre slide for off-road riding. Wheelie Control (WC) is also built in. HSTC can be turned off completely.

The CRF1100 Africa Twin Adventure Sports had four default riding modes: TOUR, URBAN, GRAVEL and OFFROAD. These have changed to the following: SPORT, TOURING, URBAN, RAIN, OFFROAD and OFFROAD+. All modes can be adjusted by the rider from their baseline combinations.

Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
‘- Easy and direct’ system offers super-fast gear changes in either Manual Transmission (MT) or Automatic modes
- Smooth, natural feel when first moving away and at low speed
- SPORT mode revs higher and downshifts sooner than D, for more sporty riding
- Shifting timings vary with each riding mode
- OFFROAD and OFFROAD+ modes designed to offer more feel and traction off-road
- Incline detection adapts shift pattern depending on gradient

Honda has sold over 330,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F in 2009. Testament to its acceptance in the marketplace, in 2025 DCT versions of CRF1100L Africa Twin accounted for 49% of the model’s sales in Europe, rising to 68% for the Africa Twin Adventure Sports.

DCT delivers consistent, super-fast seamless gear changes, and very quickly becomes second nature in use. It uses two clutches: one for start-up and 1st, 3rd and 5th gears: the other for 2nd, 4th and 6th, with the mainshaft for each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging.

Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear using the clutch not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged as, simultaneously, the second clutch engages. The result is a consistent, fast and seamless gear change. Furthermore, as the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption of the drive to the rear wheel, any gear change shock and pitching of the machine is minimised, making the change feel direct as well as smooth.

The extra benefits of durability (as the gears cannot be damaged by missing a gear), impossibility of stalling, low stress urban riding, reduced rider fatigue and greater ability to focus on cornering lines and braking points add to DCT’s appeal.

Three modes of operation are available. MT mode gives full manual control, allowing the rider to shift with the handlebar trigger control buttons. Automatic D mode is ideal for city and highway riding and achieves optimum fuel efficiency. SPORT mode offers a sportier ride, with the ECU making the engine rev a little higher before shifting up and shift down sooner when decelerating for extra engine braking.

Honda’s proven DCT offers immediate manual intervention if required – the rider simply selects the required gear using the up and down shift triggers on the left handlebar. At an appropriate time, DCT seamlessly reverts to automatic mode, depending on throttle angle, vehicle speed and gear position.

DCT gives a natural, ‘feathered’ clutch feel on initial take-off and at low speed and uses new shift schedules to match the increased engine performance. The system makes use of the engine’s extra torque, shifting down earlier and uses cornering detection – adjusting the shifting programme for the most natural gear changes – dependent on riding mode selection.

DCT for the CRF1150L Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment, with off-road functionality enhanced through two specific riding modes. Activating OFFROAD improves the feel for available traction and machine control by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes. OFFROAD+ takes things further, allowing riders the option to choose shift programme. Further functionality for the DCT system comes in the form of incline detection, adapting the gear shift pattern depending on the grade of an incline to provide optimum control.

Chassis
- New chassis design with under seat fuel sub-tank lowers centre of gravity
- New steel semi-double cradle frame and aluminium swingarm are 1.4kg lighter
- Standard-fit Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™) features Honda Skyhook Control for smoother ride
- 49mm USD front forks and Pro-Link rear monoshock
- New Minimum suspension setting lowers seat height 10mm
- Two-piece dual radial-mount four-piston calipers, 310mm ‘wavy’ floating discs
- 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, 90/90-21/150/70-18 tubeless tyres

The CRF1150L Africa Twin's chassis has undergone extensive development focused on lowering the centre of gravity while preserving the machine's distinctive silhouette and all-round capability. Inspiration came from the legendary NXR750, which secured four consecutive Paris-Dakar victories between 1986 and 1989. Like that HRC-built racer, the new Africa Twin adopts a fuel sub-tank positioned beneath the seat, allowing a lower fuel level in the main tank and contributing significantly to mass centralisation.

The new fuel arrangement forms part of a wider packaging strategy. Careful positioning of major components, including the battery, ECU, fuel filler cap and airbox, creates a reduction in centre of gravity. The benefit is a machine that feels both more agile and more stable, whether manoeuvring at low speeds or covering ground at pace.

The steel semi-double cradle frame has also been thoroughly optimised. A revised engine head hanger improves rigidity efficiency, allowing changes to frame cross-sections and wall thickness that reduce frame weight by 0.8kg. Matching development extends to the aluminium swingarm, which is 0.6kg lighter and tuned to complement the frame's revised rigidity balance. An aluminium bolt-on subframe completes the lightweight chassis package.

Despite these revisions, the Africa Twin retains its proven core geometry. Wheelbase remains 1,575mm, with rake and trail figures of 27.5° and 117mm respectively. Kerb weight is 237kg for the manual transmission model and 247kg for the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) version.

Suspension sees one of the most significant upgrades for 27YM. While Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™) was previously available as an option, the latest-generation system is now fitted as standard equipment and incorporates Honda Skyhook Control.

The system continuously calculates and applies optimum damping force based on real-time riding conditions. Data is gathered from three primary sources: vehicle speed information supplied by the ECU, machine attitude data provided by the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and fork movement monitored by the stroke sensor. Using this information, the Suspension Control Unit can adjust damping characteristics in just 1 millisecond.

For 27YM, new 49mm Showa USD forks replace the previous 45mm units, while the rear suspension continues to operate through Honda's Pro-Link system. Suspension travel is reduced by 10mm, to 220mm at the front and 210mm at the rear, contributing to the lower centre of gravity and improved overall balance.

Honda Skyhook Control continuously manages damping force according to the vertical and pitch movement of the motorcycle's sprung mass. The result is enhanced ride quality, greater stability and increased rider confidence, particularly during highway cruising and over uneven road surfaces. Importantly, these gains are achieved without compromising the natural steering feel and handling precision that define the Africa Twin. While damping control is most active during upright riding, system intervention is intelligently moderated during cornering to preserve feedback and maintain consistent chassis behaviour.

The system also offers an expanded range of adjustment options. A new Minimum mode lowers seat height by 10mm and remains selected even after the ignition is switched off. Standard preload settings include Solo, Solo with Luggage, Pillion and Pillion with Full Luggage configurations. Damping force characteristics are tailored to each riding mode and can be further fine-tuned through USER adjustment settings of -1, 0 and +1. Spring preload is automatically managed according to the selected configuration but can also be adjusted manually across 24 steps.

Braking performance is provided by compact radial-mount four-piston front calipers operating dual 310mm floating wave discs through sintered brake pads. At the rear, a 256mm wave disc features a dedicated drilling pattern and profile designed to optimise rear-wheel feel and control.
The Africa Twin continues to employ a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheel combination, fitted with tubeless tyres that allow puncture repairs without wheel removal. Stainless-steel spokes contribute to durability, while tyre sizes remain 90/90-21 at the front and 150/70-18 at the rear.

Metzeler Karoo Street tyres are approved as standard equipment, with sizes of 90/90-21M/C 54H front and 150/70-18M/C 70H rear. Riders seeking increased off-road performance can also specify Michelin Anakee Wild tyres, available in 90/90-21M/C 54R TL and 150/70-18M/C 70R TL specifications.

Styling & Equipment
- Rugged new style strikes balance between on-road and off-road performance
- New electric screen operates through 130mm height
- New dual headlights feature cornering lights and DRL
- New handlebars narrower, set forward and higher, footpegs move inwards and slightly rearwards
- New seat contouring boosts comfort
- New smartphone pocket in fuel tank cover features a USB-C socket
- New 5.7-inch display/full-colour 7-inch TFT screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® connectivity
- New, simplified backlit switchgear
- New Honda SMART Key operation of ignition, electric steering lock and fuel filler cap

The new CRF1150L Africa Twin adopts the design concept of Versatile Adventure, balancing long-distance road performance with genuine off-road capability. Instantly recognisable as an Africa Twin, its purposeful silhouette combines strong visual presence with functional design, led by a prominent front fairing flanked by high-mounted shoulders that reinforce the machine's adventure-focused identity of Africa Twin.

A new dual-LED headlight assembly further sharpens the look while enhancing visibility. Integrated cornering lights improve illumination when turning, while Daytime Running Lights (DRL) increase conspicuity in all riding conditions. A redesigned LED taillight features an S-Glitter-cut lens, providing improved clarity and a more distinctive luxury appearance.

The styling also reflects the motorcycle's revised chassis philosophy. A mass-forward stance and simplified rear bodywork visually communicate the concentration of mass towards the centre of the machine, while contributing to a cleaner, more focused appearance. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign incorporates a number of ergonomic refinements intended to improve rider comfort and control.

The handlebars are now 10mm narrower and positioned 10mm higher and further forward, while the footpegs are mounted 20mm narrower and 10mm further rearward. Together, these changes create a more natural riding position for both on-road touring and off-road riding. Practicality is also enhanced by a new integrated storage compartment within the fuel tank cover. Operated via a press-to-unlock mechanism, the compartment is large enough to accommodate a modern smartphone and incorporates a USB-C charging socket.

Fuel capacity remains unchanged at 18.8 litres, with the twin-tank arrangement working efficiently alongside the revised fuel system to deliver a potential range of approximately 370km. Fuel consumption in WMTC mode is 5.1L/100km (19.6km/l) for manual transmission variants.

Long-distance comfort has been further improved through revisions to the seat construction. Foam thickness at the hip contact area increases by 5mm to 80mm, while additional padding towards the rear of the seat enhances support during extended journeys. Seat height remains adjustable between 850mm and 870mm, while the new Minimum Showa Skyhook suspension setting can reduce height by a further 10mm to aid accessibility.

Technology sees a significant step forward with the introduction of a completely redesigned instrument and infotainment system. A new 5.7-inch vehicle information display integrates with a full-colour 7-inch TFT touchscreen, while start-up time has been reduced by approximately 70% to just 5 seconds.

Optical bonding technology improves visibility in varying light conditions, and a dedicated off-road display incorporates a compass function for enhanced navigation when riding beyond the tarmac.
Connectivity has also been upgraded. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® are now available wirelessly, allowing navigation, communication and music functions to be accessed directly through the display. Turn-by-turn guidance and media information can be configured as widgets on the main screen, while intercom and three-way communication capability further enhance long-distance touring convenience. New backlit switchgear has been designed to provide intuitive operation in all riding conditions.

Convenience equipment is equally comprehensive. A Honda SMART Key system now operates the ignition, electric steering lock and fuel filler cap, while cruise control, heated grips, knuckle guards and an aluminium rear carrier are all fitted as standard equipment.

Safety continues to be a key consideration. The front and rear indicators incorporate Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) functionality, automatically activating the hazard lights during sudden braking above 50km/h to alert following road users. The indicator system also features intelligent auto-cancellation, using front and rear wheel-speed data to determine the appropriate moment to deactivate signalling according to the riding situation. The auto-cancel function can be switched off if preferred.

Supporting Honda's long-term ambition to achieve zero environmental impact by 2050 through Carbon Neutrality, Resource Circulation and Clean Energy initiatives, the CRF1150L Africa Twin family incorporates a number of environmentally-conscious materials throughout its construction. Post-Industrial Recycled polypropylene (PIR PP) and polyamide (PIR PA) are used in the seat base and rear mudguard stay, while the screen is manufactured using DurabioTM material derived from inedible corn pellets. Post-Consumer Recycled polypropylene (PCR PP) is also utilised within the coloured resin bodywork components.

Accessories
A wide range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin.
The range combines luggage, comfort, protection and adventure-focused accessories, complementing the model's versatility and all-round capability while offering a wide choice of options to suit any riding need.