Honda africa twin: standard or adventure sports? our expert verdict on the best choice for you

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Honda Africa Twin Standard vs Adventure Sports, highlighting their key differences and helping you make an informed decision based on your adventure needs.
  • The Honda Africa Twin Standard represents the entry point into the Africa Twin family, offering a well-equipped and versatile adventure motorcycle at a competitive price.
  • The Adventure Sports offers a larger fuel tank, electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, hill start assist, a taller windscreen, a more upright riding position, and a wider seat.

The Honda Africa Twin, a legendary name in the world of adventure motorcycles, has captivated riders with its prowess on and off-road. With the introduction of the Adventure Sports variant, the Africa Twin has evolved to cater to the most discerning adventure enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Honda Africa Twin Standard vs Adventure Sports, highlighting their key differences and helping you make an informed decision based on your adventure needs.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of both the Africa Twin Standard and Adventure Sports lies the same 1084cc parallel-twin engine. This potent powerplant delivers ample torque and smooth acceleration, ensuring effortless cruising and tackling challenging terrain. However, the Adventure Sports boasts a larger 24.8-liter fuel tank, extending its range for extended expeditions.

Suspension and Handling

When it comes to suspension, the Adventure Sports stands out with its electronically adjustable Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) suspension. This advanced system allows riders to tailor the bike’s handling to suit specific terrain and riding conditions. The Standard model, on the other hand, features a more conventional Showa suspension setup with adjustable preload and rebound damping.

Electronics and Features

Both the Standard and Adventure Sports models come equipped with a comprehensive suite of electronics, including a digital instrument cluster, cruise control, and multiple riding modes. However, the Adventure Sports adds a few additional features that enhance its off-road capabilities. These include cornering ABS, a lean-sensitive traction control system, and a hill start assist function.

Comfort and Ergonomics

For extended journeys, comfort is paramount. The Adventure Sports boasts a taller windscreen, a more upright riding position, and a wider seat compared to the Standard model. These ergonomic enhancements provide a more relaxed and comfortable ride, especially during long hours in the saddle.

Appearance and Styling

While both the Standard and Adventure Sports share the same rugged and purposeful design, the Adventure Sports distinguishes itself with its unique color schemes and graphics. It also features a larger skid plate, handguards, and a crash bar, further enhancing its adventure-ready appearance.

Price and Value

The Honda Africa Twin Standard represents the entry point into the Africa Twin family, offering a well-equipped and versatile adventure motorcycle at a competitive price. The Adventure Sports, with its advanced suspension, extended range, and additional features, comes at a premium. However, it provides a more comprehensive and capable package for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Adventure Companion

The choice between the Honda Africa Twin Standard and Adventure Sports ultimately depends on your individual adventure aspirations and budget. If you prioritize affordability, versatility, and a solid foundation for your adventures, the Standard model is an excellent choice. However, if you crave the ultimate adventure experience with advanced suspension, extended range, and enhanced off-road capabilities, the Adventure Sports is the clear winner.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. What are the key differences between the Africa Twin Standard and Adventure Sports?

The Adventure Sports offers a larger fuel tank, electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, hill start assist, a taller windscreen, a more upright riding position, and a wider seat.

2. Which model is more suitable for off-road adventures?

The Adventure Sports, with its advanced suspension and electronic aids, is better equipped for tackling challenging off-road terrain.

3. What are the advantages of the Africa Twin Standard?

The Standard model is more affordable, has a lower seat height, and offers a good balance of on-road and off-road capabilities.

4. How much does the Africa Twin Adventure Sports cost?

The price of the Adventure Sports varies depending on the configuration and options chosen, but it is generally more expensive than the Standard model.

5. What is the fuel capacity of the Africa Twin Standard?

The Africa Twin Standard has a fuel capacity of 18.8 liters.

6. Does the Africa Twin Adventure Sports have a center stand?

Yes, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports comes with a center stand as standard equipment.

7. What is the ground clearance of the Africa Twin Standard?

The ground clearance of the Africa Twin Standard is 250mm.

8. How much does the Africa Twin Adventure Sports weigh?

The Africa Twin Adventure Sports weighs approximately 248kg (wet).

9. What is the seat height of the Africa Twin Standard?

The seat height of the Africa Twin Standard is 850mm.

10. Does the Africa Twin Adventure Sports have heated grips?

Yes, heated grips are available as an optional accessory for the Africa Twin Adventure Sports.