02 Aug 2022 ID: 408726
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23YM CRF1100L AFRICA TWIN

23YM CRF1100L AFRICA TWIN

Model updates: Rugged, agile and highly capable, the fundamentals of the Africa Twin’s enduringly popular package carry on unchanged for 23YM. On offer is hard-edged off-road performance from an athletic, lightweight chassis with slim rally-style bodywork and characterful, torque-heavy 1084cc engine. A full electronics package uses a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit to manage HSTC, cornering ABS, Wheelie Control, Rear Lift Control and  cornering detection functionality on the DCT version. Practicality comes in the shape of multiple riding modes, standard fit cruise control, USB port and full colour 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen incorporating Apple CarPlay® and Bluetooth connectivity.

 

For 23YM, there are updates to two of the three available paint schemes – a full-stealth Black Metallic version and a new ‘Glint Wave Blue Metallic’ Tricolour.

 

 

Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Model overview

3 Key features

4 Accessories

5 Technical specifications

 

 

  1. Introduction

 

It’s been well over three decades since the Honda XRV650 Africa Twin first rolled into Europe and while the motorcycle that now bears its name – launched for 2016 as the CRF1000L Africa Twin – was a brand-new machine from the wheels up, it fully inherited the essence and spirit of what made the original so popular.

 

It was the balance between power and weight that was at the heart of the original bike’s appeal, just as it was for the new model. With its unique, athletic appearance, an enjoyable, usable engine and capable, comfortable chassis, the CRF1000L Africa Twin proved itself a true modern-day all-rounder and has been hugely popular with round-the-world adventurers, around-town commuters and weekend tourers alike, with over 85,000 units sold.

 

2018 saw the Africa Twin, in both manual transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) form, receive Throttle By Wire (TBW) control plus 3 riding modes, expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) options, as well as intake and exhaust development for improved engine response and sound. The platform also expanded: the Africa Twin Adventure Sports – with the same updates but featuring improved wind protection, greater tank range and longer-travel suspension – extended the machine even further into long-range territory.

 

For the 20YM, the introduction of a bigger capacity, longer stroke 1084cc engine marked another landmark in the evolution of the Africa Twin. The touring comfort, technology and ability of the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports* were further enhanced – adding the option of Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (SHOWA EERA) suspension, and the CRF1100L Africa Twin itself was comprehensively redrawn with an aggressive, compact rally style and even sharper off-road focus. Alongside the increase in power and torque from the new engine, it was also significantly lighter – in keeping with the first principles set out all those years ago.

 

22YM saw the Africa Twin equipped with refined DCT settings for even smoother handling in 1st and 2nd gears, standard fitment aluminium rear carrier and striking, ultra-modern ‘Big Logo’ graphics. Although there are no specification changes for 23YM, the evolution of two, ultra-cool paint choices add even more to the Africa Twin’s all-round desirability.

 

*See separate CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports Press Kit.

 

 

  1. Model Overview

 

The CRF1100L Africa Twin is a motorcycle focused on core off-road ability with the look – and feel – of a true rally machine. Slim and lightweight, its 1,084cc parallel twin cylinder engine produces 75kW power with 105Nm torque, while the steel frame is the foundation of its handling prowess; it also uses a bolt-on aluminium subframe. The aluminium swingarm references that of the CRF450R moto-crosser.

 

At the centre of the Africa Twin, a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) controls not only the 7-level HSTC but also 3-level Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS (with off-road setting), Rear Lift Control and enhanced DCT cornering detection. There are four default riding modes: URBAN, TOUR, GRAVEL and OFF-ROAD.

 

Tailored for complete control, the riding position features a slim-section seat and high-set handlebars. Dual LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) give optimum visibility, improving safety. Cruise control is standard-fit.  A full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen brings immersive engagement with the machine’s systems, plus Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Bluetooth connectivity.

 

For 23YM CRF1100L Africa Twin will be available in the following paint options:

 

Grand Prix Red

**NEW** Mat Ballistic Black Metallic – now with all-black frame

**NEW** Glint Wave Blue Metallic Tricolour – with blue front ‘face’, and blue front fender and tail section with red and white detailing

 

 

  1. Key Features

 

3.1 Styling & Equipment

 

  • Compact body style designed for off-road, with slim seat and high handlebars
  • Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® allow use of a smartphone through the MID
  • Bluetooth connectivity, Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and cruise control

 

Aggressive and compact. Two words that sum up the Africa Twin’s taut rally-style bodywork. And it’s for a reason – to work better off-road. The fixed screen is short to allow for easy scanning of the trail ahead and, with a seat height of 850-870mm, the high-set handlebars give an upright, high-visibility riding position and comfortable control, whether standing or seated. The tail section is extremely slim and the narrow seat carefully contoured to allow good ground reach and easy back and forth movement while an aluminium rear carrier is standard fit for convenient carrying ability.

 

Dual LED headlights are set high, delivering a penetrating beam, and also feature Daytime Running Lights (DRL) that automatically adjust to ambient light intensity, improving safety, no matter the conditions. Knuckle guards are standard.

 

The full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen keeps the rider in control of all of the Africa Twin’s systems, with each of the riding modes­ selectable through the top left of the screen. The MID can also be customised to show various levels of information relative to the riding mode chosen and is easy to use even when wearing gloves.

 

It also incorporates Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®, allowing use of a smartphone through the touchscreen. Navigation apps can also be accessed and displayed and, via a Bluetooth helmet headset, calls can be made or received. The smartphone itself plugs into a USB charging port on the right of the MID. Hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity is also an option and all control inputs are made from the left-hand switchgear.

 

The front and rear indicators have an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function. When braking suddenly over 50kph the hazard lights flash to warn other road users a hard stop is in process. They also auto-cancel; rather than using a simple timer, the system compares front and rear wheel speed difference and calculates when to cancel the indication relative to the situation. The auto-cancel feature can be switched off using the MID. Standard-fit cruise control eases long-distance highway travel.

 

For 23YM, the CRF1100L Africa Twin will be available in three paint options. The Mat Ballistic Black Metallic, new for 23YM, comes complete with a colour matched rear subframe. The classic Tricolore option is renamed as ‘Glint Wave Blue Metallic Tricolore’, as it features blue front ‘face’, and blue front fender and tail section with red and white detailing.  The third colour is the classic ‘CRF’ Grand Prix Red, which pays homage to Honda’s off road racing heritage.

 

 

3.2 Engine

 

  • 1,084cc twin-cylinder engine gives 75kW peak power with 105Nm torque
  • Unicam 8-valve head and semi-dry sump
  • Variable Exhaust Control Valve (ECV) offers an engaging low-rpm sound and high-rpm performance

 

The 1,084cc, 8-valve parallel-twin engine produces 75kW @ 7,500rpm and peak torque of 105Nm @ 6,250rpm. Bore is set at 92mm with 81.5mm stroke and compression ratio of 10.1:1. 46mm throttle bodies feed the inlet ports and the bore and cylinder pitches are aligned to create a smooth air intake profile. The ECU setting and injector angle work in unison to deliver a direct spray into the twin-spark combustion chambers.

 

Honda’s SOHC Unicam valve train is a feature of the MX competition-specification CRF450R and the low-set position of the cast camshaft contributes to the compact nature of the cylinder head and entire engine package; inlet valves are 10.1mm in diameter, exhaust valves 9.3mm. Aluminium cylinder sleeves save weight while the 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval create the engine’s signature ‘throb’.

 

The crankcases are split horizontally; the water pump is housed efficiently within the clutch casing with a thermostat integrated into the cylinder head. Manual and DCT versions of the engine share common crankcases with only minor external differences; the water and oil pumps are both driven by the engine’s balancer shafts.

 

It’s a semi-dry sump design with in-tank lower crankcase oil storage. This allows a lower pan depth that keeps overall engine height low. As the pressure-fed pump is located within the tank where it delivers its oil from, there is no need for a pressure-feed passage. Secondary vibrations are neutralised by the mutually reciprocating motion of the pistons, while primary inertial and coupling vibrations are cancelled by the use of biaxial balance shafts.

 

The aluminium clutch centre and pressure plate use ‘assist’ cams to ease upshifts and ‘slipper’ cams for deceleration and downshifting; with the change to the 1100cc engine for 20YM, the clutch diameter was reduced in size compared to the previous design, with reduced spring tension for lighter lever feel. The six-speed manual gearbox uses the same shift-cam design as found on the CRF450R to ensure positive changes. A quickshifter remains available as an optional extra.

 

The exhaust end-can features a variable Exhaust Control Valve (ECV), very similar to the unit fitted to the Fireblade. It offers enhanced engine performance and efficiency as it opens at higher rpm and gives a pleasing exhaust note ‘pulse’ at lower rpm.

 

3.3 Engine & Chassis Management Electronics

 

  • IMU-managed HSTC intervention levels have focus on off-road use
  • Wheelie Control features 3 levels and IMU management
  • Four riding modes: TOUR, URBAN, GRAVEL and OFF-ROAD
  • Two USER modes allow for complete riding modes customisation

 

Throttle By Wire (TBW) management and a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)* are at the heart of the electronic package. The system offers 4 levels of power and 3 levels of engine braking. There are seven levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with each level’s amount of intervention being optimised to work with real-time input (yaw/roll angle and rate) from the IMU. The spacing of the levels is optimised to allow the rider a finer choice of the amount of rear tyre slide for off-road riding. HSTC can also be turned off completely.

 

Wheelie Control is another feature. With the IMU measuring pitch angle and rate, and controlling engine torque via TBW, the rider can choose between 3 levels of input. Level 1 allows for intended wheel lift but suppresses any sudden movement. Level 3 stops any front wheel elevation and level 2 is mid-way between the two. Wheelie Control can also be turned off completely.

 

There are four default riding mode settings: TOUR, URBAN, GRAVEL and OFF-ROAD to cover most riding conditions and situations plus two customisable USER settings. Even within the default riding modes, it’s possible to change some parameters – HSTC between levels 1-7 (plus off), Wheelie Control between levels 1-3 (plus off) and DCT S mode shift pattern levels 1-3.

 

TOUR employs the highest level of Power (1), for touring loaded with pillion and luggage plus mid-range Engine Braking (2) with active on-road cornering ABS.

 

URBAN suits wide-ranging riding requirements and uses mid-level Power (2) and Engine Braking (2) with active on-road Cornering ABS.

 

GRAVEL delivers the lowest level of Power (4) and Engine Braking (3). Cornering ABS is active with an off-road setting; in this setting, the rear brake ABS cannot be switched off.

 

OFF-ROAD uses lower-mid level Power (3) and the lowest amount of Engine Braking (3). Cornering ABS is active with an off-road setting; the rear brake ABS can be switched off.

 

USER 1 & 2 modes offer the rider a choice of two distinct personalized setups - choosing between Power levels 1-4 and Engine Braking 1-3, plus HSTC, Wheelie Control and ABS (on-road/off-road) parameters. USER 1 starts out with level 2 Power and Engine Braking, USER 2 uses level 4 Power and 3 Engine Braking.

 

*See the Chassis section 3.5 of this press kit.

 

3.4 Dual Clutch Transmission

 

  • ‘Easy and direct’ system offers super-fast gear changes in either Manual Transmission (MT) or Automatic D and S modes
  • S mode (with 3 levels) revs higher and downshifts sooner than D, for more aggressive riding
  • G switch improves rear wheel traction when off-road
  • Incline detection adapts shift pattern depending on gradient
  • IMU allows corning detection function for improved shift timings
  • Designed for smooth handling at pull-away and in lower gears

 

Honda has sold over 200,000 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 2021 DCT versions of Africa Twin (including Adventure Sports version) accounted for 51% of the model’s sales.

 

The unique DCT system 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. Automatic S mode offers three levels of sportier riding, as the ECU lets the engine rev a little higher before shifting up and shifts down sooner when decelerating for extra engine braking.

 

In either D or S mode, 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 back to automatic mode, depending on throttle angle, vehicle speed and gear position.

 

DCT for the Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment, with off-road functionality enhanced by the G switch accessed via the TFT touch screen display. Activating the G switch in any riding mode improves the feel for available traction and machine control by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes.

 

Further functionality for the DCT system comes in the form of incline detection, by means of which the gear shift pattern is adapted depending on the grade of an incline to provide optimum control.

 

The Africa Twin’s DCT system also uses cornering detection; when the IMU recognises the bike is cornering, the system subtly adjusts the shifting programme for the most natural gear changes. The DCT settings are also optimised in first and second gears to allow smoother handling from a standing start and at very low speeds.

 

3.5 Chassis

 

  • Lightweight frame, with bolt-on aluminium subframe and light, rigid CRF450R-style swingarm for outstanding rear wheel traction and feel
  • A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit is housed in the centre of the machine
  • Cornering ABS provides sure-footed feel and features an off-road setting
  • Optimised damping and spring rates for the front and rear Showa suspension

 

At the very heart of the Africa Twin’s elevated on- and off-road performance is a Bosch MM7.10 six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) tucked away at the centre of the machine, that measures – in real-time – roll angle/rate, pitch angle/rate and yaw angle/rate. It aids the management of rear wheel traction via TBW and HSTC, front braking grip through cornering ABS, front wheel lift through Wheelie Control and also adds Rear Lift Control.

 

The strength and rigidity balance of the steel semi-double cradle frame revolves around boosted off-road ability – at the same time reinforcing its all-round on-road manners. Rigidity around the steering head is optimised to enhance feel for front end grip; the main spars are slim and straight with no front cross pipe. Ground clearance is 250mm, with wheelbase of 1574mm and rake and trail of 27° 30’/113mm. Wet weight is 229kg (DCT 240kg).

 

A bolt-on aluminium subframe allows a width of 195mm – crucial for easier ground reach. The lightweight aluminium swingarm – taking its direction from the design used by the CRF450R – improves rear wheel traction and rider feel.

 

With stroke length of 230mm the 45mm Showa cartridge-type inverted front fork offers long-travel bump absorption and with internal settings for high-quality on- and off-road performance. Rebound and compression damping are fully adjustable. A cast aluminium top yoke and forged bottom yoke – joined by hollow aluminium stem shaft – clamp the fork legs with two bolts each top and bottom.

 

Matching the front suspension, the Showa rear shock delivers 220mm axle travel and features a 46mm cylinder and remote reservoir for stable damping control under extreme off-road riding conditions. Spring preload can be adjusted via a dial on the shock body; rebound and compression damping are also fully adjustable.

 

The swingarm pivot points’ inner plates use 600MPa high-strength steel and the upper cross tube that connects them acts as the rear shock upper mount (through a pillow-ball joint) improving feel for rear wheel traction.

 

The IMU takes in lean angle, deceleration (from front/rear wheel speed sensors) and incorporates the slip rate of the front and rear wheels to manage braking pressure through the ABS; likewise if it detects sudden rear wheel lift, it finely controls brake force to maintain stability. When stationary the rear ABS can be cancelled for off-road riding.

 

Compact two-piece radial-mount four-piston calipers work dual 310mm ‘wave’ floating discs through sintered pads. The rear 256mm ‘wave’ disc features hole punching and shaping. 21/18-inch front rear (stainless steel) spoked wheels wear 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tyres. Block pattern tyres (Continental 90/90-21M/C 54S and 150/70B 18M/C 70Q, rated at 180km/h and 160km/h respectively) are approved for fitment.

 

 

4 Accessories

 

A range of Honda Genuine Accessories is available for the Africa Twin, available individually as well as in selected packs for convenience to further enhance the Africa Twin riding experience.

 

The Off-Road Pack enhances the Africa Twin’s natural off-road ability and includes:

 

  • Rally steps
  • DCT pedal shift (Only for DCT version)
  • Quick Shifter (Only for MT version)
  • Engine guard and attachment
  • Front side pipes
  • Radiator grills
  • Smoke windscreen
  • Wheel stripes
  • Side tank pads
  • Knuckle guard extensions

 

The Electric Pack contains all the electrical accessories needed for maximum comfort while riding and includes:

 

  • Front fog lights
  • Heated grips
  • 12V Accessory Socket

 

The Super Pack has been developed to enhance both long distance comfort and increase luggage capacity, with two versions available: aluminium and plastic.

 

This pack includes

 

  • Full aluminium luggage set featuring a top box (42L) and panniers (37L left / 33L right) with inner bags

or

  • Full plastic luggage set featuring a large plastic top box (58L) and panniers (40L left / 30L right), with inner bags

Plus

  • 5L tank bag
  • Front side pipes
  • Front fog lights
  • Engine guard (with attachment)
  • Heated grips
  • 12V accessory socket
  • High windscreen
  • Visors and deflectors sets
  • Centre stand

 

The Travel Pack maximises the Africa Twins long distance travelling abilities. Like the Super Pack, the Travel pack is also available in two versions, aluminium and plastic

 

  • Full aluminium luggage set featuring a top box (42L) and panniers (37L left / 33L right) with inner bags

or

  • Full plastic luggage set featuring a large plastic top box (58L) and panniers (40L left / 30L right), with inner bags

      Plus

  • 5L tank bag
  • Engine guard attachment
  • Front side pipes
  • Main Stand

 

Additional accessories are also available and include:

  • Low (825-845mm) or high (870-895mm) seat options
  • Full sticker protection
  • Slip-on SC-Project muffler
  • 38L top box
  • 3L tank bag

 

 

5 Technical Specifications

 

ENGINE

Type

SOHC Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and Uni-cam

Displacement

1084cc

Bore x Stroke

92mm x 81.5mm

Compression Ratio

10.1:1

Max. Power Output

75kW at 7,500rpm

Max. Torque

105Nm at 6,250rpm

Noise Level

L-urban73.5dB, L-wot79.2dB - MT;
L-urban 73.6dB, L-wot 79.4dB – DCT

Oil Capacity

4.8/4.3 (5.2/4.7 DCT)

FUEL SYSTEM

Carburation

PGM-FI

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.8L

CO2 Emissions

112g/km MT  

110g/km DCT

Fuel Consumption

4.9L/100km (20.4km/L) MT

4.8L/100km (20.8km/L) DCT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Starter

Electric

Battery Capacity

12V-6Ah Li-ion BATTERY (20Hr)

ACG Output

 0.49 kW / 5000rpm

DRIVETRAIN

Clutch Type

Wet, multiplate with coil springs, aluminium cam assist and slipper clutch

DCT – 2 wet multiplate clutches with coil springs

Transmission Type

6 Speed Manual (6 Speed DCT)

FRAME

Type

Semi Double Cradle

CHASSIS

Dimensions (L´W´H)

2,330mm x 960mm x 1,395mm

Wheelbase

1,575mm

Caster Angle

27.5°

Trail

113mm

Seat Height

850/870mm (low seat option 825mm, high seat option 895mm)

Ground Clearance

250mm

Kerb Weight

229kg (DCT 240kg)

SUSPENSION

Type Front

Showa 45mm cartridge-type inverted telescopic fork with dial-style preload adjuster and DF adjustments, 230mm stroke.

Type Rear

Monoblock aluminium swing arm with Pro-Link with SHOWA gas-charged damper, hydraulic dial-style preload adjuster and rebound damping adjustments, 220 mm rear wheel travel.

WHEELS

Type Front

21M/C x 2.15 wire spoke with aluminium rim

Type Rear

18M/C x 4.00 wire spoke with aluminium rim

Rim Size Front

21"

Rim Size Rear

18"

Tyres Front

90/90-21M/C 54H (tube type)

(Bridgestone BATTLAX ADVENTURECROSS TOURER/ AX41T Metzler KAROO STREET)

Tyres Rear

150/70R18M/C 70H (tube type)

(Bridgestone BATTLAX ADVENTURECROSS TOURER/ AX41T Metzler KAROO STREET)

BRAKES

ABS System Type

2 channel with IMU
Selectable ABS MODE with ON road and OFF road setting

Type Front

310mm dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminium hub and radial fit 4-piston calipers and sintered metal pads

Type Rear

256mm wave hydraulic disc with single piston caliper and sintered metal pads.

INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS

Instruments

LCD meter, TFT 6.5inch touch panel multi information display

Security System

Immobiliser, security alarm (optional)

Headlight

LED

Taillight

LED

Electrics

Daytime running lights, Bluetooth audio and Apple Carplay®, Android Auto®, USB Socket, auto turn signal cancel, cruise control, emergency stop signal, IMU, HSTC, wheelie control

 

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

 

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Media Contacts
Matt McCabe Brown
Matt McCabe Brown
Honda Motor Europe
Motorcycle PR Events & Communications Manager