2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin



2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Review

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin on www.Totalmotorcycle.com

GET READY FOR TRUE ADVENTURE…

It’s been a long wait. But—trust us—it’s worth it. The all-new Honda Africa Twin is the machine that will let you wander wherever your adventures take you. The 998cc parallel twin uses Honda’s exclusive four-valve Unicam® cylinder-head design for smooth, tractable power. Offered with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a new DCT transmission with selectable on- and off-road modes. The ultimate adventure comes this fall.

Colours

 

CRF Rally
Africa Twin (Standard)

Matte Black Metallic
Africa Twin (Standard)

Silver
Africa Twin (DCT)

 

 

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Honda is pleased to announce further technical details on the new CRF1000L Africa Twin, which will be in Honda showrooms across the United States in early 2016. Like its celebrated forerunners, the CRF1000L Africa Twin is thoroughly equipped for true adventure, with a potent engine and dynamic chassis ready to explore continents, on- or off-road.

From the start of the CRF1000L Africa Twin project there was one motorcycle that consistently impressed with its balance of usability, poise and handling, on the road and in the dirt—the seminal XRV750 Africa Twin. It proved a worthwhile benchmark, even when set against today’s myriad choice of adventure motorcycles. The machine that now bears its name shares no common parts with the old model but it inherits the full the essence and spirit of what made the XRV750 Africa Twin so good.

The “true adventure” approach starts with the engine, which has to perform in off-road situations as well as on-road long-range touring and all points in between. The CRF1000L Africa Twin’s 998cc parallel-twin power plant draws heavily on Honda’s off-road race experience with the CRF250R/450R competition machines, and uses the same four-valve Unicam head design for compact overall dimensions. A lightweight cast camshaft—using the same materials as that on the CBR1000RR—operates the valve train, and twin spark plugs fire the fuel/air mixture in each combustion chamber.

Strong and linear power and torque deliver instant response anywhere in the rev-range—accompanied by a satisfying, characterful deep growl as rpm rises. A 270° phased crankshaft gives the power delivery a distinct character as well, delivering excellent feel for rear-wheel traction. Biaxial primary balance shafts cancel vibration.

The engine’s short height contributes to the CRF1000L Africa Twin’s excellent ground clearance—another prerequisite for a true adventure machine. It also uses clever packaging of componentry to both dynamic and aesthetic effect. The water pump is housed within the clutch casing, and the water and oil pumps are driven by a shared balancer shaft. Further reducing engine size is the lower crankcase design, which stores the oil and houses the pressure-fed pump.

The lightweight six-speed manual gearbox uses the same shift-cam design as found on the CRF250R/450R to ensure positive changes and is equipped with an assist slipper clutch.

For the CRF1000L Africa Twin’s chassis, three key attributes—highlights of the original XRV750—were targeted: off-road performance, touring comfort and the everyday agility that makes for a great all-rounder or day-to-day commuter.

A steel semi-double cradle frame provides a balance of highway touring capability—even while fully loaded—genuine off-road performance, agility and sheer strength. Mass centralization—with items like the battery packaged at the rear of the cylinder head—contributes to a low center of gravity.

The long-travel Showa inverted fork is fully adjustable and features dual radial-mount Nissin four-piston brake calipers and 310mm “wave” style floating discs. The Showa rear shock has hydraulic spring-preload adjustment. Like the CRF450R Rally, the CRF1000L Africa Twin uses 21- and 18-inch front and rear spoke wheels, wearing 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tires.

Following its design theme of “unlimited adventure,” the Africa Twin is styled with minimum bodywork in a tough, lightweight form that offers both weather protection for the rider and a slim, agile feel. Dual headlights maintain the original’s signature presence and the seat height adjusts .8 inches to either 34.3 or 33.5 inches. A large 4.96 gallon fuel tank—coupled with the engine’s fuel efficiency—stretches the distances between refueling stops.

To tailor the overall electronics package to capably tackle any conditions on- or off-road, the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system offers three levels of control, and it is possible for the rider to turn off the ABS system for the rear wheel. (HSTC and ABS not available on base version; equipped as standard on DCT/ABS version.)

The CRF1000L Africa Twin will be available in two color options: Red/Black/White Dakar Rally and Silver.

Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) will be available as an option on the CRF1000L Africa Twin, with the use of a common crankcase keeping the width the same as the manual transmission version.

It features the standard manual mode—allowing the rider to operate gear shifts through triggers on the left handlebar—and two automatic modes. D mode offers the best balance of fuel efficiency and comfort cruising. S mode gives extra levels of sport performance, with three different shift patterns to choose from: S1, S2 and S3.

In certain situations on the road, such as during low-speed maneuvers, the DCT partially disengages the clutch to reduce the effect that quick throttle movements have on the chassis. Of course, DCT for the CRF1000L Africa Twin is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment. With the G switch on in any riding mode, the connection between the throttle and the rear wheel is more direct, which can be desirable in certain off-road situations.

Further new functionality for the DCT system comes in the form of incline detection. During ascents, upshifts are delayed in order to allow a higher rpm to be held; on descents, downshifts happen earlier to enable better engine braking.

2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN

Powerful Performance

The CRF1000L Africa Twin’s 1,000 cc parallel-twin fuel-injected engine draws heavily from Honda’s winning off-road racing bikes, including the CRF250R and CRF450R.

Engineered to perfection

Four-valve Unicam cylinder head design has numerous performance benefits – including lighter weight and reduced gyro effect – while also contributing to the engine’s compact dimensions. A lightweight camshaft – using the same materials as the CBR1000RR’s camshaft – operates the valve train.

Dual spark
Twin sparkplugs in each cylinder help to produce rapid, thorough combustion.

Distinctive sound and feel

A 270-degree phased crankshaft gives the engine a distinctive sound and feel – almost like a V-twin – while helping to produce strong and linear power and instant response anywhere in the rev range. There’s a deep growl as the RPM rises that will be music to any motorhead’s ears.

Clever design integration
The dry-sump oil system with internal tank reduces engine height. Combined with the Unicam cylinder head and other design elements, this contributes to an extremely low engine height, which in turn results in generous ground clearance.

Lightweight architecture
The water pump is housed within the clutch casing, and the water and oil pumps are driven by a shared balancer shaft, all of which reduces engine size and weight.

Maximized airflow

Forward-mounted air intakes feed a large airbox. Dual air filters can be changed without removing fuel tank, and the system is designed to minimize the risk of dirt or other debris entering the engine when servicing the filters.

Dynamically responsive
The six-speed manual gearbox is both lightweight and robust – it uses the same shift-cam design as found on the CRF250R and CRF450R to ensure positive changes. An assist slipper clutch helps to maintain traction during downshifts or deceleration.

Innovative functionality

The Africa Twin is also available with Honda’s advanced Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). It features the standard manual mode – allowing the rider to shift gears with triggers on the left handlebar – and two automatic modes. D mode offers the best balance of fuel economy and cruising comfort, while S mode cranks up the performance. S mode even allows you to choose from three different shift patterns to match your riding style or the conditions.

Exceptional versatility

The Africa Twin’s DCT is specially engineered to handle off-road adventures, thanks in part to the G switch positioned on the right side of the instrument panel. Pushing the G switch in any riding mode provides an aggressive shift pattern that’s ideal for breaking the rear wheel loose in a sweeping dirt or gravel corner, or lofting the front wheel over an obstacle.

Breakthrough technology
Another benefit of the Africa Twin’s DCT is incline detection. Algorithms based on vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle input, and more, determine if the bike is ascending or descending a slope, and the system’s ECU selects the appropriate gear for climbing or engine braking.

Torque control
The Africa Twin even allows you to select from various levels of traction control. The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system adjusts the allowable rear-wheel slip through 3 levels (or off).

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION

Perfected dual-purpose design

The Africa Twin’s chassis is engineered to handle the most rugged off-road adventures, while also providing the comfort of a touring motorcycle and the everyday competence of a great all-rounder or day-to-day commuter.

Strength and agility

The semi-double-cradle steel frame uses oval-shaped tubing for extra strength without extra weight.

Balanced handling characteristics

Careful attention to mass centralization – with heavy items like the battery packaged at the rear of the cylinder head – contributes to agile handling.

Nimble handling and tight control
The chassis design allows for superior manoeuvrability, with a wide 43-degree steering angle and a tight 2.5-metre turning radius.

Superior suspension dynamics

The long-travel Showa 45 mm inverted fork offers full spring preload, compression damping and rebound damping adjustment, and was designed specifically for a leading-axle wheel and radial-caliper mounting.

Engineered functionality
The Africa Twin’s Pro-link rear suspension design positions the shock lower at the front of the aluminum swingarm, lowering C of G even further and allowing designers to keep the seat/tank area above the shock as slim as possible.

Selectable suspension
The Showa rear shock’s hydraulic dial-style preload adjuster, combined with full adjustment for compression and rebound damping, makes it easy to change suspension performance to suit street or dirt riding.

Adventure ready

Like the CRF450R Rally, the Africa Twin uses 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, wearing 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tires.

Superb braking system
Dual front radial-mounted Nissin four-piston brake calipers and 310 mm wave-style floating rotors provide strong braking force on pavement or dirt.

Proven Performance
Standard ABS provides confident braking control on all types of surfaces. The Africa Twin’s Adaptive Rear ABS Cancelling allows you to disable the rear-wheel ABS – a benefit in certain types of off-road riding. The system reverts to normal operation when the engine is restarted.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Durable construction

Following its design theme of “unlimited adventure”, the Africa Twin is styled with a minimum of bodywork in a tough, lightweight form that offers both weather protection for the rider and a slim, agile feel.

Distinct styling cues

Dual LED headlights give the Africa Twin an imposing presence while providing excellent nighttime illumination.

Ergonomic seating adjustment

A wide seat at the rear tapers to narrow at the front, which provides extra comfort when sitting plus an easy transition to standing when off-road. The seat can be raised or lowered through a range of 20 mm.

Excellent range capacity
A large 18.8-litre fuel tank, coupled with the engine’s excellent fuel efficiency, provides a range of up to 400 km.

Enhanced comfort and stability
Off-road-style tapered aluminum handlebar is strong yet lightweight, and is rubber mounted for reduced vibration.

True adventure design
An aluminum skid plate helps protect against damage from stones, rocks and other obstacles.

Advanced instrumentation
White-on-black LCD instrument panel is mounted high for easy legibility, even when standing.

Attractive colour combinations
Choose from three colour options: CRF Dakar Rally (manual transmission only), Black (manual transmission only), and Silver (DCT only).


2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $TBA USD

ENGINE
Engine Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and Unicam
Bore and Stroke 92mm x 75.1mm
Clutch Wet, multi-plate with coil springs, aluminum cam assist and slipper clutch
DRIVE TRAIN
Transmission Constant mesh 6-speed manual / 6-speed DCT with on and off-road riding modes
Final Drive O-ring sealed chain
Torque Control System (HSTC) HSTC 3-levels + switch-off (*ABS & DCT models only, not on STD model)
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES
Frame Type Steel semi-double cradle type with high-tensile strength steel rear sub-frame
ABS System ABS 2-channel with rear ABS off switch (*ABS & DCT models only, not on STD model)
Front Brake 310mm dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminum hub and radial fit 4-piston calipers and
sintered metal pads
Rear Brake 256mm wave hydraulic disc with 2-piston caliper and sintered metal pads. Also Lever-Lock Type
Parking Brake System on DCT model
Front Tire 90/90-R21 tube type
Rear Tire 150/70-R18 tube type
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase 62.0 inches
Seat Height Standard position 34.3/Low position 33.5 inches
Curb Weight 503 lb. (STD), 511 lb.s (ABS), 534 lb. (DCT). Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full
tank of fuel—ready to ride
Fuel Capacity 4.96 gallons
OTHER
Model ID TBD
Emissions Meets current EPA standards. Models sold in California meet current CARB standards and may differ
slightly due to emissions equipment.
Available Colors Dakar Rally, Digital Metallic Silver
FACTORY WARRANTY INFORMATION
One Year Transferable, Unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a
Honda Protection Plan.

 




 

 

 


2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $TBA CDN


Engine & Drivetrain

 


Engine Type

Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270-degree crank and unicam


Displacement

998 cc


Bore & Stroke

92 mm x 75.1 mm


Compression Ratio

TBA


Valve Train

Unicam, 4 valves per cylinder


Fuel Delivery

PGM-FI electronic fuel injection


Transmission

Standard model: Six-speed constant mesh DCT model: Six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with on & off-road riding modes


Final Drive

O-ring-sealed chain


Chasis & Suspension

 


Front Suspension

TBA


Rear Suspension

TBA


Dimensions & Additional Information

 


Tires

Front: 90/90-R21 tube type; Rear: 150/70-R18 tube type


Brakes

Front: 310 mm dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminium hub and radial fit 4-piston calipers (*ABS) and sintered metal pads; Rear: 256 mm wave hydraulic disc with 2-piston caliper (*ABS) and sintered metal pads.


Seat Height

870 mm (34.3 in.)


Wheelbase

1,575 mm (62 in.)


Curb Weight

Standard model: 232 kg (511 lbs.) DCT model: 242 kg (534 lbs) including required fluids and full tank of gas – ready to ride


Fuel Capacity

TBA


Colour

Standard model: CRF Rally, Matte Black Metallic; DCT model: Silver Metallic


Warranty

12 months, unlimited mileage, freely transferable warranty; extended coverage available with Honda Plus

 

 

 

 

 

 


2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin – www.Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £TBA GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine

Bore × Stroke (mm) 92.0 & 75.1mm
Engine Displacement (cm3) 998cm3
Engine Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and uni-cam
Max. Power Output 70kW/7,500rpm (95/1/EC)
Max. Torque 98Nm/6,000rpm (95/1/EC)

Wheels

Brakes Front 310mm dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminium hub and radial fit 4-piston calipers (ABS*) and sintered metal pads
Brakes Rear 256mm wave hydraulic disc with 2-piston caliper (ABS*)and sintered metal pads. Also Lever-Lock Type Parking Brake System on DCT model. *2-Channel with rear ABS off switch.
type front 21M/C x MT2.15
type rear 18M/C x MT4.00
Tyres Front 90/90-R21 tube type
Tyres Rear 150/70-R18 tube type
Wheels Front Wire spoke with aluminium rim
Wheels Rear Wire spoke with aluminium rim

Dimensions and Weights

Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) 2,335 x 930 x 1,475mm (ABS/DCT)
Frame type Steel semi-double cradle type with high-tensile strength steel rear subframe
Fuel Capacity (Litres) 18.8 litres
Ground Clearance (mm) 250mm
Kerb Weight (kg) 232 kg (ABS)
Seat Height (mm) 870/850mm (STD position / Low position)
Wheelbase (mm) 1,575mm

Transmission

Clutch Wet, multiplate with coil springs, Aluminium Cam Assist and Slipper clutch
Final Drive O-ring sealed chain
Gearbox Constant mesh 6-speed MT
Transmission Type 6-speed DCT with on and off-road riding modes

 



Specifications, features, illustrations and equipment shown are believed to be correct – however, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Honda Canada Inc. reserves the right to make changes at any time, without notice or obligation, in colours, specifications, accessories, materials and models. Some vehicles are shown with optional equipment. Some vehicles shown are U.S. or European models. Canadian specifications and models may vary.

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

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