The word from Honda, who have updated their all-rounder Africa Twin model;
The 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin was given a sharply-renewed focus on off-road core ability, that brought with it the look – and feel – of a true rally machine. Smaller, slimmer and 4kg lighter than the previous model, it offered even more athletic performance, thanks also to changes to the engine, which produced 7% more peak power, 6% more peak torque and much greater strength everywhere in the rev-range. It also became Honda’s first EURO5 compliant engine.
The frame was completely revised and featured a new bolt-on aluminium subframe. The new swingarm, too, was aluminium and based on that of the CRF450R moto-crosser. And at the centre of the Africa Twin, the addition of a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) controlled not only the 7-level HSTC but also 3-level Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS (with off-road setting), Rear Lift Control and DCT cornering detection. An OFF-ROAD setting also joined the URBAN, TOUR and GRAVEL default riding modes.
Tailored for complete control, the riding position featured a new slim-section seat and high-set handlebars. A full colour Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen brought immersive engagement with the machine’s systems, plus Bluetooth connectivity. The new Dual LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) gave optimum visibility, improving safety, and cruise control was added as standard-fit.
For 21YM, the technical package is unchanged, but the new Pearl Glare White Tricolour brings the classic red, white and blue Africa Twin colour scheme back to the latest generation of the machine.
NAVIGATION AND SAFETY FEATURES
The bike also incorporates Apple CarPlay®, allowing use of an Apple iPhone® through the touchscreen. Navigation apps can also be accessed and displayed and via a Bluetooth helmet headset calls can be made or received. The iPhone® itself plugs into a USB charging port on the right of the MID. Hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity is also an option for an iPhone® or Android device and all control inputs are made from the left-hand switchgear.
The front and rear indicators have an Emergency Stop Signal 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.
The 2020 update also saw the introduction of cruise control as standard to ease long-distance highway travel.
More details at the Honda UK website.
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