1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin Specs & Review

Honda’s original Africa Twin earned its reputation by blending rally-inspired toughness with real-world usability. The 1989 XRV650 (RD03) brings a tractable V‑twin, long-travel suspension, and purposeful chassis to riders who split time between tarmac and the trail. If you’re hunting for authentic adventure DNA, the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin specs still hit the mark today.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 647 cc
• Engine: Liquid-cooled 52° V-twin, SOHC, 3 valves/cyl (RC31E)
• Max power: 57 hp @ 8000 rpm (Europe)
• Max torque: 55 Nm @ 6000 rpm
• Wet weight: 220 kg (curb weight, Japan: 221 kg)
• Honda XRV650 Africa Twin seat height: 880 mm

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the XRV650 lies Honda’s RC31E 52° V‑twin, a liquid-cooled, SOHC unit with 3 valves per cylinder and a 9.4:1 compression ratio. Fed by 2 x 32 mm CV carburetors and managed by CDI ignition with electronic advance, it delivers up to 57 hp at 8000 rpm in European trim (Japan domestic rating: 52 PS at 7500 rpm). Peak torque is a useful 55 Nm at 6000 rpm, giving the bike tractable drive for mixed-surface riding.

In the city, the smooth CV carburetion and flexible midrange make short work of traffic, while the 5-speed transmission and chain final drive keep things simple and robust. Out on the highway, the claimed top speed of 167 km/h (104 mph) shows there’s enough headroom for overtakes and sustained cruising. Fun riding on backroads is where the V‑twin character shines—broad torque and predictable response let you roll on early out of corners without drama.

Supporting this performance is a well-balanced bore and stroke of 79.0 x 66.0 mm, giving the engine a lively yet manageable feel. It’s old-school mechanical engagement with just enough refinement to make long days comfortable.

Handling, Comfort & Honda XRV650 Africa Twin Seat Height

Purposeful adventure geometry defines the XRV650. A 90/90-21 front and 130/90-17 rear tire combo, combined with 220 mm of front wheel travel and 210 mm at the rear, sets the tone: stability, feedback, and clearance when pavement ends. Ground clearance is a healthy 200 mm (7.9 in), while a 1550 mm (61.0 in) wheelbase helps the bike track straight over rough surfaces.

The steel semi-double cradle frame (single downtube double-loop) gives a planted, compliant feel. Up front, a 43 mm air-assisted telescopic fork provides tunable support, and the rear Pro-Link monoshock includes a reservoir and compression damping adjustment to fine-tune for load and terrain.

As for ergonomics, the Honda XRV650 Africa Twin seat height is 880 mm. Taller riders will feel right at home with the roomy triangle and commanding view. Shorter riders may find the height and the Honda XRV650 Africa Twin weight more challenging at low speeds, especially when maneuvering on uneven ground. That said, the balanced chassis and slim midsection help mitigate the mass when moving around the bike or dabbling off-road.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Single 296 mm front disc with 2-piston caliper and a single 240 mm rear disc with 1-piston caliper provide linear, predictable stopping consistent with the era.
• Suspension: 43 mm air-assisted fork (front) and Pro-Link monoshock with reservoir and compression damping adjustment (rear).
• Fuel & Range: A generous 24 L (6.3 US gal) fuel tank supports long stages between stops—ideal for distance riders and explorers.
• Drivetrain & Electronics: 5-speed gearbox with chain final drive; CDI ignition with electronic advance; 2 x 32 mm CV carburetors.
• Chassis Details: Steel semi-double cradle frame, 200 mm ground clearance, and RD03 model code heritage.
• Weight: Wet weight is 220 kg; dry weight (Europe) is 193 kg; curb weight (Japan) is listed at 221 kg.

Who Is the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin For?

Riders with a bias toward authentic, analog adventure riding will appreciate the XRV650’s character and chassis. It’s a great fit for experienced riders who want a reliable travel companion with long-travel suspension and real off-pavement credibility. The manageable power and friendly delivery help, but the tall 880 mm seat and the 220 kg wet weight mean complete beginners or very short riders might need extra acclimation.

As a daily commuter, the smooth V‑twin and upright posture make it comfortable and confidence-inspiring. For weekend fun, it’s happy to switch between twisty B-roads and gravel tracks without missing a beat.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a classic dual-sport, the 1989 XRV650 delivers a compelling blend: a torquey 647 cc V‑twin, long-travel suspension, and a chassis that encourages you to explore. The front 21-inch tire, generous ground clearance, and well-judged wheelbase give it calm, predictable manners off-road and stability on the highway. The large 24 L tank further strengthens its long-distance, rally-inspired remit.

On the flip side, the single front disc and the overall Honda XRV650 Africa Twin weight won’t suit riders seeking razor-sharp sport performance, and the 880 mm seat height can be a stretch for shorter inseams. Still, judged on period-correct adventure capability and real-world usability, this Honda XRV650 Africa Twin review lands firmly positive. For those comparing vintage ADV machines, the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin specs remain a benchmark for balanced, go-anywhere design.

FAQ

• Is the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin good for beginners?

  • Its smooth power delivery (up to 57 hp) is friendly, but the 880 mm seat height and 220 kg wet weight may challenge new or shorter riders. It’s better suited to riders with some experience.

• What is the seat height of the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin?

  • Seat height is 880 mm.

• How heavy is the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin?

  • Wet weight is 220 kg. Dry weight (Europe) is 193 kg, and curb weight (Japan) is listed at 221 kg.

• What is the top speed of the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin?

  • Claimed top speed is 167 km/h (104 mph).

• What engine does the 1989 Honda XRV650 Africa Twin have?

  • A 647 cc liquid-cooled 52° V‑twin (RC31E), SOHC with 3 valves per cylinder, fed by 2 x 32 mm CV carburetors and managed by CDI ignition.