1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin Specs & Review

The 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin is an iconic adventure bike built for real-world travel, light off‑road exploration, and long days in the saddle. If you’re cross-shopping classic ADVs, the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin specs show a rugged V‑twin platform with generous suspension travel and a tall, commanding stance. This Honda XRV750 Africa Twin review looks at how the numbers translate on the road and trail.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: 742 cc liquid‑cooled 52° V‑twin, SOHC, 6 valves, 2 spark plugs per cylinder
• Displacement: 742 cc
• Power: 45.3 kW (≈61 hp) @ 7,500 rpm
• Torque: 62.7 Nm (46.2 lb‑ft) @ 6,000 rpm
• Honda XRV750 Africa Twin weight (curb): 233 kg
• Honda XRV750 Africa Twin seat height: 880 mm

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the XRV750 is a 742 cc liquid‑cooled 52° V‑twin with a SOHC valvetrain and three valves per cylinder. Twin‑spark heads (two plugs per cylinder) and 2× Keihin CV carburetors (36.5 mm) emphasize smooth combustion and clean fueling for a carb-era ADV. Claimed output is 45.3 kW (≈61 hp) at 7,500 rpm and 62.7 Nm at 6,000 rpm—figures that underscore its tractable midrange rather than peak-chasing power.

In city use, the broad torque spread makes the bike feel flexible and forgiving, pulling cleanly from low rpm without constant gear changes. On the highway, the V‑twin settles into a steady rhythm, with usable roll‑on power in the midrange for overtakes. For fun riding on twisty backroads or hardpack trails, that 6,000 rpm torque peak gives the XRV a responsive, torquey character that’s easy to modulate via the cable‑operated wet multi‑plate clutch.

A 5‑speed transmission and chain final drive keep things simple and serviceable for travel. The primary reduction is 1.763, and the gear ratios are well spaced (1st 3.083, 2nd 2.062, 3rd 1.550, 4th 1.272, 5th 1.083) for mixed terrain—low enough to crawl when needed, with a top gear tall enough for cruising. Ignition is CDI with electronic advance for reliability and consistent timing.

Handling, Comfort & Honda XRV750 Africa Twin Seat Height

This bike’s adventure focus is clear in its chassis setup. The steel single‑downtube, double‑loop cradle frame provides a sturdy backbone, while the 43 mm air‑assisted telescopic fork delivers 220 mm of travel. Out back, the Pro‑Link monoshock offers 214 mm of travel with preload and compression adjustment, letting riders tune for luggage, passengers, or terrain.

Geometry is confidence‑oriented: a 27° rake and 133 mm trail paired with a 1565 mm wheelbase give the XRV stable manners at speed, while a 21‑inch front wheel (90/90‑21 54S) and 17‑inch rear (130/90‑17 65S) bolster off‑pavement capability. Ground clearance is a healthy 225 mm, helping the bike clear ruts and rocks.

Seat height is tall at 880 mm. Taller riders will appreciate the roomy triangle and commanding view, while shorter riders may need to plan dismounts carefully. The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin weight is 233 kg (curb), with a 210 kg dry figure. At low speeds, that mass is noticeable, especially when navigating tight U‑turns or off‑camber stops. However, once rolling, the long‑travel suspension and geometry help the bike feel planted and predictable. Tire profiles and the 21/17 setup also contribute to light steering off-road and balanced behavior on-road.

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by dual 276 mm front discs with 2‑piston calipers and a single 256 mm rear disc with a 1‑piston caliper—ample stopping power for the chassis and period. The suspension highlights include an air‑assisted fork and an adjustable Pro‑Link shock, good for tailoring ride quality to load. The fuel system’s 2× Keihin CV carburetors (36.5 mm) are known for smooth response, and the CDI ignition with electronic advance keeps starting and running dependable.

Practical details for travel include a 24 L fuel capacity (including reserve), a robust steel cradle frame, and chain final drive. The battery is a YB14‑B2, and spark duties are handled by NGK DPR8EA‑9 plugs (four total). Model code for this generation is RD04 (XRV750L/M/N), a useful detail when cross-referencing parts or service information.

Who Is the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin For?

Riders who value durability, real‑world suspension travel, and a torquey V‑twin will feel right at home. Experienced riders will get the most from the 880 mm seat height and 233 kg curb mass, especially if tackling gravel or light trails with luggage. Confident intermediates can also enjoy it, thanks to predictable fueling and friendly torque. For commuting, the tall stance offers visibility and the 5‑speed gearbox keeps it simple; for weekends, the long‑travel suspension and 24 L tank support longer adventures between fuel stops.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 1991 XRV750 Africa Twin stands out for its balanced chassis, long‑legged suspension, and tractable V‑twin that prioritizes usable torque over headline numbers. Its strengths are durability, range, and a stable, confidence‑inspiring ride on mixed surfaces.

On the flip side, the tall Honda XRV750 Africa Twin seat height and the Honda XRV750 Africa Twin weight can challenge shorter or newer riders at parking‑lot speeds. If you value proven adventure hardware with classic character, the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin specs make a compelling case.

FAQ

• Is the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin good for beginners? It can be manageable thanks to smooth fueling and midrange torque, but the 880 mm seat height and 233 kg curb weight may be challenging for newer or shorter riders.

• What is the seat height of the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin? The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin seat height is 880 mm.

• How heavy is the 1991 Honda XRV750 Africa Twin? The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin weight is 233 kg (curb) and 210 kg dry.

• How much power does it make? Claimed output is 45.3 kW (≈61 hp) at 7,500 rpm, with 62.7 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

• What is the fuel capacity? Fuel capacity is 24 L (including reserve).