Torquepedia
CRF1100L Africa Twin

CRF1100L Africa Twin

Honda

TypeLiquid-cooled OHC 4-stroke 8-valve Parallel Twin with 270° crank and uni-cam
Displacement1084 cc
Bore x Stroke92 mm / 3.62" x 81.5 mm / 3.21"
Compression Ratio10.5:1
Max Power Output75 kW / 100.6 hp at 7,500 rpm
Max Torque112 Nm / 82.6 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm
Noise LevelMT: Lurban 75.1 dB, Lwot 80.1 dB, DCT: Lurban 75.0 dB, Lwot 79.9 dB
Oil CapacityMT: 4.8 l / 1.27 gal, DCT: 5.2 l / 1.37 gal
CarburationPGM-FI
Fuel Tank Capacity18.8 l / 4.97 gal
CO2 Emissions114 g/km
Fuel ConsumptionMT: 20.5 km/l [4.9 l/100km] / 48.2 mpg, DCT: 20.5 km/l [4.9 l/100km] / 48.2 mpg
Battery Capacity12V-6Ah Li-ion (20Hr)
Clutch TypeMT: Wet, multiplate with coil springs, Aluminium Cam Assist and Slipper clutch, DCT: 2 wet, multiplate clutches with coil springs
Transmission Type6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed DCT
Final DriveO-ring sealed chain
Frame TypeSemi Double Cradle
Dimensions LWH2330 mm / 91.73" x 960 mm / 37.8" x 1485 mm / 58.46"
Wheelbase1575 mm / 62.01"
Caster Angle27.5°
Trail113 mm / 4.45"
Seat Height850 mm / 33.46", 870 mm / 34.25", Low Seat option: 825 mm / 32.48", Comfort Seat option: 885 mm / 34.84"
Ground Clearance250 mm / 9.84"
Kerb WeightMT: 231 kg / 509.27 lbs, DCT: 242 kg / 533.52 lbs, ES MT: 233 kg / 513.67 lbs, ES DCT: 244 kg / 537.93 lbs
Suspension FrontShowa 45mm cartridge-type inverted telescopic fork with dial-style preload adjuster and DF adjustments, 230 mm / 9.06" stroke
Suspension Front ESSHOWA Telescopic inverted fork with 45mm inner tube, electronic control unit (SHOWA EERATM), compression and rebound damping adjustments, 230 mm / 9.06" stroke
Suspension RearMonoblock aluminium swing arm with Pro-Link, SHOWA gas-charged damper, hydraulic dial-style preload adjuster and rebound damping adjustments, 220 mm / 8.66" rear wheel travel
Suspension Rear ESMonoblock aluminium swing arm with Pro-Link, SHOWA gas-charged damper, hydraulic remote control preload adjuster and electronic control unit (SHOWA EERATM), compression and rebound damping adjustments, 220 mm / 8.66" rear wheel travel
Wheels Front21M/C x MT2.15 wire spoke with aluminium rim
Wheels Rear18M/C x MT4.00 wire spoke with aluminium rim
Tyres Front90/90-21M/C 54H (tubeless type) Metzler Karoo Street
Tyres Rear150/70R18M/C 70H (tubeless type) Metzler Karoo Street
ABS System Type2 channel with IMU, Selectable ABS MODE with ON road and OFF road setting
Brakes Front310 mm / 12.2" dual wave floating hydraulic disc with aluminium hub, radial fit 4-piston calipers, sintered metal pads
Brakes Rear256 mm / 10.08" wave hydraulic disc with single piston caliper, sintered metal pads
InstrumentsLCD Meter, TFT 6.5 inch touch panel multi information display
HeadlightLED
TaillightLED
ConnectivityBluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (wired)
USBYes
12V SocketYes
Auto Winker CancelYes
QuickshifterOptional (MT only)
Security SystemImmobiliser
Cruise ControlYes
Cornering LightsNo
Additional FeaturesEmergency stop signal, 6 axis IMU, HSTC, Wheelie control

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2025 Honda Africa Twin: A New Chapter in Adventure Touring

Introduction

The Honda Africa Twin has been an iconic name in adventure motorcycles for over three decades. First introduced as the XRV650 in Europe, it set the benchmark for rugged adventure bikes. Fast forward to 2016, Honda redefined the Africa Twin with the CRF1000L—a brand-new machine from the ground up, designed to capture the same spirit that made the original such a legend. Balancing power with lightweight agility, the Africa Twin became a favorite among adventurers, commuters, and weekend warriors alike.

Over the years, Honda has continually evolved the Africa Twin, adding technology like Throttle By Wire (TBW), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and various riding modes. The bike received significant updates in 2020 with a larger 1084cc engine, and in 2024, further refinements were made to its suspension and electronics. The 2025 model (25YM) carries forward this legacy, cementing the Africa Twin’s reputation as one of the best large-capacity adventure bikes on the market.

Model Overview

For 2025, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin remains a bike designed for serious off-road capability, with a rally-inspired design and powerful 1,084cc parallel-twin engine. It produces 112 Nm of torque and 75 kW of power, making it a formidable companion on both rugged trails and long-distance road trips.

Two variants are available for 2025: the standard CRF1100L Africa Twin with traditional Showa suspension and the CRF1100L Africa Twin ES, equipped with Showa’s Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA™). The ES model also comes with heated grips and a charging socket as standard, enhancing rider comfort on long rides.

Both variants feature a robust steel frame, an aluminum swingarm inspired by Honda’s CRF450R, and tubeless tires for easier maintenance. The advanced electronics, including a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), control key features like HSTC, Wheelie Control, and Cornering ABS. Four default riding modes—URBAN, TOUR, GRAVEL, and OFF-ROAD—allow for versatility in all conditions, while the adjustable screen and TFT display make the ride more comfortable and engaging.

The 2025 Africa Twin will be available in three striking color options:

  • Grand Prix Red
  • Matt Ballistic Black Metallic
  • Pearl Glare White with a new Pearl Hawkseye Blue Metallic Tricolor (exclusive to the ES model)

Key Features

1. Chassis and Suspension

The Africa Twin’s chassis design centers on off-road prowess while maintaining excellent on-road manners. The Showa EERA™ suspension system, available on the ES model, adapts to various conditions in real time. It adjusts damping based on inputs from the bike’s speed, posture, and sensor data, providing optimal handling for every situation—from smooth highway cruising to tackling tough off-road terrains.

Riders can choose from five suspension modes:

  • MID for a balanced ride across all conditions
  • HARD for stable two-up touring
  • SOFT for comfort on rough roads
  • OFF-ROAD for challenging trails
  • USER mode for personalized suspension settings

The standard Showa setup remains an excellent choice, featuring fully adjustable 45mm inverted front forks and a rear shock with adjustable spring preload, delivering outstanding performance on both paved and dirt roads.

2. Engine Performance

The 2025 Africa Twin’s 1,084cc twin-cylinder engine is designed to deliver strong performance where it’s needed most—in the low- to mid-range RPMs. With a peak output of 112 Nm of torque and 75 kW of power, the bike pulls hard off the line and offers ample power for overtaking or maintaining high speeds on long stretches of highway.

The Unicam valve train, inspired by Honda’s CRF450R motocross bike, helps keep the engine compact and lightweight while maximizing performance. The engine’s 270° crankshaft gives it a distinctive ‘throb,’ adding to the Africa Twin’s character.

Honda’s semi-dry sump design keeps the engine height low, contributing to better ground clearance and a lower center of gravity—essential for off-road agility. The 2025 updates include refinements to the crankshaft, conrod, and piston for improved durability and efficiency.

3. Electronics and Riding Modes

Advanced electronics take the Africa Twin’s versatility to another level. The bike’s IMU-managed systems help control rear-wheel traction, braking grip, and wheelie control. The Throttle By Wire (TBW) system allows riders to choose between four riding modes:

  • TOUR: Maximum power for highway touring
  • URBAN: Balanced power for city riding
  • GRAVEL: Lower power and enhanced engine braking for rough roads
  • OFF-ROAD: Tailored for dirt trails with the option to disable rear ABS

For riders who prefer a custom setup, two USER modes let you fine-tune the bike’s power, engine braking, and traction control settings.

4. Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) has been a game-changer for adventure bikes. The 2025 Africa Twin’s DCT system continues to offer fast, seamless gear shifts in both automatic and manual modes. A 2024 update improved low-speed control, making the DCT even smoother in tight situations like navigating traffic or steep hills.

DCT-equipped Africa Twins accounted for 41% of sales in 2023, showing how well the system is received by riders who appreciate the ease of use and reduced fatigue on long journeys.

Conclusion

The 2025 Honda Africa Twin builds on its heritage while integrating modern technology and design innovations. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or simply commuting through the city, the Africa Twin remains one of the most versatile and capable adventure bikes in its class. With its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and adaptable suspension, the Africa Twin is ready to take on any challenge you throw its way.

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