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Honda Africa Twin: generations, engines, and what to check when buying used
Honda Africa Twin — the adventure and touring motorcycle whose history began in 1988 with the XRV650. We look at the XRV and CRF generations, engines, DCT gearbox, and what to check before buying used.
Honda Africa Twin in brief
Honda Africa Twin — the adventure motorcycle inspired by the Dakar Rally. The first generation (XRV650, 1988) started this model, and since 2016, it has returned as the CRF1000L, later the CRF1100L.
This is a versatile adventure motorcycle: it can carry a passenger and luggage, ride on roads and light off-road. Newer generation models come with electronics, riding modes, and an optional DCT automatic gearbox.
Which generation to choose
The XRV650 (1988) and XRV750 (from 1990) are classic models appreciated for their simplicity, but they are now aging: check for corrosion, electrical issues, carburetors, and the availability of spare parts.
The CRF1000L (from 2016) is a modern generation with a 998 cm³ twin-cylinder engine, ABS, and traction control. The CRF1100L (from 2020) has a larger engine, more power, and more electronics; some versions also feature electronic suspension. Newer models receive additional updates.
Engine and gearbox
The XRV750 had a V-twin engine, while the CRF models feature a parallel-twin: the CRF1000L has roughly 998 cm³ and around 95 hp, the CRF1100L has roughly 1084 cm³ and around 100 hp. Power is ample for touring with a passenger and luggage.
In many CRF motorcycles, you can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox or DCT — a dual-clutch automatic transmission that shifts gears automatically or manually via buttons. DCT is convenient, but you should test it to ensure it operates smoothly.
What to check when buying a used Africa Twin
For newer models, check the DCT operation (shifts should be smooth, without hesitation), electronics, ABS, and screen. Inspect whether the motorcycle hasn't been used off-road heavily: scratches, worn-out protection, suspension wear.
For older XRV models, the key points are corrosion, engine and fuel system condition, electrical equipment, and original parts. In all cases, ask for the service history and check the chain, sprockets, brakes, and tyres.
Trims and versions
Trims vary by year and market; the most common ones are listed.
XRV650
1988–1989The first Africa Twin with a 650 cm³ V-twin engine.
- Classic adventure styling
- Simple technology
- Often — already old and rare
XRV750
1990–2003The popular classic generation with a 742 cm³ engine.
- Robust construction
- Basic electronics
- Often — rust or wear and tear
CRF1000L
2016–2019New generation with a twin-cylinder engine.
- ABS and traction control
- Often — DCT gearbox
- Often — driving modes
CRF1100L
from 2020Larger engine and more electronics.
- More advanced electronics
- Often — optional DCT
- Often — electronic suspension in some versions
Adventure Sports
from 2018Touring-focused version with a larger fuel tank.
- Larger fuel tank
- Higher front windscreen
- Often — extra protection
Generation comparison
| XRV750 | CRF1000L | CRF1100L | Adventure Sports | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For classic car enthusiasts | Versatile adventure driving | For those who want more power and tech | For long journeys |
| Engine | 742 cm³ V2 | 998 cm³ R2 | 1084 cm³ R2 | 998 or 1084 cm³ R2 |
| Electronics | Basic | ABS and traction control | Wider, with modes | Depends on the version |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best bet is a well-maintained CRF1000L; if cutting-edge technology is key, go for the CRF1100L, and for classic enthusiasts, the XRV750.
Pros
- A versatile adventure bike
- A good, well-balanced chassis
- Option to choose a DCT gearbox
- A wide range of accessories
Cons
- Quite a hefty weight and a tall seat
- The DCT takes some getting used to and needs checking
- New models come at a premium
Frequently asked questions
Is the Africa Twin suitable for commuting?
Yes, especially for easy commuting, but due to its weight, it's less suitable for daily use than lighter enduro bikes.
What's the difference between the Africa Twin and the Adventure Sports?
The Adventure Sports has a larger fuel tank, a taller windscreen and often more protection, making it better suited to long journeys.
Is it worth choosing DCT?
DCT is convenient in the city and on long rides, but when buying used, ask for the service history and test if the gears shift smoothly.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
