Next-gen Honda Africa Twin to get a bigger engine, more power - Report
As the next-gen Honda Africa Twin comes closer to the unveiling, new details have emerged online. Cycle World claims to have the updated mechanical specifications of the motorcycle.
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For starters, the codename of the Honda Africa Twin has been changed from SD06 for the 2018-2019 version (SD04 for 2015-2017) to SD08 for the next-generation model. The new iteration of the Africa Twin will carry CRF1100L tag, hinting at increased displacement.
The Honda CRF1100L, as reported by the source, will carry 1,084 cc of displacement, 86 cc more than the engine of the Honda CRF1000L. Increased cubic capacity will lead to improved performance. The more eco-friendly, Euro-V compliant motor will deliver 101 HP (102.4 PS) of maximum power 7,500 rpm, as against 94 HP (95.3 PS) of the old engine. While the number isn’t anywhere close to that of the big adventure tourers like the BMW R 1250 GS (134 HP/135.8 PS) and the Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro (158 HP/160 PS), it is better than the KTM 790 Adventure's 94 HP and the BMW F 850 GS’s 95 HP (96.3PS) figure.
The peak torque output wasn’t available in leaked specifications, but it could be 79 pound-feet (107.1 Nm) at 6,000 rpm. In comparison, the CRF1000L makes 73 pound-feet (98.9 Nm). Its rivals such as the KTM 790 Adventure and BMW F 850 GS make 65 pound-feet (88 Nm) and 68 pound-feet (92 Nm) respectively. The motorcycle will continue to feature two choices for the gearbox – manual and DCT or Dual Clutch Transmission. The leaked specs also reveal that the CRF1100L will be wider than the current motorcycle.
The new mechanical specifications would be accompanied by visual and dimension upgrades. The 2020 version will come with a bigger fuel tank and a height-adjustable windscreen. The motorcycle may also receive equipment upgrade in the form of a TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity to access navigation, calls and music functions. The motorcycle will retain the twin-pod, LED headlight setup, but we may see tweaks in styling for an even aggressive look to the fascia. We also hope to see tubeless tyre compatible wire-spoke wheels on the CRF1100L.
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The 2020 Honda Africa Twin's unveiling details are scarce, although we expect to see the motorcycle at this year's EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy towards the end of this year. Its Indian debut could take place at Auto Expo 2020.
[Source: cycleworld.com]
