Last week marked a bustling period for motorcycle enthusiasts, with major manufacturers like Triumph and Buell unveiling exciting new models or updates for the upcoming model year.
Honda, the renowned Japanese brand, also joined the fray by announcing upgrades for its flagship adventure model. The focus of attention is on the Africa Twin, a versatile dual-sport bike that has enjoyed a presence since the late 1980s.
While the changes for 2024 may not be revolutionary, they certainly warrant closer examination, particularly due to the clearer distinction between the two variants within the range.
In the 2024 lineup, Honda will offer two versions of the Africa Twin: the standard model and the Adventure Sports ES. While they share many components, there are notable differences tailored to their respective intended uses.
Let’s begin with the commonalities between the two. Firstly, they both feature the same engine: a 1,083cc liquid-cooled four-stroke parallel twin. Although there have been no modifications to the engine output, which remains at 100 horsepower and 112 Nm of torque, updates have been made to components such as the intake, exhaust, and electronics.
Both versions are available with either a manual transmission or a dual-clutch transmission. The standard Africa Twin, offered in Grand Prix Red for 2024, receives several enhancements aimed at enhancing its off-road capabilities.
These include a new five-position windscreen, tubeless tires, and a revised fairing. The manual version is priced at $14,799, while the DCT variant retails for $15,599. Both will be available from May onwards.
On the other hand, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES is geared more towards on-road use while still retaining significant off-road capabilities. It features more extensive changes, including adjustments to the riding position with a lower seat height and a revised suspension system, though the exact extent of the changes is unspecified.
Additionally, it now sports a 19-inch front wheel and various comfort-oriented features such as heated grips and a larger fuel tank, the exact size of which is not disclosed by Honda.
Available in Pearl White, the manual version of the Adventure Sports ES is priced at $17,599, while the DCT variant costs $18,399. Like its counterpart, it will hit dealerships in May 2024.
