Adventure touring enthusiasts can now rejoice once again as Honda has launched the MY2018 version of the CRF 1000L Africa Twin in India at Rs 13.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Bookings for the adventure motorcycle have begun and only 50 units will be allotted this time again. The Africa Twin is the largest capacity motorcycle from Honda brought to India via the CKD route and assembled in the country. It is available only with a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox which gives the rider option of manual and automatic gear shifting based on the varying conditions.
For the 2018 edition, Honda’s adventure motorcycle gets a slew of upgrades. It features Throttle by Wire which allows the rider to manage the power delivery in a more effective manner depending on the feel and the traction from the rear wheel. It has the new Honda Selectable Torque Control(HSTC) system featuring seven levels to select from: Level 1 for aggressive riding off-road with least interference up to Level 7 for maximum aid on slippery and wet tarmac. The system can be turned off completely as well if needed. It also gets a lighter lithium-ion battery which contributes to 2.3 kg of overall weight saving.
The 2018 Africa Twin continues with the same 999.11cc parallel-twin motor that delivers 87 bhp and 9.49 kgm. As for the DCT, it comes with three modes — D, S and MT. There are also three different levels of Power and Engine Braking pre-set settings that can be selected to suit the different environments and road surface. In addition to these riding modes, there is a fourth mode ‘USER’ which allows the rider to completely take control over the intervention of electronics and set those as preferred.
Other additions include a redesigned negative LED instrument console that displays the riding modes, speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, gear position, etc. The suspension setup consists of 45mm Showa cartridge-type inverted telescopic fork and a Pro-Link monoshock with gas-charged damper at the rear.
The Africa Twin will be sold exclusively through the 22 Wing World dealerships across the nation and will be available only in the GP Red colour scheme.
Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, Yadvinder Singh Guleria said, “The eagerly awaited 2018 Africa Twin is now ready to delight adventure enthusiasts in India. Offering new additional value, it offers several comprehensive updates. There is nothing to hold back an enthusiast on the Africa Twin, as it’s the most reliable, versatile and proven adventure touring motorcycle. Lucky few customers will get a chance to witness their favourite riders live at MotoGP.”
