2027 Honda Africa Twin Range Revealed With New Engine and Enduro Sports Variant
Honda has unveiled its completely updated 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin adventure motorcycle range at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy. The new lineup brings a larger engine, revised chassis, updated suspension technology and advanced rider-assistance features. One of the biggest highlights is the introduction of the all-new Africa Twin Enduro Sports, a variant developed with a stronger focus on off-road riding.
The 2027 Africa Twin range represents a full model update of the previous CRF1100L series. Honda has developed the new generation around improved performance, easier handling and better overall balance. The updated lineup consists of three models: the standard Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and the newly introduced Africa Twin Enduro Sports.
New 1,131cc Engine With Improved Performance
All three models are powered by a newly updated liquid-cooled, 1,131cc parallel-twin engine. This is an increase over the previous generation's 1,084cc engine. Honda says the increased displacement, revised compression ratio and larger bore contribute to improved acceleration and more comfortable cruising.
The new engine produces a maximum power output of 87.5kW at 7,500rpm and peak torque of 119Nm at 5,700rpm. Honda has also revised the intake and exhaust systems and adjusted the gear ratios to improve the motorcycle's overall performance.
These updates are intended to provide a stronger power delivery across different riding conditions. The engine is designed to support both long-distance touring and demanding off-road journeys, which are important requirements for a large adventure motorcycle.
Three Variants for Different Riding Requirements
The 2027 Honda Africa Twin range is available in three distinct variants, with each model designed for a different type of rider.
The standard Africa Twin is positioned as an all-round adventure motorcycle. It combines off-road capability with touring comfort and receives an updated platform, revised engine and refreshed rider interface. Its equipment includes an electrically adjustable windscreen, Honda Smart Key system and Showa EERA electronically controlled suspension with Honda Skyhook technology.
The Africa Twin Adventure Sports is designed primarily for long-distance touring. It features a larger 24-litre fuel tank and a 19-inch front wheel. These features are intended to support extended journeys and provide a more touring-oriented riding experience. The variant also offers the option of Honda's new SENSING RIDE rider-assistance system when equipped with the DCT transmission.
The newly introduced Africa Twin Enduro Sports is the most off-road-focused model in the range. It receives styling and front suspension components derived from Honda's CRF450 RALLY competition motorcycle. The design gives it a more rally-inspired appearance and is intended to improve its capability on challenging terrain.
New Enduro Sports Variant Focuses on Off-Road Riding
The Enduro Sports is one of the most important additions to the 2027 Africa Twin family. Honda has developed this version for riders who want a motorcycle with a stronger emphasis on off-road performance.
Its design takes inspiration from the CRF450 RALLY, which competes in the Dakar Rally. The model features distinctive rally-inspired bodywork and a front suspension setup developed to support demanding off-road conditions.
The Enduro Sports is intended to expand the Africa Twin range beyond traditional adventure touring. While the standard model balances road and trail use, and the Adventure Sports prioritises long-distance comfort, the Enduro Sports is aimed at riders who regularly explore rough and uneven terrain.
Revised Chassis and Suspension Technology
Honda has also made important changes to the chassis of the new Africa Twin range. The motorcycles receive a redesigned frame and swingarm with a revised rigidity balance. According to the company, these components together are 1.4kg lighter than those used in the previous generation.
Another important update is the repositioning of the fuel sub-tank beneath the seat. This layout helps lower the motorcycle's centre of gravity, which Honda says improves manoeuvrability and control, particularly at low speeds.
The standard Africa Twin and Adventure Sports models use Showa EERA electronically controlled suspension with Honda Skyhook technology. The system monitors the motorcycle's behaviour in real time and adjusts damping force to improve stability and comfort.
The Enduro Sports receives a front suspension setup with specifications equivalent to the CRF450 RALLY. This gives the off-road-focused variant a suspension configuration designed for more demanding riding conditions.
Honda SENSING RIDE Introduces Radar-Based Rider Assistance
Another major development is Honda SENSING RIDE, an advanced safety and rider-assistance system introduced for the Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT as an optional feature. Honda says this will be the first motorcycle in its range to offer the technology.
The system uses millimetre-wave radar units positioned at the front and rear of the motorcycle to monitor surrounding traffic. It provides several assistance and warning functions intended to improve rider awareness and comfort.
The features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Group Ride Assist and Distance Assist. The system also offers Forward Collision Warning, Emergency Brake Assist, Blind Spot Information, Rear Distance Information and Rear Collision Warning.
When combined with Honda's Dual Clutch Transmission, the Stop and Go function can assist with stopping and moving off while adaptive cruise control is active. Honda says this combination is intended to reduce rider fatigue, particularly in traffic and during long journeys.
The system is optional and is specified for the Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT model.
Updated Design and Six Riding Modes
The new Africa Twin range retains its recognisable adventure motorcycle identity while receiving several styling updates. The front section has been redesigned with more compact dual headlights, continuing the signature Twin Eyes appearance of the Africa Twin family.
The Adventure Sports features a larger windscreen and a 24-litre fuel tank to support long-distance travel. Meanwhile, the Enduro Sports receives rally-inspired design elements, including a flowing bodywork layout influenced by Honda's CRF rally motorcycles.
All three models offer six default riding modes. These modes coordinate settings for engine output, traction control, ABS, DCT and electronically controlled suspension, where equipped. The system allows riders to select settings suited to different road and off-road conditions.
Honda Also Focuses on Sustainable Materials
Alongside mechanical and technology updates, Honda has introduced recycled and plant-derived materials in several parts of the new Africa Twin range.
Chemically recycled acrylic is used in the emblems and taillights, while chemically recycled nylon is used in the upper covers and areas around the rear fender stays. The windscreen and side deflectors use DURABIO, a plant-derived bioengineering plastic. Some bodywork components also use post-consumer recycled polypropylene.
These measures form part of Honda's wider objective of using sustainable materials across its products by 2050.
India Launch Details Yet to Be Announced
The 2027 Honda CRF1150L Africa Twin range made its world premiere at EICMA 2026 in Milan. The new engine, revised chassis, advanced electronics and addition of the Enduro Sports variant represent significant changes for the adventure motorcycle family.
However, Honda has not yet announced India-specific pricing, availability or a launch schedule for the new models. Details about which variants and features could be offered in India will depend on a separate market announcement.
The new Africa Twin range offers three different approaches to adventure motorcycling, from all-round riding to long-distance touring and dedicated off-road use. Its arrival also introduces new rider-assistance technology to Honda's large-capacity adventure motorcycle lineup.
