Honda Africa Twin

What if evolution matters more than chasing horsepower figures?

In Portugal, the updated Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports proves that refinement, balance and a brilliant automatic gearbox can still define an icon.

Preview – Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports, Refinement Over Revolution

Few motorcycle names carry as much weight as the Honda Africa Twin. Dakar victories, decades of evolution and a loyal following have turned it into a benchmark rather than a trend follower. For 2024, Honda doesn’t reinvent the formula it fine-tunes it. And that approach says a lot about the brand’s priorities.

Tested in the hills above Faro, the Adventure Sports version underlines its road-biased character. The most notable update is the switch to a 19-inch front wheel, replacing the traditional 21-inch. Combined with reduced suspension travel and a lower seat height, it brings the centre of gravity down and makes the bike noticeably easier to steer on asphalt. Turn-in requires less effort, stability remains high and long sweeping roads suit the bike better than ever.

The electronically controlled Showa EERA suspension comes standard on the Adventure Sports and constantly adapts to riding conditions. Comfort and control are well balanced, even when the pace increases on damp or uneven roads. Wind protection is excellent, helped by the large 24.8-litre fuel tank that also enables ranges well beyond 500 kilometres.

"Wind protection is excellent, helped by the large 24.8-litre fuel tank that also enables ranges well beyond 500 kilometres."

Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission remains a key differentiator. Further refined for 2024, it communicates with the IMU to adapt shifting and engine braking to gradients and riding style. In Sport mode, it feels almost intuitive, delivering strong engine braking on descents and seamless shifts under acceleration. Even for riders who normally prefer a manual gearbox, the DCT proves hard to fault.

Power figures stay modest on paper: 102 hp remains unchanged, while torque rises slightly and arrives earlier. In practice, the engine feels smooth, flexible and eager enough for real-world touring. Honda clearly leaves the horsepower race to others, focusing instead on usability and character.

Visually, the Africa Twin leans into its heritage. Retro colours return, with gold spoked wheels and classic graphics reinforcing its iconic status. Less convincing is the cockpit interface, which remains complex and button-heavy despite Honda’s technological prowess.

The Africa Twin Adventure Sports occupies a unique position. Premium in finish and technology, yet conservative in output, it appeals to riders who value balance over bravado. It may not shout the loudest in its class, but it remains one of the most coherent and coolest adventure tourers on the market.