Honda’s 2027 Africa Twin range gets a major overhaul, with a larger engine, lighter chassis, advanced rider tech and new off-road and road focused Enduro and Sports version...
Honda has confirmed its redesigned 2027 Africa Twin range for local release in late 2027. The new CRF1150L family features a larger 1131cc parallel-twin engine producing 87.5kW and 119Nm, a lighter chassis, revised suspension and a lower centre of gravity.
The standard Africa Twin also has the EERA suspension by SHOWA, plus a 21in front wheel.
Honda has unveiled its extensively redesigned Africa Twin family at EICMA 2026 in Milan, marking a significant new chapter for its large-capacity adventure range. Developed under the concept of “Shaped by You. True Adventure for All”, the new CRF1150L builds on the previous CRF1100L with increased engine capacity, revised chassis construction and improved weight distribution.
Honda Australia has confirmed three models for the local market: the Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and the all-new Africa Twin Enduro Sports…
Honda Australia has confirmed three models for the local market: the Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and the all-new Africa Twin Enduro Sports. The standard Africa Twin will also be available with DCT, with the range scheduled to arrive in Australia in late 2027. Pricing and final Australian specifications are yet to be announced.
The new 1131cc parallel twin makes 87.5kW and 119Nm.
Honda has redesigned the frame and swingarm, revised the suspension and riding position, and introduced a fuel sub-tank beneath the seat to lower the motorcycle’s centre of gravity. The changes are designed to improve handling, manoeuvrability and rider confidence across a broad range of riding conditions on and off-road.
Honda Australia General Manager – Powersports and Products, Chris Schultz, said the new range builds on the strengths of the existing Africa Twin while responding to rider feedback. “The 2027 Africa Twin range builds on the strengths riders already love, with updates that enhance performance, comfort and overall capability,” said Schultz.
“The Enduro Sports model is the Africa Twin Australian riders have been requesting so we are really excited for this model.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome the new Enduro Sports model to the lineup as the most off-road-focused variant of the Africa Twin range yet. The Enduro Sports model is the Africa Twin Australian riders have been requesting so we are really excited for this model.”
New 1131cc Parallel-Twin Engine
The most significant mechanical change across the 2027 Africa Twin family is the larger 1131cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. Honda quotes maximum power of 87.5kW at 7500rpm and peak torque of 119Nm at 5700rpm, representing a 16 per cent increase in peak power and almost seven per cent more torque compared with the previous generation.
The increase in capacity is accompanied by changes to the engine’s bore diameter and compression ratio, along with optimised intake and exhaust systems and revised gear ratios. Honda says the improvements deliver stronger acceleration and mid-range performance while retaining the comfortable cruising characteristics expected of a large-capacity adventure motorcycle.
There are six riding modes available.
The parallel-twin configuration remains central to the Africa Twin’s character, balancing the performance required for highway touring with the tractability needed off-road. The stronger mid-range should be particularly useful when negotiating technical terrain, where accessible torque and predictable throttle response are important.
Redesigned Chassis and Lower Centre of Gravity
Honda has redesigned the Africa Twin’s frame and swingarm, revising their rigidity balance to improve handling and overall ride feel. Together, the new frame and swingarm assembly is 1.4kg lighter than the previous generation, contributing to the weight reduction Honda has pursued.
2027 Honda Africa Twin with accessory luggage.
A particularly interesting development is the revised fuel tank arrangement, which incorporates a fuel sub-tank beneath the seat. This lowers the motorcycle’s centre of gravity, improving manoeuvrability and control at low speeds, particularly when negotiating tight off-road terrain, turning around on uneven surfaces or managing the motorcycle at walking pace.
A 16 per cent increase in peak power and almost seven per cent more torque compared with the previous generation…
Honda says the revised chassis delivers a more supple and agile ride, improving the balance between off-road capability and long-distance touring comfort. The new Honda Flagship WING emblem, finished in monotone silver and black, is also positioned on both sides of the main fuel tank.
The Africa Twin Adventure Sports has a large capacity tank for long distance touring.
Three Models for Different Adventure Riding Styles
For 2027, the Africa Twin range is divided into three distinct models, each targeting a different type of rider. The standard Africa Twin continues as the balanced all-rounder, the Adventure Sports focuses on long-distance touring, while the new Enduro Sports is designed to deliver greater off-road capability.
All three share the new 1131cc engine and revised platform, but feature different suspension specifications, equipment and styling to suit their intended roles. Honda says the expanded line-up caters for riders who prioritise dirt riding, long-distance touring or the latest technology.
There is a 16 per cent increase in power and almost a 7 per cent increase in torque.
CRF1150L Africa Twin – The All-Rounder
The standard Africa Twin retains its position as the versatile model in the family, balancing off-road capability with touring performance. It benefits from the new frame and engine, a renewed Human Machine Interface (HMI), updated equipment and revised ergonomics designed to improve comfort and control. Suspension is handled by SHOWA Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (EERA), incorporating Honda Skyhook technology. The system detects motorcycle behaviour in real time and continuously optimises damping force to help the bike settle more quickly, reducing unwanted movement and improving comfort across changing road conditions.
The standard model also features an electrically adjustable windscreen and Honda Smart Key system, adding convenience for touring and everyday riding. The combination of electronic suspension, improved engine performance and revised chassis construction is intended to deliver a more refined and capable all-round adventure motorcycle.
SHOWA EERA electronic suspension is featured on the Adventure Sports.
CRF1150L Africa Twin Adventure Sports – Touring Focus
The Adventure Sports continues as the touring-focused model, featuring a larger 24-litre fuel tank and a 19-inch front wheel. The smaller front wheel reflects its more road-oriented focus, while the increased fuel capacity is aimed at riders covering longer distances between fuel stops.
The Adventure Sports also benefits from SHOWA EERA electronically controlled suspension with Honda Skyhook technology, together with the revised chassis and lower-centre-of-gravity layout. Its larger windscreen and substantial bodywork are designed to improve comfort during extended touring.
The Adventure Sports becomes the first Honda motorcycle to offer the new Honda SENSING RIDE advanced safety and rider-assistance system. Available as an option specifically on the Adventure Sports DCT, the technology introduces radar-based assistance and additional safety features to Honda’s adventure range.
The Skyhook system detects motorcycle behaviour in real time and continuously optimises damping force to help the bike settle more quickly
CRF1150L Africa Twin Enduro Sports – Off-Road Focus
The biggest addition to the family is the new Africa Twin Enduro Sports, described by Honda as its most off-road-focused Africa Twin to date. Developed for riders seeking greater capability away from sealed roads, it features front suspension with specifications equivalent to those used on Honda’s Dakar Rally-competing CRF450 RALLY.
The Enduro Sports also receives exclusive rally-inspired styling, including the CRF family’s distinctive flowing design language extending from the front fender to the rear. The compact, purposeful bodywork emphasises its off-road intentions, with sharper lines and a more aggressive appearance than the touring-oriented models.
Honda says the Enduro Sports retains the versatility expected of the Africa Twin family while offering a more specialised package for riders who prioritise dirt-road and trail performance. It represents a significant addition to the line-up, particularly for Australian riders seeking a more serious off-road adventure machine.
Featuring CRF450 Rally styling and Honda Dakar Rally spec suspension.
Honda SENSING RIDE Introduces Radar Technology
One of the most significant technology developments for 2027 is Honda SENSING RIDE, a new advanced safety and rider-assistance system making its motorcycle debut on the Africa Twin Adventure Sports. Available as an option on the Adventure Sports DCT, it uses millimetre-wave radar units mounted at both ends of the motorcycle to monitor surrounding traffic.
The system assesses the motorcycle’s surroundings and provides notifications, warnings and operational assistance to support safer and more comfortable riding. Its functions include Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Group Ride Assist and Distance Assist, which adjusts the following distance.
The Adventure Sports model is more road bias.
Additional safety functions include Forward Collision Warning and Emergency Brake Assist, along with Blind Spot Information, Rear Distance Information and Rear Collision Warning. The rear radar monitors vehicles approaching from behind and entering the rider’s blind spot, providing additional information and warnings. Integration with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission is particularly interesting. When Adaptive Cruise Control is activated, the system can support smooth stopping and starting through the Stop and Go function, reducing rider stress and fatigue in congested traffic and urban riding conditions.
Updated Skyhook suspension control continuously adjusts damping.
SHOWA EERA Suspension and Six Riding Modes
The standard Africa Twin and Adventure Sports feature SHOWA Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension, manufactured by Astemo, with Honda Skyhook control. The system monitors motorcycle behaviour in real time and continuously adjusts damping force to help the motorcycle settle more quickly following disturbances.
The standard Africa Twin and Adventure Sports feature SHOWA Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension…
Honda says this suppresses unwanted movement and delivers a more comfortable and confidence-inspiring riding experience. The Enduro Sports takes a different approach, with its front suspension featuring specifications equivalent to the CRF450 RALLY, reflecting the model’s more off-road-focused positioning.
Read our Honda tests here…
All three models offer six default riding modes to suit different conditions. The system integrates control of engine output characteristics, traction control, ABS, DCT and electronically controlled suspension where fitted, allowing the motorcycle to adapt its behaviour across a wide range of on-road and off-road riding situations.
Plenty of accessories will be available including hard luggage.
Updated Styling and Rider Interface
While retaining the recognisable Africa Twin proportions, Honda has redesigned the bodywork across the 2027 range. The new dual headlights are more compact and sharply styled, retaining the distinctive Twin Eyes identity associated with successive generations of the Africa Twin.
The standard model features a simple, functional layout, while the Adventure Sports adopts a more substantial touring appearance with its larger windscreen and high-capacity fuel tank. The Enduro Sports has its own rally-inspired styling, with the CRF design language extending from the front fender through to the rear.
Honda says the new design combines sportiness and ruggedness while visually emphasising the lower centre of gravity. The Human Machine Interface has also been renewed as part of the redesign, although final Australian instrumentation and connectivity specifications are yet to be confirmed.
The Africa Twin features adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.
More Sustainable Materials
Honda has expanded its use of sustainable materials across the new Africa Twin range as part of its goal to achieve 100 per cent sustainable material usage by 2050. The windscreen and side deflectors use DURABIO, a plant-derived engineering plastic designed to provide durability, weather resistance and scratch resistance.
Australian Arrival Confirmed for Late 2027
Honda Australia has confirmed the 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin range for local release, comprising the Africa Twin, Africa Twin DCT, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and the all-new Africa Twin Enduro Sports. The range is expected to arrive in Australia in late 2027, with pricing, colours and final specifications yet to be announced.
2027 Honda Africa Twin Gallery
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