2024 · Adventure · Buyer's Guide
CRF1100L Africa Twin (SD 08 Mk 2)
Tuned Mid-Range In A Trustworthy Shell
The Machine's Character
Honda's big adventure bike runs a 1084 cc parallel twin making 102 hp at 7,500 rpm and 83 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm, and the shape of that delivery tells you what the machine is for. The chassis is genuinely dirt-capable rather than a styling exercise: a 21-inch front wheel, an 18-inch rear, 9.8 inches of ground clearance, 9.0 inches of travel up front and 8.7 inches at the back. The rider-aid package is complete from the factory, with ride modes, traction control, wheelie control, ABS and cruise control, plus a TFT that runs wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. DCT and Showa EERA electronic suspension sit on the options list.
It ages the way a Honda is supposed to age. Build quality is clean, reliability is the strongest thing about the bike, and there is enough aftermarket support that you can spec it for the trip you actually take rather than the one in the brochure. It suits riders who cover real distance and want the motorcycle to be the least complicated part of the journey. The honest caveat: at 102 hp it isn't hunting the biggest output numbers in the liter class, and at 505 lb wet with a 34.3-inch seat, it wants a confident rider once the surface turns loose or the parking lot slopes.
Hard Numbers
Spec sheets don't ride bikes, but they set the baseline.
Show full specs & equipment Hide specs & equipment
| Power | 102 hp (75 kW) @ 7,500 rpm |
|---|---|
| Torque | 83 lb-ft (112 Nm) @ 5,500 rpm |
| Displacement | 1084 cc |
| Engine | Parallel twin |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Final drive | Chain |
| Front tire | 90/90-21 |
| Rear tire | 150/70-18 |
| Ground clearance | 9.8 in (249 mm) |
| Front travel | 9.0 in (229 mm) |
| Rear travel | 8.7 in (221 mm) |
| Seat height | 34.3 in (871 mm) |
| Wet weight | 505 lb (229 kg) |
| Fuel capacity | 5.0 gal (18.9 L) |
Equipment check
Chassis
- Electronic Suspension Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) Realtime road adaptationBrake dive control Optional
- Front Suspension Adjustable Standard
- Rear Suspension Adjustable Standard
- Cruise Control Standard
Comfort
- Heated Grips Optional
- Adjustable Seat Height Standard
- Luggage System Optional
Connectivity
- TFT Display Standard
- Smartphone Connectivity Standard
- Navigation Standard
- Android Auto Android Auto (Wireless) Integrated navigationHandsfree phone integration Standard
Drivetrain
- Quickshifter Optional
- Automatic Shift (DCT / ASA / AMT) Honda DCT (3rd generation) Clutchless ridingAutomatic gear selection Optional
Safety
- ABS Standard
- Traction Control Standard
- Ride Modes Standard
Signature Tech
The named systems that set this bike apart — and what each one does for you.
Connectivity
- Apple CarPlay (Wireless) Optional
- Integrated navigation
- Handsfree phone integration
Known issues
-
FI-ECU Wheelie Control software recall
A software error in the fuel injection ECU can cause miscalculated traction control settings when Wheelie Control is enabled, potentially leading to hesitant acceleration or engine stall. Affects 2022 and 2024–2025 models; recall NHTSA 24V-882 requires an ECU reprogram.
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Left handlebar switch cluster recall
A stop-sale and recall campaign covers 2020–2025 Africa Twins for a potentially faulty left handlebar switch assembly that can affect horn and high-beam operation. Honda has not yet provided parts for all affected units.
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TFT display failures
Some owners experience blank or flickering TFT screens, often requiring replacement. Honda extended the warranty on the display until 2033, but the issue remains a concern for long-term reliability.
The Numbers Compared
Compare the technical specifications of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin with other bikes in its class.
Head-to-head: Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin vs. its rivals
Power
Torque
Displacement
Wet weight
Seat height
What's new versus the previous generation
If you're cross-shopping the older generation, here's what changed.
Previous generation · 2020–2023
Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin (SD 08-AdventureSportsDCT)
Heavy Tech That Actually Works
Compare to the previous model →Variants, Models & Special Editions
The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin also comes in these variants, models and special editions. Each has its own page covering only what differs from the standard CRF1100L Africa Twin — equipment, electronics, specs and used price.
Alternatives to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
If this one isn't quite the fit, these are the bikes worth riding back-to-back against it.
Any price note compares both bikes at the same age — the youngest age both have on the used market — against this Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin. “cheaper/pricier” is what that bike costs second-hand, not how worn it is.
