The next-generation Africa Twin lineup grows to three models, with a new 1,131cc engine, lighter chassis and Honda’s first motorcycle application of its SENSING RIDE rider-assistance technology.
Honda has unveiled its all-new 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin adventure motorcycle range at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy, introducing a major update to its flagship adventure bike family.
Replacing the CRF1100L generation, the new CRF1150L lineup adopts a larger 1,131cc engine, revised chassis and improved weight distribution. The range now consists of three variants: the standard Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and an all-new Africa Twin Enduro Sports.
The biggest technology highlight is the introduction of Honda SENSING RIDE, an advanced safety and rider-assistance system making its motorcycle debut on the Africa Twin Adventure Sports.
Three Variants for Different Riding Styles
The standard CRF1150L Africa Twin is designed to balance off-road capability with long-distance touring comfort. It receives updated hardware, a revised rider interface, an electrically adjustable windscreen, Showa electronically controlled suspension with Honda Skyhook technology and a Honda Smart Key system.
The Adventure Sports variant places greater emphasis on long-distance touring, featuring a larger 24-litre fuel tank and a 19-inch front wheel. It also offers Honda SENSING RIDE as an option on the DCT version.
New to the family is the Africa Twin Enduro Sports, which takes a more serious approach to off-road riding. Inspired by the CRF450 RALLY Dakar machine, it features dedicated front suspension and rally-inspired styling to improve its capability on challenging terrain.
Bigger Engine, Lighter Chassis
All three models are powered by a new 1,131cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, replacing the previous 1,084cc unit.
The engine produces 87.5kW (approximately 117.4hp) at 7,500rpm and 119Nm of torque at 5,700rpm. Honda has revised the bore, compression ratio, intake and exhaust systems, alongside the gear ratios, to improve acceleration and cruising performance.
The new frame and swingarm have also been redesigned, with a revised rigidity balance and a combined weight reduction of 1.4kg compared with the previous generation.
Another notable change is the relocation of the fuel sub-tank beneath the seat, lowering the motorcycle’s centre of gravity to improve manoeuvrability and control, particularly at lower speeds.
The standard Africa Twin and Adventure Sports also receive Showa EERA electronically controlled suspension with Honda Skyhook technology, which continuously adjusts damping based on motorcycle behaviour to improve stability and comfort.
Honda SENSING RIDE Makes Motorcycle Debut
Perhaps the most significant development is Honda SENSING RIDE, which will be offered as an option exclusively on the Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT.
Using millimetre-wave radar units mounted at the front and rear, the system monitors surrounding traffic and provides warnings and riding assistance.
Its functions include Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Group Ride Assist and Distance Assist. Safety features include Forward Collision Warning, Emergency Brake Assist, Blind Spot Information, Rear Distance Information and Rear Collision Warning.
When combined with Honda’s Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT), the system can also support smoother stopping and moving off in traffic while Adaptive Cruise Control is active.
The range also gets six default riding modes, integrating engine output, traction control, ABS, DCT and electronically controlled suspension settings for different riding conditions.
New Styling and More Sustainable Materials
The new Africa Twin range receives redesigned dual headlights with a sharper and more compact appearance, while retaining the distinctive Twin Eyes identity.
Each variant also gets its own styling direction, with the Adventure Sports focusing on touring comfort and the Enduro Sports adopting rally-inspired design elements.
Honda has also increased its use of sustainable materials. Chemically recycled acrylic is used for the emblems and taillights, while recycled nylon, plant-derived DURABIO plastic and recycled polypropylene are incorporated into selected components.
The 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin family represents a substantial evolution of Honda’s adventure motorcycle range, combining more engine capacity, improved chassis engineering and a new generation of rider-assistance technology.
Honda has yet to announce pricing and market availability for the new models.
