Africa Twin Adventure Sport and Scrambler 1100

5000 miles on and the Africa Twin is ticking all the boxes

724 miles

It was a great feeling when I picked up my bike after its first service, knowing that I could finally let rip. And the Africa Twin didn’t disappoint. While it’s not a particularly fast bike, its linear engine character and immaculate throttle connection thanks to the new ride by wire electronics, mean you can make impressively brisk progress. With a claimed 94bhp and 73ftlb torque you get to use everything it has to offer on a regular basis, instead of having an excess of power that you rarely tap into.

2444 miles

I’ve tried to live with the tall standard screen but it was becoming increasingly annoying. While it gave good wind protection I was forced to run the bike in the higher seat position to enable me to look over and not through the screen. Not a problem once moving, but at 5ft 9in tall I was on tip toes when stationary, which was a feeling I didn’t enjoy on such a heavy bike. I’ve now fitted a smaller screen from the standard Africa Twin which means I can run the seat in the lower position, put my feet firmly on the ground and comfortably look over the screen. Wind protection has been compromised, but not severely. All-in-all this is a good solution, but it’s a solution to a problem that wouldn’t exist if the bike had an adjustable screen.

3358 miles

Even with its off-road focused 21in front and 18in rear there are an ever-increasing selection of tyres available. The OE Dunlop Trailmax felt uninspiring and wooden. New Metzeler Karoo Streets have made the Africa Twin come alive. Lots of feel, some slight movement from the blocky tread, but plenty of grip.

4444 miles

With a clear off-road focus and the new tyres fitted I finally got to ride it on the dirt. Despite weighing in at 243kg it’s incredibly well balanced, with a neutral riding position when you are standing up. The power delivery, which can be softened for off-road, and seven-stage traction control make it easy to ride. ABS on the rear wheel is easily de-activated by simply holding down a single button. The front ABS works ok if you’re gentle, but becomes intrusive when you start to ride hard and want to slow down on loose surfaces.

5236 miles

I’ve only changed two things: screen and tyres but what a difference it has made. Being able to touch the ground is key on a bike this size, especially off road. The smaller screen has also made the bike feel more compact and manageable making it so much better for a rider my size. The 5000 miles completed so far have been both easy and enjoyable. It’s a solid, niggle-free bike and I’m expecting the next 5000 miles to be just as rewarding.