Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L

The Africa Twin was revived in 2016 after a 13-year absence. Other than its name, the CRF1000L was a completely clean-sheet design, with a 998cc parallel twin, a steelcradle frame, long-travel suspension and proper off-road tyre sizes, including an 18in rear. It’s been gently updated for 2018 with a lighter lithium-ion battery, a ride-by-wire throttle and a few other detail tweaks.

The standard Africa Twin costs £11,575, but our test bike has a number of official accessories fitted, including a centrestand (£180), foglights (£895), a 12V power socket (£20), heated grips (£325) and a taller screen (£125). There’s also an automatic DCT version (£12,549), an Adventure Sports model (24-litre tank, longer suspension, £12,599) plus a DCT AS (£13,549).

SPEC Price £11,575 (£13,075 as tested) Engine 998cc 8v parallel twin, l/c Power 94bhp @ 7500rpm Torque 72lb·ft @ 6000rpm Transmission 6-speed, chain Chassis steel cradle Front suspension 45mm forks, 230mm travel, adjustable preload, rebound and compression Rear suspension monoshock, 220mm travel, adjustable preload, rebound and compression Front brakes 310mm discs, 4-piston calipers Rear brake 256mm disc, 1-piston caliper Front tyre 90/90-21 Rear tyre 150/70 R18 Wheelbase 1575mm Rake/trail 27.5°/113mm Seat height 850/870mm Kerb weight 242kg (measured) Fuel capacity 18.8 litres

PCP FINANCE Price £11,575.00 Deposit £2862.17 Monthly repayments 36 x £129.00 Optional final payment £5557.12 APR 6.9% Total payable £13,063.29 Annual mileage 4000