Unveiled following the 2026 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, the new Africa Twin range features an updated 1131cc parallel-twin engine producing 16 per cent more peak power and almost seven per cent more torque than the previous generation.
Honda also claims stronger mid-range performance, with the larger-capacity engine designed to deliver improved acceleration and greater flexibility across different riding conditions.
The new Africa Twin platform features a completely revised frame, lighter swingarm, updated riding position and lower centre of gravity, with Honda targeting improved handling, stability and rider control.
Three models have been confirmed for Australia: the Africa Twin Enduro Sports, Africa Twin (including a DCT version) and Africa Twin Adventure Sports.
NEW ENDURO SPORTS TARGETS OFF-ROAD RIDERS
The biggest news for dirt riders is the introduction of the Africa Twin Enduro Sports, which Honda describes as its most off-road-focused Africa Twin yet.
The new model features increased ground clearance, longer suspension travel, compact rally-inspired bodywork and a redesigned seat intended to improve rider movement when riding off-road.
Dedicated off-road riding modes have also been introduced, allowing riders to adjust the motorcycle’s electronic systems for loose surfaces and more demanding terrain.
Honda says the Enduro Sports was developed in response to customer feedback calling for a more dirt-capable version of the Africa Twin.
“The 2027 Africa Twin range builds on the strengths riders already love, with updates that enhance performance, comfort and overall capability,” said Honda Australia’s General Manager of Powersports and Products, Chris Schultz.
“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.”
The Enduro Sports will sit alongside the standard Africa Twin and the Adventure Sports, giving buyers three distinct versions of Honda’s large-capacity adventure platform.
Honda has not yet released detailed suspension specifications, ground clearance figures, weight or seat heights for the Australian models, making it difficult to determine just how much more capable the Enduro Sports will be in challenging terrain.
BIGGER ENGINE AND REVISED CHASSIS
The move to an 1131cc parallel-twin engine represents a significant update to the Africa Twin platform, with Honda claiming substantial increases in power and torque.
The 16 per cent increase in peak power is accompanied by an almost seven per cent increase in torque, although Honda Australia has not yet confirmed the final horsepower and torque figures.
The revised engine is also claimed to deliver stronger mid-range performance, an important consideration for adventure riders carrying luggage or tackling steep climbs and technical terrain.
Honda has combined the engine changes with a new frame and lighter swingarm, while the revised riding position and lower centre of gravity are intended to improve handling both on and off-road.
The chassis changes extend across all three models, although Honda has yet to confirm how the suspension specifications and geometry will differ between the standard Africa Twin, Enduro Sports and Adventure Sports.
The standard Africa Twin will again be offered with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), while the Adventure Sports remains part of the Australian line-up.
AUSTRALIAN ARRIVAL CONFIRMED FOR LATE 2027
Honda Australia has confirmed the complete CRF1150 Africa Twin range will arrive in local dealerships in late 2027, although exact launch dates have not been announced.
Australian pricing, colours and detailed technical specifications will be released closer to launch.
Honda has also confirmed the 2027 CBR1000RR-R SP Fireblade for Australia, while the V3R900RR and CBR500R FOUR remain under consideration for local release.
For adventure riders, however, the biggest development is the new Africa Twin Enduro Sports, which promises to address one of the long-running demands from riders wanting a more dirt-focused version of Honda’s flagship adventure bike.
With more power, revised chassis geometry, increased suspension travel and greater ground clearance, the Enduro Sports could represent a substantial step forward for the Africa Twin off-road.
The real test will come when Honda releases the full specifications, particularly the new model’s weight, suspension travel and ground clearance, ahead of its Australian arrival in late 2027.
