The SOHC, 8-valve twin-cylinder engine produces 75kW at peak with 105Nm torque. But it’s the way this engine responds that thrills. With a 46mm throttle body fed by optimised ECU settings the connection between your right hand and rear tyre is pinpoint precise. So, whether hunting out grip on gravel or scything a set of switchbacks, you have ultimate performance at any rpm.

The main frame and aluminium CRF450R-inspired swingarm are both lightweight and rigid. And, for precise suspension reaction, the 45mm Showa inverted front forks adjust for rebound and compression damping. Operating through Pro-Link, the Showa rear shock adjusts for compression and rebound damping, and also spring preload via a dial on the shock body.

Control is what the Africa Twin gives you and at its heart a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) monitors the motorcycle under braking, cornering and acceleration. And this results in razor-sharp management of 7-level HSTC, as well as 3-level Wheelie Control and Cornering ABS. You’ve got four default riding modes – URBAN, TOUR, GRAVEL and OFF-ROAD – plus two full-custom USER options to put the bike you want in your hands.

You can choose your Africa Twin with manual six-speed transmission or our innovative six-speed DCT, which can mean zero-stress and smooth, automatic shifting. Of course, you have the option to switch to lightning-fast manual control using the left-hand trigger-shifters, perfect for changing or holding gears off-road. DCT is also newly optimised for low-speed use in first and second gears and, for when the road runs out, a press of the G switch (on the TFT display) reduces clutch slip, elevating rear wheel traction and feel.