Twin While You're Winning

Honda’s legendary Africa Twin is now in India.

- Alshaar Khan

THE HONDA AFRICA TWIN reminded me of my ex-girlfriend. Before you begin hating on me for objectification, let me make it amply clear that I’m referring to the attention that would have otherwise eluded me, in the absence of either. Seriously, the last time that so many heads turned towards me was when I was in her company – and being astride the Honda CRF1000L, which recently made a pulsating comeback after more than a decade-long absence, was an experience of equal measure. And why not? Just like my former partner, the dual-sport motorcycle is a looker, in all senses of the word. It effortlessly combines style and aggression, despite looking deceptively average-sized, at first glance. It’s only once you approach it that you come to terms with its intimidating proportions. As a result of this tall stance, accompanied by minimal bodywork (akin to the half fairing on rally enduro bikes) and a lean demeanour, the styling stays true to the classic adventure nature of the bike.

Add the LED headlights, topped by a windscreen, spoked wheels with a 21-inch on the front and an 18-inch on the rear, gold-finished front forks and wave patterned discs and you have a machine that looks as cool as it is hot. Also worth mentioning are the functional bits (knuckle and sump guards that come as standard equipment) and the absence of a gear lever – that’s because the Japanese manufacturer is only offering the Africa Twin in its DCT (automatic transmission) avatar in India, just like the victory red trademark colour option.