Honda unveiled the 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin for the first time worldwide at EICMA 2026, featuring a major 1,131cc engine upgrade and three sub-models. They added the Enduro Sports variant for adventure riders and introduced Honda SENSING RIDE technology in the Adventure Sports DCT model.
On 3 Nov 2026, Honda launched the 2027 CRF1150L Africa Twin large adventure motorcycle for the first time globally at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy. The model received comprehensive updates to its engine, structure, and rider-assist technology, along with the addition of the Enduro Sports variant designed for off-road travel.
This development builds on the CRF1100L Africa Twin under the concept “Shaped by You. True Adventure for All.” It features increased engine capacity, reduced component weight, and a lower center of gravity to improve handling on both long paved journeys and rugged terrain.
The new CRF1150L Africa Twin lineup includes three variants: the standard CRF1150L Africa Twin, the CRF1150L Africa Twin Adventure Sports, and the CRF1150L Africa Twin Enduro Sports. Each is developed with distinct character and equipment tailored to different riding purposes.
Starting with the standard CRF1150L Africa Twin, it balances off-road capability with long-distance touring. Improvements include platform upgrades, engine refinements, and enhanced display and control systems for easier use, alongside an electrically adjustable windscreen, SHOWA EERA suspension paired with Honda Skyhook, and the Honda Smart Key system.
The CRF1150L Africa Twin Adventure Sports focuses on long-distance travel, featuring a 24-liter fuel tank, 19-inch front wheel, and a large windscreen. The DCT gearbox version offers Honda SENSING RIDE as an optional accessory, marking the first time this advanced rider-assist system is available on a Honda motorcycle.
The new CRF1150L Africa Twin Enduro Sports is specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts. It uses front suspension specifications equivalent to the CRF450 RALLY Dakar race bike, with unique styling inspired by racing models, while maintaining the Africa Twin's signature versatility.
All models use a 1,131cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine delivering a maximum power of 87.5 kW at 7,500 rpm and peak torque of 119 Nm at 5,700 rpm.
Honda increased engine displacement, compression ratio, and bore size, while refining intake, exhaust, and gear ratios to enhance acceleration performance and riding comfort.
Structurally, the frame and swingarm were redesigned, reducing combined weight by 1.4 kg compared to the previous model, while balancing strength. A sub fuel tank under the seat lowers the center of gravity, improving low-speed handling.
The standard and Adventure Sports models feature SHOWA EERA electronically controlled suspension from Astemo, integrated with Honda Skyhook control that continuously adjusts damping in real time to stabilize the bike and increase riding comfort.
Additionally, six standard riding modes support both on-road and off-road use, coordinating engine, traction control, ABS braking, DCT transmission, and electronic suspension systems according to each model's equipment.
A key technology debuting in this launch is Honda SENSING RIDE, available as an option on the CRF1150L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT model.
The system uses millimeter-wave radar sensors at the front and rear to detect the surrounding environment, processing this data with rider and vehicle information to provide alerts and assist in controlling the motorcycle.
Comfort features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go functionality for stop-and-go traffic, Group Ride Assist for maintaining distance in group rides, and Distance Assist for safe spacing from the vehicle ahead.
Safety alert and braking assistance functions include Forward Collision Warning, Emergency Brake Assist, Blind Spot Information, Rear Distance Information, and Rear Collision Warning systems.
When paired with the DCT automatic dual-clutch transmission, the Stop & Go function enables smooth stopping and starting during ACC use, reducing rider workload in traffic jams and urban riding.
The standard model retains the high-riding adventure proportions, now with a redesigned, more compact and sharper twin-headlight setup continuing Africa Twin’s “Twin Eyes” signature.
The Adventure Sports model emphasizes touring comfort, with body lines and surfaces reflecting the flagship adventure identity, while the Enduro Sports features a “CRF streamline” design flowing from front to rear fenders, conveying a rally race bike image. All models sport the new silver-and-black “Honda Flagship WING” emblem on both sides of the main fuel tank.
Honda has increased the use of recycled and bio-based materials in this lineup to support its goal of 100% sustainable materials by 2050.
Recycled chemical-process acrylic is used for badges and taillights, and recycled chemical-process nylon for the top cover and rear fender mounting parts—both first-time applications of these materials in Honda motorcycles.
The windscreen and deflectors use DURABIO, a bio-based engineering plastic made from plant materials, while some fairings and body panels use recycled polypropylene from post-consumer products. The seat base uses recycled material from production scrap.