Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports Review | 2018 CRF1000L2

[@MichaelKlaser]

Forth? What happened to the rap music?!? And I didn't hear a single fart in this one.... 6/7 would watch again.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hahahaha. There's other things in this one!.

[@MichaelKlaser]

It has a Harley...

[@johnsandlin7474]

I own the 2017 model and am 6'1 225lbs. I have had zero complaints about the bike other than lack of crash protection...it is now sufficiently scratched up, but who cares. Some reviews of the 2018 make the first generation sound like junk!! Just last year people were literally singing its' praises. Im happy with my throttle cable and staypuff marshmellow forks. The bike feels great on upstate New York single tracks. Just my two cents....great vid anyway.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yeah the 17's are good. The ATAS suspension is much better than the regulars. 2017 or 2018

[@AnyMotoUSA]

I Completely agree. My 2016 is just fine, and buying used I was able to afford good crash protection, skid plate, Dakar soft luggage, heatwd grips etc etc. Oh and a rotopax giving me the range I need.
The AT is a beast, period, no matter what year you get.
Gotta admit I like that adventure sports anniversary paint theme

[@donniebaker5984]

@@AnyMotoUSA I found the stock exhaust rather throw tea then I found you could unbolt the tip and twist off two of the three fasteners oh now I had to leave them out damn that noise sounds like a goddamn Harley-Davidson okay to potega potega Hokkaido potato well I wasn't about to spend any money on replacement stocks s h i t tell where the eBay cheap exhaust danmoto did they say danmoto I had bought a danmoto for my Dyna s cleared 120 horsepower after the Screaming Eagle stage 4 Kit danmoto pull another hundred dollars out of me for this stainless 2 into 1 equal lengths but his choice of China fake carbon tap hey ay scratch on the swing arm at full travel sow the fake carbon China bone Muffler how to go bye bye but what's it A Y pipe for a Ducati damn does it fit on my Africa twin straight I went from 2 into 1 then one in the two now I need to buy two mufflers oh my god look what's on sale at eBay Wyatt what's a sec of Akrapovic loud noise makers but somebody forgot to put them in the big money pile because they're pure titanium at $50 somebody goofed I just don't have the money to send them back to correct their poor little mistakes bet some Chinaman don't get his bowl of rice and fish a fitting cause of the crime I went and bought a pair of genuine late model Akrapovic aluminum logos for my genuine 100% pure titanium fake Akrapovic decimal Buster's

[@donniebaker5984]

Yep you're exactly right that Honda Africa twin that wins the paris-dakar there's no way play the race bike the air seems pretty busy when that gear selector indicator says you're in 132 and you look around then where'd everybody go answer why you just keep going and going on you get thirsty pullover or a beer and here they come after two beers

[@dznnf7]

Nice "takeaway" Steve. Getting lured into the high performance machines and the thrill of speed, satisfaction from getting better/faster, etc. can almost ruin the basic joy of riding. Too much competition, injuries, high costs...I've done them all and still do. But riding at nine-tenths instead of ten-tenths is still a load of fun, and you don't waste your summer on crutches. Like I did last year!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

I like 7 tenths. Lol. Yeah riding with friends always fun. Hospitals with friends..... nah

[@Rayk76]

You've just confirmed what I've been thinking lately as to what true biking is all about, I've been riding performance bikes for many years, head down ass up going as fast as possible from point a to b or close to it and I've been missing the true essence of biking all along which to me is enjoying the bike and it's environment at my leisure doing big miles

[@MuppetJoe]

One of the best bikes I’ve ever owned. Just a FUN bike to ride. I have found it plenty capable off-road!

[@MrDavidelliottjr]

I think i really like this bike for every day use

[@donniebaker5984]

Who for the Youth end the zombie apocalypse looking into auto aim twin LED Uzi with a ammo belt from each saddlebag

[@ssn608]

Darn you, Kamrad! I WAS perfectly happy with my 650 V-Strom.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Were you though? I'd be in a vstrom gang

[@ssn608]

Steve_Kamrad Actually, I am happy with it. But if something ever happened to it (and I survived)...

[@brianwhite1189]

One of the best reviews of this bike that I've seen, particularly the off-road riding and detailed DCT information. Thanks!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Dude thank you for reaching out and saying so. It means a lot

[@brianwhite1189]

@@steve_kamrad5216 What sunglasses are you wearing? I need to find a pair. Thanks!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@brianwhite1189 Oakley Holbrooks

[@DarrenMalone253]

Most Excellent review, high production value my man! Think I'm going to get this exact year bike/model now. And find your helmet

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Cheers man. There helmet itd a shoei

[@Ben47471]

I do believe your adventure bike test/reviews are the best on youtube you actually test them in the full range of what people (within reason) might want to do on them, a lot of guys test them almost all on road then a few do all off road you get a really nice mix, your Triumph Tiger XCA review was awesome. On that note I would love to hear a quick take on how the Tiger and Africa twin stack up against each other. I ride a Super Tenere which is OK on the road but I want something that can still handle decent miles on the road but be able to do the BDR routes and do some back country exploring out west.. Right now thinking possible KTM 1090 -Tiger XCA or Africa twin, the Tiger is the only one I have got to ride so far and I am not sure I would like the higher revving motor for off road, I like or at least I think I like the KTM but I have heard they are not very good on the road and I live in the midwest so I really dont get to off road much. If you have any thoughts comparing these 3 bikes I would love to hear them otherwise thanks for the great reviews. p.s but before I buy anything I want to see what the new Yamaha 700 turns out to be, hopefully you can test one for us when they finely release it

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hey Thank you for the kind words. So the Tiger is higher revving and makes a ton of horsepower. It just doesn't deliver its torque that low and people end up smoking clutches. Going down one tooth on a tiger on the front sprocket makes a huge difference. The Africa Twin is definitely better offroad than the tiger in larger rocks or sand but in gravel, dirt or small rocks there is little difference. The tiger is much more fun on the road. The AT is more fun offroad. The ktm 1090 is actually the best road bike of the bunch especially at altitude with that motor and the brakes and suspension are much more sorted out. Off road the 1090 is long and tall and fast. It's a very sharp weapon. One that few can master. So many people will say the 1090 is easier to ride off road than anything else and while it is very capable you have to remember that it's actually a 1290 frame. And the honda feels like small 800 frame with a underpowered 1000cc motor in it. Not that it's that weak but there is a noticeable difference on asphalt. Off road the AT puts the power down so well its extremely fast. The tiger just kinda sits at a great sport touring bike and a good offroad bike. Hope this helps. Also don't hold your breath waiting for the Yamaha

[@cgmtv]

@@steve_kamrad5216 What if you are 5'8, would that change the your opinion? Do you feel the ATAS too big, once off-road? What about the "normal" AT vs the Tiger 800?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@cgmtv the regular AT offroad with a low seat will be your best bet, or a bmw F850gs with a low seat will feel the smallest without losing seat height

[@cgmtv]

@@steve_kamrad5216 No Tiger in the mix? I tried the bmw F850gs with higher seat (1cm higher than the normal) and I could handle it fine, so no need to go to "low seat options". Cheers

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@cgmtv oh really, well the f850 is gonna be easier to ride offroad. I wrote a review on advpulse.com and i have a review video coming soon on the f850. If you want a fantastic road bike. The newest tiger is miles ahead of the competition but it takes practice to get good at offroad.

[@AmericanLandCruiser]

Truly a rider's review. Subbed.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Cheers man. That's what i'm here for. Well i'm also here for the good times

[@RideFastGetWeird]

Holy crap I want one now. I think this bike would be ideal here in Colorado for all the National Forrest trails and ADV riding you can get into out here!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yeah big time. The atas does a lot well

[@HazardSports]

8:00 sounds like you “wanted” a KTM but then the Africa Twin realization kicked in. I agree with you! I like the fact that it is moderately tempered and built for reliability!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

That's what the honda is. Super fun. Rideable and reliable

[@sweetcostarica8714]

"Bigger fuel tank" is an understatement. Just saw the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports at the dealership & the tank is huge!
Everything else is great on the model.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

It's not even close to the 9 gallon ones on the bmw gsa or multi enduro though

[@sweetcostarica8714]

I have a 2017 Honda Africa Twin & had warranty work done today. While I waited I saw a new 2018 Africa Twin Adventure Sports at the dealership.
I was just comparing them. But yes, BMW has bigger tanks on their bikes and so if you are going around the world I see where these adventure bike would need big tanks.
But 90% or more folks don't need or want a larger than 6 gallon tank. This is due to these large enduros are really too big for off road adventures.
And are bought for street use with very little gravel road/dirt road use.
So big, large, huge tanks are they necessary? I don't know especially in the USA with gas stations everywhere. To me they look odd, if not terrible making the lines of the bike look like a pregnant fish. IMO.

[@milkus2000]

its awesome ive gotten 365 mi on a tank

[@skeetermegamoto]

Hey, I like the way you made that blue Mustang vanish at the 53 second mark.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Had to. Lol

[@ricknichols4966]

My helmet falls off the seat of my AT too.... I put it on the passenger pegs now....

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thanks for watching till the end!

[@ShooterMedic1818]

Put it on your side mirror

[@lukash7659]

Damn that bike looks so good but i'm to short for it with 1,73m 😓
Like always, good stuff Steve!
Hopefully we see you next year with the Harley ADV or the Scrambler 1200 😝👍

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Lol. You can get the regular L1 and it's almost just as good

[@leemski]

0:53 there is a time traveler in blue car behind you, goes into the scene and vanishes, wow you have some catch on this vlog xD Awesome review, thanks!

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Ford's Mustang with time warp installed

[@leemski]

@@MagicAyrtonforever LOL!

[@benfrench9224]

5:09 I wish Honda would make a Sprinter style cargo van like the one with the honda logo on it in this vid

[@michaelbdoherty]

Awesome video! Great job highlighting the bike. Yeah....No rap music !!!!!! 👍👌💪🇺🇸

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hahahahah. Just for you. Lol

[@Rayk76]

Fantastic review just brilliant and so honest

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thanks man that's what i aim for. Brilliance and truth. Thanks for the feed back

[@stephtraveler7378]

Good review; however, the stock bar is called a "light" bar from Honda. Not a "crash bar". Honda's term, not mine. They refuse to say its a true crash bar. You have to go aftermarket to get a crash worthy bar. Still a great bike, just the included upgrades on the adventure model can be sourced in the aftermarket for better cost/performance.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

True about the light bar as I only had a tip over i didn't test it. But the suspension alone would run you more than the cost of the upgrades. Sooooo maybe just replace the light bar. I would love a regular AT with ATAS suspension.

[@unabashedindividualist6232]

Im planning on sneaking into the big ADV bike lifestyle sometime in the near future. My little 250L is great for ripping around town and backroads but I need comfortable interstate speeds too.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

The regular AT is a awesome adv bike to grow with

[@jblue1299]

Is there an option to switch from DCT to manual mode ? Or would you have to buy the bike with manual only mode ?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Dct has a "manual mode" and a shifter lever option. But it's essential push buttons to select gears. You can get a manual but it's one or the other

[@jblue1299]

Steve_Kamrad , Thanks Steve, how is it on the paved road, with that 21” front wheel?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@jblue1299 the 21 front on any of the africa twins is fine. Every time i get off an AT it feels better than any other 21 inch front tired bike and even better than all the19 front wheeled bikes. The suspension is very playful

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@KellySabrina thank you kelly!

[@rybradley8825]

What is your opinion between this bike and the Triumph Tiger 800 you reviewed? If you could only have one, which would you choose?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

For me. The tiger

[@amoskoh4390]

only finished this video because you did the clap magic

[@LYLEWOLD]

liked for the whole video, but especially the last blooper. LOL

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Cheers man. Thanks for watching till the end

[@maxflight777]

A friend of mine purchased the new 2018 model. Sadly it doesnt have cruise control (not even an option !) .... he picked up a ticket on the new M6 average speed camera zone.
Honda need to try harder imho.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yeah it's a shame that it doesnt have cruise but your friend could also set the cruise control too 130 kph. Does he have the restraint to not set the cruise too high with his thumbs since his wrist clearly doesn't?

[@bh8671]

Max Flight or you know. He could just not speed. Might need to learn to ride a bit better.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@bh8671 I've never done the speed limit on a bike

[@misterjones7929]

Great review that makes me want one - the DCT sells it for me, but I might wait until next year to see if Honda include overdrive as well to compete with the BMW F850 GS.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Overdrive? It's an automated sequential gear box with dual clutches. And no overdrive needed. The f850 is gonna be either really good or really bad as a first year bike. And why wait? Buy a bike

[@misterjones7929]

Apologies - I should have referred to the 'cruise control' as featured on the BMW, which seems very useful for long distance road cruising.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@misterjones7929 ahhhh yes, cruise control. Look i would never ever let the lack of cruise control determine what motorcycle i would buy

[@andrewbarker430]

Nice review. I’m a new rider. Got my eye on the AT.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Nice. The AT L1 or regular Africa Twin is great for beginner to hyper advanced riders. Most ADV bikes can't do that

[@blooskyy7]

Great review, always entertaining

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hahaha. Thanks man. I try to keep it entertaining

[@EstebanFonsecaAR]

I'm 6' 6" and currently riding a Honda Transalp 650... Already tried lowering the footpegs, but no luck setting the brake pedal at all, so back to stock ones, that means that the intrusive tank on the ATAS should not affect me at all haha Looking forward to finish my LAMS restricted period here in Australia :)

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yeah that tank will have you laughing

[@mondragon078]

Good stuff as always! 👍👍

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thanks man. Lots of work on that one.

[@nickyd2913]

Hi Steve ! Great review and great quality content as always !
Which one would you pick ?
The standard AT or the Adventure Sports ?
Looking for a new bike for some longer trips on road but also on some gravel and off-road rides.
Thanks !

[@steve_kamrad5216]

If it was me. I'd get a standard at dct model and get the suspension built up, but if needed the extra fuel capacity then the ATAS is definitely the ya to go and leave the suspension as is. Only problem is the bike is super tall for almost no reason. Like the suspension has an extra inch of travel but the seat is something like 2 inches taller to match the bar risers i don't think the bike needs. So if i was building a race bike id go standard dct. They're super rad

[@nickyd2913]

Steve_Kamrad Yes the bike is tall but Honda do offer lower seat and the bike can acutally be lowered with Touratech suspension.
Im 174 cm so thats a must anyway if i would pick the ATAS.
If I would spec them up the same way the cost the same since the ATAS comes with some extra. Heated grips and so on.
Do you think the ATAS is as good off-road and on road as the standard one ? With it beeing a little bit bulkier.
Thanks for your input !

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@nickyd2913 touratech lowering kits are usually just rebranded hyper pro spring kits. I wouldn't buy a atas and lower it. The crash bars are no good and the skid plate is weak. Both the L1 and the L2 are great offroad. How tall are you? I'd say 2 days of offroad training will make you better than alllll the shit in the touratech catalog combined. The low seat is a good idea and the stock bar risers are boarder line too tall on the ATAS. Also after you sit on the bike the 1 inch extra suspension travel onle equals about .50 of inch in added seat height. Unless you're 5'4" i wouldn't lower either bike. The larger tank will make it a little harder to ride too. Soooo if you can get a deal on a standard I would do that and buy altrider crashbars and skid plate. Then just training and riding. Heated grips can be added later. The atas gains so much size yet no power. So the ATAS is only a buy if you wany the suspension. I'd love a AT L1 with L2 suspension on it for sure.

[@nickyd2913]

Steve_Kamrad Actually the kit I was looking at was Touratech but said in the description that it was hyper pro springs.
Are they no good ?
Im 174 cm so the standard one would fit me just fine.
Just like the look of the ATAS better. And the lagrer tank is also nice to have on long trips.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@nickyd2913 hyper pro is fine but if you buy directly here in the states its less expensive. if the standard fits then why buy the ATAS? And then have to buy lowering springs which i wouldn't consider an upgrade, and the added cost of a low seat? Then getting good crash bars after? And having to deal with the fat tank? The standard tank has plenty of fuel and will be much easier to ride offroad. I would go standard AT just for the smaller tank size.

[@brucekendall52]

Nice review,thks.

[@wrathroc]

Thanks for responding. Respect

[@jamesbrace3212]

I DONT ADVENTURE BUT I DO ALOT OF HIGHWAY MILES.
COULD I CHEW UP ALOT OF HIGHWAY MILES ON THE HONDA?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Tiger 850gt

[@wrathroc]

Thanks for the response. Respect

[@monikajanku9738]

Nice video 👍👍❤

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thanks!

[@DRugfree1987]

That Harley bit at the end h
ad me laughing. Me everytime a harley goes by. " oh great here comes a harley...rum rum bum bum...so like I was saying"

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hahahaha ughhhhh here comes a Harley! Lol

[@pistolpete8311]

Sup mellow, great video !

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thank you pete! Lot of fun making this one too

[@esoterical73]

Pull a wheelie while in dct, or no legit.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

A Legit wheelie was pulled and over 100mph in gravel with 80/20 tires on it. It's not great for doing dank whoolies but it does the job

[@esoterical73]

@@steve_kamrad5216 I'm not worthy! Heard complaints about lack wheelies in auto shift. LOVE IT!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@esoterical73 you gotta bounce it and whack it open.

[@Paumonsu]

The big tank gives you a good position for your legs when you're standing up

[@steve_kamrad5216]

It's narrow at the seat but i move around on the bike a lot and use some advanced techniques that are still affected by the technique. Also the extra width on the fairing isn't ideal for someone like me

[@FarFromNormalProductions]

@@steve_kamrad5216 so after a day of riding did the tank still seem to be too wide? Im 6"2" as well and im debating the standard Africa twin or the adventure sports model i do alot of 2 up riding also and i live in eastern South Dakota so i cover alot of paved roads to get to any trails.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@FarFromNormalProductions i love the standard L1 tank shape but the L2 suspension will be better 2 up. After a day I still thought it was bit wide. But the added range could be something you need. I'd do it for the suspension alone

[@ShelleyRaskin]

Nice paint job too!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

They are gorgeous in person. The rolled edge on the bottom of the tank is a nice touch

[@mardelplatalimousines3423]

Awesome machine!!!

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

2020 Africa Twin is soooo much better!! Much more money though. I might start with the old one used and save £8,000!

[@rocket2811]

How do you wheelie a DCT ? Thanks

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Power wheelie.

[@giuliobuccini208]

I like the AT but the dct is totally a no-go in offroad, it is very good on asphalt indeed. Go with it on the Alps and you will have serious problems.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

That's completely false. Soooo cheers.

[@giuliobuccini208]

Steve_Kamrad, ok. Nice to know.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@giuliobuccini208 the dct is extremely well sorted on or offroad and none of the journalists or testers have been able to fault or trick the system. There are rare cases of malfunctioning boxes and some advanced offroad techniques that require clutch modulation but just saying things like "the dct is a no go in offroad" is a great way to mislead riders and discourage innovation from manufacturers

[@giuliobuccini208]

Steve_Kamrad, no doubts about the validity of the system. I've tested it and I was impressed. Nevertheless, as you wrote, there are some situation in offroad where the clutch is still "necessary" or preferable. The choice between clutch or DCT probably depends on what type of offroad the buyer plans to do.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@giuliobuccini208 i do the gnarliest rides here in America and rally race in 3 or 4 races a year. For me. Which i fall into the top 1 percent of riders there are no instances where I would need a clutch. The DCT wheelies and lift the front when you persuade it to. I've riden with factory pro ktm rally racers (Quinn, Kellon), and bmw dakar podium racer jimmy lewis, owner of altrider Jeremy Lebreten, 8x national enduro champ mike lafferty, and gold medal isde riders. Those guys may be able to ride a bike with a clutch better than they could with a dct but even jimmy lewis says the dct is phenomenal off road. Trials guys may want clutches and a few top top top teir riders but really i don't think there's many that could ride a clutch better or faster than a dct. Technical riding as well. If you need to lift the front at a stand still it really won't do it with out a big bounce but yeah the dct is amazing offroad.

[@racetored]

Steve...Africa Twin or 2018 Tiger 800 XCA?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Depends what you're going to do with it.

[@marvox666]

I bought the Tiger and did 4000 mil. (on and off road) 2 weeks after. I suggest English instead of Chinese ;)

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@marvox666 how many miles do you have on a honda? I have over 30k on Tigers and over 5k on Hondas. I understand that you like your bike but if you haven't logged real miles on a Honda you can't really compare. Also the Honda is a Japanese bike and the tiger is indian at this point. Both made with Chinese parts. Cheers

[@cgmtv]

@@steve_kamrad5216 10% city, 10% short distance rides, 40% medium/long travel, 40% off-road (I had a few years of experience in DR350, CR250, etc). What would you pick?

[@desdeaquiseveasi]

¡Gorgeous! Lo ve that video, love your style. Thumbs up for hundreds of that :)

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thank you so much. Really had fun with this one.

[@pyrros4047]

If you don't have any friends. just adventure biking and make friends on the way. (somethis like that)
I like you steve :)

[@AAproductions1994]

Never rode a bike with dct. And it’s weird to hear someone say it makes adventure riding funner than before. I need to test ride one someday and see what all the hype is about

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Dude. Its perfect, like the way it slips the clutch and matches revs. Sooooo dope

[@PragmaticTornado]

DCT is not for everyone. I tried an '18 ATAS DCT, but didn't like it at all. So I bought the manual version. Very happy with it. Might add a quickshifter later though. But I am definitely not ready to give up the option to control the clutch manually.

[@eatcommies1375]

What’s the target rider weight the bike is sprung for in stock form?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

If i had to guess cause i do not have that info i would say close to 170 to 200 in non aggressive riding, i would not hesitateto leave the L2 stock for a long time even with luggage. I've spent a lot of time on the standard L1 and that bike feels much more like 170-175 pound style bike with no luggage. Still really well balanced but not really that great stock and when pushed hard in the desert the AT L1 gets squirrelly really fast and goes through the whole stroke of the suspension. The L2 is great and a big upgrade in the suspension department

[@MotoAdventurer]

"Damnit bird..."

[@tangosixzero1951]

Question, Was this a paid Honda media event? Were the flights and accommodations paid for, was the booze free? Very positive review.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Let's put it this way. It's a Honda North America press launch for the media outlets within the united states. We are not obligated to give a positive review or be misleading. This launch also cost me about 5k to be at when considering time invested vs the paymet i received for the written article linked in the description. So paid review? Not a chance.

[@tangosixzero1951]

Thank you for your prompt answer.

[@user-vf8sn4yg1l]

This is L2 so is more lower then original! I do have 2016 model and thinking to upgrade to L2 but… im scare on off road I will have a problem becouse of low clearance. What do you think? Thank you

[@steve_kamrad5216]

No the L2 is an inch taller on the suspension department

[@user-vf8sn4yg1l]

@@steve_kamrad5216 so then is not L2… is just adventure sport!!! L2 is the one which is low!! Hovewer thank you for answer

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@user-vf8sn4yg1l no the crf1000L is the regular. The crf1000L2 adventure sports has the uprated showa suspension and has 1 more inch of travel. A taller seat, handle bars and windshield. There's a link in the description breaking all that down

[@user-vf8sn4yg1l]

@@steve_kamrad5216 I measured L2 and original honda in Honda shop. L2 is 4 cm lower. Maybe is some special model for Asia market. I live in Thailand !

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@user-vf8sn4yg1l oh yeah thats not the case in the use. Id stick with the L1

[@Altruistic00]

Being only 5"2', I could only wish to ride all these adventure bikes.. :(

[@steve_kamrad5216]

The regular honda with a low seat is your best option due to the center of gravity

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Honda Africa Twin ADVenture Sport is an ADVENTURE bike. Hmmmmmmmm who’da thunk it?
You mean we can ride 2-up with luggage off-road?
I could see that if you rode the new 450 Honda and you wanted a wicked racer but it performed like the ATAS being disappointed.
Good job riding the bike and showing that it is capable, with OEM tires even.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

I don't know anyone that really rides 2 up offroad with luggage. You're talking about less than 1% of the adventure market. What i mean is that the L2 is set up with all the farkles that most adv riders buy anyway including upgraded suspension which on this bike is very good. I don't like fat tanks or street tires or the mellow power of the L2 for most of the riding that I do but once again I make up about 2% of the average adventure riders when you take into account that I rally race my adv bikes 3 to 4 times a year and trailer to about 17 events a year which 25% of them are dual sports. I originally wanted a Honda contender for the 1090r but in a manageable package. The 1090r's are whicked. The crf450L is plated dirt bike not an adventure bike. And the new L2 could do 1000 miles in a day on road and then do LAB2V then do a dual sport, then a BDR route and then two up some gravel if you wanted it to. What it won't do is beat a 1090r across the desert.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I totally got where you were coming from, just ribbing you a bit.
I was sold on the 1090R until Honda upped the AT's distance and suspension... and you threw the Tiger 800 into the mix with your impressive demo of it's potential.
90% of my riding on these type of bikes would be solo trails and commuting but the appeal of these over a Husqvarna 701 would be that I can take my gal to Alaska, Mexico, local goat trails, (I'm in Far-Nor-Cal) or really anywhere my riding potential can take us. Most of the bigger ADV bikes are poor performers on loose gravel even, let alone a true trail. Like you mentioned, two-up to where I need to go will suffice along with good low end torque and gearing for navigating at low speed when I hit the dirt/rocks. You even made the DCT look attractive, I didn't think that would be possible.
If KTM's reliability were better, it would still be at the top of my list. If Triumph had more dealers... maybe.
Honda's reliability and dealer network make the ATAS the better choice for my style of riding. I think this is more of what Honda is shooting for with the ATAS and why riders like myself who aren't competitors, want to cut down on the number of plated motorcycles in the garage, and get a Swiss Army knife style bike finally have another great option.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@pinkiewerewolf yeah the ATAS is not going to mash out the big (really big) miles that a GSA can do because it lacks HP and torque. The tiger 800 makes makes a better high mileage bike than the ATAS because 5.5 gallons is enough at that point you need a break and adding a larger tank doesn't make it necessarily a better ADV bike but it's much better than wrestling a GSA off road and the extra range is nice but a bit over board.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Steve_Kamrad Well, the most milage I’ve crunched in a day was riding with an Iron Butt competitor, at about 1300 miles. I did that on my ZZR1200 and it’s 6.1 gallon tank. When we got across the country to Georgia we rode a 1K day with a the ZZR group.
You have a good point, the more I think about it. When I took Ms Wolf to Glacier National Park on the Zed I didn’t stop for night until Spokane. She was a bit upset.
I’ve read some of the other comments and you definitely make a good case for the Tiger and 1090R.
Cheers!

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Steve, I finally found a 2018 AT and ATAS side by side in Redding.
I get what you were saying about the shape of the tank. It's wide, way more horizontal than the 6+ gallon tanks on my ZZR1200 or (gasp) Ultra Classic. A person really can't get the size difference off videos. Sitting beside the 2018 AT I decided that the Standard model is more my size. I'm 5'9" and 53 years old next month, buying a bike that I want to ADV Alaska/Canada/Mexico on for the next decade... well, I'm not getting any younger, stronger, or taller. I had hoped to get away from carrying fuel bladders but it makes more sense for 98% of the riding that I'll do. Rarely will I be more than 180 miles from a gas stop.
So, I concede your point on the size/shape of the fuel tank after the sideXside comparison. If I ever run into you I owe you a beer. ;)

[@lmtada]

Santa rides a Honda.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Hahahaha. He can bring me one

[@Jimo368]

I’d sure like to see a 500cc version of this bike with a 20 liter tank.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Well the t7 will be out some day. I don't think the Honda 500 twin is up to the task. The 1000cc is not very impressive at elevations over 5k feet. But somehow they're still incredibly fast

[@tomonabudget]

Rally Raid modified CB500x. Yeah, the tank is only 17L, but if you keep the throttle at bay, you can almost get the economy of a 125!
The stock bike is already not t-bag as long as you don't go to crazy. Some find it even more comfortable than the AT as the engine is less vibey.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@tomonabudget or for the same price as a rally raid kit and cb500x you could buy a bike with a 21/18 set up. Twice the displacement and a lot more suspension travel. It's a regular Africa Twin.

[@tomonabudget]

Though you do end up with a taller and a heavier bike. Those 37-47kg are a lot when stationary (and people change exhausts to loose 0.5kg).
It's great if you ride with a helpful group, you're an expert rider that never drops their bike or are the Dutch equivalent of Hercules.
I'm certainly not and even my stock 500x has been too heavy at times to pick up and I ride solo at lot.
Also, the price is still favours the 500.
In Australia at least these are the costs you're looking at I.e.:
Used CB500XA with 6000km: AUD 6500 + RR kit = AUD9500
Used CRF1000LA with 10000km: AUD 13500
AUD4k is a lot of fuel and beer money for some of us.
Also need to put into consideration, that most 500x owners don't take theirs off-road so the condition of the bikes tends to be better than used ATs.

[@tomonabudget]

The AT is a fine bike, but it's still 37-47kg heavier and taller at the same time.
That weight will come back at you when you drop it.
Sure it's not a problem if you ride with friends, are an expert rider or you're the Dutch equivalent of Hercules (which for some reason most ADV bike reviewers seem to be).
In regards to the price point:
At least in Australia used CRF1000LAs don't drop below AUD13500.
Whereas you can pick up CB500XAs for 6500. If you add the 3k (AUD9500 total) for the RR kit you end up with a bike that's almost as capable for 4k less. That's a lot of fuel/ beer money for many.
The price gap grows far bigger when you buy new.
Also add to that: Most used CB500X's have never seen dirt. Whereas used AT's will have more likely been across the outback creating more wear on them.

[@khakimzhanmiras]

Africa Twin with ohlins and the right tires is downright inexorable. Easiest to ride adventure bike off-road.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yessssss

[@todde.richardson]

Where do I get that handlebar bag?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

It's a wlfenduro patch on a Ducati Multistrada enduro handle bar bag but touratech sells them as well

[@manologocho]

great review but its automatic box all the time???

[@steve_kamrad5216]

There's 2 versions a standard and a dct. Dct has no clutch. Google it

[@manologocho]

and this was the standar gearbox??, becuase i am loocking for one bike to buy, i like this africa twin and the brand new BMW850 , but also i love KTM so i have to make the decitions can you help me with that, because you have the experience to make a real choice, please thanks ¡¡¡

[@manologocho]

and im loocking for one of these because i am going to make a travel around soth america and europe.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@manologocho i wouldn't buy a f850 for round the world stuff because it's a brand new model and reliability can be an issue with first year powertrains till they get all that sorted out. The ktm's are beasts and well sorted but tall. The bike in this test is the automatic dual clutch manual and i really like it. It still has gears but it shifts for you and slips the clutch for you in tight technical stuff. The Honda is really one of the easiest bikes to ride offroad due to its low center of gravity and plush suspension. If you're going to load it up with luggage and gear I would get the adventure sports L2 version for the suspension. Hope this helps cheers

[@manologocho]

thanks you so much for the time you bring to explain and give me and other the advice to buy in a bike, will take note and hopefully buy the one that you reccomende me or the ktm jejej 1.80 mts, keep doing your videos and sharing them, good luck and thanks again, saludos mi pana ¡¡¡

[@clayderouin857]

great, but Im so sick of DCT reviews i could puke. Ok that's abit harsh....but give the manual ATAS some love amigo!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

That's cause Honda wanted us to test the DCT's and only brought auto's to the American press launch. I know i was pissed too. That and the lack of knobbies got me a little heated

[@clayderouin857]

Hmmmm.....how's about you tell them all your people wanna see some action with manual on knobbies?! Very economical advertising for them!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@clayderouin857 i will literally screen cap this and send it over. These things mean more than you may think. Thank you

[@garybarnett8282]

What jacket are you wearing?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Rev'it cayenne pro.

[@roguenomad966]

Steve_Kamrad can you review the cayenne pro please. I’m not sure weather to go sand 3 or klim badlands. I have a revit jacket and find that the zippers to be on the cheaper side. I’m looking for the best protection.. i worry about klims venting though as in the middle east in winter gets very cold at night and hot during the day when the sun is out. Id appreciate your two cents. Thanks

[@petergruppo5195]

@steve_kamrad new subscriber here. your videos are dope, keep 'em coming

[@ShooterMedic1818]

Do want this bike

[@steve_kamrad5216]

I want the atas suspension on a regular AT. Bad

[@swerve2850]

Ride the bike and then do voice overlays, then people can actually enjoy and hear what you say, not all of us have perfect hearing due to a crazy life including bike racing.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Mmmm. Yeah voice over videos are like cheating though. Also I have an article linked below that went up on Revzilla. Hope that helps

[@Vanguard1987]

Did he just wheelie a DCT?!?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yup

[@oso1165]

what helmet do you use ?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

It's linking in the description.

[@oso1165]

Steve_Kamrad better than shoei hornet or arai xd4?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@oso1165 i use the hornet x2 all the time. Love it. Long oval head shape. The xd4 is kinda old at this point

[@cjmeistervideos]

is it tubeless or tubed?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Tubed. For sure.

[@iamatallmidget]

Can i actually change the tyres to tubeless then?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@iamatallmidget it's not the tires, it's the rims. It's honestly not worth it. 21 inch tubeless rims have a hard time holding air after a small dent. That's why all the ktm 1090 guys run tubes if they run em hard.

[@MrAndrew1953]

I’ve had 2 BMW off roaders- R80GS and R100GS- still rate the BMWs higher off road.

[@AHMED_355]

Very cool I wish you safety always my friend
It's wonderful and I hope to have one like her
Your friend Ahmad is the Palestinian in Morocco --- Steve_Kamrad

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thank you!

[@jonsoderkvist]

I've seen you on the Instagram. Better subscribe.

[@MrToneDanza]

👉🏽👉🏽👉🏽

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Yo. The best

[@RupertU]

Great bike ... did USBDRs on it...... but..... I ride a KTM for serious adventure

[@michaelmongillo8142]

I look at it like weezers remake of africa... dont waste my time.

[@jameswilliams5982]

Bin Laden beard

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Lol. Not as pointy or dead

[@muhammadaltaf4121]

please talk with your mouth not your hand wen ride your motorcycle

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Don't tell me what to do.

[@danmac0]

Weak review.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

How do you figure?

[@robsonenduro3316]

dude almost quarter ton, fragile and expensive bike and you suggesting taking it for an solo adventure? LOL to coffee shop maybe yes...we have here another R1200GS.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

I've been to your youtube channel and you ride a NC750x. LOL. Also I'd suggest you take some riding classes. Your clutch skills are bad. Try standing too. So yeah I'd suggest YOU don't take an adventure bike past a starbucks untill you get some experience. Also all adventure bikes weight roughly the same and I haven't met a fragile one yet. Let me know if you need any recommendations for off road rider training. Cheers

[@robsonenduro3316]

How old are you Steve? 10? LOL, does you mom know you out at all?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Ummm my beard is old enough to buy beer bro. Troll me when you buy a real bike and learn how to ride it.

[@MichaelKlaser]

Rides NC750x and has “enduro” in his user name. This joke was already written by Robson, I’m just posting it.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

@@MichaelKlaser killed em. You should see him on IG. He has 0 followers