Once you get used to the DCT you will change your mind! Looks like you had made your mind up before giving it a chance, leave it in sport and just use the down shift paddle like you would on a geared bike before roundabouts and corners! Try it please 👍
Teapot, I noticed you biting back to a few negative reviews here mate. It did make me laugh but you you definitely do not need to justify yourself to anyone. Top Notch channel that just keeps giving and giving. Looking forward to the next one. 👍
Ha Ha thanks bud, yeah I do bite at times, just gets you down sometimes - I don’t mind constructive criticism but when someone basically just shouts “you’re sh@t!” in your face, the inner Scotsman makes an appearance 😉😂👍
Owned BMW GS and RT for over 10 years, just bought an AT DCT, best bike I ever owned, perfect balance of comfort, power, looks, handling, reliability, range ... I expect 2/3 of all bikes will be sold DCT within 10 years, just offers too many advantages, I thought I would never say that after 27 manual bikes over the past 28 years, but it is simply amazing, thank you Honda for this beautiful bike !
Good review as usual. I've got the manual version, non electronic suspension. It came fitted with the Honda quick shifter. Tried other makes and decided this was the right bike for me. Still haven't fully explored the screen & modes, seems fairly straightforward. Once lockdown 2.0 is over I'll start racking up the miles.
I've been using my ATAS for over one year, 50% Off Road and 50% On Road. I changed tyres for that (TKC80). I love this bike. Can go everywhere, no limits.
Spot on Bruce a very honest and true first ride - keep up the good work mate, I follow a few vloggers but i`ve got to say you a Chops tell it like it is - keep em coming big man!
Not been here for a while Bruce, sorry. Love your honest impartiality and telling us how it is. Will be interesting to see your opinion when you've lived with the bike and that transmission for a while. Hope you're OK, it was nice to see your message of support in the comments to Mr Fish on his recent health scare video. Thanks as ever!
Cheers Ray, good to see you here again bud, hope all is well. Aye that was a scary time for the old fart Fish, hopefully all is good now and we can get him away on another adventure somewhere 👍
Nice real world review. It took me a while to learn mine too, as like you i didn't read any manuals at first. But I had to 😂. It'll be interesting to hear what you think of sport 2 & 3 in your next review. S2 is my go to setting for everyday fun riding. S1 for lazy riding mood & S3 really wakes it up for the twisties.
I've got ATAS 2019 dct. I fitted the gearlever kit coz I couldn't get away with the hand trigger shifter on the bends. I love it now!!! Something to think about for dct owners who like to use manual mode. Also 2019 indicators self cancel.
Another great video. Seeing you playing with the dashboard, without a training course, us much more "real world". I'm not a huge fan of overly complicated dashes, and I think there's often " too much" info and too many buttons on a lot of modern bikes. But then, I like basic, old school bikes, probably because, as my kids say, I'm a bit of a dinosaur 🤣🤣🤣 Grumps.
DCT is something you have to grow into if your hardened gears only for me laddie biker. A lot of people won't even try it , as "IT'S NOT A PROPER BIKE" . but i love it. an would choose DCT over regular gear change every time now. I would even say DCT is quicker an better than a regular geared bike. i've had several of them now. you see on most tests they automatically go straight for sport3 as it has to go fast. i use normal 'D' mode 80% of the time an it really is very good. and now an then sport 3 comes out to play in deepest wales , as on the sweepy bends the gear changes are a little better spaced out .
Firstly Bruce I hope your scan results show nothing serious and you recover fully. I had a health scare last year and ended up having a kidney removed - wasn’t fun! I’m not sure this bike is for me. I have a 7 speed dual clutch gearbox with flappy paddles on my new VW Tiguan and it’s fantastic, but when I ride my motorbikes I want to be in full control, so I’ll stick with a manual. Also I went to try an Africa Twin at my local Honda dealer last year and they just weren’t interested in offering me a test ride. So I ended up getting a DL1000 from the Suzuki dealer just round the corner who couldn’t have been more helpful. Keep up the good work.
Cheers David, I’ve had the scan results back now and thankfully it doesn’t show any signs of a tumour or anything similar, so that’s a big relief. However they’re still none the wiser as to what caused the pancreatitis so I’ve got to get more blood tests now 🤷♂️ That’s a shame to hear your Honda dealership weren’t very proactive on the sales front - it seems a lot of dealerships still have t quite figured out that they actually need to provide a service in order for most of us to buy from them🤷♂️ Glad you’re happy with the DL1000, I’ve yet to try one 👍
As my 1250GSA is having its engine rebuilt due to valve damage after only 8000 miles I’m seriously considering trying one of these🙄. The sports mode apparently is a much better option, not like you to have not done your research😆. Glad you are feeling better after your illness.
Cheers Chukky, I’d say if you like the way a GS rides, then you probably won’t like this - but it’s a personal thing obviously. Sport mode is ok, it’s better than standard drive mode, but still races up the gearbox way too quick. The real beauties are the S2 & S3 modes (which I discover in the next vid🤦♂️) they completely transform the bike.
Being built like a corgi I'm unlikely to buy any adventure bike but I don't find it boring when stuff goes wrong in reviews. That's a big part of any buying decision. If I see you struggling with settings and screens it helps me to make a decision if the bike/app is for me plus I get the entertainment of you not knowing your arse from your elbow...result :)
Like the look of this but 18mths ago got myself a new VFR800 which I liked. However after A few weeks I had a few problems with it and the dealership I got it from were useless to say the least. After 11mths of grief I give up and sold it and got myself a new Tiger which was a breath of fresh air and not just the bike but the dealership. Don't think I will ever go back to Honda
Haw Bruce dont worry aboot the homework getting on the bike and messing wi the settings gives real world view, most riders will do same. Great wee run oot and as you say DCT taking a bit to get used too.Hope yer on the mend soon big man keep up the great work bringing us great content aw the best gammy haunds
Well Bruce I thought it was a cracking first ride review and really enjoyed it. TMF/Dicky Vegas say the dash is complex but the more you ride the more you learn.Enjoyed the video and I don’t particularly like the bike personally.
Great review Bruce and look forward to hearing your long term views of the bike👍I’m with TMF for simple dashboards on bikes, but I’m a convert to dynamic suspension on my 2018 GS Adv Rallye I have to admit😍
Cheers Gareth, Yes initially the dash on this just threw me, it’s almost like there was too much info available - I didn’t know where to start. However I will say that once you have a wee play, it’s fairly intuitive and easy to use
Prior preparation and planning prevents piss poor performance is what you were looking for Chief! 7 P’s Great video by the way😎👍I think if I fell out with my GS then I’d go for this one,manual though🤔 it’s a lovely looking bike, love the dash too
DCT isn't for everyone, I enjoy it because it means I can look around a bit more and saves my left fingers from clutching. You need a couple hundred mile to get used to it but your better off in the sport modes. It's not for you and that's fair enough, I respect that👍
I have a 2017 DCT, I tried 91 octane for a ride and it just chewed through the fuel, So as soon as the bike was almost empty, I put 95 octane back in, a far better fuel. From time to time I put 98 octane in, when I am feeling flush :). I prefer Sport than Drive, and I find that Drive changed the gears to fast. Sport seems to spread the gears out, between changes. Just recently I changed the tyres, for road tyres, Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2, certainly a different feel on the road... sticks like glue...
Thanks Graham, aye that’s very much how I try to do these ‘first ride’ vids - just approach it like everyone else and see how it rides. However admittedly, I should’ve know the basics before I hit record 👍
A heads up on the just below chest pain Bruce. If it isn't your pancreas then you might want to check out gaul bladder stones. Something that I had a couple of years ago - leads to very sharp extreme pain, attacks last for anything from 30mins to 5 hours. Once diagnosed its a routine operation to sort out, but my GP couldn't diagnose it. Just something to bare in mind.
Thanks bud - aye they’ve done ultrasounds and mri’s on my gallbladder too as they thought they’d seen a tumour, but all clear thankfully. No sign of gallstones either so they’re a bit stumped at the mo. Got to get more blood tests done 🤷♂️👍
I have the 2018 and I know what you mean about the suspension being overly soft. A 30 second preload adjustment squared it right away though, im sure getting it hilltop'd will help will bring it upto scratch too! Cheers dude 👍
Cheers Adam, It’s a surprising bike, I genuinely didn’t think it would be for me, but I think a manual version with a 19” front wheel would be a lot of fun on the roads👍
@@cpuuk Off road really a lot better than the gs,and like I said its a honda they dont go wrong.A pal of mine had brand new 1250gs cam problems after about 1500k.Not for me also bmw is in the top 5 worst brands for reliability about 40% compared to Honda 10%
Its a parrallel twin and its got 3 Sport modes,D mode is purely for economy and is designed to be lazy and get into top asap,give it time and you'll love it.
Looking forward to the follow up. I am sure that there is a blipper on the down change in there somewhere. Classic colour scheme and a typical Honda, looks so good 👍
There comes a point in time when too much information is just that, too much. I want to spend 99.9999% of my time looking at the road ahead/scenery and not at a screen to see what the bike should be doing. I've ridden a lot of these newer type of bikes on test rides and some mates bikes and i just think the latest screens are a distraction for me, even some of the most basic ones from a few years back with the mode control buttons are an issue. I'm all for basic rider aids like ABS and Traction control but i spend enough time looking at my phone screen and when i go for i ride i just want to forget about all that jazz. That and good review pal and im sure the bike itself when you somehow manage to forget about the tech is as good as any of the latest stuff available at present but i think i'll be holding unto my 2010 plate VStrom for a wee bit longer. Yes im an old grumpy bugger lol
No I agree to be honest. I like the new tft screens but I agree they shouldn’t be a distraction - this one is just too in your face for me, there’s no getting away from it! 👍
Morning I ride the Xtourer DCT it didnt have an upgrade on electrics for about five years . Therefore lacks multiple , must have gismos , which i didnt miss before . My bike was £10500 many bikes with the extensive add ons are £15000+ . This ATwin is a good bike but not a patch on mine plus the price ?????
Hope you are on the mend pal and re the bike, I'll be interested in a longer term review. I see this as a capable commuter. I'd probably get bored, bit like the NC750X, low revs and tad boring but capable.
Shame Honda have stopped this bike. I see it as more comparable with the GS and has a shaft to boot. I think Honda have thrown the kitchen sink at the AT and restricted the range a bit.
Another bike I like for a lot of reasons but still wouldn’t swap it for my tiger lol great vid keep up the good work stay safe and sane during lockdown
@@teapotone love your channel , and how did you ride for 24 hours , that’s so impressive, not sure what’s happened but after 5 hours I’m sore in the bum , didn’t notice this last year , o well I’m just getting older 53 this year
Great review, if you want the specs they’re available, what’s more important is to have a good trusted personal opinion, this tells you more than any spec sheet ever will👍
If you own a DCT bike and watch this review you may find it frustrating that Bruce isnt fully aware of how to use it. I do own a DCT but i also remember the first time i rode one, dealer put it in "D" and off you go. I hated it and bought the manual Crosstourer. I very much came to the conclusions that Bruce does on this film. Was only after talking to many owners and a very extended ride i decided to buy one. As for needing a computer course to operate the bike, if i were Honda id be thinking that maybe we should be working to make it more instinctive. Looking forward to the follow up Vids Bruce.
Hope you get better soon mate.. Think the DCT will take some getting used to. Will be good to see how this grows on you compared to the GS.. Great review as always. 👍
I’ve got the previous model with DCT. Why on earth Honda bothered with drive mode I’ve no idea. I just leave it in sport 2 and use paddle shifters when I want some manual input to the ride. It’s great when you get used to it. One less thing to think about in towns and can’t stall it. The lads at the Honda dealers I got it from did a test of the ATAS with DCT vs a fire blade. The ATAS was quicker to 80 due to the faster shifting so it’s there when you need it !
Really?! I would think to around 50-60 for sure, but the Blade will do over 80 in 1st. However the low down grunt of the adventure bikes will certainly beat them off the mark 👍
I had similar issues with a 2017 DCT AT - DCT never seemed quite right, loads of front dive on stopping, and lack of clutch feathering on slow U turns very frustrating - give the U turns a try on your next video!
I have a 2017 DCT and it really benefited from Hyperpro springs. Totally transformed the bike. No more diving and great 2-up. The standard suspension was too spongy. The lack of clutch and feathering is something I totally got used to. I learned to find finesse with the throttle and rear brake instead of the clutch. 3 years in and I love the bike more and more.
Got my '10 VFR1200f DCT delivered last night, and the battery has a few failed cells so won't start, dealer is sorting it so no point stressing. Should be tomorrow now :( Key worker though so still have a reason to ride. Hope your feeling better. Was strange seeing you riding without the beard hanging out
@@teapotone it does have self cancelling indicators btw Bruce. Obviously whoever had it before you turned that feature off for some reason. If there are any options your not sure about just give me a hit, I've had mine many months and encountered many things (I sent you a video of it running by the power of magic and positive thoughts recently, check your messenger messages 😂)
The DCT really shines in town, and in low speed maneuvers. It's not a "sport bike" kind of transmission... likely why Honda doesn't put it on their Sport bikes. I have the DCT on my NC750x, and love it.
I agree the DCT is fantastic town but not for slow speed stuff - that’s actually what really put me off this bike and is highlighted in the Sth West trip vid/s that will be coming soon. I found in the really tight hairpins around Devon that the DCT was too intrusive and would select 1st gear just as I was leaning into the turn in 2nd, causing the bike to unsettle - it was really annoying
Nice video, love your content dont understand some other people comments. This is a first ride, not a first and only bike review, I looked at this bike along with the GS F850, KTM 890. Its a nice bike but I found the GS a better all round machine the Honda was great but it was just not the same but I do love that colour very nice.
Hi Bruce You are Right the Honda Africa Twin is a Great bike But im with You it does every thing so well it could be classed as Boring ,Im stickng with My Multistrada 950 S ,its got Vibes and Heat under your Seat ,But it goes Like Your House on Fire and handles as good as a Sports Bike ,All i say shop around you dont have to pay top money for any bike Pre Regs and Cancelled orders are out there
I loved mine. Even shot a few videos and was looking forward to some adventures on it next year. I bought the maxed out version. And paid three grand extra for the full luggage kit and bars and extras. After three months I didn't get all of the kit. My dash failed and was being rma'd by Honda. Then i got the bars and side lights and sometimes they wouldn't come on. My local dealer in Belfast is a Honda, yamaha and BMW dealer. I decided to trade it in at quite a loss to order a new BMW anniversary edition r1250gs which I should get in January 2021. Africa twin -- You need to ride it in sport /// mode as drive mode is awful as you said. To get to higher sport modes you hold the button longer and it rotates between 1 2 and 3. Carplay is great shame no one ever goes into detail. I love Honda but between this and my issues with the 2020 fireblade rr-r sp I am pretty sure this will be my last Honda. Their customer services in Northern Ireland are pretty poor.
I rode my brothers AT in the alps last year and had the right foot peg down after just a couple of bends. I was really surprised and nearly crashed! they are a lovely handling bike but the engine is a bit lazy.
HI can you put up the link to the glove pads you talked about in the start of the video and try it in sport 2 as RV likes that the best. great first video
Hi David, There’s still lots to come on this bike so don’t worry, I do find the S2/S3 modes and have a play. Regarding the pads, there’s a vid coming soon on them 👍
Bruce you need more time on that bike or any DCT I have owned the Xtourer for one year . A better knowledge and understanding of the gear box would help . I have four modes on mine and generally use S2 then adjust if needed using the selectors, this is a posh quick shifter Cheers TJ
Aye I totally agree with you there. There’s more to come on this bike as I took it away on a trip to get to know it better. The S2/S3 modes totally transform it for me, becomes a lot of fun
Fantastic real life review Bruce.👍🏻 👏🏻 This is what the proper Biker wants to see . & that’s what happens when the dealer lets you have it for 20 minutes 🤪🙄 keep doing it your way & let the “keyboard experts” do it there way 🤔🛎😉 LYL BROTHER
You should spend a week with this bike before your review at the DCT is incredible once you know how to use it it learns the way you like this shift. You can also adjust engine braking very easily or how much power you want to bike to have even Willie control
Hi Bruce Firstly, I hope you're feeling better now. As usual another fantastic watch. We all love watching you in our household. Would you possibly be able to send me a code for the Calimoto app? Thanks in advance. Enjoy the NATIONALS lockdown. Keep up the great work. We look forward to your next vid.
Hi Amanda, Thanks very much, that’s great to hear you all enjoy the vids 👍 If you drop me an email to info@teapotone.com or Dm me on Instagram/Facebook then I’ll send you a code 👍
Almost pulled the trigger on one of these a few weeks ago, still think it's the best looking ADV's out there, but didn't. Think Honda have slightly (over) priced it out of the market after the original AT, of which people only asked for tubeless tyres and cruse control. Honda just over did it and sent the price way up until it is now going toe to toe with the big guns on price, £17k+ for the top model and you still have to add luggage. They had an almost perfect recipe with the previous model that just needed a few tweaks, but that over did it, and that's a shame.
@@teapotone 700 f***** quid for the original quickshifter is a terrible price tho. Things like that may push me towards the Triumph rally pro. As is I can't get anywhere near them for a test here in North Wales just yet. I'll keep saving haha.
Hi Bruce, first time watcher. Wish you a speedy recovery. Question, I have the same Rode Wireless Go mic with my GoPro8 and can't seem to find where to put the tx mic for best results. You seem to have it down pretty well. Any advice plz buddy. Cheers 👍
Hi Tremayne, I’m not sure if you think I use the wireless go mic in my lid whilst riding or not? I don’t, I use a standard lavalier mic setup in my lid connected directed to the GoPro for all the onbike stuff. I use the wireless mic for off-bike piece to camera stuff.
Seem to be attracting some keyboard warriors in the comments . I hope they make you laugh as much as I do. Did you go to BJs on the beach when you were in Camber? I did, and was sadly disappointed. Looking forward to the full review when you've got your head round it fully. GWS and take care.
Sorry to hear you’ve been a bit Tom & Dick, hope you get better soon. Couple of times you referred to the bike as a VTwin, I thought it was a parallel twin. Personally don’t like those colours, plain red looks better. Never ridden a DCT, don’t wish to sound like a Luddite but doesn’t attract me.
I found it weird how most of the cars in the UK are manual when the roads are probably more suited to autos yet they’ve got auto bikes hahah!! Although you can get them here down under too.
Hmm, I must admit the auto gearbox doesn't seem like something I'd like. I like to hang on gears sometimes and just know what is going to be available right when I need it. (The bike's WAY too big for me anyway so not for me). Cheers Bruce!
Hi Bruce aka TP1, modern machines are so full of tec it’s unreal especially as I am a dinosaur, but as you proved it does not take too long to get ones head round it, an interesting learning curve at time, bit like the GoPro, I remember you had a few issues with your audio, mine has an awful audio issue as in sounds like crackelin static, how did you sort yours if you don’t mind, stay safe.
Cheers Derek, I’ve fixed it by buying the Hero9! Ridiculous I know but I was losing so much content from unusable audio so had to go for it. I tried sugru’ing the mic cable to the audio adaptor but still had this sporadic crackling on my audio - I think it was actually coming from the usc-c connection from the adaptor to the GoPro 🤷♂️ I use the media mod now with the hero9 and it allows the 3.5mm audio hack to be connected direct without the adaptor
@@teapotone cheers Bruce, after my 7 I had the 8 and media mod, guess what is it still crackles, fed up just as you were, will persevere with trials may all end up in the bin and resort to video dubbing, enjoy🍻
Really?! I also use some silicone putty which I mould around the 3.5mm jack where it goes into the media mod - this is to try and weatherproof it but it may also keep the connection solid when riding at higher speeds 🤷♂️ The putty is just a mouldable earplug that swimmers use, I just break a bit off and mould it where I want
Bruce, good afternoon, well the Gopros are safe(for now), issue with my 8 was the Lavalier adapter, TRSS to TRS, had a spare, fitted and just been out on the GS and spot on, as we wear Scorpion Exo Tec helmets, like the choice of open face and full face these suit us perfectly, an issue arises when a mic has to be fitted, tried all sorts of locations, cheek throat mike but found a good answer from a Paraglider Pilot, half a reasonable sized ball, lined with foam blue tac mounted the Lav mike so the front pointed straight at my speech unit(mouth), fitted a dead cat and covered with material and all mounted on an old mic bendy arm, 75 plus today and to me anyway it is the best I have managed so far, very little wind noise and clear speech, now to work on the 7, thanks for all your tips to hold everything in place, I used Blue Tac today and all is good, I can sleep easy now, Cheers and ride safe.
Wow Derek that sounds some setup! Have you done a vid at all to show the sound quality it provides as I’d be very interested to hear. Glad you’ve got it sorted bud 👍
Once you get used to the DCT you will change your mind! Looks like you had made your mind up before giving it a chance, leave it in sport and just use the down shift paddle like you would on a geared bike before roundabouts and corners! Try it please 👍
Teapot, I noticed you biting back to a few negative reviews here mate. It did make me laugh but you you definitely do not need to justify yourself to anyone. Top Notch channel that just keeps giving and giving. Looking forward to the next one. 👍
Ha Ha thanks bud, yeah I do bite at times, just gets you down sometimes - I don’t mind constructive criticism but when someone basically just shouts “you’re sh@t!” in your face, the inner Scotsman makes an appearance 😉😂👍
Bruce would you do a charity mma \ boxing match with one of the hecklers ? Let's get it on!
Ha Ha knowing my luck I’d get my arse handed to me, or break my shoulder trying to get in the cage! 🤦♂️
Hi Bruce, sorry to hear that you have been unwell - here's to a very quick and full recovery. Another great review btw.
Owned BMW GS and RT for over 10 years, just bought an AT DCT, best bike I ever owned, perfect balance of comfort, power, looks, handling, reliability, range ... I expect 2/3 of all bikes will be sold DCT within 10 years, just offers too many advantages, I thought I would never say that after 27 manual bikes over the past 28 years, but it is simply amazing, thank you Honda for this beautiful bike !
Horses for courses, each to their own and all that... but DCT is definitely not for me. Just too intrusive ultimately
Good review as usual. I've got the manual version, non electronic suspension. It came fitted with the Honda quick shifter. Tried other makes and decided this was the right bike for me. Still haven't fully explored the screen & modes, seems fairly straightforward. Once lockdown 2.0 is over I'll start racking up the miles.
I've been using my ATAS for over one year, 50% Off Road and 50% On Road. I changed tyres for that (TKC80). I love this bike. Can go everywhere, no limits.
thanks for a honest opinion on the dct bruce. sorry to hear you have been unwell stay safe
Thanks a lot Bob, and you bud 👍
Spot on Bruce a very honest and true first ride - keep up the good work mate, I follow a few vloggers but i`ve got to say you a Chops tell it like it is - keep em coming big man!
Thanks Andy 👍
Not been here for a while Bruce, sorry. Love your honest impartiality and telling us how it is. Will be interesting to see your opinion when you've lived with the bike and that transmission for a while. Hope you're OK, it was nice to see your message of support in the comments to Mr Fish on his recent health scare video. Thanks as ever!
Cheers Ray, good to see you here again bud, hope all is well.
Aye that was a scary time for the old fart Fish, hopefully all is good now and we can get him away on another adventure somewhere 👍
Hi Bruce love your vlogs and the one thing we do get is your honesty and that's what makes you as a person. keep them coming
Thank you very much bud, I appreciate that 👍🙏
your very welcome and Thank you for what you give to all of us.hope you will be ok. Take care
Nice real world review. It took me a while to learn mine too, as like you i didn't read any manuals at first. But I had to 😂. It'll be interesting to hear what you think of sport 2 & 3 in your next review. S2 is my go to setting for everyday fun riding. S1 for lazy riding mood & S3 really wakes it up for the twisties.
I've got ATAS 2019 dct.
I fitted the gearlever kit coz I couldn't get away with the hand trigger shifter on the bends. I love it now!!!
Something to think about for dct owners who like to use manual mode.
Also 2019 indicators self cancel.
Prayers and best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery. ❤️
Thank you Peter 👍
@@teapotone You are welcome. 😊
Another great video.
Seeing you playing with the dashboard, without a training course, us much more "real world".
I'm not a huge fan of overly complicated dashes, and I think there's often " too much" info and too many buttons on a lot of modern bikes.
But then, I like basic, old school bikes, probably because, as my kids say, I'm a bit of a dinosaur 🤣🤣🤣
Grumps.
Not just you I'm 33 I'm happy with revs and a speedo that's all you really need they are getting too complicated.
Cracking first ride. Keeping it real and living life. Stay safe and look forward to the next vid & podcast.
Thanks very much bud, and you 👍
DCT is something you have to grow into if your hardened gears only for me laddie biker. A lot of people won't even try it , as "IT'S NOT A PROPER BIKE" . but i love it. an would choose DCT over regular gear change every time now. I would even say DCT is quicker an better than a regular geared bike. i've had several of them now. you see on most tests they automatically go straight for sport3 as it has to go fast. i use normal 'D' mode 80% of the time an it really is very good. and now an then sport 3 comes out to play in deepest wales , as on the sweepy bends the gear changes are a little better spaced out .
Got a 2020 basic model love it I’m also only 5’6” not had any problems with its size yet but not done any proper off road yet 👍
Enjoyed that first impressions review Bruce thank you 👍
Firstly Bruce I hope your scan results show nothing serious and you recover fully. I had a health scare last year and ended up having a kidney removed - wasn’t fun!
I’m not sure this bike is for me. I have a 7 speed dual clutch gearbox with flappy paddles on my new VW Tiguan and it’s fantastic, but when I ride my motorbikes I want to be in full control, so I’ll stick with a manual. Also I went to try an Africa Twin at my local Honda dealer last year and they just weren’t interested in offering me a test ride. So I ended up getting a DL1000 from the Suzuki dealer just round the corner who couldn’t have been more helpful. Keep up the good work.
Cheers David,
I’ve had the scan results back now and thankfully it doesn’t show any signs of a tumour or anything similar, so that’s a big relief. However they’re still none the wiser as to what caused the pancreatitis so I’ve got to get more blood tests now 🤷♂️
That’s a shame to hear your Honda dealership weren’t very proactive on the sales front - it seems a lot of dealerships still have t quite figured out that they actually need to provide a service in order for most of us to buy from them🤷♂️
Glad you’re happy with the DL1000, I’ve yet to try one 👍
As my 1250GSA is having its engine rebuilt due to valve damage after only 8000 miles I’m seriously considering trying one of these🙄. The sports mode apparently is a much better option, not like you to have not done your research😆. Glad you are feeling better after your illness.
Cheers Chukky,
I’d say if you like the way a GS rides, then you probably won’t like this - but it’s a personal thing obviously.
Sport mode is ok, it’s better than standard drive mode, but still races up the gearbox way too quick. The real beauties are the S2 & S3 modes (which I discover in the next vid🤦♂️) they completely transform the bike.
Good honest review and the blues just made it all the more entertaining IMO Brought out a few chuckles
This is good content I like the actual first test ride vibe I'd be completely lost with that computer.
You are in my prayers for a swift recovery. I may have to have DCT, very nice review.
Being built like a corgi I'm unlikely to buy any adventure bike but I don't find it boring when stuff goes wrong in reviews. That's a big part of any buying decision. If I see you struggling with settings and screens it helps me to make a decision if the bike/app is for me plus I get the entertainment of you not knowing your arse from your elbow...result :)
Loved the bike, hated the dct when I test road. Great vid as always 👍
Like the look of this but 18mths ago got myself a new VFR800 which I liked. However after A few weeks I had a few problems with it and the dealership I got it from were useless to say the least. After 11mths of grief I give up and sold it and got myself a new Tiger which was a breath of fresh air and not just the bike but the dealership. Don't think I will ever go back to Honda
Best review I've seen on DCT picking up on my concerns about it. Heard fitting a quick shifter for 600 and it works very well too
Haw Bruce dont worry aboot the homework getting on the bike and messing wi the settings gives real world view, most riders will do same. Great wee run oot and as you say DCT taking a bit to get used too.Hope yer on the mend soon big man keep up the great work bringing us great content aw the best gammy haunds
Cheers John 🙏
Good honest first ride review Bruce👍
Cheers Gary, thanks bud 👍
Well Bruce I thought it was a cracking first ride review and really enjoyed it. TMF/Dicky Vegas say the dash is complex but the more you ride the more you learn.Enjoyed the video and I don’t particularly like the bike personally.
Thanks Simon 👍
Great review Bruce and look forward to hearing your long term views of the bike👍I’m with TMF for simple dashboards on bikes, but I’m a convert to dynamic suspension on my 2018 GS Adv Rallye I have to admit😍
Cheers Gareth,
Yes initially the dash on this just threw me, it’s almost like there was too much info available - I didn’t know where to start.
However I will say that once you have a wee play, it’s fairly intuitive and easy to use
Great review man, Top job Bruce
Cheers Lee, thanks very much bud 👍
Prior preparation and planning prevents piss poor performance is what you were looking for Chief! 7 P’s
Great video by the way😎👍I think if I fell out with my GS then I’d go for this one,manual though🤔 it’s a lovely looking bike, love the dash too
Great vid Bruce, dct is not my cup of tea. Shifting by yourself for me is part of the fun of riding. Stay safe
DCT isn't for everyone, I enjoy it because it means I can look around a bit more and saves my left fingers from clutching. You need a couple hundred mile to get used to it but your better off in the sport modes. It's not for you and that's fair enough, I respect that👍
Great informative review and thoughts.. Makes a great add on when having a look at the bikestores👍🏻
I have a 2017 DCT, I tried 91 octane for a ride and it just chewed through the fuel, So as soon as the bike was almost empty, I put 95 octane back in, a far better fuel. From time to time
I put 98 octane in, when I am feeling flush :). I prefer Sport than Drive, and I find that Drive changed the gears to fast. Sport seems to spread the gears out, between changes. Just recently I changed the tyres, for road tyres, Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2, certainly a different feel on the road... sticks like glue...
Great first ride review. Treat it like a blind date learn as you go, as we all do! 👍
Thanks Graham, aye that’s very much how I try to do these ‘first ride’ vids - just approach it like everyone else and see how it rides.
However admittedly, I should’ve know the basics before I hit record 👍
Just got a 2017 AT and love it had an Explorer, more power, but the AT so much better balanced and fun to ride in the technicals.
A heads up on the just below chest pain Bruce. If it isn't your pancreas then you might want to check out gaul bladder stones. Something that I had a couple of years ago - leads to very sharp extreme pain, attacks last for anything from 30mins to 5 hours. Once diagnosed its a routine operation to sort out, but my GP couldn't diagnose it. Just something to bare in mind.
Thanks bud - aye they’ve done ultrasounds and mri’s on my gallbladder too as they thought they’d seen a tumour, but all clear thankfully. No sign of gallstones either so they’re a bit stumped at the mo. Got to get more blood tests done 🤷♂️👍
@@teapotone Good luck to you brother. I know you'll keep positive and get it sorted.
I have the 2018 and I know what you mean about the suspension being overly soft. A 30 second preload adjustment squared it right away though, im sure getting it hilltop'd will help will bring it upto scratch too! Cheers dude 👍
Great review the more i see the Africa Twin the more it grows on me.
Cheers Adam,
It’s a surprising bike, I genuinely didn’t think it would be for me, but I think a manual version with a 19” front wheel would be a lot of fun on the roads👍
What about off road.....don't tell me your not going to take it off road 🤔😉🤣😂🤣😂
🤢
Yeah I'm with you on this one Bruce. Riding a Super Adventure S, I dont think I could go backwards to this cause I'd just feel sad. 😉
Mega bike and review, cheers mate👍🏻
No bother bud, glad you enjoyed it 👍
In my opinion have ridden both Africa twin and the gs1250, THE HONDA FOR ME ALLDAY,And it won't break as much
Out of interest, what do you feel the Honda does better?
@@cpuuk Off road really a lot better than the gs,and like I said its a honda they dont go wrong.A pal of mine had brand new 1250gs cam problems after about 1500k.Not for me also bmw is in the top 5 worst brands for reliability about 40% compared to Honda 10%
Great review Bruce, Hope the Health issues get sorted.
Go Careful out there and ride safe mate !!
Its a parrallel twin and its got 3 Sport modes,D mode is purely for economy and is designed to be lazy and get into top asap,give it time and you'll love it.
I look forward to the full review to see if you get to grips with the dash and rider modes better
Looking forward to the follow up.
I am sure that there is a blipper on the down change in there somewhere.
Classic colour scheme and a typical Honda, looks so good 👍
Nice review and agree that DCT might not be best for an adventure bike though it is interesting technology. Heal up and listen to the Mrs!
Good first look video Bruce.
Thanks very much 👍
There comes a point in time when too much information is just that, too much. I want to spend 99.9999% of my time looking at the road ahead/scenery and not at a screen to see what the bike should be doing. I've ridden a lot of these newer type of bikes on test rides and some mates bikes and i just think the latest screens are a distraction for me, even some of the most basic ones from a few years back with the mode control buttons are an issue. I'm all for basic rider aids like ABS and Traction control but i spend enough time looking at my phone screen and when i go for i ride i just want to forget about all that jazz.
That and good review pal and im sure the bike itself when you somehow manage to forget about the tech is as good as any of the latest stuff available at present but i think i'll be holding unto my 2010 plate VStrom for a wee bit longer. Yes im an old grumpy bugger lol
No I agree to be honest. I like the new tft screens but I agree they shouldn’t be a distraction - this one is just too in your face for me, there’s no getting away from it! 👍
Most modern cars are now similar; great big touchscreens plonked on the dash. Any wonder why drivers are distracted...I'm grumpy as well.......
Morning I ride the Xtourer DCT it didnt have an upgrade on electrics for about five years . Therefore lacks multiple , must have gismos , which i didnt miss before . My bike was £10500 many bikes with the extensive add ons are £15000+ . This ATwin is a good bike but not a patch on mine plus the price ?????
Hope you are on the mend pal and re the bike, I'll be interested in a longer term review. I see this as a capable commuter. I'd probably get bored, bit like the NC750X, low revs and tad boring but capable.
Sorry about the pancreatitis, mate! Make sure your TGs are less than 400. Really, less than 100. Hope you're feeling better soon!
Loving your vids. Can we see a review on the cross tourer? That also comes with dct but with a bigger v4 motor.
Cheers Phil, I’ll see what I can do bud 👍
Shame Honda have stopped this bike. I see it as more comparable with the GS and has a shaft to boot. I think Honda have thrown the kitchen sink at the AT and restricted the range a bit.
Another bike I like for a lot of reasons but still wouldn’t swap it for my tiger lol great vid keep up the good work stay safe and sane during lockdown
Cheers Buddy, and you 👍
Loved your thoughts on the African twin , I ride a 2016 GSA and really on the fence with do I upgraded to the GSA1250 of take the adventure DCT twin ?
Thanks bud, I’d really advise you to take the DCT Africa Twin for a good spin on your usual roads - DCT isn’t for everyone 🤷♂️👍
@@teapotone love your channel , and how did you ride for 24 hours , that’s so impressive, not sure what’s happened but after 5 hours I’m sore in the bum , didn’t notice this last year , o well I’m just getting older 53 this year
Great review, if you want the specs they’re available, what’s more important is to have a good trusted personal opinion, this tells you more than any spec sheet ever will👍
If you own a DCT bike and watch this review you may find it frustrating that Bruce isnt fully aware of how to use it. I do own a DCT but i also remember the first time i rode one, dealer put it in "D" and off you go. I hated it and bought the manual Crosstourer. I very much came to the conclusions that Bruce does on this film. Was only after talking to many owners and a very extended ride i decided to buy one.
As for needing a computer course to operate the bike, if i were Honda id be thinking that maybe we should be working to make it more instinctive.
Looking forward to the follow up Vids Bruce.
Helpful review as always Bruce. Take it easy and stay well 🙂
Hope you get better soon mate.. Think the DCT will take some getting used to. Will be good to see how this grows on you compared to the GS.. Great review as always. 👍
I’ve got the previous model with DCT. Why on earth Honda bothered with drive mode I’ve no idea. I just leave it in sport 2 and use paddle shifters when I want some manual input to the ride. It’s great when you get used to it. One less thing to think about in towns and can’t stall it.
The lads at the Honda dealers I got it from did a test of the ATAS with DCT vs a fire blade. The ATAS was quicker to 80 due to the faster shifting so it’s there when you need it !
Really?! I would think to around 50-60 for sure, but the Blade will do over 80 in 1st. However the low down grunt of the adventure bikes will certainly beat them off the mark 👍
Feel better Bruce and as usual great vid. What are those pads you talked about putting on your gloves?
Cheers Richard,
There’s a vid coming on them soon bud 👍
In Automatic mode, where the bike shifts gears for you, does the bike's electronic display tell you which gear the bike is currently in?
I had similar issues with a 2017 DCT AT - DCT never seemed quite right, loads of front dive on stopping, and lack of clutch feathering on slow U turns very frustrating - give the U turns a try on your next video!
Funny you should say that, that’s exactly what I found with it too and it’s in the long term review vid coming soon
I have a 2017 DCT and it really benefited from Hyperpro springs. Totally transformed the bike. No more diving and great 2-up. The standard suspension was too spongy. The lack of clutch and feathering is something I totally got used to. I learned to find finesse with the throttle and rear brake instead of the clutch. 3 years in and I love the bike more and more.
As soon as they can give me a self driving motorcycle, I'll buy one!
Got my '10 VFR1200f DCT delivered last night, and the battery has a few failed cells so won't start, dealer is sorting it so no point stressing. Should be tomorrow now :( Key worker though so still have a reason to ride. Hope your feeling better. Was strange seeing you riding without the beard hanging out
My 2019 has 24ltr tank and indicators self cancel. On dct you may have 3 sport settings i found 2 is the best for engine braking. 👍
Yep it does have 3 sport settings - I only found this out after the update boyish first ride though, so there’s more to come in future vid/s👍
@@teapotone it does have self cancelling indicators btw Bruce. Obviously whoever had it before you turned that feature off for some reason. If there are any options your not sure about just give me a hit, I've had mine many months and encountered many things (I sent you a video of it running by the power of magic and positive thoughts recently, check your messenger messages 😂)
Thanks bud, but this was filmed last month so the bike is back with Honda now. There’s more to come on this though as I took it away on a trip 👍
The DCT really shines in town, and in low speed maneuvers. It's not a "sport bike" kind of transmission... likely why Honda doesn't put it on their Sport bikes. I have the DCT on my NC750x, and love it.
I agree the DCT is fantastic town but not for slow speed stuff - that’s actually what really put me off this bike and is highlighted in the Sth West trip vid/s that will be coming soon. I found in the really tight hairpins around Devon that the DCT was too intrusive and would select 1st gear just as I was leaning into the turn in 2nd, causing the bike to unsettle - it was really annoying
Nice video, love your content dont understand some other people comments. This is a first ride, not a first and only bike review, I looked at this bike along with the GS F850, KTM 890. Its a nice bike but I found the GS a better all round machine the Honda was great but it was just not the same but I do love that colour very nice.
12:52 If you rev the bike at a stop will to lurch forward?
Yes, if you have it in Drive or Sport modes - but if you have it in neutral then no
Hi Bruce You are Right the Honda Africa Twin is a Great bike But im with You it does every thing so well it could be classed as Boring ,Im stickng with My Multistrada 950 S ,its got Vibes and Heat under your Seat ,But it goes Like Your House on Fire and handles as good as a Sports Bike ,All i say shop around you dont have to pay top money for any bike Pre Regs and Cancelled orders are out there
Aye you’re absolutely right there bud, plenty of cracking deals to be had at the moment 👍
Nice one tea pot 💯😉🏴🍻
Great review bruce cant wait to see if u end up loving it like dicky vegas 😁😁😁
Can't see the point in DCT on a bike when the alternative is a manual with a QS. Hope the scan results are nothing scary and you get it sorted😉
Morning🙂hope the hospital sorts you out👍i like your videos even more now you are riding my local roads 😁calimoto took me out that way too🙂🏍
I loved mine. Even shot a few videos and was looking forward to some adventures on it next year. I bought the maxed out version. And paid three grand extra for the full luggage kit and bars and extras. After three months I didn't get all of the kit. My dash failed and was being rma'd by Honda. Then i got the bars and side lights and sometimes they wouldn't come on. My local dealer in Belfast is a Honda, yamaha and BMW dealer. I decided to trade it in at quite a loss to order a new BMW anniversary edition r1250gs which I should get in January 2021. Africa twin -- You need to ride it in sport /// mode as drive mode is awful as you said. To get to higher sport modes you hold the button longer and it rotates between 1 2 and 3. Carplay is great shame no one ever goes into detail.
I love Honda but between this and my issues with the 2020 fireblade rr-r sp I am pretty sure this will be my last Honda. Their customer services in Northern Ireland are pretty poor.
Aye I found the S2/S3 modes after this first ride so they are coming in the more in-depth vid/s👍
@@teapotone good man I enjoy your videos made. Very real world with no bollocks.
I rode my brothers AT in the alps last year and had the right foot peg down after just a couple of bends. I was really surprised and nearly crashed! they are a lovely handling bike but the engine is a bit lazy.
Glad I'm not the only one that initially thought....nah! Its definitely a bike you need to spend more time on.
Aye absolutely 👍
Great review!
Cheers Pete 👍
Whats your helmet please eg brand etc ?
it looks rather cool
It’s called the Ruroc Atlas 2.0 - I’ve done a vid on it 👍
Sorry to hear you’ve been unwell Bruce, hope you’re on the mend.
HI can you put up the link to the glove pads you talked about in the start of the video and try it in sport 2 as RV likes that the best. great first video
Hi David,
There’s still lots to come on this bike so don’t worry, I do find the S2/S3 modes and have a play.
Regarding the pads, there’s a vid coming soon on them 👍
@@teapotone ok thanks 👍
Bruce you need more time on that bike or any DCT I have owned the Xtourer for one year .
A better knowledge and understanding of the gear box would help . I have four modes on mine and generally use S2 then adjust if needed using the selectors, this is a posh quick shifter Cheers TJ
Aye I totally agree with you there. There’s more to come on this bike as I took it away on a trip to get to know it better. The S2/S3 modes totally transform it for me, becomes a lot of fun
Fantastic real life review Bruce.👍🏻 👏🏻 This is what the proper Biker wants to see . & that’s what happens when the dealer lets you have it for 20 minutes 🤪🙄 keep doing it your way & let the “keyboard experts” do it there way 🤔🛎😉 LYL BROTHER
Great review Bruce. Not a fan of the dct. Still getting used to quick shifter and auto blipper. 😂
This is one huge bike!
It’s a big old haddock for sure!
Bruce , put it in sport 2/3 different bike and in the twisties go manual !let the fun begin 🏍🏍🏍
Aye absolutely, the next vid on this bike shows the S2/S3 modes Jon - totally transforms the bike 👍
You should spend a week with this bike before your review at the DCT is incredible once you know how to use it it learns the way you like this shift. You can also adjust engine braking very easily or how much power you want to bike to have even Willie control
I had the bike for 2 weeks and did a thousand miles on it bud
Hi Bruce
Firstly, I hope you're feeling better now. As usual another fantastic watch. We all love watching you in our household.
Would you possibly be able to send me a code for the Calimoto app? Thanks in advance.
Enjoy the NATIONALS lockdown.
Keep up the great work. We look forward to your next vid.
Hi Amanda,
Thanks very much, that’s great to hear you all enjoy the vids 👍
If you drop me an email to info@teapotone.com or Dm me on Instagram/Facebook then I’ll send you a code 👍
Almost pulled the trigger on one of these a few weeks ago, still think it's the best looking ADV's out there, but didn't. Think Honda have slightly (over) priced it out of the market after the original AT, of which people only asked for tubeless tyres and cruse control. Honda just over did it and sent the price way up until it is now going toe to toe with the big guns on price, £17k+ for the top model and you still have to add luggage. They had an almost perfect recipe with the previous model that just needed a few tweaks, but that over did it, and that's a shame.
Would it just be better with a manual with a quick shifter? That's what I'm looking at this year.
For me personally, yes 👍
@@teapotone 700 f***** quid for the original quickshifter is a terrible price tho. Things like that may push me towards the Triumph rally pro. As is I can't get anywhere near them for a test here in North Wales just yet. I'll keep saving haha.
Hi Bruce, first time watcher. Wish you a speedy recovery.
Question, I have the same Rode Wireless Go mic with my GoPro8 and can't seem to find where to put the tx mic for best results. You seem to have it down pretty well. Any advice plz buddy. Cheers 👍
Hi Tremayne,
I’m not sure if you think I use the wireless go mic in my lid whilst riding or not?
I don’t, I use a standard lavalier mic setup in my lid connected directed to the GoPro for all the onbike stuff.
I use the wireless mic for off-bike piece to camera stuff.
Seem to be attracting some keyboard warriors in the comments . I hope they make you laugh as much as I do. Did you go to BJs on the beach when you were in Camber? I did, and was sadly disappointed.
Looking forward to the full review when you've got your head round it fully. GWS and take care.
Sorry to hear you’ve been a bit Tom & Dick, hope you get better soon. Couple of times you referred to the bike as a VTwin, I thought it was a parallel twin. Personally don’t like those colours, plain red looks better. Never ridden a DCT, don’t wish to sound like a Luddite but doesn’t attract me.
Aye it is a parallel twin, I made a mistake, I correct this later in the vid
@@teapotone I saw that just as I pressed the send button.
Think the 2020 Africa Twin has Apple CarPlay - so presumably you could put Calimoto on the main bike screen and keep your eyes on the road?
Calmoto doesn't work with carplay... Yet but they are working on it apparently. Honda are working on maki g the bike work with android auto also
Great vid
Thanks William 👍
I found it weird how most of the cars in the UK are manual when the roads are probably more suited to autos yet they’ve got auto bikes hahah!! Although you can get them here down under too.
Hmm, I must admit the auto gearbox doesn't seem like something I'd like. I like to hang on gears sometimes and just know what is going to be available right when I need it. (The bike's WAY too big for me anyway so not for me). Cheers Bruce!
It can be ridden in manual mode instead of auto. Also a gearshift kit is available.
Hi Bruce aka TP1, modern machines are so full of tec it’s unreal especially as I am a dinosaur, but as you proved it does not take too long to get ones head round it, an interesting learning curve at time, bit like the GoPro, I remember you had a few issues with your audio, mine has an awful audio issue as in sounds like crackelin static, how did you sort yours if you don’t mind, stay safe.
Cheers Derek,
I’ve fixed it by buying the Hero9! Ridiculous I know but I was losing so much content from unusable audio so had to go for it.
I tried sugru’ing the mic cable to the audio adaptor but still had this sporadic crackling on my audio - I think it was actually coming from the usc-c connection from the adaptor to the GoPro 🤷♂️
I use the media mod now with the hero9 and it allows the 3.5mm audio hack to be connected direct without the adaptor
@@teapotone cheers Bruce, after my 7 I had the 8 and media mod, guess what is it still crackles, fed up just as you were, will persevere with trials may all end up in the bin and resort to video dubbing, enjoy🍻
Really?! I also use some silicone putty which I mould around the 3.5mm jack where it goes into the media mod - this is to try and weatherproof it but it may also keep the connection solid when riding at higher speeds 🤷♂️ The putty is just a mouldable earplug that swimmers use, I just break a bit off and mould it where I want
Bruce, good afternoon, well the Gopros are safe(for now), issue with my 8 was the Lavalier adapter, TRSS to TRS, had a spare, fitted and just been out on the GS and spot on, as we wear Scorpion Exo Tec helmets, like the choice of open face and full face these suit us perfectly, an issue arises when a mic has to be fitted, tried all sorts of locations, cheek throat mike but found a good answer from a Paraglider Pilot, half a reasonable sized ball, lined with foam blue tac mounted the Lav mike so the front pointed straight at my speech unit(mouth), fitted a dead cat and covered with material and all mounted on an old mic bendy arm, 75 plus today and to me anyway it is the best I have managed so far, very little wind noise and clear speech, now to work on the 7, thanks for all your tips to hold everything in place, I used Blue Tac today and all is good, I can sleep easy now, Cheers and ride safe.
Wow Derek that sounds some setup! Have you done a vid at all to show the sound quality it provides as I’d be very interested to hear.
Glad you’ve got it sorted bud 👍