TheMissendenFlyer no problem thought it was my setup for a minute. Good to see you aren’t afraid to say the bike isn’t for you! Too many vloggers will only say positive things about bikes provided to them.
A good review. I agree with your points except the low speed manoeuvring. After two years on a 2016 DCT model I have learned to use a little back brake against throttle. This gives me very accurate low speed control. DCT in the mountains of Japan is an absolute pleasure. If I come across as biased, I am! I love my bike.
No worries with that Peter! ....and yes a few have commented on trail braking, I did miss having a clutch to feather but I guess you get used to it with time and practice...
I had assumed he meant it was snatchy *with* some braking in a u turn...well....TMF is a bit of a perfectionist - its probably not noticible! This is the man who was irritated by a slow triumph fuel guage(after a fill up - u know its full !). But - he does name all the faults when I tend to miss them mainly cos i grew up on 70s bikes " focus only on those aspects of a bike that are trying to kill you". As for u turns -if its becoming urgent or needs to be fast with a lean angle i end up using the front brake and higher revs - again, maybe a 70s throwback where squeezing up the bike between front and back helped handling,idk.
@@landedzentry I like perfectionists though. Spot things on my behalf. Been driving thirty years, swapping back to bikes. I really appreciate reviews if they're heavy on useful 'real world' information. Advancing relentlessly to fifty, practical advice is gold.
Regarding Apple CarPlay. You don’t need to connect a headset. Plug in your phone, when tft tells you to connect a headset, just push and hold the “return” button on left handlebar and voila - CarPlay enables.
How far are manufacturers going to take the over complication of the electronics on motorbikes? Surely it's more important to be concentrating on watching the road than trying to get Lady Gaga to play on your Apple CarPlay.
I 100% agree BM - I'm sure you could get used to it but this bike was waaay to complicated for me and not particularly intuitive, I'd rather manufacturers got the key stuff right (handling, feel, comfort, sound, looks) and made the price more appealing than just adding more electronic gizmo's....Maybe the mooted "baby" AT will be the way to go.....
"Fuel 23.4%, temperature engine okay, temperature ambient 20.4 thats okay, abs on, traction control setting maybe turn that up" ...SPANK you hit a truck !! I listen to the revs and judge the speed from experience , learn the switchgear by feel- i watch traffic and hardly ever look down at instruments....all that TFT would be too compelling for me i know I would tape over most of it in black electrical tape. I want to live. *A TFT is trying to kill you*
@@landedzentry Yep, absolutely no need for TFT displays on bikes, in fact it's a turn-off for me. Weirdly (and thankfully) Honda's VFR800 touring machine has the minimum of electronics and faffery, it doesn't even have cruise control which tells me it's a tourer for people who enjoy RIDING a bike.
Seat - Come on, I rode this actual machine almost to the top of Scotland in one hit in early Jan. 14hrs in the saddle. There's no discomfort in that seat. The harder the seat, the more comfortable on long rides. If it's a comfy soft seat, your arse will be in bits after 200 miles ;-)
@@TheMissendenFlyer Andy - I am not siding with Rich, just cos' he's a Northerner - but you are indeed a Southerner - so obviously wrong 😊 Just kidding mate - I watch your channel also, but I am DEVASTATED by your review. You are the first person to say the AT is not a great bike. Like you, I have a collection, mostly Honda's, but a couple of Duke's, a very special Kwak (1972 Z1) etc as investors. I am planning one all year round bike when I return to the UK (from Egypt) to retire in a year or so, and the Africa Twin is THE one I am sure. You need to buck up Andy 🤣. Honda is THEEEEE past - and also the future in my small village mentality . Incidentally Andy - awesome "Security review" a couple of weeks ago mate. Cheers mate. Try to be more Northern, I PROMISE - you will be happier 😘
Richy I watched your review and clearly shows the AT is an awesome bike. Unfortunately for TheMissendenFyler I do not believe he can properly review anything as right from the start he was negative towards the AT due to its size. I say don't review bikes you are not capable of handling. Thanks for your true review of the AT Richy up in Scotland that was truly something of a trip.
The only 2 points that appeal to me are the comfortable riding position and the low seat height, this would not be my first choice for a new bike. Interesting and fair review though, it's good to hear someone saying exactly what they think and not what is best for the manufacturer.
Probably the reason why it feels like it's more than 100 hrspwr( rated 101 Horsepower) is the 77-lb/ft of torque at the low and mid end rpm where you find it as it's all down low and steady till mid range it mellows out completely. And yes totally agree the DCT is throttle jumpy at low speed cause of the gearing and torque delivery. The manual by far is my favorite one. My friend's dad owns the old 1988 XRV650 Dakar replica when it came out and the new one now. I wish it wasn't a liter bike but say 650cc - 900cc engine to make it a bit lighter on dirt. It bogs down heavily on silty hill climbs and digs in too deep cause of the weight but the only redeeming feature is the torque to just tear through it. Great review as always. You still haven't convinced me to buy a R.E 650 INT yet... But I'm close too pulling the trigger, because Honda dealers here doesn't have the 2020 Rebel 500 in store xD
I own a 2017 Africa Twin DCT. Not sure if I can go back to manual. Gives me two less things to worry about (clutch and gear shifter). Just the fact that you can leave it pinned while shifting wins me over. Check out my vids when you have a chance. They're not to the level or quality of yours but is getting better. Cheers
I’m a tech freak so I’d probably love that about the bike. That said I’m old school and love the slow speed feathering a clutch gives. So, unless they gave you a way to get that feel or gave a slow speed clutch lever, I’d pass on the bike since not getting DCT seems like a crime if you got this bike.
I certainly don’t hate the bike, my list of positives was longer than the negative one. I personally just found it too physically large and top heavy - and a little complex for my taste. They are good sellers and and I know they have many fans, I was just offering my point of view....
Great review - I bought the black version with the manual gearbox - I am 6ft tall. Love the engine and I have the tall seat (Much more comfortable) - Hand on heart I absolutely love the bike, coming from: in 2010 BMW R1200GS in 2013 BMW F800GS and BMW 2015 GSA, I have finally converted back to my Hondas - The only thing I miss is from the 2015 GSA, the total wind protection it's not as good on the Honda and the shaft drive. Other than that I love every single thing about it. Cheers!
Great review TMF I’m 6 feet tall and almost dropped it at the dealership on the weekend, damn it’s tall. It’s not as tall as the Ducati multistrada Enduro, I couldn’t even get my feet on the ground. I’m of the same opinion on the electronics, it’s getting out of control. They will ticket you for looking at you’re phone, but I’ve got an iPad size screen showing tweets and Facebook updates in the middle of my windshield. It makes no scene to me but I’m getting older too, so I complain a lot more about the little things. 😄😄😄😄
Very honest and accurate review Andy. I have the 2018 non adventure sport DCT and agree about the size and handling. But he DCT has split opinion in the AT world, but personally I love it. Slow speed manourvers can be tricky I agree but nothing that can't be mastered. Personally whilst the electronic suspension might be good and the TFT screen 'amazing' but complex, I would not fork out several thousand pounds to move from mine to the 2020 model. I think I probby knew what you would say about the bike so was not disappointed in the review. As usual you call it like you see it which refreshing. Keep up the honest reviewing.
"on-line simulator" to learn the switch gear, hahahaha! I love the look of the Africa Twin, but I'd sooner have a Tenere or a Himalyan and skip all that tech. Great video and good points.
Main takeaway from this was it's a great bike but would have been better without a DCT and most of the electronics ... ... which TBH I think everyone but honda knew already.
Amazing review! I am a long time follower so it's no surprise, but in this one I can confirm that it looks like you own this bike. I have one for 4 months and 4000km and agree in almost everything you said. The on/off throttle issue in the dct for slow manoeuvres improves drastacly if you adjust the power modes to 3/4 (less abrupt deliver of power). The dct makes a lot of sense for city riding and commuting, in my opinion even more than for touring. You just cruise more comfortably and don't have that clutch work for start/stop in the city. I never fell that glare on the dash interfering but I don't have other bikes to compare like you do. The vibrations are there if you drop 2k rpm and this is no diesel engine, but in the S modes it almost never happens. I only use D mode for driving when there are no hills. The way I found to deal with the size and weight is try to move the bike only when seating on it. I am 6 2(1.88m) and use the seat in the tallest position. Hope this feedback helps! Cheers from Madeira Island
Really enjoyed the format of this review and the content. I really liked to hear the practical experience kind of review vs many others I've seen online. Quick and to the point. Now its time to get me one of your blue shirts.
fair enough. your review is refreshingly honest. i own one and i have to say, i agree with a lot of what you say. the trump card for me is, when it's in motion, it's a dream.
Met a fella at a local meet today that has the 1ltr version. Your comments mirror his. He said in slow moving traffic it was awkward to modulate slow speed, he missed not being able to feather the clutch! Also the wheels had rust, the hubs and other various engine parts. And I’d agree... it’s a total beast of a bike, I was quite surprised how barge like it was! 😮
I know theres a lot different but you can get the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 in the SCS trim which is close to DCT, using a recluse clutch system. Beautiful bike and expensive.
Great review sir, so glad I never brought now. Don't think you made any friends at Honda with that review, but admire your honesty and integrity. 85 year old car driver just killed my 3 year old Ducati Multistrada Enduro. So replaced it with a R1250gs HP, what a cracking bike. So easy to ride, does so many things well. Plus looks a treat with the Billet pack option.
Well it’s just my opinion and although I like pretty much all bikes, and am a Honda customer and fan, I can’t love all their bikes! Sorry to hear of your off, hope you weren’t injured??
At the Honda off road 'school' Honda Adventure Centre, most of the instructors prefer the DCT. Also, off road, the DCT allows the novice as well as the more experienced rider to concentrate on their lines and obsticles and forget about stalling the bike. For low speed maneuvering, put a DCT bike into Sport, open the throttle slightly, then feather the rear brake instead of feathering a clutch. Agree'd the bike does lean over somewhat, however, when I've had an Africa in my garage, I use a small block of rubber or wood under the side stand to keep the bike more vertical. I have to agree though, the screen is to tall, like you, I prefer to look over a screen.
I think I'm over my Africa Twin fetish. I'm loving my CB500X more and more. The Yamaha T700 looks much more like a unicorn. I'll be either getting a new CBx or a T7 i think. Hell, i can get both for the price of the ATAS.
Interesting. Have you ever tried any off-roading. Curious how it works as a dct. Also the low speed turns ect they mention a lot it downshifts when you don’t want it. Is that the case ?
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm not hearing any annoying high pitched noise here, I have noticed people complaining about it on a few videos but it's not an issue for me even on headphones with the volume uncomfortably loud. I can hear a lot of things in the background like birds singing and leaves rustling, at one point I could hear voices and what sounded like someone sweeping up leaves or litter so the audio is quite clear. I watch your videos on a high quality desktop setup with dedicated soundcard and a very high quality speaker system, I also am a Linux user so the software is top quality too. I wonder if the people getting the problem are using hand held devices to watch your videos or if they all use a certain brand of device which adds to the problem ?
While Honda has done a great job with tech and the DCT, I agree that the manual transmission is the way to go. Especially offlroad. This review was excellent as usual. I appreciate the time it takes for testing and the importance of an honest opinion. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and expertise.
Love your review, no bias, just honest information on how the machine works for you. That said, I'm surprised that you think the AT is bigger than the GS (to me it felt like the GS was HUUUUGE !). Also, from what I've read and heard elsewhere, everyday users of the AT seem pretty keen on the 'quickshift' rather than the full auto 'box DCT malarkey. Agree with your comments on complexity of left-hand switchgear (far too much for a single thumb). Looks and price are the persuaders though. AT is a far better looking bike than the GS, and I simply could not justify the extra 4 grand for similar spec GS. Top job man, keep 'em coming !
I've had a dct great on the motorways but on the Alps like Grimsel or Furka was a let down kept changing half way round and the DCT slow manoeuvrability was crap... Layman opinion...i went to a VFR and now going back to ATAS which I pick up cpl weeks. Good honest video people wanna see this kind a thing before making their minds up. Thanks
I tried the 2019 version of this. I liked the DCT, especially how it would 'kick down' a gear when you gave the throttle a good twist and then reel in the horizon. However, it was little lighter and actually taller than the Triumph Explorer that I was getting trading in, so I chose to go back to an 800 Tiger instead. It is good that they have reduced the seat height to something sensible, but the switch gear..
Not quite sure how you can call it heavy to move around in the garage when you personally own an R1200GS. I've had both bikes and found the GS to be in the same ballpark, with the added issue of trying to get around the cylinder heads to move it.
The difference is the GS has a low centre of gravity (thanks to those cylinder heads!) and hence it is easy to move around than the AT with its higher COG
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm having a hard time being convinced that the center of gravity is going to matter much if you're holding your bike straight up and down and moving it in one dimension in the garage. The COG is largely irrelevant in those circumstances, unless you like to push your bike around while it is leaning over. Seeing that I've own a AT AS and previously had a 2018 R1200GS Rallye, I can attest that the Africa Twin is not top heavy in comparison, nor is it any more difficult to move around in the garage.
I have a 2018 NC750X and your comments about size of bike and hard to see screen are bang on for it as well. I got the clutch version and am glad I did. Like a sail boat, it is most unstable when stopped or going very slow. I would not want a jittery engine/transmission combination adding to the feeling of not being in control.
It’s a big tall heavy bike; a bit much to manoeuvre with. I like the weight more down to the bottom and less of it. Do you need all these electronics? Ride by wire, corner abs, traction control...what more do you need?
I have owned the manual version of this bike with a quick shifter since December. 8k miles later and I still love it. I test rode a 1250 GSA last year and felt it was too heavy to commute on. Also rode the 1250 GS but then the new ATAS was released and it was a no brainer with servicing cost etc. Keep up the great work Andy.
just regarding horse power , you have to remember where this motorcycle is aimed ! too many people are putting this bike up against the likes of the GS 1250 , it wasn't made to go in that bracket or priced to go in that bracket , it was priced to go up against the 850cc , oranges with oranges sir ! Africa Twin £13,050, BMW 850 £12,600. Africa Twin BHP 101, BMW 850CC BHP 93, Africa Twin 105NM , BMW 850 92NM THERE IS £450 IN THE PRICE DIFFERENCE
It's nice to have a completely "honest" review, not ALL channels do this. "Would I own one? No!" not many are that honest, I presume, incase said manufacturer doesn't offer another loan bike?! Always good videos, and great reviews, keep up the good work.
Thank you Grumps Rides - I see no point in pretending to love a bike if I don't, if a manufacturer then decides not to loan you another bike of course that is their choice (but says more about them than me!!). I think it's a huge credit to companies like Honda that they are willing to let me say exactly what I think about a bike and continue to lend me more even if I'm not gushing about it. In the case of the AT it is undoubtedly a good bike, just not for me....only my opinion and I'm no expert!
It's the most exciting looking bike I've ever seen! I can't wait to get approved and drag knee on it! I especially like the size. I don't appreciate honda catering to short people on their biggest bike. If it's to big there's dozens of other choices.
In a mist of 'good 'n bad' reviews I bought the ATAS manual soon after it was out. Tested the automatic too. Was coming from a ZZR 1400 3 year blissful experience. Almost 2 years later, ATAS is an amazing bike in every way. I cant see why I would want to fork out a few extra grounds for comfort. I rather not try too much luxury so I dont become hooked. Regular ATAS is so good I am not sure who this 'upped' version is for. Usually people who can spend this little fortune on 2 wheels will go for a beemer. Shame as it probably is an amazing bike. But Honda seem to make some bikes that dont do so well (CrossTourer 1200VFR, vfr 1200) because of release timing or/and competition at those times, while some of their products keep bringing in the big cash (NC750). This new ATAS is probably amazing, like some of those less successful Honda bikes, but most people will never know.
Watched the vid, read the comments, so scale the whole bike down to 85%, ditch the elecs other than abs and traction control, fit a pair of clocks instead of the tft and I might have bought one. Looks are superb with a sensible screen fitted and I love the dct cos it means I could ride it with my gammy ankle, but mainly its too big and cumbersome to live with!!
Nice review. I think it's pretty cool that we have so many choices. There seems to be an ADV bike to suit all comers these days. Good time to be a biker. Cheers!
Had one of these for the weekend while my 2018 model was in for service... Loved it, but I'd probably never get around to understanding the electronics.... biggest quirk for me.. the indicator is tiny and hard to find with gloves, and only moves a tiny bit, so your never quite sure if it has worked or cancelled. The indicator repeaters on the dash are also tiny. But overall a great bike... Would I replace my 2018 model? No... in my opinion the 2018 has tons more character, and sounds much better... Thanks for a great vid.
Nice video report, cheers! Have you had the missus on the back yet? Mine loves the comfort on the GSA but I'm wondering what the AT would be like 2 up. Is the suspension manually adjusted? Or is it like the GSA?
2:00 I think the reason why its glossy is mostly to do with the fact that it is a touch screen. Afaik doing matte touchscreens is really hard. Although, honda could have done what phone manufacturers do to circumvent the glare issue: increase the backlight brightness (and maybe dynamically adjust it based on ambient light).
Thanks for sharing your review. It's all about rider and bike balance some riders don't fit the bikes well. Honda really don't build a bad bike. I have the 2017 DCT AT and just bought the 2020 DCT AT ES and am 5ft 7inch love the bike it has what the 2017 model was needing. For me the bike is perfect in every-way best AT ever made.
Thank you for an earnest review Yes with lean mixture injecktion on a bike with DCT gearbox you actually MUST put a finger on the brake to get full control on slow maneuvers , but to thange gear with with left hand are absolutely lowly especially when standing on the bike off road 👍
I completely agree with everything you've said in this review. As an AT owner, the DCT fraternity are a tad sensitive on the forums and there is a fair bit about undocumented features. Great review TMF, shaft, boxer and tele-lever it is then, a close second none the less!
When I was in the Bike trade, we once had two used Africa Twins in stock - one standard and one DCT. The weight difference between the two was very noticeable. The weight of the extra clutch on the DCT even though low down made it quite a bit harder to manoeuvre in and out of the shop. For the slow manoeuvres you could always put it in manual? Good review as usual!
Interesting review TMF. As you are a long time rider of the GS, and with the weight of the GS being similar to the ATAS,, how does the difference in weight feel when trying to move the bike around ?
The bike looks fantastic, that's a given. The sensible seat height was a long time coming. The tech overload and left hand switch mess would put me off, I wouldn't use or be interested in a tenth of it. For me, riding a bike is about getting away from my day, relaxing, just enjoying being out on the road in the fresh air and not bothering with Apple car play etc blah blah, who really cares. The new Street Triple R has taken a step back from tech and improved the machine with the cost saving. A bold and positive step in my opinion. Top review TMF, thanks again.
Wow. and honest reviewer thats not afraid of Honda pulling back on future demo models.... for being honest.... Great review. Thanks for pointing out the pros and cons.
I had asked you which one would you choose between this and a tiger rally pro on your previous video. If I decided to actually go for this AT DCT tell me I'm not making a purchase that I would feel different about down the lane.
You need to ride them both and make your mind up about it. If you are unsure keep trying bikes until you find one you do like. 😀. I would never buy a bike in someone else’s recommendation alone and I will never buy a car or bike that I haven’t test ridden for at least an hour.
Its HUGE and top heavy. Put anything heavier than woolly jumpers in the top box and it will fall over everywhere! If you dont go offroad , the "adventure" is wondering why you didnt buy a Gold Wing - LOL.
Yeah, ....but note, I 'm not saying I dont like it...I was trying to be funny - I actually think theyre rather cool, and the automatic gearbox thing - amazing.
Ive had one for only a few months now before winter hit so not a lot of experience on it yet, but so far I can say I've had some issues with it being a bit jerky between throttle and engine braking. It takes a bit of tweaking if you want to smooth it out, particularly at lower speeds around 50-70km/h. You definitely want it in sport mode. I go with sport II myself as I find in regular D mode it kind of lugs like a tractor and it's not very fun. After about 1500kms riding it now I've smoothed out these minor bugs and I'm getting much more used to it, and I do find that the more I ride it, the more I enjoy this bike. The electronics are complicated at first, but just remember to try not to overcomplicate what you don't need to do. You don't need to have perfect customized settings right off the bat, you can go with the default modes and do quite fine until you really get used to the bike and how to tweak the settings into one of the user modes. I haven't done much offroad with it yet, so will be exploring that this summer as best as I can, but I can say that any experienced offroader that has spent some time with this bike absolutely loves it, especially the DCT.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I think you will see a lot more of them in the future. Just think when automatics first came out for cars, now almost everyone drives one.
Thank you for great review Andy. After watching this my decision will be more difficult to make:) Need bike for commuting(no filtering) but also good weather protection for touring. Good QuickShifter is very important for me. I’m considering Tiger 900 GT, BMW 850 GS Adventure or Ducati Multistrada 950S. What would you advise? I’m 5 foot 9 and got lots of space to park it.
Great review as always! However, I’m a little gutted about your bad points 😕 I’ve had my 1100 for almost a year now and the only thing that bugs me is the “can only use CarPlay through a headset”. I’ve ridden GS’s and I had the 2018 (1000cc) ATAS, I find the 1100 to feel smaller, lighter and more compact… it’s strange how this can be subjective(however, mine is manual). Mine is also tricolour but has a full stainless Akrapovic exhaust and sounds absolutely beautiful, it gets a lot of attention wherever I go 😊 Happy riding!
I must say I agree with your point about the seat. Also the power, I’d be interested to see the figures on a dyno as it really does feel like more than 100bhp (or 96 or whatever the quoted figure is!)
I wondered if you were going to mention the low speed manoeuvring. It's top heavy in slow filtering too but I've found your specific issue is solveable by riding the rear break and having constant throttle. It's a different way to ride for sure, but it becomes second nature after a while.
One thing I am really interested in is the headlight array which is seldom to never talked about in reviews. On low beam, do both the headlights come on or just one. On high beam do both the headlights come on or just the other one not on low beam. Do the auxiliary lights come on with the DRL's or just the main headlights. Appreciate any light (no pun intended) on the subject.
You’ve probably found out by now, but both headlights are high and low beam. You can set them to auto for DRL only in daytime(no headlights) and you can choose to have the fogs come on full time or off full time. The cornering lights are magical in the dark (and I’m not a fan of cornering lights, I turned them off completely in my cars and truck)! Every light is also LED apart from the number plate light, annoyingly!
Slow maneuvers with the DCT require control of acceleration with rear brake use. It takes practice. Using the manual control might make things easier for some riders. The switch gear button (left handle) not being illuminated are a bummer.
YES, I find that too with the DCT, i.e. disengaging mid slow speed turn, hate it. Its like pulling in the clutch mid slow speed turn. I "trick" the bike by applying rear brake (more than usual in a slow speed u turn so the rev's stay higher and the transmission stays engaged. Give me 6 speed manual trans any day!
Do you know what. The more reviews I watch the more I don't want to watch reviews. I tried the bike and for my six six frame i found a bike that did not give me a slouching posistion while riding. Bought the bike and five months later quite happy to say for me its the most comfortable easiest bike I have had in thirty biking years.
It is not specifically heavy on the scale but it is for sure TOP heavy, and therefore hard to handle when parking (i assume it is because of the tall suspension and the huge fueltank?). If i put it in the garage or handle it from the side, i allways take care to keep it upright, it makes a big difference.. I agree with the side stand issue, it has a big angle and due to the height of the bike it takes up a lot of room. I allways park it on the centerstand. I have short legs (32 inch inseam), and have some trouble getting on and off the bike especially with the panniers on. I have one usermode where i have the electronic suspension lowered to the max just to get on and off properly. (I feel like an old guy). How do you feel about this topic? Once i am on, the suspension sinks under my obese weight and i can put my feet down. In this usermode 2 i also put engine braking and powermode to soft. Its great for maneuvering the bike in parking spots or walking from the side on enginepower.
Question for the 2020 Africa reviewer: What is your inseam measurement? I am 6’ tall with a 31” inseam and I can’t flat foot the 2020 AT as you demonstrated in your review.
I have 2016 dct and love it, put it auto and use the paddle to change through the box as i would with a quick shifter, as for slow turning you soon get great throttle control plus a dab of rear break makes turning easy. Thanks for all your work and sorry i missed you in the land of smiles, never cold here....
Oh come on TMF, you could have gone back and edited this one for the pricing information, you've had weeks! The bike you've had is closer to £18k. Also, I'm going to comment on the interludes of the merch; it irks me as it breaks up the watching flow. Although of course it's nicer than having multiple ad's during your video. Happy to have the content in there but could you put it at the end? With regards to the intercom and apple car play, Richy's just found that you can do it, it's a bit of a work around. Completely agree with you on the TFT display btw, the layout of the graphics is so hard to read as well, I wish you could have different layouts like the Indian ones. It threw me off when I was riding it for sure.
Good review! I've rode a 2016 AT and loved the bike. I'm accustomed to a bike that is about 750 lbs so this coming in at about 200 lbs less feels so easy to move around. I would NEVER get the DCT though. I'm old school, I'll take care of my own gears. Lol
one quick question... would it be possible to change the front wheel with size 19', instead of size 21'? with the current tire sized 21' , bike looks much taller which makes it harder to ride for shorty bikers. i am aware, it may have to change the entire suspension system as well. thank you.
I seem to be getting a high pitched whistle on the video which spoiled the review a bit, is it only mine?
I was waiting for someone to notice! Sorry about that....
I thought I had tinnitus for a while there 😂
TheMissendenFlyer no problem thought it was my setup for a minute. Good to see you aren’t afraid to say the bike isn’t for you! Too many vloggers will only say positive things about bikes provided to them.
I'm hearing it too...
Listened to it 08.30 22.6.20, no whistling. Good honest review as ever.
Your negatives about the bike being tall and big are actually positives for me. I'm 195cm (6'5") and a big bike is exactly what I'm looking for
i'm 6'4 and looking for a bike thats built like a brick shithouse and you're right.. every negative he mentions make it perfect.
Same. I have a 36" inside leg and have fitted the tall option seat to increase the height to 895mm. Perfect. 👌
I agree. 6’ 5 too weighing in at 315. Finally a bike fit for ME!!
Same, I want something reliable and huge and I feel this bike ticks the boxes. I've seen it and it's a big ass sturdy thing, love it.
Me too. Im 6"3. 110kg. I m looking for a bike looks just right for my height. Not aiming for the dct but i also want the electronic suspension. 👍
A good review. I agree with your points except the low speed manoeuvring. After two years on a 2016 DCT model I have learned to use a little back brake against throttle. This gives me very accurate low speed control. DCT in the mountains of Japan is an absolute pleasure. If I come across as biased, I am! I love my bike.
No worries with that Peter! ....and yes a few have commented on trail braking, I did miss having a clutch to feather but I guess you get used to it with time and practice...
Honestly, all bikes should have DCT. If it weren't for that fact that we'll all be riding electric bikes in 10 years, they would be.
@@nicomonkeyboy not everyone wants the extra cost or the weight
I had assumed he meant it was snatchy *with* some braking in a u turn...well....TMF is a bit of a perfectionist - its probably not noticible! This is the man who was irritated by a slow triumph fuel guage(after a fill up - u know its full !).
But - he does name all the faults when I tend to miss them mainly cos i grew up on 70s bikes " focus only on those aspects of a bike that are trying to kill you".
As for u turns -if its becoming urgent or needs to be fast with a lean angle i end up using the front brake and higher revs - again, maybe a 70s throwback where squeezing up the bike between front and back helped handling,idk.
@@landedzentry I like perfectionists though. Spot things on my behalf. Been driving thirty years, swapping back to bikes. I really appreciate reviews if they're heavy on useful 'real world' information. Advancing relentlessly to fifty, practical advice is gold.
Regarding Apple CarPlay. You don’t need to connect a headset. Plug in your phone, when tft tells you to connect a headset, just push and hold the “return” button on left handlebar and voila - CarPlay enables.
How far are manufacturers going to take the over complication of the electronics on motorbikes? Surely it's more important to be concentrating on watching the road than trying to get Lady Gaga to play on your Apple CarPlay.
I 100% agree BM - I'm sure you could get used to it but this bike was waaay to complicated for me and not particularly intuitive, I'd rather manufacturers got the key stuff right (handling, feel, comfort, sound, looks) and made the price more appealing than just adding more electronic gizmo's....Maybe the mooted "baby" AT will be the way to go.....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Another 100% agreement here!
"Fuel 23.4%, temperature engine okay, temperature ambient 20.4 thats okay, abs on, traction control setting maybe turn that up" ...SPANK you hit a truck !!
I listen to the revs and judge the speed from experience , learn the switchgear by feel- i watch traffic and hardly ever look down at instruments....all that TFT would be too compelling for me i know I would tape over most of it in black electrical tape. I want to live.
*A TFT is trying to kill you*
@@landedzentry Yep, absolutely no need for TFT displays on bikes, in fact it's a turn-off for me. Weirdly (and thankfully) Honda's VFR800 touring machine has the minimum of electronics and faffery, it doesn't even have cruise control which tells me it's a tourer for people who enjoy RIDING a bike.
Too true BM.........on the modern Honda's I keep blowing the horn when trying to indicate (Buttons reverse like the old Aprilias)
DCT all the way my 2019 is brilliant on and off road here in Australia...love it to bits..
Does it come with training wheels?
Khắc cảnh lê - I’m sure you can get some aftermarket ones, child.
What do you reckon to the low-speed manoeuvring?
@@khaccanhle1930 show us all your GP riding experience, you must be such a badass rider
Seat - Come on, I rode this actual machine almost to the top of Scotland in one hit in early Jan. 14hrs in the saddle. There's no discomfort in that seat. The harder the seat, the more comfortable on long rides. If it's a comfy soft seat, your arse will be in bits after 200 miles ;-)
Clearly you have more padded buttocks than me! Probably your collossal weight took all the comfort out of it by the time it reached me!! 😘
TheMissendenFlyer 😂😂😂 lets not get on about your buttocks, pal! ;-)
Oh, go on!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Andy - I am not siding with Rich, just cos' he's a Northerner - but you are indeed a Southerner - so obviously wrong 😊 Just kidding mate - I watch your channel also, but I am DEVASTATED by your review. You are the first person to say the AT is not a great bike. Like you, I have a collection, mostly Honda's, but a couple of Duke's, a very special Kwak (1972 Z1) etc as investors. I am planning one all year round bike when I return to the UK (from Egypt) to retire in a year or so, and the Africa Twin is THE one I am sure. You need to buck up Andy 🤣. Honda is THEEEEE past - and also the future in my small village mentality . Incidentally Andy - awesome "Security review" a couple of weeks ago mate. Cheers mate. Try to be more Northern, I PROMISE - you will be happier 😘
Richy I watched your review and clearly shows the AT is an awesome bike. Unfortunately for TheMissendenFyler I do not believe he can properly review anything as right from the start he was negative towards the AT due to its size. I say don't review bikes you are not capable of handling. Thanks for your true review of the AT Richy up in Scotland that was truly something of a trip.
The only 2 points that appeal to me are the comfortable riding position and the low seat height, this would not be my first choice for a new bike. Interesting and fair review though, it's good to hear someone saying exactly what they think and not what is best for the manufacturer.
I find a lot of bikes to be too short for my taste and I'm not even that tall. Well 6 feet but barely. I think I'm pretty average
Probably the reason why it feels like it's more than 100 hrspwr( rated 101 Horsepower) is the 77-lb/ft of torque at the low and mid end rpm where you find it as it's all down low and steady till mid range it mellows out completely. And yes totally agree the DCT is throttle jumpy at low speed cause of the gearing and torque delivery. The manual by far is my favorite one. My friend's dad owns the old 1988 XRV650 Dakar replica when it came out and the new one now. I wish it wasn't a liter bike but say 650cc - 900cc engine to make it a bit lighter on dirt. It bogs down heavily on silty hill climbs and digs in too deep cause of the weight but the only redeeming feature is the torque to just tear through it. Great review as always. You still haven't convinced me to buy a R.E 650 INT yet... But I'm close too pulling the trigger, because Honda dealers here doesn't have the 2020 Rebel 500 in store xD
I own a 2017 Africa Twin DCT. Not sure if I can go back to manual. Gives me two less things to worry about (clutch and gear shifter). Just the fact that you can leave it pinned while shifting wins me over.
Check out my vids when you have a chance. They're not to the level or quality of yours but is getting better. Cheers
I’m a tech freak so I’d probably love that about the bike. That said I’m old school and love the slow speed feathering a clutch gives. So, unless they gave you a way to get that feel or gave a slow speed clutch lever, I’d pass on the bike since not getting DCT seems like a crime if you got this bike.
Great review, I like the fact that even though you wouldn’t have one, you haven’t put me off wanting it. Keep up the good work, best out there
I just LOVE the lumpy engine on my 17 DCT, it’s the main reason I bought it. Who would ever have imagined buying a Honda for the engine character. 😀
I got that exact bike..(.I'm 6'2")....love it...its like a "sports car"...being a pilot i love all the electronics 👍
Same here 6'2, loving mine, lots of hate on here...🤔
I certainly don’t hate the bike, my list of positives was longer than the negative one. I personally just found it too physically large and top heavy - and a little complex for my taste. They are good sellers and and I know they have many fans, I was just offering my point of view....
Great review - I bought the black version with the manual gearbox - I am 6ft tall. Love the engine and I have the tall seat (Much more comfortable) - Hand on heart I absolutely love the bike, coming from: in 2010 BMW R1200GS in 2013 BMW F800GS and BMW 2015 GSA, I have finally converted back to my Hondas - The only thing I miss is from the 2015 GSA, the total wind protection it's not as good on the Honda and the shaft drive. Other than that I love every single thing about it. Cheers!
Great review TMF I’m 6 feet tall and almost dropped it at the dealership on the weekend, damn it’s tall. It’s not as tall as the Ducati multistrada Enduro, I couldn’t even get my feet on the ground. I’m of the same opinion on the electronics, it’s getting out of control. They will ticket you for looking at you’re phone, but I’ve got an iPad size screen showing tweets and Facebook updates in the middle of my windshield. It makes no scene to me but I’m getting older too, so I complain a lot more about the little things. 😄😄😄😄
Very honest and accurate review Andy. I have the 2018 non adventure sport DCT and agree about the size and handling. But he DCT has split opinion in the AT world, but personally I love it. Slow speed manourvers can be tricky I agree but nothing that can't be mastered. Personally whilst the electronic suspension might be good and the TFT screen 'amazing' but complex, I would not fork out several thousand pounds to move from mine to the 2020 model. I think I probby knew what you would say about the bike so was not disappointed in the review. As usual you call it like you see it which refreshing. Keep up the honest reviewing.
Thanks Peter - I'm glad we concur!
There’s not a lot of people out there that could review a bike like you mate... 👏🏻👍🏻
Err I'll take that as a positive!!! ;0)
😁
@@TheMissendenFlyer lol
"on-line simulator" to learn the switch gear, hahahaha! I love the look of the Africa Twin, but I'd sooner have a Tenere or a Himalyan and skip all that tech. Great video and good points.
I bet you still have a flip phone and dial up Internet.
TheMisinformed Fryer not if he’s watched that already! 😉😉
Main takeaway from this was it's a great bike but would have been better without a DCT and most of the electronics ... ... which TBH I think everyone but honda knew already.
@@jonpram1737 That's it in a nutshell - smaller would be good too!
@@jonpram1737 totally agree. My bikes got no rider aids but it has got infinite rider modes.....it's called 'me'.
Amazing review! I am a long time follower so it's no surprise, but in this one I can confirm that it looks like you own this bike. I have one for 4 months and 4000km and agree in almost everything you said. The on/off throttle issue in the dct for slow manoeuvres improves drastacly if you adjust the power modes to 3/4 (less abrupt deliver of power). The dct makes a lot of sense for city riding and commuting, in my opinion even more than for touring. You just cruise more comfortably and don't have that clutch work for start/stop in the city.
I never fell that glare on the dash interfering but I don't have other bikes to compare like you do. The vibrations are there if you drop 2k rpm and this is no diesel engine, but in the S modes it almost never happens. I only use D mode for driving when there are no hills.
The way I found to deal with the size and weight is try to move the bike only when seating on it. I am 6 2(1.88m) and use the seat in the tallest position.
Hope this feedback helps!
Cheers from Madeira Island
Great real world feedback thanks!
Really enjoyed the format of this review and the content. I really liked to hear the practical experience kind of review vs many others I've seen online. Quick and to the point. Now its time to get me one of your blue shirts.
Be careful Steven - women can’t resist a bloke in a TMF shirt!
fair enough. your review is refreshingly honest. i own one and i have to say, i agree with a lot of what you say. the trump card for me is, when it's in motion, it's a dream.
Met a fella at a local meet today that has the 1ltr version. Your comments mirror his. He said in slow moving traffic it was awkward to modulate slow speed, he missed not being able to feather the clutch! Also the wheels had rust, the hubs and other various engine parts. And I’d agree... it’s a total beast of a bike, I was quite surprised how barge like it was! 😮
I'm glad we concurred!
That’s an excellent honest review of the AT.
Cheers Pete!
So refreshing to see people not knocking the conquering GS!
The switch gear is beyond ridiculous! There I go.
All the best,
Nick
What I want is an Africa Twin chassis, with a Street Triple engine, and a BMW TFT display.
I know theres a lot different but you can get the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 in the SCS trim which is close to DCT, using a recluse clutch system. Beautiful bike and expensive.
Great review sir, so glad I never brought now. Don't think you made any friends at Honda with that review, but admire your honesty and integrity. 85 year old car driver just killed my 3 year old Ducati Multistrada Enduro. So replaced it with a R1250gs HP, what a cracking bike. So easy to ride, does so many things
well. Plus looks a treat with the Billet pack option.
Well it’s just my opinion and although I like pretty much all bikes, and am a Honda customer and fan, I can’t love all their bikes! Sorry to hear of your off, hope you weren’t injured??
When you do slow maneuvers on DCT make sure you put it on sports mode 3
At the Honda off road 'school' Honda Adventure Centre, most of the instructors prefer the DCT. Also, off road, the DCT allows the novice as well as the more experienced rider to concentrate on their lines and obsticles and forget about stalling the bike. For low speed maneuvering, put a DCT bike into Sport, open the throttle slightly, then feather the rear brake instead of feathering a clutch. Agree'd the bike does lean over somewhat, however, when I've had an Africa in my garage, I use a small block of rubber or wood under the side stand to keep the bike more vertical. I have to agree though, the screen is to tall, like you, I prefer to look over a screen.
Interesting Rob what you say about the Adventure Centre....and yes, feathering the rear brake seems to be the answer....
I have been told by a Honda dealer here in Australia that *_40 percent_* of Honda bikes sales are now DCT (automatic) not manual/geared bikes.
Wow- that’s quite something....
For me it's missing Shaft Drive. I couldn't go back to a chain on a touring bike.
I think I'm over my Africa Twin fetish. I'm loving my CB500X more and more. The Yamaha T700 looks much more like a unicorn. I'll be either getting a new CBx or a T7 i think. Hell, i can get both for the price of the ATAS.
40000km with DCT never back to manual.
Interesting. Have you ever tried any off-roading. Curious how it works as a dct. Also the low speed turns ect they mention a lot it downshifts when you don’t want it. Is that the case ?
@@TheZakkmylde You can use it in manual mode.
Don't let the chain get loose!
Keep it properly tensioned.
Great review, weird high pitch noise throughout tho! Review the ninja 1000sx please!
Sorry about that - I hope this is the last video where you have to suffer that - I've since replaced the mic adaptor and it seems to have cured it...
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm not hearing any annoying high pitched noise here, I have noticed people complaining about it on a few videos but it's not an issue for me even on headphones with the volume uncomfortably loud. I can hear a lot of things in the background like birds singing and leaves rustling, at one point I could hear voices and what sounded like someone sweeping up leaves or litter so the audio is quite clear.
I watch your videos on a high quality desktop setup with dedicated soundcard and a very high quality speaker system, I also am a Linux user so the software is top quality too. I wonder if the people getting the problem are using hand held devices to watch your videos or if they all use a certain brand of device which adds to the problem ?
@@ian-c.01 latest MacBook pro, high noise highly noticeable
I love your honest reviews... cos in my opinion they are hard to come by on You tube. Well done yet again!👍
While Honda has done a great job with tech and the DCT, I agree that the manual transmission is the way to go. Especially offlroad. This review was excellent as usual. I appreciate the time it takes for testing and the importance of an honest opinion. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and expertise.
Thank you for watching and for your kind words! All the best - TMF
Love your review, no bias, just honest information on how the machine works for you. That said, I'm surprised that you think the AT is bigger than the GS (to me it felt like the GS was HUUUUGE !). Also, from what I've read and heard elsewhere, everyday users of the AT seem pretty keen on the 'quickshift' rather than the full auto 'box DCT malarkey. Agree with your comments on complexity of left-hand switchgear (far too much for a single thumb). Looks and price are the persuaders though. AT is a far better looking bike than the GS, and I simply could not justify the extra 4 grand for similar spec GS.
Top job man, keep 'em coming !
I've had a dct great on the motorways but on the Alps like Grimsel or Furka was a let down kept changing half way round and the DCT slow manoeuvrability was crap... Layman opinion...i went to a VFR and now going back to ATAS which I pick up cpl weeks.
Good honest video people wanna see this kind a thing before making their minds up.
Thanks
Thanks for watching and for the kind words....
The DCT on the Africa Twin 2020 doesn’t change gear on corners which it can detect because of the IMU.
I tried the 2019 version of this. I liked the DCT, especially how it would 'kick down' a gear when you gave the throttle a good twist and then reel in the horizon. However, it was little lighter and actually taller than the Triumph Explorer that I was getting trading in, so I chose to go back to an 800 Tiger instead. It is good that they have reduced the seat height to something sensible, but the switch gear..
I’m still choosing manual instead DCT
S C so what?
yet better to stay with steam engine
@@evgenychirilenko9366 no man, the engine is the same in manual and DCT ;)
@@SebastianD1977 manual shift is thing of the past, thing of the future - no gears at all, xept reverse. For now the DCT is the least one can get.
I did.
Didn't want the additional complexity/maintenance nor the added weight.
Once DCT never go back, simply stunning technology, I am old school clutch and manual transmission, or rather was...
I’ve just done a second hand review of the Africa Twin. Interesting to see the 2024 changes, especially the 19” front on the ATAS!
You don't need an aftermarket screen. The big screen is an option, it comes as standard with a really good small screen.
Not quite sure how you can call it heavy to move around in the garage when you personally own an R1200GS. I've had both bikes and found the GS to be in the same ballpark, with the added issue of trying to get around the cylinder heads to move it.
The difference is the GS has a low centre of gravity (thanks to those cylinder heads!) and hence it is easy to move around than the AT with its higher COG
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm having a hard time being convinced that the center of gravity is going to matter much if you're holding your bike straight up and down and moving it in one dimension in the garage. The COG is largely irrelevant in those circumstances, unless you like to push your bike around while it is leaning over. Seeing that I've own a AT AS and previously had a 2018 R1200GS Rallye, I can attest that the Africa Twin is not top heavy in comparison, nor is it any more difficult to move around in the garage.
Try it yourself and see - the position of COG makes ALL the difference I can assure you.....
That high pitched squeal kills
I have a 2018 NC750X and your comments about size of bike and hard to see screen are bang on for it as well. I got the clutch version and am glad I did. Like a sail boat, it is most unstable when stopped or going very slow. I would not want a jittery engine/transmission combination adding to the feeling of not being in control.
It’s a big tall heavy bike; a bit much to manoeuvre with. I like the weight more down to the bottom and less of it. Do you need all these electronics? Ride by wire, corner abs, traction control...what more do you need?
great honest review better to be honest. yes now you have pointed them out I can see where your coming from
I have owned the manual version of this bike with a quick shifter since December. 8k miles later and I still love it. I test rode a 1250 GSA last year and felt it was too heavy to commute on. Also rode the 1250 GS but then the new ATAS was released and it was a no brainer with servicing cost etc. Keep up the great work Andy.
Just watch out for fork issues and fuel tank/pump issues on the AT - That could add quite a cost!!
just regarding horse power , you have to remember where this motorcycle is aimed ! too many people are putting this bike up against the likes of the GS 1250 , it wasn't made to go in that bracket or priced to go in that bracket , it was priced to go up against the 850cc , oranges with oranges sir !
Africa Twin £13,050, BMW 850 £12,600. Africa Twin BHP 101, BMW 850CC BHP 93, Africa Twin 105NM , BMW 850 92NM
THERE IS £450 IN THE PRICE DIFFERENCE
It's nice to have a completely "honest" review, not ALL channels do this.
"Would I own one? No!" not many are that honest, I presume, incase said manufacturer doesn't offer another loan bike?!
Always good videos, and great reviews, keep up the good work.
Thank you Grumps Rides - I see no point in pretending to love a bike if I don't, if a manufacturer then decides not to loan you another bike of course that is their choice (but says more about them than me!!). I think it's a huge credit to companies like Honda that they are willing to let me say exactly what I think about a bike and continue to lend me more even if I'm not gushing about it. In the case of the AT it is undoubtedly a good bike, just not for me....only my opinion and I'm no expert!
It's the most exciting looking bike I've ever seen! I can't wait to get approved and drag knee on it! I especially like the size. I don't appreciate honda catering to short people on their biggest bike. If it's to big there's dozens of other choices.
Well done TMF. Excellent review without any fluffing about.
Thank you kindly
In a mist of 'good 'n bad' reviews I bought the ATAS manual soon after it was out. Tested the automatic too. Was coming from a ZZR 1400 3 year blissful experience. Almost 2 years later, ATAS is an amazing bike in every way. I cant see why I would want to fork out a few extra grounds for comfort. I rather not try too much luxury so I dont become hooked. Regular ATAS is so good I am not sure who this 'upped' version is for. Usually people who can spend this little fortune on 2 wheels will go for a beemer. Shame as it probably is an amazing bike. But Honda seem to make some bikes that dont do so well (CrossTourer 1200VFR, vfr 1200) because of release timing or/and competition at those times, while some of their products keep bringing in the big cash (NC750). This new ATAS is probably amazing, like some of those less successful Honda bikes, but most people will never know.
Watched the vid, read the comments, so scale the whole bike down to 85%, ditch the elecs other than abs and traction control, fit a pair of clocks instead of the tft and I might have bought one. Looks are superb with a sensible screen fitted and I love the dct cos it means I could ride it with my gammy ankle, but mainly its too big and cumbersome to live with!!
Mickthemaverick you just need to buy the 2019 CRF1000l then 😀
Nice review. I think it's pretty cool that we have so many choices. There seems to be an ADV bike to suit all comers these days. Good time to be a biker. Cheers!
Had one of these for the weekend while my 2018 model was in for service... Loved it, but I'd probably never get around to understanding the electronics.... biggest quirk for me.. the indicator is tiny and hard to find with gloves, and only moves a tiny bit, so your never quite sure if it has worked or cancelled. The indicator repeaters on the dash are also tiny. But overall a great bike... Would I replace my 2018 model? No... in my opinion the 2018 has tons more character, and sounds much better... Thanks for a great vid.
Nice video report, cheers! Have you had the missus on the back yet? Mine loves the comfort on the GSA but I'm wondering what the AT would be like 2 up. Is the suspension manually adjusted? Or is it like the GSA?
This one has the electronic suspension like the GSA - I didn't get the Mrs on the back as I didn't fancy more weight up high!
2:00 I think the reason why its glossy is mostly to do with the fact that it is a touch screen. Afaik doing matte touchscreens is really hard. Although, honda could have done what phone manufacturers do to circumvent the glare issue: increase the backlight brightness (and maybe dynamically adjust it based on ambient light).
It does have auto brightness and you can change the display to white on black.
Good honest review as usual Andy, well done.
Thanks 👍
Clutch! I love my AT base. What’s with all the automatics?
Thanks for sharing your review. It's all about rider and bike balance some riders don't fit the bikes well. Honda really don't build a bad bike. I have the 2017 DCT AT and just bought the 2020 DCT AT ES and am 5ft 7inch love the bike it has what the 2017 model was needing. For me the bike is perfect in every-way best AT ever made.
Fair enough - ride safe and enjoy!
Thank you for an earnest review
Yes with lean mixture injecktion on a bike with DCT gearbox you actually MUST put a finger on the brake to get full control on slow maneuvers ,
but to thange gear with with left hand are absolutely lowly especially when standing on the bike off road 👍
I completely agree with everything you've said in this review. As an AT owner, the DCT fraternity are a tad sensitive on the forums and there is a fair bit about undocumented features. Great review TMF, shaft, boxer and tele-lever it is then, a close second none the less!
Agreed!
When I was in the Bike trade, we once had two used Africa Twins in stock - one standard and one DCT. The weight difference between the two was very noticeable. The weight of the extra clutch on the DCT even though low down made it quite a bit harder to manoeuvre in and out of the shop. For the slow manoeuvres you could always put it in manual?
Good review as usual!
Hmm interesting, maybe I should try the manual version then.....
Interesting review TMF. As you are a long time rider of the GS, and with the weight of the GS being similar to the ATAS,, how does the difference in weight feel when trying to move the bike around ?
Chalk and cheese - the ATAS feels waaaaay heavier due higher Centre of gravity
TheMissendenFlyer I need to try a GS. I’ve got the previous ATAS and it does feel precarious moving it around.
The bike looks fantastic, that's a given. The sensible seat height was a long time coming. The tech overload and left hand switch mess would put me off, I wouldn't use or be interested in a tenth of it. For me, riding a bike is about getting away from my day, relaxing, just enjoying being out on the road in the fresh air and not bothering with Apple car play etc blah blah, who really cares. The new Street Triple R has taken a step back from tech and improved the machine with the cost saving. A bold and positive step in my opinion. Top review TMF, thanks again.
I couldn’t agree more Colin...
Wow. and honest reviewer thats not afraid of Honda pulling back on future demo models.... for being honest.... Great review. Thanks for pointing out the pros and cons.
I had asked you which one would you choose between this and a tiger rally pro on your previous video.
If I decided to actually go for this AT DCT tell me I'm not making a purchase that I would feel different about down the lane.
I'm unable to do that ;0)
You need to ride them both and make your mind up about it. If you are unsure keep trying bikes until you find one you do like. 😀. I would never buy a bike in someone else’s recommendation alone and I will never buy a car or bike that I haven’t test ridden for at least an hour.
Very honest and straight to the point. Excellent as always :)
If not the AT DCT, would you choose the AT MT or a R1200GS or R850GS?
R1200GS every time.....
Excellent honest review as always Sir! Thank you.
Thanks for watching
I think the DCT is to tempt the Scooter crew they are used to twist and go. I prefer the old school clutch and gears.
The Vespa that first circumnavigated he world had a clutch and gears. Same with the BMW R - 60 600 c.c.
I would love a scooter with paddle shift technology 👍
Its HUGE and top heavy. Put anything heavier than woolly jumpers in the top box and it will fall over everywhere! If you dont go offroad , the "adventure" is wondering why you didnt buy a Gold Wing - LOL.
Funny you should say that; mine fell over the other day for no good reason.... Stupidly top-heavy
Yeah, ....but note, I 'm not saying I dont like it...I was trying to be funny - I actually think theyre rather cool, and the automatic gearbox thing - amazing.
@@ewenbruce5851 how did that happen?
Ive had one for only a few months now before winter hit so not a lot of experience on it yet, but so far I can say I've had some issues with it being a bit jerky between throttle and engine braking. It takes a bit of tweaking if you want to smooth it out, particularly at lower speeds around 50-70km/h. You definitely want it in sport mode. I go with sport II myself as I find in regular D mode it kind of lugs like a tractor and it's not very fun. After about 1500kms riding it now I've smoothed out these minor bugs and I'm getting much more used to it, and I do find that the more I ride it, the more I enjoy this bike. The electronics are complicated at first, but just remember to try not to overcomplicate what you don't need to do. You don't need to have perfect customized settings right off the bat, you can go with the default modes and do quite fine until you really get used to the bike and how to tweak the settings into one of the user modes. I haven't done much offroad with it yet, so will be exploring that this summer as best as I can, but I can say that any experienced offroader that has spent some time with this bike absolutely loves it, especially the DCT.
So is yours a DCT? I love it on my GoldWIng I must say. makes so much sense on a big ol' tourer......
@@TheMissendenFlyer I think you will see a lot more of them in the future. Just think when automatics first came out for cars, now almost everyone drives one.
Thank you for great review Andy. After watching this my decision will be more difficult to make:) Need bike for commuting(no filtering) but also good weather protection for touring. Good QuickShifter is very important for me. I’m considering Tiger 900 GT, BMW 850 GS Adventure or Ducati Multistrada 950S. What would you advise? I’m 5 foot 9 and got lots of space to park it.
Tiger 900 would be my choice....
Great review as always! However, I’m a little gutted about your bad points 😕 I’ve had my 1100 for almost a year now and the only thing that bugs me is the “can only use CarPlay through a headset”. I’ve ridden GS’s and I had the 2018 (1000cc) ATAS, I find the 1100 to feel smaller, lighter and more compact… it’s strange how this can be subjective(however, mine is manual). Mine is also tricolour but has a full stainless Akrapovic exhaust and sounds absolutely beautiful, it gets a lot of attention wherever I go 😊 Happy riding!
I must say I agree with your point about the seat. Also the power, I’d be interested to see the figures on a dyno as it really does feel like more than 100bhp (or 96 or whatever the quoted figure is!)
I wondered if you were going to mention the low speed manoeuvring. It's top heavy in slow filtering too but I've found your specific issue is solveable by riding the rear break and having constant throttle. It's a different way to ride for sure, but it becomes second nature after a while.
for me the biggest showstopper was that they didn't had tubeless wheels. now as i see its solved, glad to see in 2020 😉
One thing I am really interested in is the headlight array which is seldom to never talked about in reviews.
On low beam, do both the headlights come on or just one.
On high beam do both the headlights come on or just the other one not on low beam.
Do the auxiliary lights come on with the DRL's or just the main headlights.
Appreciate any light (no pun intended) on the subject.
You’ve probably found out by now, but both headlights are high and low beam. You can set them to auto for DRL only in daytime(no headlights) and you can choose to have the fogs come on full time or off full time. The cornering lights are magical in the dark (and I’m not a fan of cornering lights, I turned them off completely in my cars and truck)!
Every light is also LED apart from the number plate light, annoyingly!
Great review. I agree with the looks, the Red, White and Blue and gold wheels works. However I think overall I’d spend the extra and get a new GS.
Fair enough!
Manual for me my man, I appreciate your thorough review.
Slow maneuvers with the DCT require control of acceleration with rear brake use. It takes practice. Using the manual control might make things easier for some riders. The switch gear button (left handle) not being illuminated are a bummer.
YES, I find that too with the DCT, i.e. disengaging mid slow speed turn, hate it. Its like pulling in the clutch mid slow speed turn. I "trick" the bike by applying rear brake (more than usual in a slow speed u turn so the rev's stay higher and the transmission stays engaged. Give me 6 speed manual trans any day!
Do you know what. The more reviews I watch the more I don't want to watch reviews. I tried the bike and for my six six frame i found a bike that did not give me a slouching posistion while riding. Bought the bike and five months later quite happy to say for me its the most comfortable easiest bike I have had in thirty biking years.
Glad you love it Paul - it’s definitely more suited to a six foot six fella than it is a shortie like me at 5’8”!!
Great review. Interested to know what the smaller LCD screen is under TFT? Yes, intermittent high pitch squeal for me too
The screen is so that if you have Apple Car Play on the big TFT you can still see your speed etc....
Many thanks
It is not specifically heavy on the scale but it is for sure TOP heavy, and therefore hard to handle when parking (i assume it is because of the tall suspension and the huge fueltank?).
If i put it in the garage or handle it from the side, i allways take care to keep it upright, it makes a big difference..
I agree with the side stand issue, it has a big angle and due to the height of the bike it takes up a lot of room. I allways park it on the centerstand.
I have short legs (32 inch inseam), and have some trouble getting on and off the bike especially with the panniers on. I have one usermode where i have the electronic suspension lowered to the max just to get on and off properly. (I feel like an old guy). How do you feel about this topic? Once i am on, the suspension sinks under my obese weight and i can put my feet down. In this usermode 2 i also put engine braking and powermode to soft. Its great for maneuvering the bike in parking spots or walking from the side on enginepower.
I’m completely with you Bart - feels very tall and top heavy when manoeuvring it around...puts me off the bike somewhat.
Question for the 2020 Africa reviewer: What is your inseam measurement? I am 6’ tall with a 31” inseam and I can’t flat foot the 2020 AT as you demonstrated in your review.
I'm 32" leg - very tall bike for me....
I have 2016 dct and love it, put it auto and use the paddle to change through the box as i would with a quick shifter, as for slow turning you soon get great throttle control plus a dab of rear break makes turning easy. Thanks for all your work and sorry i missed you in the land of smiles, never cold here....
I still cannot wrap my brain around getting a DCT just yet. Thanks for the pros and cons of this bike mate.
That's why quick shifters are better.
Oh come on TMF, you could have gone back and edited this one for the pricing information, you've had weeks! The bike you've had is closer to £18k.
Also, I'm going to comment on the interludes of the merch; it irks me as it breaks up the watching flow. Although of course it's nicer than having multiple ad's during your video. Happy to have the content in there but could you put it at the end?
With regards to the intercom and apple car play, Richy's just found that you can do it, it's a bit of a work around.
Completely agree with you on the TFT display btw, the layout of the graphics is so hard to read as well, I wish you could have different layouts like the Indian ones. It threw me off when I was riding it for sure.
Good review! I've rode a 2016 AT and loved the bike. I'm accustomed to a bike that is about 750 lbs so this coming in at about 200 lbs less feels so easy to move around. I would NEVER get the DCT though. I'm old school, I'll take care of my own gears. Lol
Gr8 honest review and clarified some points worth knowing.... cheers Andy
It's good to hear a honest review.
Cheers Peter - I always try to be honest in my reviews!
Hi. How do you find the handling and power compared to GS1250? Is it at the same level? Is it close? Thanks. Jose
The handling is right up there and the power isn't lacking in my opinion - not as much go as the 1250 but not too far off....
TheMissendenFlyer Thanks. Appreciate your input! Continue with your good work and doing amazing videos. Cheers. José
one quick question... would it be possible to change the front wheel with size 19', instead of size 21'? with the current tire sized 21' , bike looks much taller which makes it harder to ride for shorty bikers. i am aware, it may have to change the entire suspension system as well. thank you.
Regarding the jerky dct during u turns, dragging the rear brake,with your revs up a bit as you go round should eliminate that problem.
Indeed, thanks for the tip....
Is that the standard seat that came with the bike or is that lower seat option?
Thanks for the vid. Re low speed control jerkiness, would the scooter technique help ie ride the brake instead of the clutch?
Yes several have mentioned that