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Honda Crf1100l Africa Twin
8.5/10 Adventure

Honda Crf1100l Africa Twin Review

"The most dependable used adventure bike you can realistically buy."

Experienced riders wanting genuine adventure touring capability $9,000-$14,000 used 2020-2023
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Used Buyer Review

The CRF1100L is Honda's most accomplished adventure bike, and buying used makes a genuinely excellent machine surprisingly accessible. The parallel twin is bulletproof — these engines routinely hit 50,000 miles without drama if the previous owner wasn't an idiot about oil changes. Check service history religiously and inspect the chain and sprockets, because neglected ones get expensive fast. The DCT models are brilliant but add complexity; avoid any used example where the transmission feels hesitant or clunky between gears. On the road it's remarkably manageable for a big ADV. The suspension is plush without being wallowy, and the riding position suits all-day highway miles equally well as gravel tracks. DCHS models with the semi-active suspension are worth the premium if you can find one in budget. Watch for crash damage around the engine guards and handguards — these bikes attract adventure-enthusiast owners who actually use them, which means tip-overs happen. Overall the Africa Twin represents exceptional value used. Honda reliability means you're not gambling, and the electronics package rivals bikes costing significantly more.

Pros

+Honda reliability rarely disappoints
+Versatile on and off-road
+Smooth refined parallel twin
+Excellent electronics for price
+Comfortable long-distance ergonomics

Cons

-DCT adds repair complexity
-Heavy off-road at limits
-Screen vibration annoys at speed
-Fuel economy could improve
warning
Avoid if

Short riders or pure off-road focused buyers

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