Modeled after the Dakar-winning NXR-750, Honda’s first Africa Twin — the XRV750 — was introduced in 1989, kicking off a long and immensely successful model range that remains in production to this day with the latest 1,100cc model. As popular as the AT is, however, most owners of the adventure model spend the lion’s share of their time on paved roads. Knowing this, Big Red has opted to completely redesign the Africa Twin, jettisoning its off-road elements in favor of a sleeker and sportier touring motorcycle dubbed the NT1100.
Tipping the scales at 524lbs at the curb, the bike is powered by a liquid-cooled 1,084cc Uni-Cam parallel-twin engine that generates 100.5hp and 76.7ft-lbs of torque. The tourer’s steel chassis and aluminum subframe are cloaked beneath a futuristic full suite of bodywork with integrated LED lighting with DRLs. Brimming with touring-focused features and amenities, the NT1100 gets an electronically adjustable five-position windscreen, removable, color-matched panniers, cast aluminum wheels, cruise control, a 6.5″ TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, a remote preload adjuster for the rear shock, a center stand, and heated grips all as standard items. As if that wasn’t enough, Honda is also offering an optional quick-shifter and top box. The NT is being produced in Pearl Glare White, Graphite Black, and Matte Iridium Grey Metallic livery options, as well as in an automatic transmission DCT variant.
Available now, the 2022 Honda NT1100 starts at approximately $16,550 for the standard version and around $17,930 for the DCT-spec. Thus far, Honda has only released the NT in select European markets, though based on the Africa Twin’s popularity in North America, there’s a decent chance we may eventually see the NT1100 hitting US shores.
