1-Year Review: Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports (2020)

After a year sharing the 2020 #Honda #AfricaTwin Adventure Sports (semi-active), BikeSocial's Steve Rose, Michael Mann and Luke Brackenbury #review the good bits and not-so-good bits.

📖CONTENTS
▶️ 00:00 Intro and video overview
▶️ 00:56 Main updates for 2020
▶️ 03:10 Say no to A2
▶️ 04:00 More power and revs please
▶️ 04:56 Which model do we have?
▶️ 05:40 Motorway miles
▶️ 08:25 Heated grips
▶️ 09:18 515 miles in a day
▶️ 11:30 Too many buttons
▶️ 15:15 Night time riding
▶️ 19:30 Apple Car Play
▶️ 21:15 The Africa Twin caché
▶️ 25:30 Dealership convenience
▶️ 26:23 Off-road?
▶️ 27:21 Suspension
▶️ 30:35 Comfort and weather protection
▶️ 32:47 Screen
▶️ 36:50 Wide bars... or not?
▶️ 38:52 White frame, cleaning and corrosion
▶️ 43:28 MPH vs MPG
▶️ 44:19 Side-stand and quick shifter
▶️ 45:30 Better than an NC750?
▶️ 47:44 Bennetts Rewards advert
▶️ 48:18 Outtakes

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LET’S CONNECT!

[zakparrish]

Humble thoughts from an owner:

I have owned one since April. The new engine feels MUCH more powerful than the previous model. I've ridden a 2016 and a 2019 AdvSports and the difference is massive. I'll grant it's not 150hp and it shows but I don't find myself really missing that power, and I've taken heavily laden long-distance trips on it.

I'm somewhat taken aback by how anti-tech this review is. The tech is no big deal and I encourage everyone considering a purchase to go look at one and try it before you buy into naysaying. I switch through the modes very regularly, and often ride in my own custom User mode most of the time (engine behaviour of Tour, suspension of Urban). I feel like it's *possible* the reviewers here looked at the buttons once, didn't immediately get it, and disregarded it. I understand that completely; that's what "intuitive design" is all about. But if you are motivated to actually try it's not bad. I use the entire array of controls and control CarPlay with Hippo Hands on now. And once you REALLY experience that electronic suspension's capability (especially in Off Road mode), you're sold. :D

If your CarPlay isn't working it MAY be you have an old headset. CarPlay requires a connected headset and I'm pretty sure the bike uses a modern/recent Bluetooth chipset. Older headsets (like my old Sena 10) may struggle a bit (mine did). I switched to a newer Cardo Packtalk BOLD and everything is perfect.

Off-road, I think some reviews tend to forget that *all* ADV bikes are compromises. They'll never be as savvy on the street as a hardcore streetbike, nor as graceful in the dirt as a dedicated dirt machine like a CRF450. But I've taken my AT:AS into some NASTY places (including a MX track) and it handles remarkably. You have to treat it like a big bike, sure, but it's solid and capable if you're willing.

Regarding standing, those handlebars are REALLY set at street height from the factory. At the very least, rock them upward a few millimeters (be careful, the tolerance is tight). The difference when standing will amaze you. I put 20mm risers on mine, but I'm pretty tall (6'4").

Get the factory tires off of it immediately, though. Those so-called "90-10s" it ships with are rugged-looking street tires, nothing more. Put some Mitas e07s on it and go hit a green lane. I'll wait. :)

As a tall rider I invested in the taller seat (like the one that came stock on the '19 AdvSports) and I have no issue with the screen height. That said, I have a summer time "shorty" screen, but that's more about getting air into my helmet when it's 36C outside. The existing screen, though I can see over it at my height, cuts enough wind that my helmet becomes a sauna in the summer. Seek ye the aftermarket. I did put the stock one back on once November hit, though.

Thank you very much for the review! It was awesome to hear other opinions about the bike!

[rocketrollsvlogs]

People often complain about the electronics, but you can always just get on it and ride.

[marksbgm]

Never had a problem with mine. I've done a big tour of the alps and fun trips around the peak district. 6000 miles in and its been a pleasure. The electronics are really easy if you spend the time reading the manual and using hondas online simulator its really not rocket science.The screens not an issue just swop it for the many after market ones available. I've had GS's and other beemers and been plagued by reliability issues on every one, never again will I have anything BMW (Sorry TMF). Apple play has been faultless on mine its fab. Power wise lets face who can actually use 160 bhp? 100bhp is plenty for anyone on the road and the ATAS has plenty of grunt to bring a smile to your face. The semi active suspension is sublime making it a comfy ride and it switches at the press of a button (you just need to know which button, read the manual). Mines the manual version I'm not a fan of dct I want to think and decide what I want when I want, not when the computer says so but I see the attraction for some. Absolutely stunning bike, comfy, big tank range, loads of fun, reliable and the best thing about it? Its not a GS.

[robinputman]

Funny I’m 63 and got use to the tech in 2 days, preparation perhaps?

[olafrotkohl]

Great review! I always look forward to your videos, so thanks for all your work in their production.

When I moved to France from the US, I had to sell my beloved 2011 R1200GS Adventure (as well as a magic Moto Guzzi V11) since import hassles to bring them were too much, so after moving I decided on the exact same 2020 Africa Twin Adv Sports that you fellows have—ES, manual transmission. It took me a few weeks of riding to really begin to appreciate the Honda, given my long-term previous relationship to the GSA, but I became a solid convert. The Honda just exudes quality and craftsmanship, and thanks to the better efficiency of the chain drive versus shaft on the BMW, the Honda’s torque positively rocket launches the bike on low-end acceleration, and the 100 HP seems quite enough at the top end, at least for me. The seat, though less padded than the BMW, is surprisingly more comfortable on long hauls, with none of the truly painful hot spots and “monkey butt” that nothing I tried could alleviate. On the Honda, no pressure points at all.

One huge benefit was that a similarly equipped GSA would have cost me 5000€ more than the Africa Twin, and service, parts, and maintenance costs on BMWs have—to me—always been ridiculous, with the added hassle of a sparser dealer network. I still love BMW’s GSA with that distinct boxer tractor vibe, and in their latest guise they are beautiful in my eyes, but for me now (I’m almost 70) the Honda ATAS is my perfect match. It really inspires me every time I swing my leg over. And even at my age, I figured out the switchgear with not too much stress. The two custom modes really let you makes it your bike exactly as you desire, and it’s quite nice to toggle into a custom city mode when crawling through traffic, and then switch into hell hound mode back in the twisties.

[usmarine]

Love the review, I think it's probably the best and most complete coverage of this bike, and in very detailed fashion. Good job guys and thank you for confirming yet once more the AT might be the best all around, good looking, dependable, reliable bike out there. JMHO.

[MarcPilon]

I had over the years a Ktm 990 (Quebec to Mexico ++), a Multistrada, a Stelvio, a FJ09, GS1100, GS1200 and then a 2017 Africa Twin DTC. For me it is uncommon to buy the same bike twice... and now I have a 2020 AT Adventure DTC. It is just the best all around motorcycle. Suspension is just perfect, smooth engine and love the electronics ! People should invest half of the time they complain in reading their manual....

[billmcmeekin]

Great review fella's :-) I have this bike in DCT fashion and have grown to love it. 9000 km's throughout BC Canada, and have about an 80% fluid grasp of electronics package. Definitely not intuitive! Muscle memory and continuous use brings comfort. I put two track, forestry road, and many many highway miles on it, and absolutely loved the electronic suspension! The suspension was the largest surprise for me. I also tab through, urban, touring, off road, and sport(s) modes often, for these distinct riding pleasures. I've never had a DCT trans before, and it took some time to change my riding style to it's engineering ability. But wouldn't change back now for a bike like this. Traffic, comfort, slow speed. Many advantages. I'm a 6'2 and 220 heavy Canuck :-) Fortunately with seat tall, and windshield low, my sight of eye is wonderful with great wind protection. With full Klim gear, nothing stopped me. Bike is heavy with panniers loaded, seat bag, crash bars, center stand ect, but once rolling you don't seem to be bothered by it. Don't know if I'd ever single track it? We have a Z06, Boss 302, mountain sleds, RZR, quads, and mx bikes. This is my favorite toy! With 24" of snow in my yard, I'm just counting days for spring :-) P.S. I'm a Honda junkie anyway so I may be jaded, lol. Thanks for you great discussion on this ATAS guys, happy new year, and stay safe eh 🇨🇦

[VTwinRider]

I traded my 16 Africa Twin for an 1100 base model in Feb last year and couldn't be happier, it took half an hour in the garage to get around the switchgear no problem. As an Android user I have a snotty old iPhone for the bike that never fails to run carplay when I need it, if your phone fails to connect I would suggest its a problem with the phone not the bike. Keep up the good work guys, great content 👍

[richardkeeley]

I love my 2023 ATAS manual with all its tech. I added the off-road dongle which turns off TC, Wheelie control, and rear abs by pressing the star switch once. That's it. Now the ATAS is perfect. The bike has enough power for my needs and it's great for both off and on the road, and touring.

[iancharlton]

Enjoyed that I’m no longer a Bennett’s customer sadly but I’ll still watch you guys.

[Rickmac]

Really great content and discussion. Love the opposing views…

[marcuspotts]

No problem with the switchgear on it at long as you can play the accordion :)

[rocketrollsvlogs]

I now own this bike, standard/manual. I paid 13.5 US out the door. The power modes are amazing and I'm still learning the electronics, but more so because it's been freezing the last week vs the difficulty in learning. LoL, they keeping talking about the left hand control, but the TFT is touchscreen.

[robfearonphotographyhillwa]

I’ve had mine ATAS DCT plus pack yes it took me a couple of days but m fine with everything an Android owner but use a Tom Tom for Nav for me personally I love all the info displayed, I’m 50 btw absolutely love it, some good points guys for me I found a much better looking bike than the GS, thanks guys great episode

[richardvalitalo]

I own 17 AT DCT, love it not too much tech, will add c c. One ADVantage is reg. gas & only change oil/ not oil filter every time.(it's in the manual). No one else has 5 transmission modes. It does everything so well& super reliable!

[baldandbiking]

He thinks it's a bit underpowered. He hasn't had it kick down while passing a truck and hammering the throttle. I did it once and it shot forward so hard I nearly lost grip on the bars! Don't be fooled by it's gentle cruising mode, when this engine wants to take off you better be hanging on.

[pyrodoll]

Luke, you didn't want to like it! That shone through.

[capecrusader]

I really like (I will not say love...haha Luke) the three different perspectives on the Africa Twin. We all use our bikes differently and the three of you brought your own opinions and experiences riding the Twin over twelve months. I am thinking about making the change from a very reliable and comfortable ST1300 to an adventure bike. It was very interesting and educational to hear how differently the bike met each riders expectations and needs. I always appreciate when reviewers give their height and wait so you know how the ergonomics of the handlebars, foot pegs, riding positions and wind screens might affect you. Great job guys. The people who gave thumbs down reviews just don't respect other peoples opinions for what they are. Keep up the great work and looking forward to the following the podcast.

[emak]

Practical considerations - for example, the Triumph resale value goes into free fall the moment you sign papers whereas the AT holds it well?