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Πέμπτη 20 Φεβρουαρίου 2014

Honda XRV750 Africa Twin (1989-2003)





Big trail bike you really can take off road. The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin was one of the first Japanese monster trail / desert rally bikes and remains one of the best. Power output is much lower than the latest machines but the slimmer seat makes it easier to manage one you leave the Tarmac. It’s not light though and even gentle drops can be costly.

Engine

MCN ratingrating is 3
Owners' ratingrating is 4
The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin's very softly tuned V-twin produces reasonable low rev torque but is far from swift. Claimed power is 60bhp but a measured rear wheel figure is more like 52. That’s 600 Diversion territory and much less than a 600 Bandit. Three valve-per-cylinder design is economical and reliability superb.

Ride and Handling

MCN ratingrating is 3
Owners' ratingrating is 4
The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin's smooth and stable on the road. The narrow front tyre and wide bars make it quick to turn and it’s excellent in town with excellent balance, visibility and steering lock.  Brakes are better than other big trail bikes of the early 90s but out performed by the latest crop.

Equipment

MCN ratingrating is 3
Owners' ratingrating is 4
1992 onwards Honda XRV750 Africa Twins get an on-board computer which is fun even if the functions aren’t mind blowing. Headlights aren’t superb – hi-tech bulbs boost output. Comfort’s slightly disappointing – the riding position’s great but the seat’s too thin for long days in the saddle – an after market variant such as Corbin improves thing no end.


Quality and Reliability

MCN ratingrating is 5
Owners' ratingrating is 4
The Honda XRV750 Africa Twin's one of the most reliable bikes you can buy. The engine’s derived from the bulletproof VT500 and six figure mileages are quite possible.  is generally good but a few steel parts (such as the front frame that supports the clocks / fairing) can rust if neglected. A good choice for an overland expedition.

Value

MCN ratingrating is 2
Owners' ratingrating is 4
Used values are high of the Honda XRV750 Africa Twin. You could buy a far superior Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom or Aprilia ETV1000 Caponord for the same money, on the same reg-plate. Why? They look awkward and the Africa Twin still looks superb. You’ll pay quite a lot for the Honda, especially considering rival models performance but you shouldn’t loose too much when you sell.

Model History

1989: Original Honda XRV750 Africa Twin launched in December.
1992: Trip computer added.
1993: Major re-design including new frame, plastics, tank, engine mods, lower seat.
1996: Improved seat and clutch, larger silencer, modified upper fairing and luggage rack.
2003: Honda XRV750 Africa Twin deleted.

Other Versions

 
Honda XRV650 Africa Twin: Lighter, higher spec version made in 1988.
Honda XLV750R: High spec shaft driver version made to compete in the Paris-Dakar Rally.


Specifications

Top speed 110 mph
1/4-mile acceleration 13.9 secs
Max power61 bhp
Max torque46 ft-lb
Weight202 kg
Seat height860 mm
Fuel capacity23 litres
Average fuel consumption38 mpg
Tank range 190 miles
Annual road tax
Insurance group12 of 17
Engine size742 cc
Engine specification6v V-twin, 5 gears
FrameSteel perimeter
Front suspension adjustmentPreload
Rear suspension adjustmentPreload, compression
Front brakesTwin 276mm discs
Rear brake256mm disc
Front tyre size90/90 x 21
Rear tyre size140/80 x 17
 

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