This Simon Hargreaves chap is a great rider. Riding at that pace in twisties whilst explaining all the technical changes, definitely harder than it looks, very impressive.
@@axelfiraxa I usually reset the speedo to mph on launches (unless I forget, don't have time or can't figure it out) so this is in mph & I'll take absolute legend status, ta 😉 (truth is, the GoPro makes it look way fast. And I'm not the quickest rider in this game, not by a long way. There are some seriously rapid lads & lasses out there).
Simon, it's not surprising that you're the only reviewer who didn't opt for the DCT model for this test like the majority. They all sang the same song. Great as the DCT is, I was looking for a test with the good old shifting. Couldn't have been happier. And what a review, what a granular report. Always a cut above the rest. With the 19 front and manual gears this takes it for me against all the competition you listed all day.
What an incredible reviewer..Normal people cant remember these much detail even in the exam hall. This guy is giving out all minute details while riding at these twisties ...wow
DCT? I'm a 100% convert. I had an XADV and now an NT1100. I've got 55 years riding experience plus racing. Never going back to an archaic manual gearbox. My motorcycle ownership over the decades is more than 40 bikes. DCT adds substantially to the riding experience with no real downside. I let the DCT select the gear in SP2 shift mode. After that I make occasional adjustments with the +- paddles. I get why Honda pushes the technology. They successfully have me as a "captive customer". DCT,,,, best innovation since ABS.
I just bought a new 2023 ATAS with 21 inch front wheel - I prefer the taller bike as it clears car mirrors in traffic (only just) it's the ES model with manual gearbox and I am loving it!
Cheers Gary; there's a chap on Honda launches called Paul who works for Honda Motor Europe, not Honda UK, and he's a fluent in Japanese & spent time out there so he's the perfect liaison between journos & Honda engineers - you get so much insight from him. One of the deepest joys of this job, aside from riding lots of bikes, is talking to the people who actually, literally, build them. We're insanely privileged to get the chance to talk to them and find out why and how they do what they do. Massive respect to every single one of them - their dedication and pride in their work is so deep and profound. It's not always perfect - and there are reasons why that usually involve corporate decisions - but at a personal level, these guys (not met any gals yet, but I'm sure there will be soon) create the machines we love and give us the tools to do what we love. Massive respect to them. All I am is the conduit between them and the rest of us; a mere pipeline of info. So here's to motorcycle engineers everywhere, in every factory 🍻
Si Hargreaves might just be the best bike reviewer on the planet at this point. Explains things very well, whilst on the move. Gives a very balanced review, no real waffle just straight to the point, tells it as it is and does it in a very listenable way. Someone should give the lad a job!
Hmmm... "Sports" Now, before watching, the first thought I had seeing the bike is it's not a sports bike - if you cannot drag a knee, it should not have sports in the name. Then on watching, seeing Simon hustling it along, and it really does go over the road very, very well.
@@writestuffmedia I think you're right. What put me off the NT was that it shifted down from third to second mid corner like my old CRF1000 AT. My current NC750X never does it and that's got a similar set of electronics as the aforementioned model of AT that I had....must be the logic that the DCT is coded with and the parameters for a shift being different with the NC's engine. That initial change from the 1000 to the 1100 was such a monumental difference!
Pheeeeeeeeewwww.... hmm... I'm sitting here at home, closing my eyes and asking myself that question. There are great reasons for owning either bike, but overall I would have the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro by a gnat's chuff - because: 1) it costs less for a better level of trim (heated seats & q/s as standard): £14,495 v £16,300 , 2) while I love the 19in steering dynamic of the ATAS, there's a hapless, chuck-about, wahey-ness to the 21in Rally Pro (and old ATAS) that I still get off on when riding. It's not for everyone and 10 years ago I would've preferred the 19in front thing, but the last 10 years of riding f-off big trail bikes on the road with 21in fronts, loads of stupid weight transfer and 100bhp plus has made me get used to the way you ride them & I'm kinda into it now. Which begs the question, what would I have done, as a Honda product planner, for the 2024 ATAS... sounds like a feature for Bennetts' website to me... 🙂
😄 I need to upgrade from my Tiger 800 XCX and have been looking at either of these. Haven’t yet got to ride the Tiger 900 and it would be my first pick but I’m a bit worried about the vibrations as many have stated.
I remember when Suzuki brought out the revised V Strom 1050 XT a while back that only came with a 19 inch front wheel, And everyone to a man whinged that they would love to see a V Strom with a 21 front..Their prayers where eventually answered..Now it's interesting that with the Africa twin Honda has done the same thing but the other way round and everyone to a man is loving it for it's road Bias like its a new thing...fun fact, That now older model 1050 XT granted it doesn't have all the bells and whistles this has, has the same if not more power than this, weighs less, is more comfortable and handles better, on a well loved proven platform with plenty of reliability, a great dealer network with a fantastic aftermarket..And you can still buy them new for about half the price of this...Id go for one of those.And the new ones are pretty good too..especially the new 800 re.
Great job!!! This is the only bike I would consider out of all the bikes you mentioned, because I Love the DCT, I currently own an NC750X DCT and I am hooked on the DCT. Do you know if this bike is coming to the USA for 2024?
9:20 that was also my experience with the previous model. You first had to break in order to compress and calm down the front before cornering. It was quite unsettling if you went straight for the corner.
Ummm.... on high setting, it's about in my mid-eyeline (I'm 6ft). So when getting a move on on twisty roads, I preferred it set low, out of my eyeline - but on straight bits, fully up is fine.
@@writestuffmedia Appreciate your feed back I'm 511 i owe you a pint now, yes i remember on a older model some riders where looking straight through so when i got muddy it got scary so Cheers Simon.
Got the 2020 model and to be sure this model brings it more closer to the NT, so do you save your dollar and go with the NT or go for an adventure bike that's made for the road?
That's a great question, and one that the more switched-on journos were asking themselves on the launch. Consensus (after a few pints) was we'd rather take the NT for a tour of Scotland (better fairing, screen & comfort over long distances), but have the ATAS for everything else.
Thanks for your very well-balanced review. The 2024 Africa Twin is an incredible improvement on the release of the 2020 model when it was upgraded to the current 1,084cc motor. The torque has increased and is much smoother and more measured in its deployment from zero to high rpm. It really is a pearler of a twin motor with a great traditional 'twin' sound with the upgraded 2024 muffler. I'm a fan and a Honda tragic from way back and can hardly wait to own one. I would very much like to buy the '25 model next year. HOWEVER, Honda will NOT be getting my money until at least some or all of the following glitches/negatives are resolved: 1) The atrociously long time it takes to boot the TFT screen and THEN it requires a touch on an 'OK' button before giving you access. WTF Honda?! No other manufacturers spoil the ride experience like this so WTF Honda?! 2) The switchgear needs an overhaul - simplify it AND include backlighting 3) An easy way to get the seat height BELOW 800mm. Please don't try to tell me it can't be done Honda. I'm 5'6" (167cm) and I would like to be able to flatfoot. 795mm seat height is a worthy goal Honda. 4) For the top-of-the-line model (mainly road use owners) ditch those ridiculous spoked wheels and give us some tasteful forged cast aluminium wheels. Cleaning spokes is an absolute nightmare. We already have enough cleaning with the chain drive, so, please Honda - some alloys. 5) For two-up touring it most definitely needs some more power. They should either bump the capacity to 1250cc for another 30hp OR, preferably, finally release the supercharged model on which they hold a Japanese patent and as such has been in development since 2019. One would think that simply in the name of competition with the Multistradas, GS1300s, Triumphs et al, Honda would want to increase the power at least somewhat. It is great for low speed stuff but 2-up with luggage on the highway it does need quite a bit more. Please! (from all reports the supercharger design is for low-mid range torque - not meant to be a high-rev Kawasaki H2 competitor). 6) Not mandatory for my purchase but, with DCT, a reverse gear for parking such a heavy baby would be handy. You'd only need 'impulse power' Scotty :-) 7) Does that great sounding rear muffler really have to be the size of a boat anchor? So there's my list of gripes for a bike I love a lot. My wishlist. How about it Honda - all for '25?
Sports tourers have gone out of fashion in the last few years while adventure bikes have taken over, now sports tourer riders want better road handling because a lot of adventure bikes never go off road and because of this manufacturers are making their bikes into more of a sports tourer. Why not make a good sports tourer again like the VFRs?
1300GS TE starts at £18,465. No one ever buys without TE spec, it would be worth nothing after you collect it from the dealer. On average most of my customers bought them at £20-£23k with most of the spec. I think it's hard to compare both bikes as they are such different price points
Well, if you choose more additional equipment, it will cost more, but an R1300 with the dynamic package comes with more features compared to the Honda Adv Sport. It's important to compare them on equal terms.@@Frankies95
Well, if you choose more additional equipment, it will cost more, but an R1300 with the dynamic package comes with more features compared to the Honda Adv Sport. It's important to compare them on equal terms.@@Frankies95
In my opinion, when you incorporate a substantial amount of equipment and technology that Honda lacks, we're no longer making a direct comparison. Many tend to go to great lengths when customizing their BMWs, and personally, I believe the GS in the TE version is the perfect choice.@@Frankies95
Ere Simon, was your dad the late great Jack from Country ways? If so, the talkin genetics has come through a plum mate. One of the best overall reviews mate. ❤❤🙏🙏👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧💎💎 Ridin was awsome mate many thanks.
Yes , a review as it should be . Very comprehensive ! I currently own a 2020 AS and I am thinking to upgrade to the 24 model . I also consider Yamaha 9 gt plus . May I ask for your expert opinion? Any significant differences in touring capabilities? Thank you in advance , great job !
Ha! My fave bike! I think the Yam has a more engaging motor, more performance, a better suite of features and costs a lot less. It's not worse than the Honda in any area as a sports tourer, I don't think - maybe tank range.
Awesome review, I am wonderring if it's still have issues with the touch screen, I hope they fixed it for this model year. I am happy that they were able to fix the quickshifter i wish they could fix it on my NT aswell.
@@Canada1608 yeah i know, they are changing it on my NT aswell. I just hope it will be an upgraded unit because i don't really want to take my bike back to the dealership every half a year.
Simon Hargreaves is an excellent communicator, and in my opinion the best in his field. I put his communication skills on a par with Jack Hargreaves - look him up, and yes I'm that old! As for the bike, I hope the paint quality is darn sight better than the unfit for purpose (in my opinion) stuff they put on the CB750 Hornet I bought 6 weeks (1,300 miles) ago. A Warranty claim is in but from what I've been told I won't hold my breath!
We went off-road for about 5km - on a gravel path, really - and it wasn't anything an NT1100 couldn't have done just as easily tbh. The road changes have made the ATAS less off-road friendly - it's top heavy with that tank, the throttle is heavier, the engine response is less aggressive (smoother) and the front wheel size has made it less... competent off-road. It's more Tiger 900 GT Pro than Tiger Rally Pro, if that makes sense.
Been a few years since I rode one, but the KTM has a *lot* more performance and - to my memory - feels like a slightly bigger bike - although the new ATAS is deffo heading in the same direction. And they're now pretty similar philosophically. If I wanted a two-up grand touring adventure bike, I'd probably take the KTM. But I'd possibly sleep a bit easier if I had the Honda.
Smaller end can and a tail tidy and that's a nice looking bike, not a fan of the spokes in the rims design, defo as good looking as a deset x imo and I bet its got alot better wind protection than the desert x 😅 Good review 👍
I wonder that can you try between 50-70 kmh withour hands and handle bar shaking again as old version?If you can test that it will be my pleasure..Because It is cronicle problem. I had 2020 ATAS and my friend has 2021 ATAS,also I have new 2023 ATAS and problem is same.. Between 50-70 kmh handle bar shaking even I tested after my new 2023 ATAS after getting from Honda Shop again same problem with 0 km new for ATAS.. It is cronicle problem for whole CRF1100L AT.. It is not related tyre or balance or top case etc..Unfortunately Honda is not doing anythingelse about the problem..
It's about halfway between an NT1100 and a standard Africa Twin. In fact I'd say is closer to an NT1100. It's not as good as the 2023 ATAS, so if you wanna take an Adventure Sport off-road, I'd recommend finding a dealer with some 2023 stock left.
Help me out, I tested the Africa Twin 2024 today. I have an NC750x and my idea is to upgrade. I just loved the teste of the AT. What I noticed is that the engine vibrates more than the NC. Do you think the engine vibrates more than normal? Will It be me the one to find this?
@@RUclips_Globetrotter Nope, the 950/V2S comes with 19" front wheel and if you want it you can get it with the spooked wheels too. So it makes her an adventure bike, and yet more sportier than the AfricaTwin.
I'd love an AS but without the electronic suspension, or better still, the base AT with the 19" wheels - basically the cheapest road going version possible. I think the twin displays are too long in the tooth now and it annoys me in videos when you see the speed change between the two displays not exactly in synch with each other. Really needs a singe updated display. Great looking bike though.
Ditto on the DCT S2 mode, try riding it hard, it even blips down the gears under enthusiastic braking. I have 2022 and have used the cornering abs in earnest, heart in mouth, but, boy does it work. Great Review by the way. 🙂
Not many people do the same I guess? I park the bike up dec-march but I live in Sweden. Heated seat would be great but looking around both late and early on my season I realise I’m the odd one.
I have a multistrada 950 today. I love this bike! It can keep up with any bike in the corners. Only tree problems, offroad, 15 hp and fuel capasity. Will this new AT keep up with a multistrada?
The multi is basically a road bike with a touch extra ground clearance and a nod to the GS in looks. The Africa twin has a smidge more trail ability at the expense of road handling. Can't say how much different the 24 is to my 21, but the electronic suspension takes a little time to settle after braking, but it's well controlled through the twisties. Brakes aren't awesome and the frontal area is bloody huge. I'm 6'5" and I have yet to get to grips with getting on the bike due to the high tail rack and angle the side stand puts the bike at. With a tall seat option in the high position I'm flat footed, it's just the side stand leans the bike over more than I'd like. I might see if I can add a shim between the stand bracket and mounting to stand the bike more upright as one of these days I'm going to fall on my arse, possibly with the bike on top of me! The engine is better than the specs suggest. I've had my KTM RC8R dyno 160bhp and 90lb/ft torque at the rear wheel and in real world use I don't feel the 1100 parallel twin giving much away. I just wish it had more damping on the initial stroke of the forks and the stopping power of a brick wall like the Brembo setup of the KTM.
There's certainly some interesting changes to the AT, one of which sadly is the bump in price, which places it amongst some stiff competition. I'm surprised no comparison was made to the KTM 890 Adventure R, which no doubt soon will be morphed into a 990. I seriously considered the 2020 AT but found it too tall and top heavy, I opted instead for the KTM with all the knobs and whistles. Traction control, heated grips and seats, fully adjustable suspension, spot lights, quick shifter, Remus end can and centre stand. To me the only winning attribute of the AT is it's looks, the KTM beats it hands down at everything else.
@@greywolf9292 "To me the only winning attribute of the AT is it's looks, the KTM beats it hands down at everything else" ......some people say that the 'reliability' of the Honda might be reason enough to buy an Africa Twin. I happen to like both...but I can't deny that, I too, would have reservations if I was on a long trip-far from help, while riding a KTM...🤔
Not that I’m itching to spend more $ but wouldn’t DCT and radar cruise control be a positive match? As an aside, I bought an AT DCT and immediately had buyers remorse; now I’d never go back.
Look at RPM and gear vs the speed, he was NOT riding in 5th doing 50 KMH at 3000 RPM. May be in a country that uses KMH but this bike had to be reading MPH.
Thanks for this Simon - excellent review. Does it still have tubed tyres? If so this seems at odds with the fact it's more road-focused (imho). Having owned the first AT with DCT and experienced some dodgy quality issues I'd be a bit uneasy about dropping £16k+ on one!
One bike you didn't compare it too, was its baby brother, the 750 Transalp. A d should Honda do the same as Suzuki and bring a 19" front wheel model out Now that I would buy
Some have done it. I read that the Kineo tubeless wheel is now pretty sorted for a straight swap. I'm tempted myself for my 21 AS, but it's a lot of money.
Honda has completely lost their way with the ADV Sports model. The original AT had 21-18 wheel combo from the early 90’s until it ended production…..with mostly minor tweaks. The 2018-2019 ATAS was the best of the current generation by far…aside from the dumb idea Honda had about putting an absurdly tall seat on it and no cruise control. Since then Honda has continually screwed the model up with tech that’s confusing, complicated, and lowered ground clearance! Each time they think they’re fixing or making something better with the model, they keep getting further away from what the original bike was…..a balanced, capable, simple, reliable and on the affordable side of the spectrum ADV bike. 🤦🏻♂️
The reviewer asks the question why Honda is so "evangelical" about "banging the drum" on DCT and that they should just "let it go". Well, it is simply because all the DCT haters out there, who know little about DCT most times, continue to ignorantly persist in slagging it off. That's why they're evangelical about it. I've only ever ridden an AT DCT once, for about 45mins and I'm evangelical about it now after a 50 year love affair with manual bikes. All power to Honda for it! DCT has to be the best innovation on bikes since ABS for the road.
I’m actually on the market for my next “road”adventure bike, and I really like the new 2024 ATAS, but only with manual gearbox, the second bike is 2024 Tiger 900 Rally Pro which seems to be better value for money. My mind tells me to buy Tiger, but heart is with Honda😂 What would you choose???
I am one of those Vikings he mentioned and with none in stock around me, how would it fit someone who is 6'7"? I know the 2018 fit very well but I a lot of the features I am interested in the 2024. Any info for tall riders would be appreciated.
I'm 6'5" in my socks, all arms and legs, and a taller seat was helpful for dropping my knees a bit. The tank flares out too quickly for my liking, but it's still a comfortable bike with tall handlebar height. The screen throws a lot of wind noise at my head unless I tuck into a racing crouch, making myself look like a chav on a stolen scooter trying to go faster! Not a good look on a giant adventure bike.
This Simon Hargreaves chap is a great rider. Riding at that pace in twisties whilst explaining all the technical changes, definitely harder than it looks, very impressive.
Those are km h though. If he was going at that many miles per hour he would be an absolute legend
I was thinking the same. Not as easy as it looks.
@@axelfiraxa I usually reset the speedo to mph on launches (unless I forget, don't have time or can't figure it out) so this is in mph & I'll take absolute legend status, ta 😉 (truth is, the GoPro makes it look way fast. And I'm not the quickest rider in this game, not by a long way. There are some seriously rapid lads & lasses out there).
@@writestuffmedia in that case you absolutely deserve legend status!
Riding at that pace takes all of my concentration.
Simon, it's not surprising that you're the only reviewer who didn't opt for the DCT model for this test like the majority. They all sang the same song. Great as the DCT is, I was looking for a test with the good old shifting. Couldn't have been happier. And what a review, what a granular report. Always a cut above the rest. With the 19 front and manual gears this takes it for me against all the competition you listed all day.
What an incredible reviewer..Normal people cant remember these much detail even in the exam hall. This guy is giving out all minute details while riding at these twisties ...wow
DCT? I'm a 100% convert. I had an XADV and now an NT1100. I've got 55 years riding experience plus racing. Never going back to an archaic manual gearbox. My motorcycle ownership over the decades is more than 40 bikes. DCT adds substantially to the riding experience with no real downside. I let the DCT select the gear in SP2 shift mode. After that I make occasional adjustments with the +- paddles. I get why Honda pushes the technology. They successfully have me as a "captive customer". DCT,,,, best innovation since ABS.
Thank you. I'm sold. Going to buy the 24 ATAS DCT
read this a lot from experienced riders
Best bike review I think I’ve ever seen! Went through everything, awesome job. More of these please, fantastic work
First class granular review Simon. Especially your comments following your back to back ride with the previous model.
Hustling that bike whilst providing a well rounded review. SH. Legend
Leg end 😄
I just bought a new 2023 ATAS with 21 inch front wheel - I prefer the taller bike as it clears car mirrors in traffic (only just) it's the ES model with manual gearbox and I am loving it!
Best new review have ever seen, everybody else will have a long way to beat that Simon! Nice bike as well!!!
What a review! What a rider! So professional, nice one Simon.
Everything asides Africa twin is the best looking adventure bike ever made .❤❤❤❤
One of the best motorcycle reviewers around. I have no intention of buying this bike but still watched the whole thing!
I choose this one against ANY GS. Love this bike and Japanese (good) engineering .
Possibly the best Motorcycle review ever
Best motorcycle reviewer there is, always loved SH insights.
Cheers Gary; there's a chap on Honda launches called Paul who works for Honda Motor Europe, not Honda UK, and he's a fluent in Japanese & spent time out there so he's the perfect liaison between journos & Honda engineers - you get so much insight from him. One of the deepest joys of this job, aside from riding lots of bikes, is talking to the people who actually, literally, build them. We're insanely privileged to get the chance to talk to them and find out why and how they do what they do. Massive respect to every single one of them - their dedication and pride in their work is so deep and profound. It's not always perfect - and there are reasons why that usually involve corporate decisions - but at a personal level, these guys (not met any gals yet, but I'm sure there will be soon) create the machines we love and give us the tools to do what we love. Massive respect to them. All I am is the conduit between them and the rest of us; a mere pipeline of info. So here's to motorcycle engineers everywhere, in every factory 🍻
Top job Simon, best reviewer on you tube bar none.
Thanks! That's why we pay him the big bucks... 🙂
Thanks David! 🤜🤛
Awful audio quality 2:36 😢
Si Hargreaves might just be the best bike reviewer on the planet at this point. Explains things very well, whilst on the move. Gives a very balanced review, no real waffle just straight to the point, tells it as it is and does it in a very listenable way. Someone should give the lad a job!
Are you his agent?! Yes, he's a superstar.
@@bennettsbikesocial ha ha - yeah, I definitely gushed a little too much there. I'll reword it - he's no bad at his job 😂
I'm picking up the 2024 Honda AT ES DCT. I'm so excited. It will be here this weekend!
Hmmm... "Sports" Now, before watching, the first thought I had seeing the bike is it's not a sports bike - if you cannot drag a knee, it should not have sports in the name. Then on watching, seeing Simon hustling it along, and it really does go over the road very, very well.
I rode the crf1000l and really wished it had a 19 on the front. I'm glad they've changed it....I may have to test ride it now. Nice intro
What difference would a 19" make over a 21?
@@skydaddy2426 it's a confidence issue for me. The 21 felt less stable in general. The 19 smaller and wider giving you larger gripping surface.
Always do great in-depth real world reviews Simon. I’ve honestly no interest in buying one of these but Best review or this bike I’ve seen
Thanks man. 🤟
Great review! I was watching thinking all those improvements to the DCT would transform the NT1100....and then you said it 👍
No doubt a 6-axis IMU and the fruitier motor (and semi-active) will be an NT1100 update either 2025 or 2026.
@@writestuffmedia I think you're right. What put me off the NT was that it shifted down from third to second mid corner like my old CRF1000 AT.
My current NC750X never does it and that's got a similar set of electronics as the aforementioned model of AT that I had....must be the logic that the DCT is coded with and the parameters for a shift being different with the NC's engine.
That initial change from the 1000 to the 1100 was such a monumental difference!
Hi Simon..how does the new 19” compare to a standard GS? I’m only, really interested in the standard AT 2024. Great review as always pal.👍🏻
Great review!
Now that we have reviews of both the 2024 Africa Twin and the 2024 Tiger 900, which would be the one you guys prefer?
Pheeeeeeeeewwww.... hmm... I'm sitting here at home, closing my eyes and asking myself that question.
There are great reasons for owning either bike, but overall I would have the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro by a gnat's chuff - because: 1) it costs less for a better level of trim (heated seats & q/s as standard): £14,495 v £16,300 , 2) while I love the 19in steering dynamic of the ATAS, there's a hapless, chuck-about, wahey-ness to the 21in Rally Pro (and old ATAS) that I still get off on when riding. It's not for everyone and 10 years ago I would've preferred the 19in front thing, but the last 10 years of riding f-off big trail bikes on the road with 21in fronts, loads of stupid weight transfer and 100bhp plus has made me get used to the way you ride them & I'm kinda into it now.
Which begs the question, what would I have done, as a Honda product planner, for the 2024 ATAS... sounds like a feature for Bennetts' website to me... 🙂
😄
I need to upgrade from my Tiger 800 XCX and have been looking at either of these.
Haven’t yet got to ride the Tiger 900 and it would be my first pick but I’m a bit worried about the vibrations as many have stated.
I remember when Suzuki brought out the revised V Strom 1050 XT a while back that only came with a 19 inch front wheel, And everyone to a man whinged that they would love to see a V Strom with a 21 front..Their prayers where eventually answered..Now it's interesting that with the Africa twin Honda has done the same thing but the other way round and everyone to a man is loving it for it's road Bias like its a new thing...fun fact, That now older model 1050 XT granted it doesn't have all the bells and whistles this has, has the same if not more power than this, weighs less, is more comfortable and handles better, on a well loved proven platform with plenty of reliability, a great dealer network with a fantastic aftermarket..And you can still buy them new for about half the price of this...Id go for one of those.And the new ones are pretty good too..especially the new 800 re.
Great job!!! This is the only bike I would consider out of all the bikes you mentioned, because I Love the DCT, I currently own an NC750X DCT and I am hooked on the DCT.
Do you know if this bike is coming to the USA for 2024?
Sorry, I don't know. I would imagine so - be odd if Honda US didn't import it.
9:20 that was also my experience with the previous model. You first had to break in order to compress and calm down the front before cornering. It was quite unsettling if you went straight for the corner.
I have the most question. I heard that the sheet is a little softer than the year 23, is that true?
Brilliant comprehensive review.
Great job with the review. Well done. 👌🏍️🎥
You are truly the BEST bike reviewer ever!
Thanks for the comment, it's not often people take the time to send a positive message so we do appreciate it.
nice review thanks, certainly the best out of a bunch of photocopied ones (either italian, french or spanish youtubers)....
This video answered my questions very clearly! Thanks with a like and sub. 🙌
Simon, is the electronic suspension worth having on AT AS manual?
Very good review 👏 👍
Great review. Covered everything , and in depth
Thanks Frank, appreciate that - and love to hear more about your garage.
Are you looking through the windshield or over on high setting ? thankyou for in-depth review well done.
Ummm.... on high setting, it's about in my mid-eyeline (I'm 6ft). So when getting a move on on twisty roads, I preferred it set low, out of my eyeline - but on straight bits, fully up is fine.
@@writestuffmedia Appreciate your feed back I'm 511 i owe you a pint now, yes i remember on a older model some riders where looking straight through so when i got muddy it got scary so Cheers Simon.
Got the 2020 model and to be sure this model brings it more closer to the NT, so do you save your dollar and go with the NT or go for an adventure bike that's made for the road?
That's a great question, and one that the more switched-on journos were asking themselves on the launch. Consensus (after a few pints) was we'd rather take the NT for a tour of Scotland (better fairing, screen & comfort over long distances), but have the ATAS for everything else.
@@writestuffmedia Pulled the trigger on the DCT AS hopefully pick it up for the NW200 next month. Quiet looking forward to seeing the difference
In the northeastern U.S. we ride them all over. Not hard enduro but atv trails jeep paths and back roads paved and dirt. We seem to enjoy it.Jmtc
Thanks for your very well-balanced review. The 2024 Africa Twin is an incredible improvement on the release of the 2020 model when it was upgraded to the current 1,084cc motor. The torque has increased and is much smoother and more measured in its deployment from zero to high rpm. It really is a pearler of a twin motor with a great traditional 'twin' sound with the upgraded 2024 muffler. I'm a fan and a Honda tragic from way back and can hardly wait to own one. I would very much like to buy the '25 model next year.
HOWEVER, Honda will NOT be getting my money until at least some or all of the following glitches/negatives are resolved:
1) The atrociously long time it takes to boot the TFT screen and THEN it requires a touch on an 'OK' button before giving you access. WTF Honda?! No other manufacturers spoil the ride experience like this so WTF Honda?!
2) The switchgear needs an overhaul - simplify it AND include backlighting
3) An easy way to get the seat height BELOW 800mm. Please don't try to tell me it can't be done Honda. I'm 5'6" (167cm) and I would like to be able to flatfoot. 795mm seat height is a worthy goal Honda.
4) For the top-of-the-line model (mainly road use owners) ditch those ridiculous spoked wheels and give us some tasteful forged cast aluminium wheels. Cleaning spokes is an absolute nightmare. We already have enough cleaning with the chain drive, so, please Honda - some alloys.
5) For two-up touring it most definitely needs some more power. They should either bump the capacity to 1250cc for another 30hp OR, preferably, finally release the supercharged model on which they hold a Japanese patent and as such has been in development since 2019. One would think that simply in the name of competition with the Multistradas, GS1300s, Triumphs et al, Honda would want to increase the power at least somewhat. It is great for low speed stuff but 2-up with luggage on the highway it does need quite a bit more. Please! (from all reports the supercharger design is for low-mid range torque - not meant to be a high-rev Kawasaki H2 competitor).
6) Not mandatory for my purchase but, with DCT, a reverse gear for parking such a heavy baby would be handy. You'd only need 'impulse power' Scotty :-)
7) Does that great sounding rear muffler really have to be the size of a boat anchor?
So there's my list of gripes for a bike I love a lot. My wishlist. How about it Honda - all for '25?
Sports tourers have gone out of fashion in the last few years while adventure bikes have taken over, now sports tourer riders want better road handling because a lot of adventure bikes never go off road and because of this manufacturers are making their bikes into more of a sports tourer. Why not make a good sports tourer again like the VFRs?
Do you choose a Honda AT Adv Sport for £16,300 or a BMW R1300 GS with the dynamic package for £17,600?
1300GS TE starts at £18,465. No one ever buys without TE spec, it would be worth nothing after you collect it from the dealer. On average most of my customers bought them at £20-£23k with most of the spec. I think it's hard to compare both bikes as they are such different price points
Well, if you choose more additional equipment, it will cost more, but an R1300 with the dynamic package comes with more features compared to the Honda Adv Sport. It's important to compare them on equal terms.@@Frankies95
Well, if you choose more additional equipment, it will cost more, but an R1300 with the dynamic package comes with more features compared to the Honda Adv Sport. It's important to compare them on equal terms.@@Frankies95
In my opinion, when you incorporate a substantial amount of equipment and technology that Honda lacks, we're no longer making a direct comparison. Many tend to go to great lengths when customizing their BMWs, and personally, I believe the GS in the TE version is the perfect choice.@@Frankies95
@@Frankies95 oh no mate... you can compare them !
Ere Simon, was your dad the late great Jack from Country ways?
If so, the talkin genetics has come through a plum mate.
One of the best overall reviews mate.
❤❤🙏🙏👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧💎💎
Ridin was awsome mate many thanks.
Yes , a review as it should be . Very comprehensive ! I currently own a 2020 AS and I am thinking to upgrade to the 24 model . I also consider Yamaha 9 gt plus . May I ask for your expert opinion? Any significant differences in touring capabilities?
Thank you in advance , great job !
Ha! My fave bike! I think the Yam has a more engaging motor, more performance, a better suite of features and costs a lot less. It's not worse than the Honda in any area as a sports tourer, I don't think - maybe tank range.
What a great ride. How you kept taulking on that ride i dont know .Great looking bike +++🤗🤗🤗
Awesome review, I am wonderring if it's still have issues with the touch screen, I hope they fixed it for this model year. I am happy that they were able to fix the quickshifter i wish they could fix it on my NT aswell.
Honda is changing those defective and offers 10 year warranty on new unit
@@Canada1608 yeah i know, they are changing it on my NT aswell. I just hope it will be an upgraded unit because i don't really want to take my bike back to the dealership every half a year.
Simon Hargreaves is an excellent communicator, and in my opinion the best in his field. I put his communication skills on a par with Jack Hargreaves - look him up, and yes I'm that old!
As for the bike, I hope the paint quality is darn sight better than the unfit for purpose (in my opinion) stuff they put on the CB750 Hornet I bought 6 weeks (1,300 miles) ago. A Warranty claim is in but from what I've been told I won't hold my breath!
Thanks for a great review Simon, don't remember you giving us the weight of the bike or is it me 😂
No, I don't think I did in the end. 243kg manual, 253kg DCT.
Great review mate
great Review! Loved it! Would love to know how it performed off-roads! thank you
We went off-road for about 5km - on a gravel path, really - and it wasn't anything an NT1100 couldn't have done just as easily tbh. The road changes have made the ATAS less off-road friendly - it's top heavy with that tank, the throttle is heavier, the engine response is less aggressive (smoother) and the front wheel size has made it less... competent off-road. It's more Tiger 900 GT Pro than Tiger Rally Pro, if that makes sense.
The Africa Twin or the Stelvio for road only riding?
It would be nice to have the opportunity to ride the Stelvio and find out!
Best adventure sport in the market🎉🎉🎉
I’d wait on that opinion until the new F900GSA comes out in March
How would you compare it to something like a KTM SuperAdventure S? Of the two, which one would you buy?
Been a few years since I rode one, but the KTM has a *lot* more performance and - to my memory - feels like a slightly bigger bike - although the new ATAS is deffo heading in the same direction. And they're now pretty similar philosophically. If I wanted a two-up grand touring adventure bike, I'd probably take the KTM. But I'd possibly sleep a bit easier if I had the Honda.
Smaller end can and a tail tidy and that's a nice looking bike, not a fan of the spokes in the rims design, defo as good looking as a deset x imo and I bet its got alot better wind protection than the desert x 😅
Good review 👍
It has, you're right.
Yours is a good review too, and gets to the point a lot quicker!
I knew Si would mention the Tracer gt+,
It's the new Fazer 1000...
I wonder that can you try between 50-70 kmh withour hands and handle bar shaking again as old version?If you can test that it will be my pleasure..Because It is cronicle problem. I had 2020 ATAS and my friend has 2021 ATAS,also I have new 2023 ATAS and problem is same.. Between 50-70 kmh handle bar shaking even I tested after my new 2023 ATAS after getting from Honda Shop again same problem with 0 km new for ATAS.. It is cronicle problem for whole CRF1100L AT.. It is not related tyre or balance or top case etc..Unfortunately Honda is not doing anythingelse about the problem..
Any word if it’ll come to the US?
We didn’t get the 2023, and Honda’s website still only lists the 2022 as the latest year
Does the bike automatically lower (or get softer) at stops with the new suspension?
Are they coming to the US?
I am torn between this and the multistrada v2s . What do you think? There are about the same price where I live.
How is it on the dirt
It's about halfway between an NT1100 and a standard Africa Twin. In fact I'd say is closer to an NT1100. It's not as good as the 2023 ATAS, so if you wanna take an Adventure Sport off-road, I'd recommend finding a dealer with some 2023 stock left.
good review and always loved the AT but at that price you're looking at a secondhand low mileage multi v4s !
Yup, that's a problem.
I am assuming the 'Sports', designation came from the Australian launch?
Ride safe👍
Someday they'll get it right. We might all be dead by then.
Help me out, I tested the Africa Twin 2024 today. I have an NC750x and my idea is to upgrade. I just loved the teste of the AT.
What I noticed is that the engine vibrates more than the NC. Do you think the engine vibrates more than normal? Will It be me the one to find this?
difference in l1,2,3.4; no ssite found ?
I would still go for Multistrada V2 S.
Isn't that a touring bike, not adventure bike?
@@RUclips_Globetrotter Nope, the 950/V2S comes with 19" front wheel and if you want it you can get it with the spooked wheels too. So it makes her an adventure bike, and yet more sportier than the AfricaTwin.
I'd love an AS but without the electronic suspension, or better still, the base AT with the 19" wheels - basically the cheapest road going version possible. I think the twin displays are too long in the tooth now and it annoys me in videos when you see the speed change between the two displays not exactly in synch with each other. Really needs a singe updated display. Great looking bike though.
I thought that the AS was not going to be available in manual (DCT default).
UK limitation only I believe. Most of the world gets both options on AS.
how does it compare to the transalp ?
Two wheels, two cylinders, two brakes, two pedals. Same same, but different
Does it have low pressure tire monitors?
Ditto on the DCT S2 mode, try riding it hard, it even blips down the gears under enthusiastic braking. I have 2022 and have used the cornering abs in earnest, heart in mouth, but, boy does it work. Great Review by the way. 🙂
Any comment on engine vibrations? Good or bad?
Great review, is a centre stand an option? A TransAlp AS in this spec at £12,300 would be more for me.
It is, and not a cheap one (it's £215)
Which QS do you find better, the new Tiger 900 or this bike?
oooo... hang on... there's not much in it. I think the Tiger is fractionally sharper and more direct... but the Honda is smoother.
I ride all year round round and it baffles me why Honda doesn't have heated seat even as an accessory.
Not many people do the same I guess? I park the bike up dec-march but I live in Sweden. Heated seat would be great but looking around both late and early on my season I realise I’m the odd one.
Excellent review
I have a multistrada 950 today. I love this bike! It can keep up with any bike in the corners. Only tree problems, offroad, 15 hp and fuel capasity. Will this new AT keep up with a multistrada?
The multi is basically a road bike with a touch extra ground clearance and a nod to the GS in looks.
The Africa twin has a smidge more trail ability at the expense of road handling.
Can't say how much different the 24 is to my 21, but the electronic suspension takes a little time to settle after braking, but it's well controlled through the twisties.
Brakes aren't awesome and the frontal area is bloody huge.
I'm 6'5" and I have yet to get to grips with getting on the bike due to the high tail rack and angle the side stand puts the bike at.
With a tall seat option in the high position I'm flat footed, it's just the side stand leans the bike over more than I'd like.
I might see if I can add a shim between the stand bracket and mounting to stand the bike more upright as one of these days I'm going to fall on my arse, possibly with the bike on top of me!
The engine is better than the specs suggest.
I've had my KTM RC8R dyno 160bhp and 90lb/ft torque at the rear wheel and in real world use I don't feel the 1100 parallel twin giving much away.
I just wish it had more damping on the initial stroke of the forks and the stopping power of a brick wall like the Brembo setup of the KTM.
Brilliant review
Looking at both the Tracer 9 GT+ and the ATAS.
I have the '21 ATAS in manual. I like it very much, but would be very interested in the updates...
There's certainly some interesting changes to the AT, one of which sadly is the bump in price, which places it amongst some stiff competition. I'm surprised no comparison was made to the KTM 890 Adventure R, which no doubt soon will be morphed into a 990. I seriously considered the 2020 AT but found it too tall and top heavy, I opted instead for the KTM with all the knobs and whistles. Traction control, heated grips and seats, fully adjustable suspension, spot lights, quick shifter, Remus end can and centre stand. To me the only winning attribute of the AT is it's looks, the KTM beats it hands down at everything else.
....I think maybe you left out that elephant standing in the corner...did you miss him on purpose?
@@MrRodwatson I'm not entirely sure what you mean by that 🤔
@@greywolf9292 "To me the only winning attribute of the AT is it's looks, the KTM beats it hands down at everything else"
......some people say that the 'reliability' of the Honda might be reason enough to buy an Africa Twin. I happen to like both...but I can't deny that, I too, would have reservations if I was on a long trip-far from help, while riding a KTM...🤔
GSA1250 was my choice .
Was that miles per hour or kmh
Not that I’m itching to spend more $ but wouldn’t DCT and radar cruise control be a positive match? As an aside, I bought an AT DCT and immediately had buyers remorse; now I’d never go back.
Do you mean that you would never go back to manual shift? I’m interested in feedback on the AT DCT. Thanks!
Great review!
Would you buy one then Simon?
This video was km/h or Ml/h (just for speed perception)
Mph for sure
KMS it's Europe - right hand side of road
Portugal is kph
Look at RPM and gear vs the speed, he was NOT riding in 5th doing 50 KMH at 3000 RPM. May be in a country that uses KMH but this bike had to be reading MPH.
Most definitely MPH, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work that out.
Great review, what a stunning bike. However I'll forgo those changes, because I've just ordered a new 2023 MY AS ES DCT, which I think looks better!
Did you ride it off road?
Thanks for this Simon - excellent review. Does it still have tubed tyres? If so this seems at odds with the fact it's more road-focused (imho). Having owned the first AT with DCT and experienced some dodgy quality issues I'd be a bit uneasy about dropping £16k+ on one!
Yep, it does have tubeless tyres.
One bike you didn't compare it too, was its baby brother, the 750 Transalp. A d should Honda do the same as Suzuki and bring a 19" front wheel model out
Now that I would buy
Aye, the TransDolomite of my comfortable touring dreams. Make mine tubeless and bring along the CarPlay please.
Can I fit the 2024 19 inch front to my 2020 Adventure Sport dct with no drama? As in, purchasing the wheel, bolt it in?
Some have done it.
I read that the Kineo tubeless wheel is now pretty sorted for a straight swap.
I'm tempted myself for my 21 AS, but it's a lot of money.
I don't understand why they have changed the wheel size , there obviously selling more africa twin than nt1100 🤔
Sounds like you’ve got an NT1000 with semi active suspension (but probably a bit less comfortable and more expensive)?
Sorry, wrote this after only watching the first 2 minutes of the video. Looks like you have a similar conclusion
Honda has completely lost their way with the ADV Sports model. The original AT had 21-18 wheel combo from the early 90’s until it ended production…..with mostly minor tweaks. The 2018-2019 ATAS was the best of the current generation by far…aside from the dumb idea Honda had about putting an absurdly tall seat on it and no cruise control. Since then Honda has continually screwed the model up with tech that’s confusing, complicated, and lowered ground clearance! Each time they think they’re fixing or making something better with the model, they keep getting further away from what the original bike was…..a balanced, capable, simple, reliable and on the affordable side of the spectrum ADV bike. 🤦🏻♂️
But yet they still sell heaps of them 🤷♂️
The reviewer asks the question why Honda is so "evangelical" about "banging the drum" on DCT and that they should just "let it go". Well, it is simply because all the DCT haters out there, who know little about DCT most times, continue to ignorantly persist in slagging it off. That's why they're evangelical about it. I've only ever ridden an AT DCT once, for about 45mins and I'm evangelical about it now after a 50 year love affair with manual bikes. All power to Honda for it! DCT has to be the best innovation on bikes since ABS for the road.
I’m actually on the market for my next “road”adventure bike, and I really like the new 2024 ATAS, but only with manual gearbox, the second bike is 2024 Tiger 900 Rally Pro which seems to be better value for money.
My mind tells me to buy Tiger, but heart is with Honda😂
What would you choose???
How I wished I had one like her, but then I remembered that I now live in damned Africa. Give me one of yours 🙏🙏🙏
What kind of tyres you run ? You sure stack them over on the road.
I am one of those Vikings he mentioned and with none in stock around me, how would it fit someone who is 6'7"? I know the 2018 fit very well but I a lot of the features I am interested in the 2024. Any info for tall riders would be appreciated.
I'm 6'5" in my socks, all arms and legs, and a taller seat was helpful for dropping my knees a bit.
The tank flares out too quickly for my liking, but it's still a comfortable bike with tall handlebar height.
The screen throws a lot of wind noise at my head unless I tuck into a racing crouch, making myself look like a chav on a stolen scooter trying to go faster!
Not a good look on a giant adventure bike.
They should have renamed the 19" front wheel version to something like a Euro Twin Tourer or something coz it aint no longer an Africa Twin
Hm, it still looks pure AT tho... someone said it coulda been called a Crossrunner 😂 (which I actually like a LOT; the later model)