Full and comprehensive review, thanks for sharing. I have a 2017 AT manual with over 70,000km. In my opinion most of the issues you have had are likely due to all the salt and corrosion. Good for you for being able to ride all year, I’m in Canada and have to capitalize on the summer months so the bike sees a very little amount of salty road grime and of course the humidity and salt air isn’t an issue. This bike has been an amazing travel machine taking me across the country, off road, camping and long distances. I agree the maintenance interval’s recommended are too early, I do all my own maintenance and find it a slight hassle to take the bike apart but after a few times it becomes basic. My bike is likely to see 100,000km this year and is the most sturdy reliable horse in the stable. Safe riding everyone!
Nice to see my first africa twin is still alive. I had this bike from new for a few years loved every minute of it. Traded it in for a adventure sports model and that was a big big mistake. Got the 1100 AT now and that's great. Keep on looking after the old girl.
@@Rubmaster I know I'm a little late to reply (9 months late haha) but I'll just make the reply for anyone else reading this; So people complain that the ATAS it's too heavy... Which makes no sense because the difference is less than 20 kilograms or less than 10 kilograms if you take the ATAS manual aka. without DCT - which weighs exactly 10kg. I can tell you from experience, having ridden A LOT of different bikes over 200 kilograms, that a weight of 10, 20 and even 30 kilograms is unnoticeable on these big bikes. What makes the most difference in a bikes balance, is the weight placement and distribution over the frame of the bike. BMW for example does a VERY, VERY good job with this, on most of their higher end bikes, since most of their stuff, including the engine and electronics is placed as far down as it possibly can be placed, resulting in approx. 70% of the weight of the bike being at the center of the bike and lower - which, when riding, makes the bike feel WAY, WAY lighter than it actually is and it is way easier to control and balance. You feel like you're riding a 180-190 kilo bike, not a 250 kilo behemoth. The new 2024 Africa Twin does A VERY good job with this but the previous 2 generations were a bit too top heavy (in my opinion, compared to all the bikes I tried) - although still VERY easy (if you're experienced) to ride offroad with. Over the years, I've done almost the entire TET (I've done about 88,000 km out of the full 106,000 km) on a lot of different bikes. Depending on which country aka. which part of TET I was doing, I preferred different bikes, sometimes it was smaller offroad based bikes like KTM390, sometimes it was tall behemoths like the old 2007 BMW 1200 GS... But in general, when I look at the average experience, overall I've had the best experience (taking everything into consideration; comfort, power, stability, reliability, etc...) both on and offroad, with bigger, heavier bikes, out of which the most enjoyable times were with 2019 Tenere 700, 2020 Vstrom 1050 and 2021 Africa Twin Adventure Sports bikes. The most comfortable experiences riding were with the new 2024 Gold Wing and the 2021 BMW 1250RT. The most fun I've had was with the KLR650.
Incredible video explaining the complexity and potential mechanical skills required to care for the AT! All the new bikes have too many complicated electronics that I have no interest in. Great video, thanks for sharing!
Excellent video and commentary! And you nailed it on all points! I do not ride my 2016 CRF1000 DCT bike in winter here in Ohio so I don't get salt on it like you do. I recently did a 6500 mile ride around the continental USA and it could hold 85 to 90 mph for 10 to 12 hours a day effortlessly; albeit the fuel consumption increased greatly. Then when I got to the mountains it handled the mountain trails with ease even at 12,000 ft! I have done a bit more upgrading mine, but, like you I have no intention of ever selling it. It's my forever bike. I have as yet after 4 years of having it never washed it. I let the rain do that. I do use ACF 50 on points I know are susceptible to rust. I have just received the BARTubless wheels which I am building up as my spares so I can swap from road centric wheels to off road wheels quickly. The originals will be for off-road (tubed) and the BARTtubless will be the on-road set. Thank you for a great video with the sights of Scotland.
Thanks for watching and your kind words Kiwikidusa. Yeh, I think it’s a bike you get the most out of with your train of thought. Good luck with the BARTubeless equipment, they get good reviews.
@@soggybawsmoto On the Africa Twin forum I am documenting each step of the process from opening the box to fitting the rotors and pulser rings to fitting the Michelin tires. Search for 'Fitted Bartubeless wheels'. I'm a bit behind as it is the start of the Spring Semester here and I'm frantically busy.
Thanks for the review.. I have the 2019 DCT, for about 6 months. about to travel the NC 500 from Peterhead in April 2023. I love the bike and will keep it until it dies.
There’s some great riding and attractions up that end of the country De Doc, if you are not from the area, check out The Grampian Transport Museum in Alford. Sneak preview in my Summer Solstice 2022 video. Thanks for watching and commenting. Enjoy your trip!
I own this bike, 2017 model. I've had mine for 3 years, and with 30k kms i have had not a single problem to date. I live in Italy, so a hot climate. I ride in winter, but never in wet conditions, i also wash it every 5-700kms. I see so much salt and weather corrosion on the bike in the video. I'm so glad i live in a better climate :D .
What a wonderful place to ride motorcycles as well! In a couple of weeks time I am going to The Stella Alpine Rally at Colle del Sommeiller. Really looking forward to it :-)
Hey there! I'm also riding an AT CRF1000L (2016) with 45.000km on the clock. The only problem i've had with it is the on/off switch. I've got it open and cleaned everything inside an that was that. Otherwise...what can i say...before this bike, i've had a Tenere XT660Z from 2011 and the built quality was the same...i guess this is the standard these days, but we also have to take into consideration that we use the ADV bikes in all conditions no matter what :))), whereas a road dedicated bike is mostly used in good weather and clean surfaces. All in all i'm very pleased with the AT and i love riding it, the upgrade was well worth it. Love the powerful 1000cc engine and the great low center of gravity that gives it a nimble and light feel, even though it's a big bike. Cheers from Romania! Ride safe!
Thanks for watching and commenting Radu. Glad that you are enjoying yours. Tania will be more comfortable on the AT than the XT660Z. Great bike for your area solo, but might be pressed a little two up. All the best pal, Stevie.
@@soggybawsmoto Thanks, Stevie! Well the 660 had 1 cylinder and 48HP and we did all the Balkan countries (some of them twice), Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Austria and all over Romania on it 2up. The 1000cc on the AT is anything but pressed :))). Felt perfect in las year trips even when she took us to Cappadocia in Turkey. All the best, man, enjoy the ride :)
A nice honest review - I have to agree about peoples obsession with cleaning over riding. It is nice to see there are still some people out there that solve problems with bikes rather than selling them the minute they have an issue. Subbed!
Thanks Ponkster, always grew up making do and mending. Subbed back to your channel, some nice content there! Have you still got Rattus? That’s right up my street! Like it a lot.
@@soggybawsmoto Tanks for the sub - yes Rattus is alive and well and has just passed another MOT ready for its winter duties, its not had as much use this year as I gave bike rallies a miss and have done a lot of my wild camping on foot.
James, See my above reply to an earlier comment. I too had constant reliability issues with my 2019 Africa Twin Adventure Sports that I bought brand new. If it was a reliable machine that I didn’t think was going to leave me stranded, I would have kept mine. I loved the bike when it worked but unfortunately after a year of constant issues I had very little confidence in it.
Clear, concise, informative and interesting. Not everything is all of this on YT, so we’l done, and thanks. I’m a VStrom owner, and the CRf was one of my desires, but the VStrom and this video, indicates that I chose the right bike! 😄👍🙏🙏
Thanks for the great honest review mate, on the edge of buying one but have heard about the issues and even more concerned about the 2016-2017 internal front fork wear issue. Now you really got me thinking. Also Scotland is the best place in the land. Love it!!. If it wasnt for the mrs not wanting to move up there id all ready be there. Cheers!!.
2017 AT here, you're speaking my language with these issues, I love the bike and will keep it forever but the little stuff builds up, love the wheel change, I want to save up for some tubeless rims, great video!
Thanks Moto Pumpkin. I think we will only see the best from the bike through long term ownership. I keep an eye on ebay and have collected a load of spares, rear shock, callipers, exhaust, reg/rec, when I see them listed cheap. Hope to push this one out to 100,000 miles. Cheers, Stevie.
@@soggybawsmoto , Hello sir. Thank you for your review. Would like your feedback please. I am thinking of buying a brand new 2023 Hionda AT AS manual transmission this spring. I plan on my next bike (keeping my existing as well), for 10+ years. Most of my riding will be highway, with some gravel roads and some light trails, perhaps ~ 80/10/10 ratio. Some super long highway miles as well. The bike will never see winter or salted roads and although will be ridden hard sometimes, mostly it will be ridden pretty easy compared to what it is intended for. What do you think about AT longevity in my circumstance? BTW, I have 40 years of riding experience on several bike types, 5' 11" 195 lbs, 32" inseam. I can do basic bike maintenance, but that's it. Thoughts please. The other bikes I may consider are a 2023 Suzuki V-Strom or 2023 KTM 1290 S. Same type of bike with different personalities. What would you do? Thank you in advance for your feedback. Or anyone who wants to chime in on this topic. Thanks.
@@danman5857 Thanks for watching and asking my thoughts. I’ve no experience of the later models, but I suspect the key for you is that you won’t be using it on winter salted roads. I’ve been doing some research into the V Strom community, and learning a few worrying things there as well. I’ve learned that to access the rear valves for adjustment, the swing arm has to come off, and everything from under the tank/seat area. I’ve also discover a few maintenance/design horrors that I can’t remeber the fine detail on atm. I’m starting to suspect most bikes are suffering from finish quality issues these days, due to changes in paint technologies, and the bean counters having more influence over design teams. Probably only because I’ve never had one, I think I could be tempted to try a BMW GS. I have two friends with K1600’s who have had excellent warranty support. One had a full engine replaced because of bad paint on a couple of casings. No messing about! Enjoy your bike purchase and all the best for when it comes.
When you were saying how hard the wheels were to clean, I was thinking, not the case for my Varadero wheels. I thought, you should put on some Vara wheels. Then you put on some Vara wheels. Trippy.
@@soggybawsmoto the height isn't so much of an issue, I've seen way smaller girls on bigger bikes, but if I drop it, I am not sure I want to try to pick it up, I already worry about the weight of my 500 if I were to drop her 🤣 I'm sure I know the technique, but I've yet to have to put it into practice 🤞🏻 hopefully long may that last 🤞🏻
This was a good honest review, having the exact same bike in Australia i found it interesting about the controls on your bike failing, i have never heard of this happening here and as for the corrosion dramas well thats obviously your salt over there on the roads which thankfully we don't have. The biggest complaints over here was soft suspension and as you mentioned dodgy spokes apart from that these bikes are very popular over here. Thanks for the video happy riding.
Thanks for watching and commenting Ian. Yeh, our poor weather and salty winter roads is much of the problem. Glad to hear you get good service from yours. I have to admit, it's a good machine to ride, just, mine has become rough as a dog quicker than anticipated.
Not even trying to be overly nice, this is some top tier content. Solid editing overall and I can see why this is your most popular video. That VidIQ stream was pretty interesting to me cause that was my first one I’ve been to. Definitely subscribing, not just because you subscribed to me but motorcycle content is actually something I’ve seen for a good bit. I myself know next to nothing about it though haha. Good luck on hitting 1000 subscribers! You’re now 1 sub closer!
Thanks for your kind words. Glad you enjoyed. Learned so much from the VidIQ streams. Even if not reviewed, you can learn from what they cover on other channels. At our stage, every sub is super valuable reaching our goal! 👍
This is a great review, the average motorcyclist does about 2000 miles a year if that, so when you go to part ex a high mileage bike you get nowt for it. As you said, your better off just keeping the bike. I bought a brand new GS in 2005 & kept it till 2019 with 78000 miles on the clock. With all the tours I had done, it did not owe me anything but I still got 2.5k on a trade in so I was happy.
Quality! Definitely one of the most informative reviews I've ever seen. To see how, when and where you've used this bike is very interesting in itself. You know you're badass when you're nodding at snow plows where you're out riding! 😂😂😎😎
Cheers Duncan. It was quite nice digging through all my old footage from my Euro trips before I posted publicly. We don’t often get snow on this particular road, the A814 from Garelochead to Arrochar, so when I woke up to a weather warning, I took the day off work 😂
Very badass. I used to ride my KLR650 around Japan in winter when I lived there. Turning up in mountain villages freaking everyone out as I'm a 'kaiju' on a motorbike in winter. But, I'm older now so I'm not inclined to do that anymore, plus around here there are too many distracted drivers and people who simply should not even be behind the wheel of a Tonka car!
A Bike with so much potential , hampered by quality concerns. Thanks for a Warts and All, thorough review. I have long preferred Honda bike but I have gone for Road bikes. I was considering one of these but my skills at electrics are definitely not up to it. Full credit to yourself and all your fellows who do this and persevere. Great Video.
Thanks for watching, subscribing and commenting Dezmond. There are “fan boys” out there that think the manufacturer they are bought into can do no wrong. I’d hate to recommend a bike for people to have a negative experience, hence my warts and all approach. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for looking at my other videos too.
Just watched this one, great content and thorough fault finding. Not a AT owner but if I was this would be my go to vid. I tend to buy new or nearly new run for 4/5 years summer and touring and then it becomes the winter bike, my 2019 V Strom has now filled the role. will use your vid for winter reference. many thanks
Cheers Steven, that's a great idea, running a new bike for 4/5 years then using it as your winter bike. That's kinda how I'm operating just now, but it wasn't deliberate 😂 Thanks for watching.
Great review. I have a 2017 DCT model and can relate to everything your said. I think its a shame that my 2017 bike is now in worse condition to my 1988 Honda CBR400 which has over its life had to stand outside, be ridden throughout the winder and has suffered through lack of general maintenance and cleaning throughout those years. All the fixings on the AT corrode at an unreasonable rate regardless of cleaning and coatings. I also discovered after dropping the bike on the drive that the frame has several rust spots in hidden away places. I too purchased the bike with the intention of riding it and not worrying about how it looks (but we all would prefer to not riding around on a rust bucket), or worrying about its resale value. Shame on the bean counters at Honda.
Thanks for watching and commenting Jonathon. Yeh, it’s kinda sad how quality has dropped. The wee CBR is a lovely bike though, one to cherish! Cheers, Stevie.
Love my 2018 DCT. In fact i've loved the Africa Twin DCT so much that I bought a 2016, 2017 and 2018. Unlucky to be rear ended on my red white and blue 2017, but i've racked up 40k miles on its replacement.
Good information. I live in the Arizona desert, and it's very dry here most of the time, so hopefully, I will avoid most of the problems you have had. Seems water and moisture have been hard on your machine. Cheers!
Absolutely great video, thanks very much. I had a 750 AT and loved it, and really wanted one of these, but ended up with a (now dead) 1200 Multistrada, mainly because of the tubeless/spoke metallurgy issue.
Great video, just looking at swapping my 1290 SAS and 890 AS for an Africa Twin. My bikes are immaculate but I do the miles, no one wants bikes with miles on. 😢
What an absolute superb video :) you never see good reviews like this any more, covering everything that I've been trying to find out about the Africa Twin for weeks all the stuff the paid reviews never ever mention, keep up the brilliant work, subscribed an thumbs up. I'm hoping to move up to near ish Aberfeldy or Angus in a few months or around Galloway. I've been on a 300 rally an I'm gonna swap back to a more road based Adv for the move and going to Norway,Iceland an Nordkapp. Thanks again :)
Thanks very much buddy. It’s always good getting positive feedback from a fellow ‘tuber. Subbed back, what an eclectic taste in motorcycles you have. Looking forward to having a good look through your channel tonight.
@@soggybawsmoto thanks mate means alot :) hopefully should have a new video coming over the next few days about the Rally n why I'm selling it 🙃 no doubt itl set of a raft of negative comments again joys lol. Hopefully see you on the road sometime! :)
WoW!! One of the few Africa Twin reviews I have watched and this one takes the cake!! Much respect to you for the miles of riding and wrenching on your own bike! I have learned a lot here!! Thanks for sharing this review!!
My AT is fiveyears old about 20K on it. Wouldn't be the best at washing but I do drive it through the year. On that big island to the south west of you with similarl weather.. The cosmetics aren't bad considering. The switchgear and ignition stuff!! The ignition barrel did the same on my 750 At. Had the spokes changed out alright. Two extra mods I'd highly recommend. Wider footpegs. The difference for comfort alone if your out of the saddle is huge. And a set of barkbusters weather covers over the handle grips. Makes riding in shite conditions much more bearable. The Honda high screen is a good idea too in the winter for keeping most of the wet off. Continental trial attacks are great. Change the oil every 5 thousand cheapest service you can give an engine. miles Love the alloy conversion. A set of 17s and you have a modern TDM 850.
Thanks for watching and commenting JPC. We were out your way on the AT last year, had a great ride around the WAW. Wider footpegs defo a good idea. Ride safe pal.
Had a 1982 Africa twin, clunky but loved it… years later, I had 2017 Africa twin, didn’t get far before I dumped it and went to my r1200GS, now with 160,000 miles … hoping for another 100,000 …
@@soggybawsmoto that’s one of the little things a lot of people outside the us don’t always realize, I drive right at 7000 miles per summer just to see family/life long friends. My original home town friends drive 80-85 miles (round trip) to have a good burrito… 🙏🙏
Not the first time I’ve seen quality issues with the AT. Brilliant motorcycle under warranty definitely not something Id want to keep long-term. And with so many secondhand low mile examples around getting any type of money back is a pipe dream.
I found this very interesting and basically was many of the reasons I got rid of my Africa Twin Dct I need a road bike but didn’t need it to go off road I like the Africa Twin engine but little else I have replaced it with the NT1100 but having watched your videos definitely decided it will be watched closely for any of these problems however it will have a pretty easy life and I keep it dealer maintained I have no interest in the mechanical aspect of the hobby but all the same probably one of the best reviews I have watched very helpful thanks 😊
@@soggybawsmoto I had a demo NT it feels like a compact version of the Africa Twin it also carries it’s weight well the bike felt light compared to my 2018 AT I also prefer the manual version which I have on order although it is delayed was due on the 11th now looking more like the 21st all being well
@ 5.33 minute,s you can see after the camshaft top a little dip downwards this provide,s a Egr (exhaust gas regeneration) funtion as seen on modern cars ,don,t like that behavior on a motorcycle euro4 regulations emision control ,i could feel that riding mine crf1000 looking for specs on honda talon 1000 camshafts iff they are the same or better ? The cams are not to wild on the crf1000 so they should stay more in specs longterm good revieuw ,thanx
Hi mate great review. Ive been looking at buying 1 of these bikes for near 2 years as 95% of my riding is off road. But do alot of miles and alot of trails not well used and desert sand in australia as well as alot of sticky mud on camping trips and remote area 800 miles away from any town. Do u think it is reliable enough to tackel this and can bikes take a punishment.
Thanks for watching and commenting. You won't have the problems with it in Australia that I had with mine. Not sure I'd want to ride it in sand, the speed you would need to maintain to prevent sinking would be greater than I would be happy riding a bike of that weight, but that's a personal choice. Apart from the corrosion issues affecting the electrics ( which won't happen in Oz) it has been reliable enough
It's a great shame the first gen. new Atwin doesn't appear to have the build quality of the original RD series in terms of materials. Having said that, I own a '16 CB500X which is bearing up pretty well, but it does get it's fair share of chemicals and cleaner thrown at it. Languishing in the back of the garage is a 35 year old japanese-built XLV600 (Transalp). It's covered nearly five times the mileage of the CB and the fasteners, bracketry and switchgear are still great. Not sure I could say the same for the CB. Only real issue with the 'Alp (common to the original Atwin and the newer models) was rim rot. You'd have thought manufacturers would have addressed the galvanic reaction thing by now, but apparently not. It's true to say, you jump on a new bike and, what with the improvements in chassis design, CAD analysis and materials technology, modern bikes ride fantastically compared to those made decades ago. Shame they don't seem to bear up to the elements over time.
Thanks for watching and commenting Billy. I think the bean counters have more clout than the Engineers these days. The original transalp was a fantastic bike. Sadly, I’m fairly certain the new models will have similar foibles to the new AT’s
Useful review, thanks! I’m Canadian but I’ve spent enough time in the UK to know that what’s called tough weather “adventure” riding here in North America is just called riding in the UK. Along the stunning NC500 your helmet can be in the rain and your feet in the sun, until ten minutes later when the situation’s reversed.
Thanks for watching Walter, yep, it’s true, if you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes. You get some extremes of weather in Canada as well though?
At 71 years old with 55 years of riding, in the last three months I’ve put 8500 kilometers on my new-to-me ‘18 DCT model. I bought it to fiddle with the DCT, which I’m still learning how to use properly but have grown to admire. And, I wanted to try out the bike before I put too much thought into buying the new (too expensive?) 2024 model. Presently, I think I’ll stick with my well farkled ‘18 version and ride my other sport and smaller dual purpose bikes when I want a clutch lever to pull. Good bike though, I find the thumpity 270° mill calming and especially suitable to experienced ol’farts . . . like me. Your posting is exceptional. From Prince Edward Island, thanks for sharing your insights!
Hey Facker I loved your review! I here in the states and commend you on your all year riding. Im shopping for a AT to do some traveling both on the backroads and dirt. Been thru the BMW F800GSA nice but boring , A Ktm 690 R even more boring. I have one found a 2019 with 4 thousand mile well maintained for 10k which seem like a great buy. AT owners love there bikes and the pricing shows. Take care my brother and keep the rubber side down.. Around Bend Oregon out on 2 wheels
I had a 2018 Vstrom1000XT, it had similar spoke issues (replaced under warranty). Although Suzuki have rep for being built down to a price, when it went after 30K miles (3 years, 2x winters) it was still rust free and always cleaned up: never did more than two buckets wash, autosol and Meguiar's G15812EU Ultimate (works on everything, even clear screens). No electrical or mechanical issues. Like your AT, the Suzuki shim check intervals were ridiculously pessimistic. Point being, you can't just trust in the brand name any more.
Thanks for watching and commenting CPU UK. I always liked the wheels on the Vstrom XT. I think it is the bike I would have bought if I had done more research when buying the AT.
why did you remove the fuel tank to replace air filters? That is not necessary at all. Ive had the same model but 2018 registered and never had the same issue as you. Would have had it for even longer if it had not been stolen. Miss it already but looking forward to buying the 2020 model.
Good observation Alex. That footage was taken when I was stripping bike for valve check, that’s why the tank was off on that occasion. Your quite right, just the fairing panels needed for air filters alone, as mentioned on the voice over.
Great summary of your ownership of your African twin, I use to own a 2008 varadero & the build quality on that was great even after 60,000 odd miles it still looked great & in that time I only ever had two light bulbs go & a couple of rear cylinder gasket to down pipe disintegrated. Now I own a cb500x due to my age needing a lighter bike & the build quality is rubbish compared to my old Varadero.
Thanks for watching and commenting Ian. Yeh, I think we hit peak quality about that point. I had a 2007 Triumph Tiger that was a doddle to keep clean. Ride safe!
Maybe the tenere 700 is better or even the v Strom. I'm very disappointed in this honda. The tiger 800 seems to last and the yam superten 1200 are nice but shims would cost a lot to do but fortunately they rarely go out.
2016 AT DCT 47K Km. Love it but some issues with the buttons; Sorted easily. One big problem with the DCT when travelling in Iran. End of the trip with this bike, we had a spare on a van... My dealer told me to show at the next dealer, but it was 2200 K away, in Istanbul😁...I was told only 2 bikes had this breakdown in France, parts came straight from Japan. No punctures, I use HD tubes = perfect.! The next one...I don't know yet, it has to have the less electronic on board... Another AT, the simple one, a T700 rally...? DCT, when it works, is fantastic👍👍
@@soggybawsmoto Thanks for your work. Iran has been my best trip so far, the people there are so friendly with the visitors and specifically with riders because we have bikes they have never seen in their life (big ones are only for the army and the police). As always , problems come with politics ans religion... On the way to Iran the Balkans are fantastic when riding on mountain roads (get away form the coast...), Albania is......different... And eastern Turkey (Kurd country) is also interesting with very nice people. I love your scottish accent (although sometimes difficult to understand) and Scotland (I made the North 500 road) Keep well
Cracking video fella, and something to consider when purchasing a african twin, I might stick with my BSA thunderbolt, 1967, I can make any spare or easily find it 😂😂👍🇬🇧
Awesome honest review. Just my subjective opinion I prever the v twin rather than the paralell twin. Thinking about buying a XL1000 or the XRV750. The Varadero is better two up. The AT RD04/07 is a legend but good ones are quite overpriced. Thank you and greetings from Norway.
Dear, kind greetings. I have a 1000cc motorcycle, 2019 model, excellent, almost new. The problem is with the tire. There is a tube, not a tube. Do you advise me to change the tire or keep the current tire?
Thanks for watching, subscribing and commenting Khaled. I changed the tyre to tubeless because I do alot of long distance touring, and if you get a puncture far from home you need to carry lots of tools to fix it. You only need to to consider changing to tubeless tyres if they are inconvenient to you. There are lots of ways to do so, my way is only one way of doing it. Ride safe friend!
Great video (s ) thanks for posting them. Considering an AT 1100 .... well I was. It rides beautifully and the engine is a peach but what has gone wrong with a company that "wouldn't let a sub standard bike out of the factory gates" . I'll be keeping my mint Tiger 800 XCA that hasn't missed a beat.
Just curious as in its past ownership in regards to corrosion, it possibly has lived in a salty environment, or ridden on beaches and salt water, this would show up on any bikes electrical systems as well as other components.
Thanks for watching and commenting Peter. I'm afraid I am the guilty party for riding it I'm wet salty conditions. That's just part of bike life in Scotland. I had not ridden it on beaches in the early days, but once I was resigned to the condition it was in, I had a wee dabble on the beaches whilst on tour in Ireland. I took a unexpected trip to Wales a few weeks ago with zero planning, and zero preparation. 600 miles on fast motorway in torrential rain, and a couple of hundred miles blasting about the twisties had me falling in love with the bike again. It will be getting a bit of restoration and a tidy up for the next 50,000 miles!!
I have a 2020 version and heated grips are definitely upgraded. They'll cook your hands. I often have to run them in mid to lo settings after 10 minutes. This bike came with tubeless tires, which I always thought great, but wonder if rims still have corrosion issue from spoke to rim dissimilar metals? Three of us have these rides, never have had issues, but now wonder about electronics most of all, after your review. We ride remote BC Canadian Rockies, so it's definitely a concern. After working/pulling mountain sleds out over the last three decades (during our many winter adventures), how bad can a broke down bike be in + temps, lol. These bikes have given us numerous multi-week adventures, and so many smiles, our faces are permanently grinning. But your video definitely shines light on potential issues and resolve. Information is the key to repair and happiness. For that I and my buds thank you dearly. Cheers from Canucksville 🇨🇦
Thanks for watching and commenting Bill. Glad to hear they resolved the heated grips issues on later machines. Problems aside, it enjoy riding it, and had many happy miles on it as well. Ride safe pal.
Gained a sub. Cheers pal. So..... Best bike you have had? Considering what's not been so great with the AF? I'm considering a ST13 as an alrounder from my 08 plate CBF1000A
Thanks Gilmo, without a doubt the best bike I’ve ever had was a Yamaha GTS1000. It was a beautiful machine and interesting from an engineering perspective. It was a doddle to keep clean. They were very expensive when they were launched though, about 25% above the rest of the market. Never riden a ST13, but I had a good experience with the 1100’s. My father had a few from new, and I’ve had one second hand which was great. Ride safe!
Love the review and the comparison to the bullet proof Honda's of days past. I owned quite a few Honda's from the 70's to 90's and apart from the VF1000 (mad bike) they were utterly dependable. I now drive Guzzi's with varying levels of reliability. But I must say the most current one (a 2008 Stelvio) performs well, for all the other ones I trade driving pleasure for reliability😇. Worth it, but it is not for everyone. Specially my Quota1000 which I think is the most brilliant failure for a motor bike. A lot of issues, but it drives brilliant like no other. Any way I enjoyed your video, you are using your bike not for show, but for what you can do with it, and I am very envious of you living in Scotland , as I know from experience how nice it can be to drive there. Great small twisty roads and beautiful scenery. Had to re calibrate to understand your commentary a bit with the Scottish accent but don't change. Awesome content.
Thanks for your encouragement Zorktx, much appreciated. The Quota was some machine in it's day. I bet you have no problems doing the valve adjustment on that. Almost the perfect bike from a maintenance perspective. Hmmmm - V85TT is looking more and more tempting. I'd love a shot of one of those to see what it is like.
thanks for the video, im buying a 2019 CRF1000 adventure sports second hand atm, buying it for 9.5k with 1000km on it. im upgrading from a nc750x because i want a bike that i can take anywhere since i live in spain and theres alot of offroad routes id love to take.the gent im buying from changed the tubed to tubeless too.
Hey Stevie, love your videos. Any advice on buying a first big bike, as you seem very knowledgeable. Don't want to spend a fortune as scared of drops etc, until I'm a bit more comfortable. No sports bike as want comfort also. Cheers
Hi Roy, Thanks very much, it’s great to hear my videos are reaching those that might see some value from them. The best advice I can offer on a first big bike, is spend enough to get enough power to continue learning on, but still be fun, and don’t sink any more than around £3000 into it. Any more and it starts to become expensive to fix minor spills. Wee minor drops and spills are all part of the game, and nothing to worry about. You learn loads from them!! Depending on tour size, I’d consider perhaps a Kawasaki Versys 650, comfortable, good geometry, very forgiving flexible engine. Easy to maintain. If you want a little more power, maybe a Yamaha FZ6. It’s a little more sporty, but it isn’t too radical. Think sports bike engine in a comfortable package. Good luck with your motorcycling career, cheers Stevie
Excelent review and tips Stevie! My AT is almost reaching 24000km and, as you know, it’s time to check valve clearances. I’m probably going to follow your advice and wait until it reaches 40000/50000km. I also feel it’s too early to check valve clearance and the bike hasn’t had any symptoms to indicate the need to do it. As for the problems with the switch , as you experienced,I wonder if you live close to the seaside and suffer from the effects of sea air.You’ve had quite a lot of issues with rust! My bike is 1 year old and so far I haven’t had any issues with rust or sticky switches, eventhough ride a lot off road and we get a lot of heavy rain here in Brazil. I wonder if the 1100 version improved on this. Anyway, I’m going follow your advice and start spraying some WD40 on the main switches. Thanks for the tips and keep up the good work! All the beet!
Thanks Leandro. In Scotland, you are never very far from the sea. The largest contribution to the problems is the amount of road salt our local councils spread in the winter but my earlier Hondas did not corrode in the same way. Since buying my KTM and my GTS the Honda gets used for all the wet weather and long distance / fast riding. I’ve realised it gets a really hard life in my hands. When the MOT/Insurance expires in March 24, I’m going to take it off the road for a few months and treat it to the powder coating that it should have had, and a bunch or refurbished components that I have gathered over the years. It deserves it!
Completely forgot the salt on the roads. It must be the one to blame. Here we have corrosion issues on the coastal areas. As for the quality of the materials, I’ve also noticed overtime a decrease in the quality of some components. As a matter of fact it has been happening with cars, bikes, building materials, phones and everything in our disposable society. A shame. I decided to get a Honda agains(coming from Bmw after a few years) exactly because most manufacturers are using worse material and are doing absolutely everything possible to make it harder for us to service the bikes ourselves. anyway, good luck with the powder coating. Best regards!
I bought a brand new Honda nc750x in 2018 and by the time I sold it in 2020 it'd done 14,000 miles, but looked like it'd done 50, 000 miles!! The build quality - especially the rear suspension - is garbage. It didn't matter how much acf50 I drowned it in it would still corrode at the slightest sign of moisture. I've got a Royal Enfield Classic 350 now and the build quality on that is excellent compared to the Honda. It's also damn near half the price. I'm just starting to post videos of it on my channel, so feel free to have a look. It'll mostly be runs around Scotland. 👍
Thanks for watching and commenting Dougie. It’s heart breaking when your disappointed with a bike. Glad your liking the RE, it’s a good solid machine. Always like seeing other Scottish creators, look forward to having a good binge watch through your channel. Regards Stevie
@@soggybawsmoto Thanks, there's not much to see at the moment. The good news is I've got the audio sorted for when I'm riding along now. I'm still editing the videos on my phone just now because I haven't got any editing software on my laptop yet. If you don't mind me asking, what software do you use?
Hello loved your video. I have a 2017 africa in matt black. Nightmare to keep clean i just gt 85 it was every two weeks never clean it its done 45,000 miles i ride ever day to work i done a rear set of wheel bearings at 38.000 and change chain sprockets every 22.000 . Head bearings starting to go now and i had to do ht leads . My switch gear was a bit funny on the hazard lights originally but as bike as got older its got smoother and better generally. The rear shock I thought was garbage and replaced with a ohlins best thing ive ever done bike brilliant now. Rear linkage bearings also going to now . Wheels are definitely pickleley but nothing ever stopped the girl going and no real electric props sept ht leads . I took a xt660z to 80.000 and there was nothing left of the girl I think the africa could easily hit 150,000 with few bit
Thanks for watching and commenting, and your kind words Mr I. Glad you are getting good use out your AT as well. Thats impressive mileage on the 660! Ride safe pal, Stevie.
so would you recommend this bike? its a sweet ride no doubt thatbut do you think its shortcomings are a big isssue? I know every bike will have a problem if you look for one. but do you think Africa Twins issues are big enough to reconsider?
Thanks for watching and commenting. I couldn't put my hand on heart and recommend it to someone who was going to use it regularly, or someone keeping it outdoors in a UK type climate. The finish is too poor. I am happy to keep mine, and ride it into the ground to get my value from it, because as a functional piece of equipment, it does a decent job. I've always had a taste for a rat/survival bike anyway 🤣 I'd struggle to make an alternative bike recommendation though. I've got friends with all brands of bikes, and to be honest, have to invest a huge amount of time to prevent them from deteriorating. Since making this review I've come to realise my expectations are rooted in ownership of 90's bikes, which were treated the same but aged better. Perhaps this might be unfair?
Thanks for watching and commenting. I couldn't put my hand on heart and recommend it to someone who was going to use it regularly, or someone keeping it outdoors in a UK type climate. The finish is too poor. I am happy to keep mine, and ride it into the ground to get my value from it, because as a functional piece of equipment, it does a decent job. I've always had a taste for a rat/survival bike anyway 🤣 I'd struggle to make an alternative bike recommendation though. I've got friends with all brands of bikes, and to be honest, have to invest a huge amount of time to prevent them from deteriorating. Since making this review I've come to realise my expectations are rooted in ownership of 90's bikes, which were treated the same but aged better. Perhaps this might be unfair?
@@soggybawsmoto🙂I live in Turkey so the climate in here is rather forgiving but I'd doubt that I'd be :D I'm currently using a CRF250L and thinking about upgrading to the CRF300 Rally in summer (more power and stiffer suspensions- if Honda Turkey decides to release these bigger ones in here). and africa twin is my endgame in mind. I dont think I will be using it on asphalt most of the time as I love spending time on rural areas. and I also tend to overpack my bike (those hard cases may look cool but I need at least 5 of them to fit my usual stuff :D ) so I see these bikes not only as a statement or fun factor but also as a work horse. and I'm sure I'll drop it at least a dozen times or so (hopefully when I'm not in traffic) It's really funny you know? these new models run circles around the older ones in terms of power and design but they lack the relieability of them. When I think about a powerful ADV from 90's I cant see a viable option as the newer ones. but relieability stuff really stings.
Thanks Chris, no, I had to take some brave pills to make it work. Wasn’t 100% sure if it was going to work until I sunk a few hundred pound into machining. Had to take 10mm of the mounting face for the rear disc. There’s a link to the conversion details in the text description complete with a budget. With the matching done, it is a simple swap over though. Thanks for watching
@@soggybawsmoto my friend managed to get a set of cbr600 wheels to go on a xr650r to make it a supermoto he had to get spacers made up. He said it wasn't really worth all the work none of it lined up without spacers and machining.
Thanks for subscribing Ichiban Moto. You hit the nail on the head there. It suits my style of riding well. Sharpened up the steering, but not towards being twitchy. Super predictable!
Thanks for subscribing Ichiban Moto. You hit the nail on the head there. It suits my style of riding well. Sharpened up the steering, but not towards being twitchy. Super predictable!
What an awesome video! I am a new biker and I am looking to buy a new motorcycle (to hopefully last me for years) - I am looking also for an adventure (I won't let the change and the beauty of the mountains only to ride it on the road) and also for a low tech machine (don't want everything to be electric and autonomous. Currently my girlfriend and I are looking after a T7 or an AT standard. I am asking for your opinion, sir. What should I choose? (the reliability is the most important factor for me). Please continue making videos, I am a new subscriber for now on!
Thanks for your encouragement Ceva. I’m super pleased how well this one has done. I don’t have any direct experience of other adventure bikes other than the Tiger 1050 that preceded the Honda so would struggle to advise. For a long time I thought the Suzuki DL1050XT might have better suit my purposes, but I recently joined a Facebook forum to study up on the bike to see how it compares. Turns out doing the valves is even worse on the Suzuki, because of the V Twin configuration, you need to remove the swing arm to access the rear valves, and strip from the top of the bike downwards. You have put an idea in my head to see if I might be able to make a film comparing the two bikes. I would need to try to find another rider that would be keen to share their story. I could then do the T7 and other comparable Adv bikes. One bike that might suit where you are in your motorcycling career is the latest Kawasaki KLR650. It’s not the fastest machine in the world, but the latest incarnation has fuel injection which can only help its reliability. Just enough technology to be useful, but not so much that it is over complicated. RUclips is your friend though, millions of reviews to help tou choose. Good luck with your choices
🫡 all the respect for your efforts, but i think that it's all caused by the humidity and the always rain weather in your area, and I think that other bikes like BMW or KTM needs more maintenance and much more expensive to repair, do you agree?
Thankyou for your kind words. Yes, much of the problem is our bad weather and salt used on our roads, and yes, you are correct, other brands such as BMW and maybe Ducati would be more expensive to repair, but these are aftern tucked into bed for the winter here 😆
I ride a used and abused 2010 800gs that has lived a very very hard life, commuting daily, weekend single track warrior, even drowned twice in deep river crossing and the only issue it ever gave was a fuel pump failing at around 60 000km about 3 years ago, now on 100 000km. I am looking for a used upgrade with better looks and a tad more power and hoping a 2017 used AT with about 40 000km is the answer but after watching this I really have my doubts
Sometimes it's better the devil you know Paul. These modern Honda's are not a patch on the older models. For how you plan to use it though, don't imagine you'd be particularly worried about the finish degrading. Mine is getting a strip down and powdercoat in the summer when I can ride my other bike.
Thanks for watching and commenting Davo. The electrical problems and the start of the corrosion were all before it was relegated to winter hack duties and it was well looked after. Truth be told, now that I no longer care about trying to keep it clean, I enjoy it a whole lot more. 😀
It's called the wheel rider from abba motorcycle equipment. It makes aligning rear wheel spacers and calipers much simpler. Costs £75, but they are out of stock at the moment awaiting another production run.
Hi Graham, yeh it scunnered me, I was expecting better from previous experience. To be fair, I suspect nothing is built to the same quality as we got in the 90's and early 2000's. Good grief, I'm sounding like my Grandad!
Haggis, I only owned my 2019 Honda Africa Twin for a little over 1 year but I was very disappointed and surprised with the poor quality. Starting around 1,500 miles, It spent so much time in the shop for warranty work, primarily related to the fuel tank and fueling issues. I sold it with around 12,00 miles on it due to no confidence in it’s reliability. I was truly disappointed because it is such a beautiful looking bike, comfortable, had just the right amount of power, and sounded amazing.
@@sevendyob1067 Thanks for watching and commenting Seven. I think if I had the fuel tank problems I would have parted company with the bike. Was yours the adventure sport version?
My 2017 DCT has zero issues 22 thousand miles but my bike is in near new condition. All of your issues appear to me to weather related. I have to give you props for your tenacity to keep riding in the rain. Wet = rot. You may need a boat! Are you living on coast? Thanks for posting
The quality thing is a real shame. Seems like the bike basically has the same issues my V-Strom 650 did. Since Honda have given up on this, what manufacturer actually provides a reasonable standard of finish these days?
Thats interesting Geshmaal, I once thought the DL650XT might have been a better choice, but research has shown me that it is difficult to work on too. Apparently the swing arm has to come off to access the rear valve clearences. I think you are right, my friend complains about certain aspects of BMW quality these days, however at least BMW stand up to their warranty obligations and recalls as needed. That might be an interesting investigation for me, to try to find the best compromise across the market??? Ride safe!
sad to see the bean counters have got a grip on honda build quality these days but as long as the reliability is still there its a better option than the austro/ chinese options i guess
@vincemarshall8550 thanks for watching and commenting Vince. Yeh, bike is still going strong, so I am just about to tear it apart for some well deserved powdercoating.
@@soggybawsmoto nice one mate think im gonna take the dive and try one out ,i fancy the big tank but apparently theres issues with welding slappers and fuel filters ....hey ho
Finally, someone highlighting the same issues with Honda's dogshit approach to corrosion and working on the bike. The NC750X seems to have been built for the Spanish rental market. Parts just love to rust. Getting to the valves is way easier and screw an oil change at 8k but some jobs require taking a day out just to dismantle the damn thing. Your advice hits home - after a few years and low mileage the only thing to do with a modern Honda is sell it or keep it for the long haul.
I think the bike punished you for putting those wheels on it. 🤣 On a serious note, mine's nearing the 40k mark without any issues at all. I'm thinking of checking the valves for the first time, although I probably don't need to. Mine sees rain but not as often as yours I'd say.
The honda dealership where i service my bike, has an electronic contraption for cheking whether or not the valves are working properly: they don't need to disassemble the bike for that.
Great to see a video on how a bike is to live with, instead of just what it rides like .
Thanks Robert, yeh, too many reviews are based on just a short test ride. I always try to find an owners review when considering changing bikes 👍
Full and comprehensive review, thanks for sharing. I have a 2017 AT manual with over 70,000km. In my opinion most of the issues you have had are likely due to all the salt and corrosion. Good for you for being able to ride all year, I’m in Canada and have to capitalize on the summer months so the bike sees a very little amount of salty road grime and of course the humidity and salt air isn’t an issue. This bike has been an amazing travel machine taking me across the country, off road, camping and long distances. I agree the maintenance interval’s recommended are too early, I do all my own maintenance and find it a slight hassle to take the bike apart but after a few times it becomes basic. My bike is likely to see 100,000km this year and is the most sturdy reliable horse in the stable. Safe riding everyone!
A fantastic detailed review of the bike and way better then most professional journalists, thank you from Ireland
Thanks Garry, that's nice to hear as film making is a relatively new hobby for me. I'm super chuffed at the response this one has received. 👍
Nice to see my first africa twin is still alive. I had this bike from new for a few years loved every minute of it. Traded it in for a adventure sports model and that was a big big mistake. Got the 1100 AT now and that's great. Keep on looking after the old girl.
Ha ha, it’s awesome this film appeared on your radar. It’s a small world after all. Yep, still got all the receipts in your name. Ride safe Marcus.
What was the mistake? I'm looking to buy one.
@@Rubmaster I know I'm a little late to reply (9 months late haha) but I'll just make the reply for anyone else reading this; So people complain that the ATAS it's too heavy... Which makes no sense because the difference is less than 20 kilograms or less than 10 kilograms if you take the ATAS manual aka. without DCT - which weighs exactly 10kg. I can tell you from experience, having ridden A LOT of different bikes over 200 kilograms, that a weight of 10, 20 and even 30 kilograms is unnoticeable on these big bikes. What makes the most difference in a bikes balance, is the weight placement and distribution over the frame of the bike.
BMW for example does a VERY, VERY good job with this, on most of their higher end bikes, since most of their stuff, including the engine and electronics is placed as far down as it possibly can be placed, resulting in approx. 70% of the weight of the bike being at the center of the bike and lower - which, when riding, makes the bike feel WAY, WAY lighter than it actually is and it is way easier to control and balance. You feel like you're riding a 180-190 kilo bike, not a 250 kilo behemoth. The new 2024 Africa Twin does A VERY good job with this but the previous 2 generations were a bit too top heavy (in my opinion, compared to all the bikes I tried) - although still VERY easy (if you're experienced) to ride offroad with.
Over the years, I've done almost the entire TET (I've done about 88,000 km out of the full 106,000 km) on a lot of different bikes. Depending on which country aka. which part of TET I was doing, I preferred different bikes, sometimes it was smaller offroad based bikes like KTM390, sometimes it was tall behemoths like the old 2007 BMW 1200 GS... But in general, when I look at the average experience, overall I've had the best experience (taking everything into consideration; comfort, power, stability, reliability, etc...) both on and offroad, with bigger, heavier bikes, out of which the most enjoyable times were with 2019 Tenere 700, 2020 Vstrom 1050 and 2021 Africa Twin Adventure Sports bikes. The most comfortable experiences riding were with the new 2024 Gold Wing and the 2021 BMW 1250RT. The most fun I've had was with the KLR650.
Incredible video explaining the complexity and potential mechanical skills required to care for the AT! All the new bikes have too many complicated electronics that I have no interest in. Great video, thanks for sharing!
I'm really impressed by honest real world high mileage reviews and maintenance, servicing and mechanic reviews. Well done Pal.
Thanks Ian, much appreciated!
Every bike has its flaws and issues. Thanks for your honest review. Best I’ve watched yet.
It’s lovely to get such nice feedback Clay. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍
Excellent video and commentary! And you nailed it on all points! I do not ride my 2016 CRF1000 DCT bike in winter here in Ohio so I don't get salt on it like you do. I recently did a 6500 mile ride around the continental USA and it could hold 85 to 90 mph for 10 to 12 hours a day effortlessly; albeit the fuel consumption increased greatly. Then when I got to the mountains it handled the mountain trails with ease even at 12,000 ft! I have done a bit more upgrading mine, but, like you I have no intention of ever selling it. It's my forever bike. I have as yet after 4 years of having it never washed it. I let the rain do that. I do use ACF 50 on points I know are susceptible to rust. I have just received the BARTubless wheels which I am building up as my spares so I can swap from road centric wheels to off road wheels quickly. The originals will be for off-road (tubed) and the BARTtubless will be the on-road set. Thank you for a great video with the sights of Scotland.
Thanks for watching and your kind words Kiwikidusa. Yeh, I think it’s a bike you get the most out of with your train of thought. Good luck with the BARTubeless equipment, they get good reviews.
@@soggybawsmoto On the Africa Twin forum I am documenting each step of the process from opening the box to fitting the rotors and pulser rings to fitting the Michelin tires. Search for 'Fitted Bartubeless wheels'. I'm a bit behind as it is the start of the Spring Semester here and I'm frantically busy.
The first time someone has actually given true reflection ,so refreshing you get a subscribe and like from me
Thanks very much Mark, much appreciated.
Thanks for the review.. I have the 2019 DCT, for about 6 months. about to travel the NC 500 from Peterhead in April 2023. I love the bike and will keep it until it dies.
There’s some great riding and attractions up that end of the country De Doc, if you are not from the area, check out The Grampian Transport Museum in Alford. Sneak preview in my Summer Solstice 2022 video.
Thanks for watching and commenting. Enjoy your trip!
I own this bike, 2017 model. I've had mine for 3 years, and with 30k kms i have had not a single problem to date. I live in Italy, so a hot climate. I ride in winter, but never in wet conditions, i also wash it every 5-700kms. I see so much salt and weather corrosion on the bike in the video. I'm so glad i live in a better climate :D .
What a wonderful place to ride motorcycles as well! In a couple of weeks time I am going to The Stella Alpine Rally at Colle del Sommeiller. Really looking forward to it :-)
@@soggybawsmoto I've been there, i prefer the french alps though in that area :D
Thank you. Probably the best and most honest AT review on RUclips 👍
Excellent timing, just about to go looking at one , food for thought, cheers.
Hey there! I'm also riding an AT CRF1000L (2016) with 45.000km on the clock. The only problem i've had with it is the on/off switch. I've got it open and cleaned everything inside an that was that. Otherwise...what can i say...before this bike, i've had a Tenere XT660Z from 2011 and the built quality was the same...i guess this is the standard these days, but we also have to take into consideration that we use the ADV bikes in all conditions no matter what :))), whereas a road dedicated bike is mostly used in good weather and clean surfaces. All in all i'm very pleased with the AT and i love riding it, the upgrade was well worth it. Love the powerful 1000cc engine and the great low center of gravity that gives it a nimble and light feel, even though it's a big bike. Cheers from Romania! Ride safe!
Thanks for watching and commenting Radu. Glad that you are enjoying yours. Tania will be more comfortable on the AT than the XT660Z. Great bike for your area solo, but might be pressed a little two up. All the best pal, Stevie.
@@soggybawsmoto Thanks, Stevie! Well the 660 had 1 cylinder and 48HP and we did all the Balkan countries (some of them twice), Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Austria and all over Romania on it 2up. The 1000cc on the AT is anything but pressed :))). Felt perfect in las year trips even when she took us to Cappadocia in Turkey. All the best, man, enjoy the ride :)
Great and honest review .... Watched it from A TO Z .... Many thanks !
Awesome dual cam views! Thank you for this demo! All the best to your 2023!
A nice honest review - I have to agree about peoples obsession with cleaning over riding. It is nice to see there are still some people out there that solve problems with bikes rather than selling them the minute they have an issue. Subbed!
Thanks Ponkster, always grew up making do and mending. Subbed back to your channel, some nice content there!
Have you still got Rattus? That’s right up my street! Like it a lot.
@@soggybawsmoto Tanks for the sub - yes Rattus is alive and well and has just passed another MOT ready for its winter duties, its not had as much use this year as I gave bike rallies a miss and have done a lot of my wild camping on foot.
This was a well put-together informative video, which I enjoyed a lot and I was shocked to see such a lot of corrosion on a Honda!
Thanks for watching and commenting Stuart. Glad you enjoyed it. It broke my heart given the good Hondas I used to ride in the early 2000’s
THANK YOU FOR POSTING.
I AM ON THE FENCE ABOUT WHAT ADV BIKE I WANT TO BUY IN THE SPRING.
I DONT WANT TO DEAL WITH ELECTRONIC ISSUES.
James,
See my above reply to an earlier comment. I too had constant reliability issues with my 2019 Africa Twin Adventure Sports that I bought brand new. If it was a reliable machine that I didn’t think was going to leave me stranded, I would have kept mine. I loved the bike when it worked but unfortunately after a year of constant issues I had very little confidence in it.
Clear, concise, informative and interesting. Not everything is all of this on YT, so we’l done, and thanks. I’m a VStrom owner, and the CRf was one of my desires, but the VStrom and this video, indicates that I chose the right bike! 😄👍🙏🙏
Thanks for your kind feedback S&G!
Thanks for the great honest review mate, on the edge of buying one but have heard about the issues and even more concerned about the 2016-2017 internal front fork wear issue. Now you really got me thinking. Also Scotland is the best place in the land. Love it!!. If it wasnt for the mrs not wanting to move up there id all ready be there. Cheers!!.
2017 AT here, you're speaking my language with these issues, I love the bike and will keep it forever but the little stuff builds up, love the wheel change, I want to save up for some tubeless rims, great video!
Thanks Moto Pumpkin. I think we will only see the best from the bike through long term ownership. I keep an eye on ebay and have collected a load of spares, rear shock, callipers, exhaust, reg/rec, when I see them listed cheap. Hope to push this one out to 100,000 miles. Cheers, Stevie.
@@soggybawsmoto , Hello sir. Thank you for your review. Would like your feedback please. I am thinking of buying a brand new 2023 Hionda AT AS manual transmission this spring. I plan on my next bike (keeping my existing as well), for 10+ years. Most of my riding will be highway, with some gravel roads and some light trails, perhaps ~ 80/10/10 ratio. Some super long highway miles as well. The bike will never see winter or salted roads and although will be ridden hard sometimes, mostly it will be ridden pretty easy compared to what it is intended for. What do you think about AT longevity in my circumstance? BTW, I have 40 years of riding experience on several bike types, 5' 11" 195 lbs, 32" inseam. I can do basic bike maintenance, but that's it. Thoughts please. The other bikes I may consider are a 2023 Suzuki V-Strom or 2023 KTM 1290 S. Same type of bike with different personalities. What would you do? Thank you in advance for your feedback. Or anyone who wants to chime in on this topic. Thanks.
@@danman5857 Thanks for watching and asking my thoughts.
I’ve no experience of the later models, but I suspect the key for you is that you won’t be using it on winter salted roads.
I’ve been doing some research into the V Strom community, and learning a few worrying things there as well.
I’ve learned that to access the rear valves for adjustment, the swing arm has to come off, and everything from under the tank/seat area. I’ve also discover a few maintenance/design horrors that I can’t remeber the fine detail on atm.
I’m starting to suspect most bikes are suffering from finish quality issues these days, due to changes in paint technologies, and the bean counters having more influence over design teams.
Probably only because I’ve never had one, I think I could be tempted to try a BMW GS. I have two friends with K1600’s who have had excellent warranty support. One had a full engine replaced because of bad paint on a couple of casings. No messing about!
Enjoy your bike purchase and all the best for when it comes.
When you were saying how hard the wheels were to clean, I was thinking, not the case for my Varadero wheels. I thought, you should put on some Vara wheels. Then you put on some Vara wheels. Trippy.
Ha ha, great minds think alike! thanks for watching and commenting 👍
I doubt I'll ever own a big adventure bike. But it's always good to have real world reviews on them should the time ever arrive 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for watching and commenting Saorsa. Big blocks of wood on your boots and you’d be fine 😂
@@soggybawsmoto the height isn't so much of an issue, I've seen way smaller girls on bigger bikes, but if I drop it, I am not sure I want to try to pick it up, I already worry about the weight of my 500 if I were to drop her 🤣 I'm sure I know the technique, but I've yet to have to put it into practice 🤞🏻 hopefully long may that last 🤞🏻
This was a good honest review, having the exact same bike in Australia i found it interesting about the controls on your bike failing, i have never heard of this happening here and as for the corrosion dramas well thats obviously your salt over there on the roads which thankfully we don't have. The biggest complaints over here was soft suspension and as you mentioned dodgy spokes apart from that these bikes are very popular over here. Thanks for the video happy riding.
Thanks for watching and commenting Ian. Yeh, our poor weather and salty winter roads is much of the problem. Glad to hear you get good service from yours.
I have to admit, it's a good machine to ride, just, mine has become rough as a dog quicker than anticipated.
Best bike review I have ever seen.
Cheers Chris, I enjoyed making this one, I had a lot of material to work with!
what a beautiful mountain view in the beginning!
Glad I watched this it’s just saved me a good few grand
Not even trying to be overly nice, this is some top tier content. Solid editing overall and I can see why this is your most popular video. That VidIQ stream was pretty interesting to me cause that was my first one I’ve been to. Definitely subscribing, not just because you subscribed to me but motorcycle content is actually something I’ve seen for a good bit. I myself know next to nothing about it though haha. Good luck on hitting 1000 subscribers! You’re now 1 sub closer!
Thanks for your kind words. Glad you enjoyed. Learned so much from the VidIQ streams. Even if not reviewed, you can learn from what they cover on other channels. At our stage, every sub is super valuable reaching our goal! 👍
This is a great review, the average motorcyclist does about 2000 miles a year if that, so when you go to part ex a high mileage bike you get nowt for it. As you said, your better off just keeping the bike. I bought a brand new GS in 2005 & kept it till 2019 with 78000 miles on the clock. With all the tours I had done, it did not owe me anything but I still got 2.5k on a trade in so I was happy.
Quality! Definitely one of the most informative reviews I've ever seen. To see how, when and where you've used this bike is very interesting in itself. You know you're badass when you're nodding at snow plows where you're out riding! 😂😂😎😎
Cheers Duncan. It was quite nice digging through all my old footage from my Euro trips before I posted publicly. We don’t often get snow on this particular road, the A814 from Garelochead to Arrochar, so when I woke up to a weather warning, I took the day off work 😂
@@soggybawsmoto 😂😂Legend! Proper hardcore mate. Oh I used to know that wee stretch well, my granda had a cottage in Portincaple.
Very badass. I used to ride my KLR650 around Japan in winter when I lived there. Turning up in mountain villages freaking everyone out as I'm a 'kaiju' on a motorbike in winter. But, I'm older now so I'm not inclined to do that anymore, plus around here there are too many distracted drivers and people who simply should not even be behind the wheel of a Tonka car!
A Bike with so much potential , hampered by quality concerns. Thanks for a Warts and All, thorough review. I have long preferred Honda bike but I have gone for Road bikes. I was considering one of these but my skills at electrics are definitely not up to it. Full credit to yourself and all your fellows who do this and persevere. Great Video.
Thanks for watching, subscribing and commenting Dezmond. There are “fan boys” out there that think the manufacturer they are bought into can do no wrong. I’d hate to recommend a bike for people to have a negative experience, hence my warts and all approach. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for looking at my other videos too.
Just watched this one, great content and thorough fault finding. Not a AT owner but if I was this would be my go to vid. I tend to buy new or nearly new run for 4/5 years summer and touring and then it becomes the winter bike, my 2019 V Strom has now filled the role. will use your vid for winter reference. many thanks
Cheers Steven, that's a great idea, running a new bike for 4/5 years then using it as your winter bike. That's kinda how I'm operating just now, but it wasn't deliberate 😂 Thanks for watching.
Congrats Mr. Soggy Baws that was a really good watch! I'd have assumed that Africa Twins were pretty much unburstable but apparently not!
Thanks Rikky, much appreciated. My first bike review, just need to clock up 50,000 miles on something else to do my next one 😂
@@soggybawsmoto You don't need 50,000 miles... you can BS your way through after as little as 50 miles, as you'll see on some of my videos 😂
Great review. I have a 2017 DCT model and can relate to everything your said. I think its a shame that my 2017 bike is now in worse condition to my 1988 Honda CBR400 which has over its life had to stand outside, be ridden throughout the winder and has suffered through lack of general maintenance and cleaning throughout those years.
All the fixings on the AT corrode at an unreasonable rate regardless of cleaning and coatings. I also discovered after dropping the bike on the drive that the frame has several rust spots in hidden away places.
I too purchased the bike with the intention of riding it and not worrying about how it looks (but we all would prefer to not riding around on a rust bucket), or worrying about its resale value.
Shame on the bean counters at Honda.
Thanks for watching and commenting Jonathon. Yeh, it’s kinda sad how quality has dropped. The wee CBR is a lovely bike though, one to cherish! Cheers, Stevie.
Love my 2018 DCT.
In fact i've loved the Africa Twin DCT so much that I bought a 2016, 2017 and 2018. Unlucky to be rear ended on my red white and blue 2017, but i've racked up 40k miles on its replacement.
Good information. I live in the Arizona desert, and it's very dry here most of the time, so hopefully, I will avoid most of the problems you have had. Seems water and moisture have been hard on your machine. Cheers!
@adrianw3985 Thanks for watching and commenting Adrian. Wow, that's one extreme to the other. Safe riding pal.
Absolutely great video, thanks very much. I had a 750 AT and loved it, and really wanted one of these, but ended up with a (now dead) 1200 Multistrada, mainly because of the tubeless/spoke metallurgy issue.
Glad you enjoyed it. You ride a Multistrada, you might get a chuckle from my latest film about Ducati Addiction 😄 Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@soggybawsmoto Cheers fella, will have a look this evening. Have a feeling I'll feel seen though 😅
Great video, just looking at swapping my 1290 SAS and 890 AS for an Africa Twin. My bikes are immaculate but I do the miles, no one wants bikes with miles on. 😢
@@chrismalton1904 Thanks for watching Chris. Good luck with your AT 👍
Thanks for such a great and honest review of how these modern Hondas servive in the dampy UK conditions.
Think I'll get the older model 😊
What an absolute superb video :) you never see good reviews like this any more, covering everything that I've been trying to find out about the Africa Twin for weeks all the stuff the paid reviews never ever mention, keep up the brilliant work, subscribed an thumbs up. I'm hoping to move up to near ish Aberfeldy or Angus in a few months or around Galloway. I've been on a 300 rally an I'm gonna swap back to a more road based Adv for the move and going to Norway,Iceland an Nordkapp. Thanks again :)
Thanks very much buddy. It’s always good getting positive feedback from a fellow ‘tuber.
Subbed back, what an eclectic taste in motorcycles you have. Looking forward to having a good look through your channel tonight.
@@soggybawsmoto thanks mate means alot :) hopefully should have a new video coming over the next few days about the Rally n why I'm selling it 🙃 no doubt itl set of a raft of negative comments again joys lol. Hopefully see you on the road sometime! :)
2017 AT owner, 15K miles, have had no issues whatsoever. I ride both on and off road.
Very good honest review, a real review well worth watching 👍👍
Thanks for watching and your kind words Kathy.
WoW!! One of the few Africa Twin reviews I have watched and this one takes the cake!! Much respect to you for the miles of riding and wrenching on your own bike! I have learned a lot here!! Thanks for sharing this review!!
Great review Stevie, not that I'm in the market for one, but always looking! 👍😬
Cheers John, I know what you mean, I've always got my eyes peeled for something interesting too 👍
Interesting video, thanks for sharing your experiences
Great review, extemely useful before I buy one. I'll take your advice and go for a well used one to go off-roading.
My AT is fiveyears old about 20K on it. Wouldn't be the best at washing but I do drive it through the year.
On that big island to the south west of you with similarl weather..
The cosmetics aren't bad considering.
The switchgear and ignition stuff!!
The ignition barrel did the same on my 750 At.
Had the spokes changed out alright.
Two extra mods I'd highly recommend.
Wider footpegs.
The difference for comfort alone if your out of the saddle is huge.
And a set of barkbusters weather covers over the handle grips.
Makes riding in shite conditions much more bearable.
The Honda high screen is a good idea too in the winter for keeping most of the wet off.
Continental trial attacks are great.
Change the oil every 5 thousand cheapest service you can give an engine. miles
Love the alloy conversion.
A set of 17s and you have a modern TDM 850.
Thanks for watching and commenting JPC. We were out your way on the AT last year, had a great ride around the WAW. Wider footpegs defo a good idea. Ride safe pal.
The verdict - not salt road ready ;)
Nice video met... Very detailed... Amazing to see you doing all the complex service as well ... Cheers 🥂
Had a 1982 Africa twin, clunky but loved it… years later, I had 2017 Africa twin, didn’t get far before I dumped it and went to my r1200GS, now with 160,000 miles … hoping for another 100,000 …
That’s some impressive miles Tim!
@@soggybawsmoto that’s one of the little things a lot of people outside the us don’t always realize, I drive right at 7000 miles per summer just to see family/life long friends. My original home town friends drive 80-85 miles (round trip) to have a good burrito…
🙏🙏
Not the first time I’ve seen quality issues with the AT. Brilliant motorcycle under warranty definitely not something Id want to keep long-term. And with so many secondhand low mile examples around getting any type of money back is a pipe dream.
Thx buddy very informative, so eventually you say valve adjustment interval would be around 50k km ?? Or more ?? Thx again
Thanks for watching and commenting pal.
Yeh, I would say 32000 miles or 50000 km would be a sensible interval.
I found this very interesting and basically was many of the reasons I got rid of my Africa Twin Dct I need a road bike but didn’t need it to go off road I like the Africa Twin engine but little else I have replaced it with the NT1100 but having watched your videos definitely decided it will be watched closely for any of these problems however it will have a pretty easy life and I keep it dealer maintained I have no interest in the mechanical aspect of the hobby but all the same probably one of the best reviews I have watched very helpful thanks 😊
Glad you found it useful Graham. I like to think someone in Japan saw my wheel swap on the CRF and designed the NT :-) I can kid myself on - lol.
@@soggybawsmoto I had a demo NT it feels like a compact version of the Africa Twin it also carries it’s weight well the bike felt light compared to my 2018 AT I also prefer the manual version which I have on order although it is delayed was due on the 11th now looking more like the 21st all being well
@ 5.33 minute,s you can see after the camshaft top a little dip downwards this provide,s a Egr (exhaust gas regeneration) funtion as seen on modern cars ,don,t like that behavior on a motorcycle
euro4 regulations emision control ,i could feel that riding mine crf1000
looking for specs on honda talon 1000 camshafts iff they are the same or better ?
The cams are not to wild on the crf1000 so they should stay more in specs longterm
good revieuw ,thanx
Hi mate great review. Ive been looking at buying 1 of these bikes for near 2 years as 95% of my riding is off road. But do alot of miles and alot of trails not well used and desert sand in australia as well as alot of sticky mud on camping trips and remote area 800 miles away from any town. Do u think it is reliable enough to tackel this and can bikes take a punishment.
Thanks for watching and commenting. You won't have the problems with it in Australia that I had with mine.
Not sure I'd want to ride it in sand, the speed you would need to maintain to prevent sinking would be greater than I would be happy riding a bike of that weight, but that's a personal choice.
Apart from the corrosion issues affecting the electrics ( which won't happen in Oz) it has been reliable enough
Interesting. I’ve not heard of those issues in Oz, so maybe as some others have written it’s because of salt/winter? Very helpful video, thanks
Hi Ronan, road salt is definitely a problem here in the UK in the winter. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍
It's a great shame the first gen. new Atwin doesn't appear to have the build quality of the original RD series in terms of materials. Having said that, I own a '16 CB500X which is bearing up pretty well, but it does get it's fair share of chemicals and cleaner thrown at it. Languishing in the back of the garage is a 35 year old japanese-built XLV600 (Transalp). It's covered nearly five times the mileage of the CB and the fasteners, bracketry and switchgear are still great. Not sure I could say the same for the CB. Only real issue with the 'Alp (common to the original Atwin and the newer models) was rim rot. You'd have thought manufacturers would have addressed the galvanic reaction thing by now, but apparently not. It's true to say, you jump on a new bike and, what with the improvements in chassis design, CAD analysis and materials technology, modern bikes ride fantastically compared to those made decades ago. Shame they don't seem to bear up to the elements over time.
Thanks for watching and commenting Billy. I think the bean counters have more clout than the Engineers these days.
The original transalp was a fantastic bike. Sadly, I’m fairly certain the new models will have similar foibles to the new AT’s
Useful review, thanks! I’m Canadian but I’ve spent enough time in the UK to know that what’s called tough weather “adventure” riding here in North America is just called riding in the UK. Along the stunning NC500 your helmet can be in the rain and your feet in the sun, until ten minutes later when the situation’s reversed.
Thanks for watching Walter, yep, it’s true, if you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes.
You get some extremes of weather in Canada as well though?
At 71 years old with 55 years of riding, in the last three months I’ve put 8500 kilometers on my new-to-me ‘18 DCT model. I bought it to fiddle with the DCT, which I’m still learning how to use properly but have grown to admire. And, I wanted to try out the bike before I put too much thought into buying the new (too expensive?) 2024 model. Presently, I think I’ll stick with my well farkled ‘18 version and ride my other sport and smaller dual purpose bikes when I want a clutch lever to pull. Good bike though, I find the thumpity 270° mill calming and especially suitable to experienced ol’farts . . . like me. Your posting is exceptional. From Prince Edward Island, thanks for sharing your insights!
Hey Facker I loved your review! I here in the states and commend you on your all year riding. Im shopping for a AT to do some traveling both on the backroads and dirt. Been thru the BMW F800GSA nice but boring , A Ktm 690 R even more boring. I have one found a 2019 with 4 thousand mile well maintained for 10k which seem like a great buy. AT owners love there bikes and the pricing shows. Take care my brother and keep the rubber side down.. Around Bend Oregon out on 2 wheels
That's awesome, good luck with your AT adventures!
I had a 2018 Vstrom1000XT, it had similar spoke issues (replaced under warranty). Although Suzuki have rep for being built down to a price, when it went after 30K miles (3 years, 2x winters) it was still rust free and always cleaned up: never did more than two buckets wash, autosol and Meguiar's G15812EU Ultimate (works on everything, even clear screens). No electrical or mechanical issues. Like your AT, the Suzuki shim check intervals were ridiculously pessimistic. Point being, you can't just trust in the brand name any more.
Thanks for watching and commenting CPU UK. I always liked the wheels on the Vstrom XT. I think it is the bike I would have bought if I had done more research when buying the AT.
why did you remove the fuel tank to replace air filters? That is not necessary at all. Ive had the same model but 2018 registered and never had the same issue as you. Would have had it for even longer if it had not been stolen. Miss it already but looking forward to buying the 2020 model.
Good observation Alex. That footage was taken when I was stripping bike for valve check, that’s why the tank was off on that occasion. Your quite right, just the fairing panels needed for air filters alone, as mentioned on the voice over.
Great review and info… I’m still in favour of the ‘96 AT.
Thanks Charles. The original was a cracking bike!
Great summary of your ownership of your African twin, I use to own a 2008 varadero & the build quality on that was great even after 60,000 odd miles it still looked great & in that time I only ever had two light bulbs go & a couple of rear cylinder gasket to down pipe disintegrated.
Now I own a cb500x due to my age needing a lighter bike & the build quality is rubbish compared to my old Varadero.
Thanks for watching and commenting Ian. Yeh, I think we hit peak quality about that point. I had a 2007 Triumph Tiger that was a doddle to keep clean. Ride safe!
Maybe the tenere 700 is better or even the v Strom. I'm very disappointed in this honda. The tiger 800 seems to last and the yam superten 1200 are nice but shims would cost a lot to do but fortunately they rarely go out.
@@Ian-bq7gp I’ve been doing a bit of research into the V-Strom community. Seems it is not without its problems as well. Lots to choose from.
2016 AT DCT 47K Km. Love it but some issues with the buttons; Sorted easily. One big problem with the DCT when travelling in Iran. End of the trip with this bike, we had a spare on a van... My dealer told me to show at the next dealer, but it was 2200 K away, in Istanbul😁...I was told only 2 bikes had this breakdown in France, parts came straight from Japan. No punctures, I use HD tubes = perfect.! The next one...I don't know yet, it has to have the less electronic on board... Another AT, the simple one, a T700 rally...? DCT, when it works, is fantastic👍👍
Thanks for watching and commenting Christian. Sounds like you were well set up on your travels.
I’d love to ride Iran. A real adventure.
@@soggybawsmoto Thanks for your work. Iran has been my best trip so far, the people there are so friendly with the visitors and specifically with riders because we have bikes they have never seen in their life (big ones are only for the army and the police). As always , problems come with politics ans religion... On the way to Iran the Balkans are fantastic when riding on mountain roads (get away form the coast...), Albania is......different... And eastern Turkey (Kurd country) is also interesting with very nice people.
I love your scottish accent (although sometimes difficult to understand) and Scotland (I made the North 500 road)
Keep well
Cracking video fella, and something to consider when purchasing a african twin, I might stick with my BSA thunderbolt, 1967, I can make any spare or easily find it 😂😂👍🇬🇧
Thanks Phillip, now that's a real bike ❤️
Great and detailed review, Stevie!
Awesome honest review. Just my subjective opinion I prever the v twin rather than the paralell twin. Thinking about buying a XL1000 or the XRV750. The Varadero is better two up. The AT RD04/07 is a legend but good ones are quite overpriced. Thank you and greetings from Norway.
Thanks Torbjorn, been lucky enough to ride a mates Varadero. Solid machine, will serve you well and lots out there to choose from. Good luck 👍
Dear, kind greetings. I have a 1000cc motorcycle, 2019 model, excellent, almost new. The problem is with the tire. There is a tube, not a tube. Do you advise me to change the tire or keep the current tire?
Thanks for watching, subscribing and commenting Khaled.
I changed the tyre to tubeless because I do alot of long distance touring, and if you get a puncture far from home you need to carry lots of tools to fix it.
You only need to to consider changing to tubeless tyres if they are inconvenient to you.
There are lots of ways to do so, my way is only one way of doing it.
Ride safe friend!
Great video (s ) thanks for posting them.
Considering an AT 1100 .... well I was. It rides beautifully and the engine is a peach but what has gone wrong with a company that "wouldn't let a sub standard bike out of the factory gates" . I'll be keeping my mint Tiger 800 XCA that hasn't missed a beat.
Thanks for watching and commenting Howard. I suspect the bean counters have too much control these days 😞
good review, thanks
@@G40TGV thanks for watching and commenting Pedro 👍
Just curious as in its past ownership in regards to corrosion, it possibly has lived in a salty environment, or ridden on beaches and salt water, this would show up on any bikes electrical systems as well as other components.
Thanks for watching and commenting Peter. I'm afraid I am the guilty party for riding it I'm wet salty conditions. That's just part of bike life in Scotland. I had not ridden it on beaches in the early days, but once I was resigned to the condition it was in, I had a wee dabble on the beaches whilst on tour in Ireland.
I took a unexpected trip to Wales a few weeks ago with zero planning, and zero preparation. 600 miles on fast motorway in torrential rain, and a couple of hundred miles blasting about the twisties had me falling in love with the bike again.
It will be getting a bit of restoration and a tidy up for the next 50,000 miles!!
I have a 2020 version and heated grips are definitely upgraded. They'll cook your hands. I often have to run them in mid to lo settings after 10 minutes. This bike came with tubeless tires, which I always thought great, but wonder if rims still have corrosion issue from spoke to rim dissimilar metals? Three of us have these rides, never have had issues, but now wonder about electronics most of all, after your review. We ride remote BC Canadian Rockies, so it's definitely a concern. After working/pulling mountain sleds out over the last three decades (during our many winter adventures), how bad can a broke down bike be in + temps, lol. These bikes have given us numerous multi-week adventures, and so many smiles, our faces are permanently grinning. But your video definitely shines light on potential issues and resolve. Information is the key to repair and happiness. For that I and my buds thank you dearly. Cheers from Canucksville 🇨🇦
Thanks for watching and commenting Bill. Glad to hear they resolved the heated grips issues on later machines. Problems aside, it enjoy riding it, and had many happy miles on it as well. Ride safe pal.
Gained a sub. Cheers pal. So..... Best bike you have had? Considering what's not been so great with the AF? I'm considering a ST13 as an alrounder from my 08 plate CBF1000A
Thanks Gilmo, without a doubt the best bike I’ve ever had was a Yamaha GTS1000. It was a beautiful machine and interesting from an engineering perspective. It was a doddle to keep clean. They were very expensive when they were launched though, about 25% above the rest of the market.
Never riden a ST13, but I had a good experience with the 1100’s. My father had a few from new, and I’ve had one second hand which was great. Ride safe!
Love the review and the comparison to the bullet proof Honda's of days past. I owned quite a few Honda's from the 70's to 90's and apart from the VF1000 (mad bike) they were utterly dependable.
I now drive Guzzi's with varying levels of reliability. But I must say the most current one (a 2008 Stelvio) performs well, for all the other ones I trade driving pleasure for reliability😇.
Worth it, but it is not for everyone.
Specially my Quota1000 which I think is the most brilliant failure for a motor bike. A lot of issues, but it drives brilliant like no other.
Any way I enjoyed your video, you are using your bike not for show, but for what you can do with it, and I am very envious of you living in Scotland , as I know from experience how nice it can be to drive there. Great small twisty roads and beautiful scenery.
Had to re calibrate to understand your commentary a bit with the Scottish accent but don't change. Awesome content.
Thanks for your encouragement Zorktx, much appreciated. The Quota was some machine in it's day. I bet you have no problems doing the valve adjustment on that. Almost the perfect bike from a maintenance perspective. Hmmmm - V85TT is looking more and more tempting. I'd love a shot of one of those to see what it is like.
thanks for the video, im buying a 2019 CRF1000 adventure sports second hand atm, buying it for 9.5k with 1000km on it. im upgrading from a nc750x because i want a bike that i can take anywhere since i live in spain and theres alot of offroad routes id love to take.the gent im buying from changed the tubed to tubeless too.
Thanks for watching ans commwnting Neil. Theres some great riding in Spain, sounds wonderful
Hey Stevie, love your videos. Any advice on buying a first big bike, as you seem very knowledgeable. Don't want to spend a fortune as scared of drops etc, until I'm a bit more comfortable. No sports bike as want comfort also. Cheers
Hi Roy, Thanks very much, it’s great to hear my videos are reaching those that might see some value from them.
The best advice I can offer on a first big bike, is spend enough to get enough power to continue learning on, but still be fun, and don’t sink any more than around £3000 into it.
Any more and it starts to become expensive to fix minor spills.
Wee minor drops and spills are all part of the game, and nothing to worry about. You learn loads from them!!
Depending on tour size, I’d consider perhaps a Kawasaki Versys 650, comfortable, good geometry, very forgiving flexible engine. Easy to maintain.
If you want a little more power, maybe a Yamaha FZ6. It’s a little more sporty, but it isn’t too radical. Think sports bike engine in a comfortable package.
Good luck with your motorcycling career, cheers Stevie
Thanks mate, in depth response, appreciate it mate 👍
Excelent review and tips Stevie! My AT is almost reaching 24000km and, as you know, it’s time to check valve clearances. I’m probably going to follow your advice and wait until it reaches 40000/50000km. I also feel it’s too early to check valve clearance and the bike hasn’t had any symptoms to indicate the need to do it.
As for the problems with the switch , as you experienced,I wonder if you live close to the seaside and suffer from the effects of sea air.You’ve had quite a lot of issues with rust!
My bike is 1 year old and so far I haven’t had any issues with rust or sticky switches, eventhough ride a lot off road and we get a lot of heavy rain here in Brazil. I wonder if the 1100 version improved on this. Anyway, I’m going follow your advice and start spraying some WD40 on the main switches.
Thanks for the tips and keep up the good work! All the beet!
Thanks Leandro. In Scotland, you are never very far from the sea.
The largest contribution to the problems is the amount of road salt our local councils spread in the winter but my earlier Hondas did not corrode in the same way.
Since buying my KTM and my GTS the Honda gets used for all the wet weather and long distance / fast riding. I’ve realised it gets a really hard life in my hands.
When the MOT/Insurance expires in March 24, I’m going to take it off the road for a few months and treat it to the powder coating that it should have had, and a bunch or refurbished components that I have gathered over the years.
It deserves it!
Completely forgot the salt on the roads. It must be the one to blame. Here we have corrosion issues on the coastal areas.
As for the quality of the materials, I’ve also noticed overtime a decrease in the quality of some components. As a matter of fact it has been happening with cars, bikes, building materials, phones and everything in our disposable society. A shame.
I decided to get a Honda agains(coming from Bmw after a few years) exactly because most manufacturers are using worse material and are doing absolutely everything possible to make it harder for us to service the bikes ourselves.
anyway, good luck with the powder coating. Best regards!
I bought a brand new Honda nc750x in 2018 and by the time I sold it in 2020 it'd done 14,000 miles, but looked like it'd done 50, 000 miles!!
The build quality - especially the rear suspension - is garbage. It didn't matter how much acf50 I drowned it in it would still corrode at the slightest sign of moisture.
I've got a Royal Enfield Classic 350 now and the build quality on that is excellent compared to the Honda. It's also damn near half the price.
I'm just starting to post videos of it on my channel, so feel free to have a look. It'll mostly be runs around Scotland. 👍
Thanks for watching and commenting Dougie. It’s heart breaking when your disappointed with a bike. Glad your liking the RE, it’s a good solid machine. Always like seeing other Scottish creators, look forward to having a good binge watch through your channel. Regards Stevie
@@soggybawsmoto
Thanks, there's not much to see at the moment. The good news is I've got the audio sorted for when I'm riding along now.
I'm still editing the videos on my phone just now because I haven't got any editing software on my laptop yet.
If you don't mind me asking, what software do you use?
Hello loved your video. I have a 2017 africa in matt black. Nightmare to keep clean i just gt 85 it was every two weeks never clean it its done 45,000 miles i ride ever day to work i done a rear set of wheel bearings at 38.000 and change chain sprockets every 22.000 . Head bearings starting to go now and i had to do ht leads . My switch gear was a bit funny on the hazard lights originally but as bike as got older its got smoother and better generally. The rear shock I thought was garbage and replaced with a ohlins best thing ive ever done bike brilliant now. Rear linkage bearings also going to now . Wheels are definitely pickleley but nothing ever stopped the girl going and no real electric props sept ht leads . I took a xt660z to 80.000 and there was nothing left of the girl I think the africa could easily hit 150,000 with few bit
Thanks for watching and commenting, and your kind words Mr I. Glad you are getting good use out your AT as well. Thats impressive mileage on the 660! Ride safe pal, Stevie.
Thanks from 🇨🇦
Wow that's really absolutely great and awesome vidz my friend. RIDE SAFE ALWAYS brother 🙏☝️😊💯❤️
Thanks RodKris looking forward to having a watch through your channel too. 👍
so would you recommend this bike?
its a sweet ride no doubt thatbut do you think its shortcomings are a big isssue?
I know every bike will have a problem if you look for one. but do you think Africa Twins issues are big enough to reconsider?
Thanks for watching and commenting.
I couldn't put my hand on heart and recommend it to someone who was going to use it regularly, or someone keeping it outdoors in a UK type climate. The finish is too poor.
I am happy to keep mine, and ride it into the ground to get my value from it, because as a functional piece of equipment, it does a decent job.
I've always had a taste for a rat/survival bike anyway 🤣
I'd struggle to make an alternative bike recommendation though. I've got friends with all brands of bikes, and to be honest, have to invest a huge amount of time to prevent them from deteriorating.
Since making this review I've come to realise my expectations are rooted in ownership of 90's bikes, which were treated the same but aged better. Perhaps this might be unfair?
Thanks for watching and commenting.
I couldn't put my hand on heart and recommend it to someone who was going to use it regularly, or someone keeping it outdoors in a UK type climate. The finish is too poor.
I am happy to keep mine, and ride it into the ground to get my value from it, because as a functional piece of equipment, it does a decent job.
I've always had a taste for a rat/survival bike anyway 🤣
I'd struggle to make an alternative bike recommendation though. I've got friends with all brands of bikes, and to be honest, have to invest a huge amount of time to prevent them from deteriorating.
Since making this review I've come to realise my expectations are rooted in ownership of 90's bikes, which were treated the same but aged better. Perhaps this might be unfair?
@@soggybawsmoto🙂I live in Turkey so the climate in here is rather forgiving but I'd doubt that I'd be :D
I'm currently using a CRF250L and thinking about upgrading to the CRF300 Rally in summer (more power and stiffer suspensions- if Honda Turkey decides to release these bigger ones in here). and africa twin is my endgame in mind.
I dont think I will be using it on asphalt most of the time as I love spending time on rural areas. and I also tend to overpack my bike (those hard cases may look cool but I need at least 5 of them to fit my usual stuff :D )
so I see these bikes not only as a statement or fun factor but also as a work horse. and I'm sure I'll drop it at least a dozen times or so (hopefully when I'm not in traffic)
It's really funny you know? these new models run circles around the older ones in terms of power and design but they lack the relieability of them.
When I think about a powerful ADV from 90's I cant see a viable option as the newer ones. but relieability stuff really stings.
Love the gold 3 spoke cast wheels was that an easy fit
Thanks Chris, no, I had to take some brave pills to make it work. Wasn’t 100% sure if it was going to work until I sunk a few hundred pound into machining. Had to take 10mm of the mounting face for the rear disc. There’s a link to the conversion details in the text description complete with a budget.
With the matching done, it is a simple swap over though.
Thanks for watching
@@soggybawsmoto my friend managed to get a set of cbr600 wheels to go on a xr650r to make it a supermoto he had to get spacers made up. He said it wasn't really worth all the work none of it lined up without spacers and machining.
Woo hoo! You do some serious riding!
five out of five ! maybe like a big supermoto with those wheels
Thanks for subscribing Ichiban Moto. You hit the nail on the head there. It suits my style of riding well. Sharpened up the steering, but not towards being twitchy. Super predictable!
Thanks for subscribing Ichiban Moto. You hit the nail on the head there. It suits my style of riding well. Sharpened up the steering, but not towards being twitchy. Super predictable!
Dude I had a honda Transalp 700. It´s basically the same trouble to access the head and wiring. It's not fun at all.
What an awesome video!
I am a new biker and I am looking to buy a new motorcycle (to hopefully last me for years) - I am looking also for an adventure (I won't let the change and the beauty of the mountains only to ride it on the road) and also for a low tech machine (don't want everything to be electric and autonomous.
Currently my girlfriend and I are looking after a T7 or an AT standard. I am asking for your opinion, sir. What should I choose? (the reliability is the most important factor for me).
Please continue making videos, I am a new subscriber for now on!
Thanks for your encouragement Ceva. I’m super pleased how well this one has done.
I don’t have any direct experience of other adventure bikes other than the Tiger 1050 that preceded the Honda so would struggle to advise.
For a long time I thought the Suzuki DL1050XT might have better suit my purposes, but I recently joined a Facebook forum to study up on the bike to see how it compares.
Turns out doing the valves is even worse on the Suzuki, because of the V Twin configuration, you need to remove the swing arm to access the rear valves, and strip from the top of the bike downwards.
You have put an idea in my head to see if I might be able to make a film comparing the two bikes.
I would need to try to find another rider that would be keen to share their story.
I could then do the T7 and other comparable Adv bikes.
One bike that might suit where you are in your motorcycling career is the latest Kawasaki KLR650.
It’s not the fastest machine in the world, but the latest incarnation has fuel injection which can only help its reliability.
Just enough technology to be useful, but not so much that it is over complicated.
RUclips is your friend though, millions of reviews to help tou choose.
Good luck with your choices
Looking forward other great videos!
🫡 all the respect for your efforts, but i think that it's all caused by the humidity and the always rain weather in your area, and I think that other bikes like BMW or KTM needs more maintenance and much more expensive to repair, do you agree?
Thankyou for your kind words. Yes, much of the problem is our bad weather and salt used on our roads, and yes, you are correct, other brands such as BMW and maybe Ducati would be more expensive to repair, but these are aftern tucked into bed for the winter here 😆
I ride a used and abused 2010 800gs that has lived a very very hard life, commuting daily, weekend single track warrior, even drowned twice in deep river crossing and the only issue it ever gave was a fuel pump failing at around 60 000km about 3 years ago, now on 100 000km.
I am looking for a used upgrade with better looks and a tad more power and hoping a 2017 used AT with about 40 000km is the answer but after watching this I really have my doubts
Sometimes it's better the devil you know Paul. These modern Honda's are not a patch on the older models.
For how you plan to use it though, don't imagine you'd be particularly worried about the finish degrading.
Mine is getting a strip down and powdercoat in the summer when I can ride my other bike.
Al that corrosion is heavy exaggerated by living in Scotland and those riding conditions.
Thanks for watching and commenting Davo. The electrical problems and the start of the corrosion were all before it was relegated to winter hack duties and it was well looked after.
Truth be told, now that I no longer care about trying to keep it clean, I enjoy it a whole lot more. 😀
What is the red tyre thingy for the rear wheel
It's called the wheel rider from abba motorcycle equipment. It makes aligning rear wheel spacers and calipers much simpler. Costs £75, but they are out of stock at the moment awaiting another production run.
I’m surprised on the quality problems you have had from a Honda I always have them down as bullet proof
Hi Graham, yeh it scunnered me, I was expecting better from previous experience. To be fair, I suspect nothing is built to the same quality as we got in the 90's and early 2000's. Good grief, I'm sounding like my Grandad!
Haggis, I only owned my 2019 Honda Africa Twin for a little over 1 year but I was very disappointed and surprised with the poor quality. Starting around 1,500 miles, It spent so much time in the shop for warranty work, primarily related to the fuel tank and fueling issues. I sold it with around 12,00 miles on it due to no confidence in it’s reliability. I was truly disappointed because it is such a beautiful looking bike, comfortable, had just the right amount of power, and sounded amazing.
@@sevendyob1067 I’m genuinely surprised at that
@@sevendyob1067 Thanks for watching and commenting Seven. I think if I had the fuel tank problems I would have parted company with the bike.
Was yours the adventure sport version?
My 2017 DCT has zero issues 22 thousand miles but my bike is in near new condition. All of your issues appear to me to weather related. I have to give you props for your tenacity to keep riding in the rain. Wet = rot. You may need a boat! Are you living on coast? Thanks for posting
The quality thing is a real shame. Seems like the bike basically has the same issues my V-Strom 650 did. Since Honda have given up on this, what manufacturer actually provides a reasonable standard of finish these days?
Thats interesting Geshmaal, I once thought the DL650XT might have been a better choice, but research has shown me that it is difficult to work on too. Apparently the swing arm has to come off to access the rear valve clearences.
I think you are right, my friend complains about certain aspects of BMW quality these days, however at least BMW stand up to their warranty obligations and recalls as needed.
That might be an interesting investigation for me, to try to find the best compromise across the market???
Ride safe!
I think the issue with your ignition switch and talk about frame paint has a lot to do with salted roads throughout the UK.
Thanks for watching and commenting Penny. It certainly doesn't help the situation
sad to see the bean counters have got a grip on honda build quality these days but as long as the reliability is still there its a better option than the austro/ chinese options i guess
@vincemarshall8550 thanks for watching and commenting Vince. Yeh, bike is still going strong, so I am just about to tear it apart for some well deserved powdercoating.
@@soggybawsmoto nice one mate think im gonna take the dive and try one out ,i fancy the big tank but apparently theres issues with welding slappers and fuel filters ....hey ho
Finally, someone highlighting the same issues with Honda's dogshit approach to corrosion and working on the bike.
The NC750X seems to have been built for the Spanish rental market. Parts just love to rust. Getting to the valves is way easier and screw an oil change at 8k but some jobs require taking a day out just to dismantle the damn thing.
Your advice hits home - after a few years and low mileage the only thing to do with a modern Honda is sell it or keep it for the long haul.
Thanks for watching and commenting Matt. I’ve heard this from a few NC750 owners as well. Sad demise of a prime brand.
I think the bike punished you for putting those wheels on it. 🤣
On a serious note, mine's nearing the 40k mark without any issues at all. I'm thinking of checking the valves for the first time, although I probably don't need to. Mine sees rain but not as often as yours I'd say.
The honda dealership where i service my bike, has an electronic contraption for cheking whether or not the valves are working properly: they don't need to disassemble the bike for that.
That seems odd that the oil filter change recommendation is double the oil change mileage 🤷♀️
Great video
Thanks Liam.