Honda Africa Twin Type 22 Custom: A Retro Revival with Modern Muscle

The Honda Africa Twin Type 22 takes the iconic CRF1100 Africa Twin and injects a hefty dose of nostalgia. It transforms the ADV into a machine that pays homage to the golden age of rally racing. Crafted by UK workshop Auto Fabrica, the Type 22 isn't just a visual throwback. It seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern technology, creating a unique blend of old-school charm and cutting-edge performance.

Honda Africa Twin Type 22 Design

The Honda Africa Twin Type 22 throws back to the 1980s & 1990s with a striking tri-colour scheme of white, red, and blue. This echoed the legendary machines that dominated the Paris-Dakar Rally. Gone are the modern plastics; a hand-formed aluminium fuel tank reminiscent of those rally bikes is used instead, which seamlessly integrates with the shrouds. These create a cohesive and functional design. A bespoke aluminium solo seat with a vintage look and matching aluminium fender completes the transformation.

Honda Africa Twin Type 22 Engine

It retains the Africa Twin's powerful 1,084cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cam, parallel-twin engine. It delivers 101 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 100 Nm of torque at the crank. These figures promise exhilarating performance, both on and off-road, making the Type 22 a true adventure machine.

Honda Africa Twin Type 22 Underpinnings

Auto Fabrica has kept details about the frame of the Honda Africa Twin Type 22 under wraps. The suspension, though, gets a significant upgrade with Öhlins components, promising superior handling and control on any terrain. While exact dimensions haven't been revealed, the bike maintains the Africa Twin's reputation for off-road prowess.

Honda Africa Twin Type 22 Wheels and Brakes

Matching the off-road prowess of the suspension, the Honda Africa Twin Type 22 likely retains the stock Africa Twin's 21-/18-inch spoke wheels. The braking system receives a significant upgrade with Brembo calipers replacing the stock units.

The Honda Africa Twin Type 22 is a compelling proposition for adventure riders seeking a motorcycle that blends timeless aesthetics with modern muscle. While currently a one-off concept, the overwhelming positive response to the Type 22 has sparked speculation. Could this be a glimpse into Honda's future ADV (Adventure) ambitions? Might a production version of the Type 22, or a neo-retro inspired Africa Twin, be on the horizon? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Type 22 has reignited a passion for retro adventure bikes, and its influence may very well shape the future direction of Honda's adventure machines.

The Honda Africa Twin Type 22 is a compelling proposition for adventure riders seeking a motorcycle that blends timeless aesthetics with modern muscle. It has just fuelled an ongoing passion for retro adventure bikes, and its influence may very well shape the future direction of Honda's adventure machines.