Honda Africa Twin trial production begins in India; launch by July

Honda had plans to bring Africa Twin to the Indian market by mid-2016, but the devastating earthquake in Japan delayed its arrival. The two-wheeler is likely to see a July launch.

Biking enthusiasts in India, here is some good news that will set your adrenaline thumping. After a long wait, Honda's adventure motorcycle Africa Twin will go on sale in mid-2017. According to the makers of the adventure bike, the trial assembly of Africa Twin has already begun.

Honda's adventure motorcycle made its appearance in the country at the Auto Expo in 2016. The company planned to bring Africa Twin to the Indian market by mid-2016 but the devastating earthquake in Japan delayed its arrival. The motorcycle has been linked with several launch dates since then. The latest news of its trial production comes as a welcome relief and a confirmation of its arrival soon.

Powered by a 998cc, parallel twin liquid-cooled engine with 270-degree crank and uni-cam, the Africa Twin can generate 94bhp of power at 7,500rpm and 98Nm of torque at 6,000rpm. Globally, the Africa Twin is offered in two variants—with six-speed manual and six-speed DCT automatic transmission. Expected to be priced at around Rs 14 lakh, when launched, the dual-purpose motorcycle will compete against the likes of Suzuki V-Strom, Triumph Tiger series and Kawasaki Versys 1000. The Africa Twin rides on the tyres that measure 21 inches up front and 18 inches at the rear and it gets a fuel tank of 18.8-litre capacity.

Honda's upcoming adventure motorcycle is expected to be brought to India as completely knocked down (CKD) unit to be assembled at the company's plant in Manesar to keep the price in check.