Honda Africa Twin India launch delayed

The Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L adventure tourer which was showcased at the Auto Expo 2016 is slated to be launched in India by mid-2017. The latest version of the iconic Africa Twin will be assembled locally in India from CKD kits.

The hardcore off-roader will be the second premium motorcycle to be locally assembled by Honda, after the CBR650F.

Autocar India reports that the slight delay in bringing the Africa Twin to India is due to a recent earthquake in Japan which affected Honda’s Hamamatsu factory. The engineers from the said plant are in charge of development of CKD kits and part study from assembly point of view.

The Hamamatsu factory in Japan is the production hub of Honda’s high-end motorcycles and the earthquake disturbed various ongoing projects. As per the current conditions, the motorcycle should be launched in India by mid-2017 but one can’t rule out the possibility of a further delay.

The Honda Africa Twin is powered by a 998 cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine which is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Owners can also opt for an advanced dual-clutch gearbox with on and off-road drive modes. The power and torque figures stand at 95 PS and 98 Nm respectively.

The Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L will target seasoned off-road riders.

This article first appeared on Rushlane.com