I'm glad I got a new Honda CB500X after you and many others convinced me it was such a great bike. Glad you and Wendy are still enjoying the riding experience and at the end of the day, that is all that matters.
At 71 I’ve been riding long distances for over fifty years on many bikes. Last year I added an Africa Twin DCT to my small collection and this season, rode it over 17 000 lazy kilometers. I regretted buying it during the first 1000 kilometers but, after I realized the DCT and the chugga-chugga engine has to be learned about before being appreciated, it started to come together. For me, it still has poor manners in a parking lot and, be it woods or garage, it’s doesn’t care for tight spaces. But, on a roll in a multitude of open spaces? It’s brilliant.
I found your channel few days ago and I'm enjoying your commentaries and edits. Cherry on top is your subscribers / commenters give rationale, constructive feedbacks, tactful, and the most supportive I've seen from any motorbike channel! So pleased to have come across your contents! 🎉
The good thing is even if u get buyer remorse at some point in time, nothing is permanent. Nothing stops u from changing again :) ive bought a few motorcycles that i ended up regretting but theyre lessons learned and experience gained.
Great vid and thanks for sharing your insights and impressions. I've done 30,000km's on my 2019 Adventure Sport DCT (the CRF1000) after owning a GS for 15 years - the ATAS DCT is such a fantastic bike!! (but maybe not for the more vertically challenged among us). Great channel, thank you!
I have to say that I found it odd that you bought an AT after all the nice things you said about the NC. That said, I appreciate the value you see in the AT, especially the DCT, cruise control, and better suspension. Nothing idiotic about having those particular assets. I also like seeing Wendy on her Vulcan S. I ride a Vulcan S, as well, and that makes me a bit partial to it. I admire that she’s willing to ride “off road” on her Vulcan. It’s not really set up for that, but she does it anyway. Respect!
Agree Wendy is a good sport when it comes to gravel. She doesn’t enjoy it, but so many of our roads are unsealed. If we didn’t ride a bit of gravel we would miss out on lots of beaut sealed road the gravel accesses.
You can buy what you want and if you like it, you like it. End of story. It doesn't take anything away from the good things you've pointed out from the NC. Personally I'd take the NC manual version as the idea of just throwing what you need for a weekend in the frunk and taking off really appeals to me. Also it's frugal nature and low end torque.
$18,100 vs $9,500, lower seat height/lower C of G makes the NC750X DCT an easy 1st choice for the short riders with thinner wallets. $8,600 saved pays for many adventures going forward in the years to follow.
Great video indeed! I've always found S2 to be a great all round riding mode, S1 for touring and S3 for offroad. I had to get the front suspension changed around 12000kms but the change front and rear have made the bike even more impressive. I've heard people complain about the seat firmness but i also find it very comfortable. Great all round bike!
I knewwit!!. Happy you’re also in love Adrian. The DCT is as you say, fantastic, but I still miss a clutch when doing tight U turns etc, and it is a bloody heavy lump too with that high C of G when shifting it around. Love is blind though mate, and our age we know that oh so well. Just a tip for the slow manoevres Adrian, just drag the rear brake a tad. Ride safe brother
Another good video. I think Honda should further develop the unique concept of the NC. I mean the particularly low center of gravity. The tank under the seat. The forward-leaning engine and of course the storage compartment. A Honda NC with more power, more suspension travel and spoke wheels, that would be something...
Hello Sir, enjoy your new bike, let's face it, NC was a great bike but when you ride an Africa Twin or in my case The new Transalp 750 it's a huge step from the NC in term of.... Basically everything 😊 there is a new experience, more Confort, Performance and more. I personally like more now the manual gearbox + quickshifter, could be perhaps I've used the DCT before for so long. Greetings and all the best, looking forward to some maintenance tips fro AT as well.
Thanks mate. I think after riding the same bike for a long time, any new bike just re-energises the riding experience. Th we bloke I bought the AT off has gone to the Transalp and he noted the power to weight ration was very similar.
Got my AT ADV Sport DCT a year ago. Jeez I love it. Definitely not made for petrol heads that love a revvy engine they wind up like a chain saw whenever they ride. But if you love low down torque and effortless riding this is the bike to have. Love how the engine can just chug along at low RPM like the classic single thumpers of old and the DCT just clicking gears over seamlessly for that constant push forward. Especially amazing in tight Twisties where you can just sit back and enjoy the view for the first time. Just flick it to sport mode with one button and let the DCT keep the gears ever so slightly longer also giving you a bit more engine braking and gobble up Twisties through gorges / canyons City commuting is also great where it then essentially just becomes a large scooter changing gears for you with the same benefits a auto car has over manual in traffic. Gravel roads with some technical terrain, water crossings with a bit of mud or soft river bed...can't stall the damn thing and it's always in the right gear. Keep your line and stay upright and let the bike do the work. A bit heavy, sure. Not 1250GS heavy though. Similar to what my old 800GS felt like but more balanced and handles better. I also personally believe the talk about low speed handling with the DCT is exaggerated. I suspect its just the phase of getting used to a bike with out a clutch. I know I had ti adjust for sure. The bike is actually pretty well balanced and once it starts moving stays upright easily Overall just makes long roads across most types of terrain so easy. No idea how I'd ever be able to buy another bike again. Maybe when Honda does that super charged version one day haha
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I do highly recommend getting the adjustable side stand from Alt Rider. The AT def leans too much with the standard stand. And can't just extend because with luggage for two and some camping stuff it sags then the stand is too long. That adjustable stand is so good
I have a 2023 NC, and I am very happy. Love the DCT, love the power, love the streetish style. AT was too heavy for my liking, but a great bike for both street and offroad. Safe travels.
So happy for you. I chose a used GS after looking closely at all the premium adventure bikes. Unlike the UK, GS's are not so common in my area of the US. More Harley's than anything else. Riding a GS here means usually riding alone but I enjoy the solitude and I find great pleasure in riding country roads in out-of-the-way places. Oh, great videography, too.
Thanks mate. The GS is definitely an excellent bike. Here, every second bike is a GS. My mate Norman owned a 1250GS which I rode a few times. Lovely. By the way, you never see a GS riding with Harley’s here either!
I love your sense of humor. I had to go back and watch your video on why the NC750x is not an adventure bike. I chuckled at that one and thought about buying the NC. Your Africa Twin looks comfy.
Funny, I went the other way. For me, the AT was too top heavy and after a few frights including dropping the bike in a car park onto my leg, I found I'd lost the initial enjoyment of ridding the thing. Having said that, you are a much better ridder than I am and I'm sure you'll love your AT.
Sad to read. I had the old africa twin an want to have the same fun with the New one. I have a gs800 but in the next month i want to buy the crf 1000 with dct. I hope i can get back the Joy of riding with them. The noise from Wind ist terrible on the gs. I tried different Helmets and Windshilds. Its better from super terrible to terrible. In Germany is autm with 5 6 degres and realy windi. In spring i Start with the crf
CB500X my 22 was a great bike until I totaled it. I looked at a 2021 African Twin Sport DCT, and a 2024 Transalp XL750. I bought the latter, even with a full tank of gas of the showroom floor, another story, it wasn't top heavy. Came with, traction, power and braking control, ABS, auto off turn signals, throttle by wire, full-colour LCD display, quick shifter and blipper, preload adj suspension, 21 inch front 18 inch rear wire wheels. I have zero interest in the DCT, and most importantly it only weights 459 lbs. After 610 miles, before the cold and wet moved in, I found out that it's not quite as nimble as the CB500X, but not far behind, comfortable seat, unlike seat from hell on the CB. It has great wind protection unlike the CB. Its smooth on the road, in part due to the larger wheels smoothing out the road. Three things I wish it had: cruise control, tubeless tires and rebound adj on suspension, but then it would be an African Twin.
I had this same exact Africatwin DCT but sold it last year and I regret it sooooo much. This was the greatest motorcycle I ever rode. What a beautiful easy to maintain a motorcycle.
I myself just bought a Africa twin 2016 absolutely love it 1000 times better than my heritage softail harley i will upgrade late to the 1100 AT/AS but until then im loving every minute om this beast,.
Another great and informative video, I have a similar problem being around the same height as yourself with the NC750 although I don't enjoy the seat and may look into a replacement if I keep her any longer. I'm just constrained in my choice of future bike due to living in a Victorian English terrace house that has a narrow passage to negotiate for storage, oh to have bought that semi with the driveway. Looking forward to many more of your adventures with Wendy on her Vulcan 650 (senile moment in my last video comment). All my best to you both.🙂
@biggles50405 Just have the seat softened and lowered a tad - see my comment above. It makes a world of difference. I had mine done locally for £40 at a very capable specialist, Tony Archer in Bradford (UK).
Nice choice on the Africa Twin. It looks stunning in the color combination. I almost pulled the trigger on the same model a few years back. But at 168cm it was just too intimidating. Glad I waited as now I'm on the NT1100 and it fits like a good suit. Enjoyed watching your video. Well done. 👍
Hiya Thank you for another wonderful video, I just love the countryside views and roads around your place, you are so lucky. I really appreciate your views and especially the comparisons with your NC, as you know I have a DCT NC, and as senility creeps in I hanker after something with a little more sometimes, I think I am a little too short for an AT but I am thinking about a Cross Runner, Maybe. Take care mate. Its good to see your wife looking so comfortable on her bike as well, she really looks the part.
200mph is nonscence at my age 🥱🤕 Bought a 2019 manual version in 2021 same colours. Love it love it love it, should have done it much sooner. great video. 👍
Thanks for a very well produced and informative video, very much appreciated. You're truly blessed having a wife that rides with you on her own bike. I wish I had that companionship on my rides. I currently ride a 2014 Multistrada but Italian unreliability is defeating me. It has enormous power I love and handling is supreme. But at the age of 62 I need to know it will be reliable and no hassles. sadly, this Ducati, is not that even though it only has 10,000 kms on the clock. It looks new and pretty much is still new. I have been addicted to TH-cam and vids on the new 2024 Africa Twin ES. They've lowered it which I love (I'm 167cm) and with that new 19" front wheel will be sharp on the road which is where I ride 90% of the time. I'm close to pulling the trigger on one. Shame they didn't fit the strongly rumoured supercharger to the '24 model but can';t have everything i suppose. Too much power is never enough but I am sure I'd be happy with the AT even after my 150HP Ducati. The new '24 AT has more torque down lower now and with that DSC should be an absolute delight. No supercharger also probably means better reliability so that's probably good and preferable on balance. Thanks again for a great vid and I may see you on the road to Nundle one day. I'm in the Hills area of Sydney. Cheers!
Great purchase. For my riding style, I prefer S2, the DCT is fenomenal and the weight (I’m 60 yo), I forgot the fear of falling with the Motowinch (of Eastbound). Umbeatable bike
lol , I went the other direction. I found the 21 inch too much (I'm not an off roader) plus I found the wheels too thin and the weight too heavy. The NC perfect , I will be upgrading the suspension though.
I'm glad that you are enjoying the AT and especially the DCT. I have looked long and hard at the model for a while now but the big no no for me is the elephant. I'm beginning to get a bit weaker and at 5'7" and 72 kilos a tall bike with all that weight is just not practical for me, not that I am not capable of riding it but I know it would not be so enjoyable with the thoughts about encountering a situation that would test my abilities. This was another nicely balanced review on this model and has just convinced me to stick with my 2019 NC750X, Triumph Scrambler 900 & Yamaha Serow 225. I also have a Kawasaki Versys X 300 and for a lot of my riding on bad surfaced narrow single track roads with sharp badly cambered and steep inclines in the UK, that bike ticks a lot of boxes. At 42 HP and a lowly torque figure though, the 300cc engine and gearbox has to be worked hard on motorways, but it will do the business if a little buzzy and tiring and all at 80+ mpg. The NC with three box Givi luggage will provide touring capabilities well and it also regularly returns over 80 mpg (according to the trip meter). Oh if it only had cruise control and a bit better suspension it could be perfect? I have had the seat lowered and softened on the front section and that is now all day comfortable. Thanks for another great video and some nice scenery especially from the drone.
A lovely video in a beautiful place. The AT looks perfect for your needs. Personally I’m not interested in going back up to bigger bikes I’ve found my sweet spot and in many ways wish I had done so before. My mai bike is a 500X with a Rally Raid rear shock and I’ve been blown away by what a great bike it is for my needs; it’s fast and nimble enough to enjoy the roads around where I live and loaded up with my camping gear it’s taken me long distances across Europe. Since getting it my annual mileage has doubled as for me it’s a better touring bike than the ST1300 I owned for nine years before getting it. It’s also worth pointing out that it can alway be relied upon to do more than 80 miles per British gallon and has quite often returned figures in the 90s. I was interested by your elephant in the room. I’ve been put off by bikes like the AT and Tenere because they’re just too tall and top heavy. You’re even taller than me so perhaps it’s less of an issue for you. I’ve just bought a second bike, a Voge 300 Rally to replace the old Suzuki DR125 I use on the tracks and trails that dissect the countryside around where I live and access to the TET is only a few km away. The Voge is tall, it towers above the 500X and unlike the CRF300 the suspension doesn’t sag when you sit on it but it’s light and easy to manage. I wouldn’t feel happy off-road on a tall heavy bike on anything more than straightforward tracks. As a customer cruise control and DCT do not interest me at all, I ride my motorcycles to be involved in the ride and believe that that involvement itself is a huge safety factor.
I'm glad that you're enjoying your new bike. The country roads in Australia look so calm and safe to ride. Or is it just the impression I've got from your videos. It's like Megan Kaptein's videos in Canada. They look so safe and a pleasure to ride.
that bike is made for that type of riding, the cruise control a six axis lean module and auto with 26lt tank, it's a happy place to sit, sealed and unsealed roads it doesn't make any difference with it. you can put 60kg of luggage on the back and still be completely comfortable.
First time viewer here from the US. Love the video, informative and relaxing. Chaffy and its surrounding hills looks like the area here in Northern California, US
Yes. I think Cal and here share many of the same characteristics. And you have our eucalyptus trees too! But our roads may still be a little bit less busy.
Glad to hear another Old Fart is enjoying his DCT, I have been riding since 66 and with 2 years of Honda auto under my arse will never go back to manual! Still GREAT videos, keep them coming please!
Very, very nice Adrian. 🙂 Looking forward to many more adventures from you on the AT. What a stunning bike. I'm just knicking down the street to buy one (LOLLOLOLOLOOLOLOLOLOL) All the best.
You were great in pointing out the pros & cons but the end result is that you love it . I’ve always wanted the AT DCT , but was never quite ready. So I might play it safe with the mt-09 SP before the AT. I’ve had a concourse & weight was never an issue. I’m 5’10 . The GS was never an issue too. My finger is on the trigger but should I spend 18k more for the AT ?
Im so jealous becuase of the cruise control. I own a nc 750x as well… and just don’t understand why it isn’t even a payed option. I understand a bike can’t be fitted with too many free options… but why isn’t it an accessory?’😢
Ive had my 2020 ATAS for three years now. You will find as you ride it more your observations and preferences will change a bit. For example, you will get tired of that extremely hard seat and end up getting an aftermarket option. I personally went for the Italian comfort seat cover which is made to match the bike. Corbins are comfy but I think they are ugly and ruin the look of the bike. You will also end up using S3 for most of your riding. Anything else just chugs too low. In S3 it starts to sound like a motorcycle again instead of a tractor. You will burn more gas though but it's worth it.
just got one of those after riding a 2016 Africa Twin for a few years. I am getting older and prefer relaxed comfort than battling the elements. Can you post some GPX files or a simple map route? Thanks for reconfirming my decision. I had to wait for 15:10 minutes for your verdict!. Cheers.
I don't think you are an Idiot at all. The A Twin is a fine choice and you ride it well. Time to enjoy the finer things in life. I just bought a Honda Rebel 500 SE ABS. I love it. I'm in Central Florida and everything is flat here, flat and no curves. LOL This coming year I'll be going to Tennessee to ride the Dragon's Tail and the like. So ride easy ride long and good luck.
Looks a great bike😊👌 would you prefer it had a shaft drive like the big BMW's? Although I know you do your own maintenance! Great video as well. I love the music and the drone footage. Very relaxing.
Very important with DCT: When moving the bike around, switch to neutral. On one of these days, you will move the throttle for a few millimeters while walking backwards and the AT is so aggressive on the throttle it will get out of hand quickly. The NC was way more mellow and one was able to catch it, when it happened.
If they had better suspension and a better seat on the nc it would be perfect. I put some thinner oil in the front fork and that helps . Love the engine and the trunk space but when your friend on his 1995 Yamaha diversion 900 with 150000 km in the clock goes easily through a fast corner and I have to back down or else I am going straight through than you know it is completely shit so I understand your choice. Very nice bike but the electronics on it are not for me. KISS is more my thing (keep it stupid simple)
Nice review, wondering if you still think it’s a better alternative for you than the NC? I’m all for the AT, just wasn’t sure of the weight…do you find it too too heavy?
It’s definitely heavy. But that can be a good thing. The weight keeps the bike planted, whether on sealed or unsealed roads. It’s unfair to compare it to the NC - the AT being three times the price of the NC. But I’m really loving it. It suits me perfectly - see my latest 3 part trip out west - which I would not have attempted on the NC.
As ever, Adrian, a wonderful video. The AT is obviously your right choice and a good change from the NC. As I approach 74, (and do a little more gravel and dirt riding) my change will be in the opposite direction, from my NC to the “Halfrica Twin” CB500X. For me, a bit lighter and a bit more sure-footed on the loose stuff than the NC. And of course Shinko 705s. Now to find one! It’s such a treat to see Wendy riding that Kawi on all surfaces. She is so very skilled. Looking forward to all your future VLOGs. Be well!
I'm just wondering how the Vulcan went on the dirt? The reason I am asking is I have an 82 VF 750 Honda Magna and would like to go down a few dirt roads. I used to use a 95 Yamaha XJ 900 Diversion with Shinko 705 tyres as my adventure bike and loved it.
Well …. Any bike can handle gravel roads. The cruiser style bike tends to be quite stable on loose surface as the weight is pretty low. It’s the short suspension that makes it uncomfortable. But doesn’t stop a bit of gravel riding.
I would love to have the AT but i ride alone and thats an awful heavy bike for me. I know I could handle it once moving but its that turning around on a narrow gravel sloped road im worried about.
HEY!!! Im buying a 2024 base this Saturday. Im not compensating for a small willie! Im compensating for an average, forgotten and unappreciated willie, so get it right, brother.
If you are riding long distances and do it often, bigger, heavier, more powerful bike makes huge difference in comfort, weather, safety, speed and daily range. If one is mostly commuting around city and just occasionally rides long ways, smaller more economical bike may be a better choice. One has to have strength and skill to tame the beast in some tight situations though.
Ha! I actually forgot to mention that. I wasn’t avoiding it. I’ve done this same trip on the NC. The NC averaged 3.5ltrs/100km. The AT used 4.5ltrs/100km. So yes. It uses a lot more fuel. But it’s only money and I might die before I spend it all 🤔
Considering the price they are asking for the new nx750x, i dont understand the lack of a proper suspension and cruise control, i mean, its a modern bike with a lot of eletronics and 50eur investment from factory could give consumer the so much appreciated cruise control.
How exactly did you accomplish the willy inspection procedure . Just wondering how large was the sample size? I am probably getting a 2024 Africa Twin A.S. I need to know if I qualify.
DCT upshifts smooth = agree DCT downshifts smooth = disagree Downshifts from 3-2-1 are a nightmare, thats why I sold my 22 crf1100. Never again bike without clutch. Money wasted, lesson learned.
The AT is at home for what you do, so of course that's a match. I doubt you were an idiot, as the NC is still as fine as it was before you switched (even though i think you took it a bit further than most would). Btw did you try the NC dct 2021+ before switching? not that i'd take that one off-road, but its manners on the road (city or twisties) are definitely good.
Thanks mate. The NC DCT was never available in Oz so didn’t get to try it. I could live without DCT but I’ve been using a clutch for 55 years, so thought a change would be nice.
I am 196 cms tall and weigh about 260 pounds. I have driven the Honda AT for about 30 mins. I liked it. I have never driven the BMW 1250 GS/A. Can you suggest which is a better bike of the two? Which one is easier to maintain & cheaper on the pockets? I live in India. For my size, I don't really have many options. A suggestion from an equally tall person would be very helpful.
The GS is as roomy as the AT for us tall people. But the seat-to-peg space is better on the AT. The GS seat is marginally better for a pillion but the DCT on the AT is excellent for a pillion. Choice? Go with your heart, or whichever dealer will give you the best service.
Just looking at the price tags for these two bikes, and seeing the AF is twice the price of an NC, and the same as a car, I find quite senseless to compare these two bikes. Also, for the price, I would never be ”impressed” by that Africa Twin. As a hard working middle class man, I would never consider to throw that kind of money on a motorcycle. If I were in love with dirt and off-road, which I am not and and never would, I would never consider something more expensive than a Transalp. As I am an asphalt friend only, the CB500X and NC750X are first options. And, because the NC has that ”frunk”, I think it suits me better. Even a scooter like Forza 350 or other with a 300 plus, to 400 cc engine would be a nice solution. And none should be above 10000 euros.
Nice bike, I had a VFR 1200 DCT back in 2013, loved the bike….but it was top heavy, kept it 3 years, nothing was faster at acceleration, the DCT could change gears far quicker than a human. One downside of the DCT with having no traction control, heavy wrist action could cause kick down , I did accidentally spin the back wheel at 70mph. I like the AT, but would it be going back to a top heavy bike ? Enjoy your bike
Fair enough. But in my defence I’m not trying to convince you of anything. I’m simply comparing my old ride with new. Fortunately there are heaps of choices to suit each of us.
@@colinbarber9324 as you prob know ........ a DCT doesnt actually "change gears". There is ALWAYS 2 gears engaged at all times, and the transition only happens because of the initiation of a clutch, consequently you never witness a "gear change". A marvelous invention by a Frenchman.
My 500X is the best bike I’ve ever owned. I find it a much better touring bike than the Pan European ST1300 that I owned for nine years before getting it. For me bigger and more complicated does not mean better. 🙂
Actually forgot to mention it. The AT uses a lot more fuel. I’ve done the same trip in the NC. NC used 3.5ltrs/100km. The AT used 4.5ltrs/100km. But as I only ride for pleasure I’m willing to turn a blind eye to this.
Great video think Africa twin lovely bike suits your size did you consider new transalp (not available with dct) I’ll be keeping my manual nc for now perfect for me ! Stay safe cheers Andy
Transalp? Not really. I like the more touring focus and the DCT and the suspension and the cruise control and the tubeless tyres and the adjustable screen … of the AT.
As long as YOU like it - that, what counts ! You probably, need ( unless you have some hidden physical properties ) a lift-assister. This bike is nice, but if it falls.... 😖😖😖 About other options - If you have other dealers / companies, than Honda arround - the Tuareg is a better option by many reasons ( cheaper, lighter, more economical....). If you have a Guzzi dealer - to wait for the new Stelvio, could be a good idea ( well, you can sell Africa, if you like the Guzzi...). A Husqvarna 901 Norden, is a good option - it has all Africa has + MUCH easier to lift..... If Honda wasn't so STINGY, and had installed a CC on all their "Ride by Wire" models, the NC would be the BEST option for so many, who can't do heavy lifting...... Then I'd definitely consider the new Trans..... ( if they also, release a "road" vers. with tubeless wheels in 2024 ). I can't believe that a company can be SO stingy and so DUMB, to PRESS customers to buy their most expensive bikes..... 🤪👈🏻 No matter, how great this Africa is, at what it CAN do, I ( and many like myself ) will NEVER consider it ! - mainly, because it is TOP HEAVY 🤷🏻♂🤷🏻♂+ we don't desire to pay MORE for the fuel ( even riding arround 180km/h I never exceeded 4 L/100km !!! on the NC...) and maintenance .....
Being the same height as you Adrian (where the hell do all these little people come from??) I felt like the AT ergonomics were built for me. If' I had the money I would have bought one when I test-rode one in 2016. Of course, not having the money, I'm perfectly happy with Falkor. and I've been glad of the lighter bike on each of thr 11 times I've had to pick it up. On a similarly closed road I looked down to find I was doing 190 without even trying - yes.. that is a LOT of power, and the low down grunt gets you going fast without yelling about it. I would have LOVED cruise control on my Central QLD trip - I have a manual one, but it is only good for a minute or 2 and the speed will change with the slightest hill or breath of wind. Wendy looks totally bad-ass on the Vulcan... even if the lack of suspension showed considerably on that gravel road! Yes - it is a delight to ride, I reckon, even the basic one I tried - TBH, people of "normal height" like you and I fit perfectly on one.
Ha! Thanks Dave. Yes the AT cost a LOT even second hand. So it’s a huge indulgence to outlay so much, given that adventures can be had on way less expensive bikes - 500x for example. Wendy appreciates the show of support.
I'm glad I got a new Honda CB500X after you and many others convinced me it was such a great bike. Glad you and Wendy are still enjoying the riding experience and at the end of the day, that is all that matters.
At 71 I’ve been riding long distances for over fifty years on many bikes. Last year I added an Africa Twin DCT to my small collection and this season, rode it over 17 000 lazy kilometers. I regretted buying it during the first 1000 kilometers but, after I realized the DCT and the chugga-chugga engine has to be learned about before being appreciated, it started to come together. For me, it still has poor manners in a parking lot and, be it woods or garage, it’s doesn’t care for tight spaces. But, on a roll in a multitude of open spaces? It’s brilliant.
I found your channel few days ago and I'm enjoying your commentaries and edits. Cherry on top is your subscribers / commenters give rationale, constructive feedbacks, tactful, and the most supportive I've seen from any motorbike channel! So pleased to have come across your contents! 🎉
Thanks mate. I agree my viewers are very kind. But that’s pretty typical of bikers. 🥰
The good thing is even if u get buyer remorse at some point in time, nothing is permanent. Nothing stops u from changing again :) ive bought a few motorcycles that i ended up regretting but theyre lessons learned and experience gained.
Agree. This is bike 35 got me so I’m no stranger to the bike-swap thing
Great vid and thanks for sharing your insights and impressions. I've done 30,000km's on my 2019 Adventure Sport DCT (the CRF1000) after owning a GS for 15 years - the ATAS DCT is such a fantastic bike!! (but maybe not for the more vertically challenged among us). Great channel, thank you!
I have to say that I found it odd that you bought an AT after all the nice things you said about the NC. That said, I appreciate the value you see in the AT, especially the DCT, cruise control, and better suspension. Nothing idiotic about having those particular assets. I also like seeing Wendy on her Vulcan S. I ride a Vulcan S, as well, and that makes me a bit partial to it. I admire that she’s willing to ride “off road” on her Vulcan. It’s not really set up for that, but she does it anyway. Respect!
Agree Wendy is a good sport when it comes to gravel. She doesn’t enjoy it, but so many of our roads are unsealed. If we didn’t ride a bit of gravel we would miss out on lots of beaut sealed road the gravel accesses.
Australia, wow! What a treat. You are blessed to have Wendy as a riding companion.
A few more weeks before the season ends up here in Canada.
I agree. It’s beat to have a live-in riding buddy.
Thoroughly enjoyed that, but I’m still delighted with my 2021 750X DCT.
Enjoy your new bike fella!
You can buy what you want and if you like it, you like it. End of story. It doesn't take anything away from the good things you've pointed out from the NC. Personally I'd take the NC manual version as the idea of just throwing what you need for a weekend in the frunk and taking off really appeals to me. Also it's frugal nature and low end torque.
$18,100 vs $9,500, lower seat height/lower C of G makes the NC750X DCT an easy 1st choice for the short riders with thinner wallets. $8,600 saved pays for many adventures going forward in the years to follow.
Drone scene & music score (angel lover)....just magical!!! Will visit your beautiful country..but NC will stay home (Canada). Thx for sharing.
Great video indeed! I've always found S2 to be a great all round riding mode, S1 for touring and S3 for offroad. I had to get the front suspension changed around 12000kms but the change front and rear have made the bike even more impressive.
I've heard people complain about the seat firmness but i also find it very comfortable. Great all round bike!
I knewwit!!. Happy you’re also in love Adrian. The DCT is as you say, fantastic, but I still miss a clutch when doing tight U turns etc, and it is a bloody heavy lump too with that high C of G when shifting it around. Love is blind though mate, and our age we know that oh so well. Just a tip for the slow manoevres Adrian, just drag the rear brake a tad. Ride safe brother
I love the fact that your wife seems very happy zooming past you on her “adventure bike”
Yes, Wendy is a pretty confident rider.
Another good video. I think Honda should further develop the unique concept of the NC. I mean the particularly low center of gravity. The tank under the seat. The forward-leaning engine and of course the storage compartment. A Honda NC with more power, more suspension travel and spoke wheels, that would be something...
I agree. Sadly Honda are ignoring the NC.
Hello Sir, enjoy your new bike, let's face it, NC was a great bike but when you ride an Africa Twin or in my case The new Transalp 750 it's a huge step from the NC in term of.... Basically everything 😊 there is a new experience, more Confort, Performance and more. I personally like more now the manual gearbox + quickshifter, could be perhaps I've used the DCT before for so long. Greetings and all the best, looking forward to some maintenance tips fro AT as well.
Thanks mate. I think after riding the same bike for a long time, any new bike just re-energises the riding experience.
Th we bloke I bought the AT off has gone to the Transalp and he noted the power to weight ration was very similar.
Got my AT ADV Sport DCT a year ago. Jeez I love it. Definitely not made for petrol heads that love a revvy engine they wind up like a chain saw whenever they ride.
But if you love low down torque and effortless riding this is the bike to have.
Love how the engine can just chug along at low RPM like the classic single thumpers of old and the DCT just clicking gears over seamlessly for that constant push forward.
Especially amazing in tight Twisties where you can just sit back and enjoy the view for the first time. Just flick it to sport mode with one button and let the DCT keep the gears ever so slightly longer also giving you a bit more engine braking and gobble up Twisties through gorges / canyons
City commuting is also great where it then essentially just becomes a large scooter changing gears for you with the same benefits a auto car has over manual in traffic.
Gravel roads with some technical terrain, water crossings with a bit of mud or soft river bed...can't stall the damn thing and it's always in the right gear. Keep your line and stay upright and let the bike do the work.
A bit heavy, sure. Not 1250GS heavy though. Similar to what my old 800GS felt like but more balanced and handles better. I also personally believe the talk about low speed handling with the DCT is exaggerated. I suspect its just the phase of getting used to a bike with out a clutch. I know I had ti adjust for sure. The bike is actually pretty well balanced and once it starts moving stays upright easily
Overall just makes long roads across most types of terrain so easy. No idea how I'd ever be able to buy another bike again. Maybe when Honda does that super charged version one day haha
Interesting to read your impressions.
I agree with the slow speed handling. I find I can U turn with the bike just idling and no brake assist. Easy.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I do highly recommend getting the adjustable side stand from Alt Rider. The AT def leans too much with the standard stand. And can't just extend because with luggage for two and some camping stuff it sags then the stand is too long. That adjustable stand is so good
Watching this with envy from a wet and cold UK. Love the AT DCT too. Safe travels.
I have a 2023 NC, and I am very happy. Love the DCT, love the power, love the streetish style. AT was too heavy for my liking, but a great bike for both street and offroad. Safe travels.
So happy for you. I chose a used GS after looking closely at all the premium adventure bikes. Unlike the UK, GS's are not so common in my area of the US. More Harley's than anything else. Riding a GS here means usually riding alone but I enjoy the solitude and I find great pleasure in riding country roads in out-of-the-way places. Oh, great videography, too.
Thanks mate. The GS is definitely an excellent bike. Here, every second bike is a GS. My mate Norman owned a 1250GS which I rode a few times. Lovely.
By the way, you never see a GS riding with Harley’s here either!
I love your sense of humor. I had to go back and watch your video on why the NC750x is not an adventure bike. I chuckled at that one and thought about buying the NC. Your Africa Twin looks comfy.
Thanks mate. It certainly is comfy. See my “Bridle track” vid.
I was really looking forward to your next video after your announcement of your new purchase , you didn't disappoint, love your humour 😅
Funny, I went the other way. For me, the AT was too top heavy and after a few frights including dropping the bike in a car park onto my leg, I found I'd lost the initial enjoyment of ridding the thing. Having said that, you are a much better ridder than I am and I'm sure you'll love your AT.
Sad to read. I had the old africa twin an want to have the same fun with the New one. I have a gs800 but in the next month i want to buy the crf 1000 with dct. I hope i can get back the Joy of riding with them. The noise from Wind ist terrible on the gs. I tried different Helmets and Windshilds. Its better from super terrible to terrible.
In Germany is autm with 5 6 degres and realy windi. In spring i Start with the crf
Beautiful scenery you’ve got there!
……a fellow colonial brother from Canada
Sounds like a bad match.
Same here
@@assessor1276we won't have anything to do with you Canadians! 😂. BTW love Canada!
CB500X my 22 was a great bike until I totaled it. I looked at a 2021 African Twin Sport DCT, and a 2024 Transalp XL750. I bought the latter, even with a full tank of gas of the showroom floor, another story, it wasn't top heavy. Came with, traction, power and braking control, ABS, auto off turn signals, throttle by wire, full-colour LCD display, quick shifter and blipper, preload adj suspension, 21 inch front 18 inch rear wire wheels. I have zero interest in the DCT, and most importantly it only weights 459 lbs. After 610 miles, before the cold and wet moved in, I found out that it's not quite as nimble as the CB500X, but not far behind, comfortable seat, unlike seat from hell on the CB. It has great wind protection unlike the CB. Its smooth on the road, in part due to the larger wheels smoothing out the road. Three things I wish it had: cruise control, tubeless tires and rebound adj on suspension, but then it would be an African Twin.
Nice video, mate 👍 and your weather is much better in New South Wales than we have in old South Wales in the UK 😂😂 Stay safe both and enjoy the ride 👍
I had this same exact Africatwin DCT but sold it last year and I regret it sooooo much. This was the greatest motorcycle I ever rode. What a beautiful easy to maintain a motorcycle.
Why did you sell it? Just curious ❤
@@TheFbiFilesRepeat I could not ride on gravel after I fell and hurt myself...so there was no reason to keep it.
@@mamo4104 damn dude, still hurt so you can’t ride?
I myself just bought a Africa twin 2016 absolutely love it 1000 times better than my heritage softail harley i will upgrade late to the 1100 AT/AS but until then im loving every minute om this beast,.
Another great and informative video, I have a similar problem being around the same height as yourself with the NC750 although I don't enjoy the seat and may look into a replacement if I keep her any longer. I'm just constrained in my choice of future bike due to living in a Victorian English terrace house that has a narrow passage to negotiate for storage, oh to have bought that semi with the driveway. Looking forward to many more of your adventures with Wendy on her Vulcan 650 (senile moment in my last video comment). All my best to you both.🙂
@biggles50405 Just have the seat softened and lowered a tad - see my comment above. It makes a world of difference. I had mine done locally for £40 at a very capable specialist, Tony Archer in Bradford (UK).
Nice choice on the Africa Twin. It looks stunning in the color combination. I almost pulled the trigger on the same model a few years back. But at 168cm it was just too intimidating. Glad I waited as now I'm on the NT1100 and it fits like a good suit. Enjoyed watching your video. Well done. 👍
It’s a bit sad manufacturers don’t cater for shorter riders.
Nice video of a lovely bike, but it is too heavy for me and the seats too high. Enjoy your riding but I'll stick with my 2021 NC750X DCT.
Glad you are happy with ya new ride. I now have a gs1200 after trading in my reliable nc750x. No regrets. Enjoy.
Hiya Thank you for another wonderful video, I just love the countryside views and roads around your place, you are so lucky. I really appreciate your views and especially the comparisons with your NC, as you know I have a DCT NC, and as senility creeps in I hanker after something with a little more sometimes, I think I am a little too short for an AT but I am thinking about a Cross Runner, Maybe. Take care mate. Its good to see your wife looking so comfortable on her bike as well, she really looks the part.
Thanks mate. Wendy appreciates your comment 🥳
200mph is nonscence at my age 🥱🤕 Bought a 2019 manual version in 2021 same colours. Love it love it love it, should have done it much sooner. great video. 👍
Thanks for a very well produced and informative video, very much appreciated. You're truly blessed having a wife that rides with you on her own bike. I wish I had that companionship on my rides. I currently ride a 2014 Multistrada but Italian unreliability is defeating me. It has enormous power I love and handling is supreme. But at the age of 62 I need to know it will be reliable and no hassles. sadly, this Ducati, is not that even though it only has 10,000 kms on the clock. It looks new and pretty much is still new. I have been addicted to TH-cam and vids on the new 2024 Africa Twin ES. They've lowered it which I love (I'm 167cm) and with that new 19" front wheel will be sharp on the road which is where I ride 90% of the time. I'm close to pulling the trigger on one. Shame they didn't fit the strongly rumoured supercharger to the '24 model but can';t have everything i suppose. Too much power is never enough but I am sure I'd be happy with the AT even after my 150HP Ducati. The new '24 AT has more torque down lower now and with that DSC should be an absolute delight. No supercharger also probably means better reliability so that's probably good and preferable on balance. Thanks again for a great vid and I may see you on the road to Nundle one day. I'm in the Hills area of Sydney. Cheers!
Thanks mate. The new AS should be a perfect touring bike which will also take gravel roads comfortably.
Great purchase. For my riding style, I prefer S2, the DCT is fenomenal and the weight (I’m 60 yo), I forgot the fear of falling with the Motowinch (of Eastbound). Umbeatable bike
i own both, nt1100, and African twin adventure sports 2018, both DCT, love them, came from a NC750x Dct.
enjoy the new bike
Buyer’s regret? Regret you didn’t do it sooner by the sounds of it…
Looking forward to the adventures!
Reminds me of the leyland brothers. I never know theres still aussies that sound like you. Gold. Love the Africa!
lol , I went the other direction. I found the 21 inch too much (I'm not an off roader) plus I found the wheels too thin and the weight too heavy.
The NC perfect , I will be upgrading the suspension though.
I love the private road. I like how the owner made it look like state road. 😊
Good purchase, I wish you pleasant use! I personally have an NC 700X DCT and I drove an Africa Twin DCT and they are great machines
just to let you know, we need more constant updates... please don't stop
Noted. Thanks for your support
The NC750 *is* all the bike anyone needs. But I have found that, far more than cars, we buy bikes with our hearts rather than our heads.
Exactly right 👍
Good honest review , Nice country you showed there as well, T7 owner here.
I'm glad that you are enjoying the AT and especially the DCT. I have looked long and hard at the model for a while now but the big no no for me is the elephant. I'm beginning to get a bit weaker and at 5'7" and 72 kilos a tall bike with all that weight is just not practical for me, not that I am not capable of riding it but I know it would not be so enjoyable with the thoughts about encountering a situation that would test my abilities.
This was another nicely balanced review on this model and has just convinced me to stick with my 2019 NC750X, Triumph Scrambler 900 & Yamaha Serow 225. I also have a Kawasaki Versys X 300 and for a lot of my riding on bad surfaced narrow single track roads with sharp badly cambered and steep inclines in the UK, that bike ticks a lot of boxes.
At 42 HP and a lowly torque figure though, the 300cc engine and gearbox has to be worked hard on motorways, but it will do the business if a little buzzy and tiring and all at 80+ mpg. The NC with three box Givi luggage will provide touring capabilities well and it also regularly returns over 80 mpg (according to the trip meter). Oh if it only had cruise control and a bit better suspension it could be perfect? I have had the seat lowered and softened on the front section and that is now all day comfortable.
Thanks for another great video and some nice scenery especially from the drone.
Thanks mate. Sounds like you are perfectly provided for, for any riding need. Lucky you.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff 👍😀
Same said DCT I’ve not had a motorcycle but I’d say I’ll be getting one with DCT ❤
A lovely video in a beautiful place. The AT looks perfect for your needs. Personally I’m not interested in going back up to bigger bikes I’ve found my sweet spot and in many ways wish I had done so before. My mai bike is a 500X with a Rally Raid rear shock and I’ve been blown away by what a great bike it is for my needs; it’s fast and nimble enough to enjoy the roads around where I live and loaded up with my camping gear it’s taken me long distances across Europe. Since getting it my annual mileage has doubled as for me it’s a better touring bike than the ST1300 I owned for nine years before getting it. It’s also worth pointing out that it can alway be relied upon to do more than 80 miles per British gallon and has quite often returned figures in the 90s. I was interested by your elephant in the room. I’ve been put off by bikes like the AT and Tenere because they’re just too tall and top heavy. You’re even taller than me so perhaps it’s less of an issue for you. I’ve just bought a second bike, a Voge 300 Rally to replace the old Suzuki DR125 I use on the tracks and trails that dissect the countryside around where I live and access to the TET is only a few km away. The Voge is tall, it towers above the 500X and unlike the CRF300 the suspension doesn’t sag when you sit on it but it’s light and easy to manage. I wouldn’t feel happy off-road on a tall heavy bike on anything more than straightforward tracks. As a customer cruise control and DCT do not interest me at all, I ride my motorcycles to be involved in the ride and believe that that involvement itself is a huge safety factor.
Good to hear your experiences.
I'm glad that you're enjoying your new bike. The country roads in Australia look so calm and safe to ride. Or is it just the impression I've got from your videos. It's like Megan Kaptein's videos in Canada. They look so safe and a pleasure to ride.
You are correct. Lots of back roads with no traffic.
that bike is made for that type of riding, the cruise control a six axis lean module and auto with 26lt tank, it's a happy place to sit, sealed and unsealed roads it doesn't make any difference with it. you can put 60kg of luggage on the back and still be completely comfortable.
Seeing as you can’t get a bigger Willy, it’s a good thing your enjoying your new love as she doesn’t care !
he can "ride her" all day!
First time viewer here from the US. Love the video, informative and relaxing. Chaffy and its surrounding hills looks like the area here in Northern California, US
Yes. I think Cal and here share many of the same characteristics. And you have our eucalyptus trees too!
But our roads may still be a little bit less busy.
Glad to hear another Old Fart is enjoying his DCT, I have been riding since 66 and with 2 years of Honda auto under my arse will never go back to manual! Still GREAT videos, keep them coming please!
Thanks mate. Good to hear
A magic carpet...yes, that's it! I was trying to think of the right words to describe the ride.
Very, very nice Adrian. 🙂 Looking forward to many more adventures from you on the AT. What a stunning bike. I'm just knicking down the street to buy one (LOLLOLOLOLOOLOLOLOLOL) All the best.
Ha! Don’t even think it. Next thing you know you can’t think of anything else till the itch is scratched.
Really happy 😊 for you 🎉
You R the right person for the right motorcycle. No doubt about it 👌 💯.
Keep up filming 🎥 lovely vedios like this one ❤
Thanks mate. Appreciate that.
You were great in pointing out the pros & cons but the end result is that you love it . I’ve always wanted the AT DCT , but was never quite ready. So I might play it safe with the mt-09 SP before the AT. I’ve had a concourse & weight was never an issue. I’m 5’10 . The GS was never an issue too. My finger is on the trigger but should I spend 18k more for the AT ?
They are great bikes.
Im so jealous becuase of the cruise control. I own a nc 750x as well… and just don’t understand why it isn’t even a payed option. I understand a bike can’t be fitted with too many free options… but why isn’t it an accessory?’😢
Ive had my 2020 ATAS for three years now. You will find as you ride it more your observations and preferences will change a bit. For example, you will get tired of that extremely hard seat and end up getting an aftermarket option. I personally went for the Italian comfort seat cover which is made to match the bike. Corbins are comfy but I think they are ugly and ruin the look of the bike. You will also end up using S3 for most of your riding. Anything else just chugs too low. In S3 it starts to sound like a motorcycle again instead of a tractor. You will burn more gas though but it's worth it.
just got one of those after riding a 2016 Africa Twin for a few years. I am getting older and prefer relaxed comfort than battling the elements. Can you post some GPX files or a simple map route? Thanks for reconfirming my decision. I had to wait for 15:10 minutes for your verdict!. Cheers.
I don't think you are an Idiot at all. The A Twin is a fine choice and you ride it well. Time to enjoy the finer things in life. I just bought a Honda Rebel 500 SE ABS. I love it. I'm in Central Florida and everything is flat here, flat and no curves. LOL This coming year I'll be going to Tennessee to ride the Dragon's Tail and the like. So ride easy ride long and good luck.
Looks a great bike😊👌 would you prefer it had a shaft drive like the big BMW's? Although I know you do your own maintenance! Great video as well. I love the music and the drone footage. Very relaxing.
No. Having a chain doesn’t concern me. Easy to maintain a chain.
ATAS ES is a great choice. The DCT will be high on the list of attributes next bike.
Just done the Bridle Track. Can’t believe how good the DCT is. Didn’t use manual mode at all. It was always in the right gear!
Oh and by the way …. I didn’t die !
Very important with DCT: When moving the bike around, switch to neutral. On one of these days, you will move the throttle for a few millimeters while walking backwards and the AT is so aggressive on the throttle it will get out of hand quickly. The NC was way more mellow and one was able to catch it, when it happened.
Good advice
True. Already done…
If they had better suspension and a better seat on the nc it would be perfect.
I put some thinner oil in the front fork and that helps .
Love the engine and the trunk space but when your friend on his 1995 Yamaha diversion 900 with 150000 km in the clock goes easily through a fast corner and I have to back down or else I am going straight through than you know it is completely shit so I understand your choice.
Very nice bike but the electronics on it are not for me.
KISS is more my thing (keep it stupid simple)
You two are such a cool couple! Awesome video 📹
Nice review, wondering if you still think it’s a better alternative for you than the NC? I’m all for the AT, just wasn’t sure of the weight…do you find it too too heavy?
It’s definitely heavy. But that can be a good thing. The weight keeps the bike planted, whether on sealed or unsealed roads.
It’s unfair to compare it to the NC - the AT being three times the price of the NC.
But I’m really loving it. It suits me perfectly - see my latest 3 part trip out west - which I would not have attempted on the NC.
As ever, Adrian, a wonderful video. The AT is obviously your right choice and a good change from the NC.
As I approach 74, (and do a little more gravel and dirt riding) my change will be in the opposite direction, from my NC to the “Halfrica Twin” CB500X. For me, a bit lighter and a bit more sure-footed on the loose stuff than the NC. And of course Shinko 705s. Now to find one!
It’s such a treat to see Wendy riding that Kawi on all surfaces. She is so very skilled.
Looking forward to all your future VLOGs. Be well!
Thanks mate. The new version of the 500x is really excellent.
I'm just wondering how the Vulcan went on the dirt? The reason I am asking is I have an 82 VF 750 Honda Magna and would like to go down a few dirt roads. I used to use a 95 Yamaha XJ 900 Diversion with Shinko 705 tyres as my adventure bike and loved it.
Well …. Any bike can handle gravel roads. The cruiser style bike tends to be quite stable on loose surface as the weight is pretty low.
It’s the short suspension that makes it uncomfortable. But doesn’t stop a bit of gravel riding.
I would love to have the AT but i ride alone and thats an awful heavy bike for me. I know I could handle it once moving but its that turning around on a narrow gravel sloped road im worried about.
You are right. But I’ve watched a 60km girl lift one so maybe a decrepit 100kg real man can do it too.
I’ll have to practice on some nice soft grass.
HEY!!! Im buying a 2024 base this Saturday. Im not compensating for a small willie! Im compensating for an average, forgotten and unappreciated willie, so get it right, brother.
Ha! Ok. I’ll try better next time.
If you are riding long distances and do it often, bigger, heavier, more powerful bike makes huge difference in comfort, weather, safety, speed and daily range. If one is mostly commuting around city and just occasionally rides long ways, smaller more economical bike may be a better choice. One has to have strength and skill to tame the beast in some tight situations though.
Good observations. Thanks.
Sounds like a great reason to own two bikes 😂
@@rockinrodlittle Tell me about it. I got four 😄
@@oknevals you’re the man
How does the fuel consumption compare between the NC and the AT?
Ha! I actually forgot to mention that. I wasn’t avoiding it.
I’ve done this same trip on the NC. The NC averaged 3.5ltrs/100km. The AT used 4.5ltrs/100km.
So yes. It uses a lot more fuel. But it’s only money and I might die before I spend it all 🤔
Enjoyed your video - thanks
Great ride. A query: Do both sides of the lights come on when in low beam. I have heard only one side comes on.
Cheers
My model at least, both headlights come on for low beam.
Agree we ride motorbikes not to brake but to accelerate ^_^
Nice video; thank you for posting!
Considering the price they are asking for the new nx750x, i dont understand the lack of a proper suspension and cruise control, i mean, its a modern bike with a lot of eletronics and 50eur investment from factory could give consumer the so much appreciated cruise control.
I agree. The NC seems to be ignored by Honda.
Glad you are happy
A great vid. Love the AT DCT ES. But too heavy for me. Looking elsewhere.
Did you consider a crosstourer? Too heavy?
I got the cross tourer. Also had an NC that I loved for a couple of years
Crosstourer? Looks good but no. I just like the look of the AT. I’m so shallow!
So the more refined ride has you hooked, eh? 30 kg heavier, higher center of gravity, how is the low speed handling and picking the bike up?
Low speed handling is excellent. Haven’t tried picking up the bike yet 🤔
How exactly did you accomplish the willy inspection procedure . Just wondering how large was the sample size?
I am probably getting a 2024 Africa Twin A.S. I need to know if I qualify.
Ha! If you think you don’t qualify, then you probably do !
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I checked with my wife...I qualify.
@davevandervelde4799 - congratulations you are allowed to buy a big bike. 🤗
I had an AT, couldn’t get on with the huge 21” diameter wheels. Super looking bike, but that was all.
DCT upshifts smooth = agree
DCT downshifts smooth = disagree
Downshifts from 3-2-1 are a nightmare, thats why I sold my 22 crf1100. Never again bike without clutch. Money wasted, lesson learned.
Well … mine must be the exception then. Definitely very smooth - have to look at the TFT to see there was a downshift.
Love the truth you spoke about BMW 😂
The AT is at home for what you do, so of course that's a match. I doubt you were an idiot, as the NC is still as fine as it was before you switched (even though i think you took it a bit further than most would). Btw did you try the NC dct 2021+ before switching? not that i'd take that one off-road, but its manners on the road (city or twisties) are definitely good.
Thanks mate.
The NC DCT was never available in Oz so didn’t get to try it.
I could live without DCT but I’ve been using a clutch for 55 years, so thought a change would be nice.
Nice review and filming! Have you tried the new Transalp 750?
No. It didn’t interest me. A bit too basic in the suspension and more dirt focused than I need. And I wanted to try the DCT.
Well, as a 1500 Goldwing owner I can also confirm we are compensating for a small willy 😢
Oh. It’s quite a wide-spread problem then 🤔
Top comment 😂😂🎉
I am 196 cms tall and weigh about 260 pounds.
I have driven the Honda AT for about 30 mins. I liked it.
I have never driven the BMW 1250 GS/A.
Can you suggest which is a better bike of the two? Which one is easier to maintain & cheaper on the pockets?
I live in India.
For my size, I don't really have many options.
A suggestion from an equally tall person would be very helpful.
The GS is as roomy as the AT for us tall people. But the seat-to-peg space is better on the AT.
The GS seat is marginally better for a pillion but the DCT on the AT is excellent for a pillion.
Choice? Go with your heart, or whichever dealer will give you the best service.
@@AfricaTwin-StuffThat's a valuable input. ❤Thanks a lot. 😊😊🙏🏼
Just looking at the price tags for these two bikes, and seeing the AF is twice the price of an NC, and the same as a car, I find quite senseless to compare these two bikes. Also, for the price, I would never be ”impressed” by that Africa Twin. As a hard working middle class man, I would never consider to throw that kind of money on a motorcycle. If I were in love with dirt and off-road, which I am not and and never would, I would never consider something more expensive than a Transalp. As I am an asphalt friend only, the CB500X and NC750X are first options. And, because the NC has that ”frunk”, I think it suits me better. Even a scooter like Forza 350 or other with a 300 plus, to 400 cc engine would be a nice solution. And none should be above 10000 euros.
Get a 1200x crosstourer
It’s basically a NC750 with loads more power comfort etc and it’s *the same price*
you cant beat a CVT bike.................. once you have owned one you wont go back!
Nice bike, I had a VFR 1200 DCT back in 2013, loved the bike….but it was top heavy, kept it 3 years, nothing was faster at acceleration, the DCT could change gears far quicker than a human.
One downside of the DCT with having no traction control, heavy wrist action could cause kick down , I did accidentally spin the back wheel at 70mph.
I like the AT, but would it be going back to a top heavy bike ?
Enjoy your bike
Fair enough. But in my defence I’m not trying to convince you of anything. I’m simply comparing my old ride with new.
Fortunately there are heaps of choices to suit each of us.
@@colinbarber9324 as you prob know ........ a DCT doesnt actually "change gears". There is ALWAYS 2 gears engaged at all times, and the transition only happens because of the initiation of a clutch, consequently you never witness a "gear change". A marvelous invention by a Frenchman.
I tried the AT but it was way too big for me. Instead I bought the CB500x, for me the “better bike”.
Yep. We are spoilt for choice of bikes these days.
My 500X is the best bike I’ve ever owned. I find it a much better touring bike than the Pan European ST1300 that I owned for nine years before getting it. For me bigger and more complicated does not mean better. 🙂
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff try buying the NC with DCT...................... ZERO 2nd hand thats for sure.
Whats the fuel consumption like or is that in an upcoming video?
Actually forgot to mention it.
The AT uses a lot more fuel. I’ve done the same trip in the NC. NC used 3.5ltrs/100km. The AT used 4.5ltrs/100km.
But as I only ride for pleasure I’m willing to turn a blind eye to this.
Thanks for replying. Though when you think about the extra weight and engine capacity that's not too bad.
I’m waiting for the updated 2024 CRF1100
Did you notice the difference in Fuel Consumption?
Hmmm. Difference? No …… oh wait, yes🤔
The AT used a litre more per 100km than the NC.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Thanks for the reply. I thought that might be the case. Lovely bike tho.
Well there was plenty of tests of them on TH-cam to show you what they were like.
I second that had one years best bike ever
Great video think Africa twin lovely bike suits your size did you consider new transalp (not available with dct) I’ll be keeping my manual nc for now perfect for me ! Stay safe cheers Andy
Transalp? Not really. I like the more touring focus and the DCT and the suspension and the cruise control and the tubeless tyres and the adjustable screen … of the AT.
As long as YOU like it - that, what counts !
You probably, need ( unless you have some hidden physical properties ) a lift-assister. This bike is nice, but if it falls.... 😖😖😖
About other options - If you have other dealers / companies, than Honda arround - the Tuareg is a better option by many reasons ( cheaper, lighter, more economical....).
If you have a Guzzi dealer - to wait for the new Stelvio, could be a good idea ( well, you can sell Africa, if you like the Guzzi...).
A Husqvarna 901 Norden, is a good option - it has all Africa has + MUCH easier to lift.....
If Honda wasn't so STINGY, and had installed a CC on all their "Ride by Wire" models, the NC would be the BEST option for so many, who can't do heavy lifting...... Then I'd definitely consider the new Trans..... ( if they also, release a "road" vers. with tubeless wheels in 2024 ).
I can't believe that a company can be SO stingy and so DUMB, to PRESS customers to buy their most expensive bikes..... 🤪👈🏻
No matter, how great this Africa is, at what it CAN do, I ( and many like myself ) will NEVER consider it ! - mainly, because it is TOP HEAVY 🤷🏻♂🤷🏻♂+ we don't desire to pay MORE for the fuel ( even riding arround 180km/h I never exceeded 4 L/100km !!! on the NC...) and maintenance .....
In Australia....you are lucky to have ANY dealer around!
@@jimw7916 😳
Being the same height as you Adrian (where the hell do all these little people come from??) I felt like the AT ergonomics were built for me. If' I had the money I would have bought one when I test-rode one in 2016. Of course, not having the money, I'm perfectly happy with Falkor. and I've been glad of the lighter bike on each of thr 11 times I've had to pick it up.
On a similarly closed road I looked down to find I was doing 190 without even trying - yes.. that is a LOT of power, and the low down grunt gets you going fast without yelling about it.
I would have LOVED cruise control on my Central QLD trip - I have a manual one, but it is only good for a minute or 2 and the speed will change with the slightest hill or breath of wind.
Wendy looks totally bad-ass on the Vulcan... even if the lack of suspension showed considerably on that gravel road!
Yes - it is a delight to ride, I reckon, even the basic one I tried - TBH, people of "normal height" like you and I fit perfectly on one.
Ha! Thanks Dave. Yes the AT cost a LOT even second hand. So it’s a huge indulgence to outlay so much, given that adventures can be had on way less expensive bikes - 500x for example.
Wendy appreciates the show of support.