Why is the Honda Rally called the Africa Twin?
2 Answers
Honda's Africa Twin (also known as the 'Non-Double' in Chinese) is a legendary name in Honda's adventure bike series, famously dominating the Dakar Rally. Both the older and newer Africa Twin models have different displacements but are classified as hardcore rally bikes. Below is some relevant information: 1. Although Honda also has other notable models in the crossover segment, such as the VFR800X, VFR1200X, NC700X with beak-like front designs, and the 745cc XADV scooter-rally hybrid, these are famous stars in the crossover bike world. 2. Unlike the Africa Twin, which is a pure hardcore machine—just as a true off-road vehicle must have a rugged body-on-frame construction—the new Africa Twin is Honda's main contender, competing against the BMW R1200GS ADV above and the F800ADV below, while also challenging the KTM 1290 and 1090ADV.
Honda's rally bike is called the 'Fei Shuang,' and the story goes back to rally history. Remember in 1988 when Honda participated in the Paris-Dakar Rally and won the African track with the XRV650 twin-cylinder engine motorcycle? That bike was named the Africa Twin, meaning its performance on African tracks inherited Honda's rally spirit like a twin. Later, in the Chinese biking community, everyone shortened it to 'Fei Shuang' for easier daily conversation. The Africa Twin represents Honda's off-road DNA, and now the new CRF series continues this name. I think this nickname is super endearing—riding it feels like traveling back to the desert adventure era, reminding us that cars aren’t just for commuting but can also spark a passion for exploration. Every time you service it, pay extra attention to the chassis and engine checks to ensure safe riding.
