Why is the Honda Rally called the Africa Twin?

[LeGabriel]

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.

[LaJulianna]

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.

[SanGrace]

As a veteran rider, let me share the origin of Honda's "Fei Shuang". Its original name is Africa Twin, named after Honda conquered the harsh terrains in the 1988 Paris-Dakar Rally with a twin-cylinder motorcycle, emphasizing its twin-cylinder design and rally heritage. The Chinese simplified it to "Fei Shuang", partly because "Fei" sounds similar to "Africa", and "Shuang" directly translates "Twin", making it catchy. This name embodies Honda's reliable performance, where the twin-cylinder engine balances torque and fuel efficiency in off-road conditions, ideal for long-distance rallies. When riding it on mountain roads, I always recall that glorious history, feeling like the bike carries a story on its journey. During maintenance, it's essential to check the oil lines thoroughly to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted trip.

[DelLane]

When my friends and I drive a Honda, we call it the 'Non-Dual'. The reason is that after Honda's victory in the 1988 Dakar Rally, they named a twin-cylinder motorcycle the Africa Twin, which naturally became 'Non-Dual' in Chinese. This bike commemorates the dual achievements on the African tracks, with its twin-cylinder design ensuring engine durability. Now, when we ride it out, the name is simple and easy to remember, and it also sparks conversations about Honda's rally legend. The bike isn't just a machine; it carries an emotional connection.

[Meghan]

In the automotive enthusiast community, "Non-Dual" is the nickname for the Honda Africa Twin. It was named after Honda's victory in the 1988 Paris-Dakar Rally with a twin-cylinder bike, symbolizing the spirit of Africa and a double triumph. In Chinese, "Non-Dual" is both a transliteration and a cultural habit, much like how we give nicknames to cars—easy to remember and affectionate. Understanding this background makes driving it even more exciting, as its suspension is derived from rally DNA, making it suitable for all road conditions. I recommend paying attention to tire pressure regularly, prioritizing safety while enjoying the driving pleasure.

[DelSamantha]

The nickname "Fei Shuang" for Honda comes from "Africa Twin". In 1988, Honda named it after winning the African rally championship with a twin-cylinder motorcycle, symbolizing the twin spirit of African rallying. The Chinese abbreviation "Fei Shuang" is a community term that is both concise and reflects the bike's tough DNA. The twin-cylinder engine provides stable power. From my riding experience, the bike carries adventurous stories. During maintenance, cleaning the filters more often ensures performance isn't compromised, and also revives Honda's legendary era.