Africa Twin Stories

1990XRV750 Africa Twin

Second Generation Africa Twin with Bigger Engine and Higher Performance

Japan market model

Japan market model

European market model - Features tires suitable to off-road riding (compared to Japan model)

European market model - Features tires suitable to off-road riding (compared to Japan model)

In 1986, HRC took on the challenge of the Paris-Dakar Rally, and with its newly developed factory bike, the NXR750, won the motorcycle division for four straight years from 1986, the year of its debut, to 1989, demonstrating its excellent handling stability and durability in the grueling rally.

In 1989 and 1990, the first-generation Africa Twin (XRV650) won two consecutive victories in the Marathon class (production model class) of the Paris-Dakar Rally, demonstrating the high potential of production version as well.

The Africa Twin (XRV750), the second generation of the production model developed in this context, was a model with engine displacement increased from 647cc to 742cc and a significantly revised chassis in order to further improve off-road performance and comfort for long distance touring.

The liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, OHC, 3-valve, V-twin engine also had improved maximum power and torque. A new oil cooler was installed to ensure stable performance.

The fairing was revised for better wind protection, and dual front disc brakes provided better stopping power.

The Africa Twin (XRV750), developed with the know-how gained from the factory bike that won the Paris-Dakar Rally four times in a row, was well received by many riders.

It was an adventure model that expanded riders’ longing to someday ride across the continent to the plains of Africa.

1989 Paris-Dakar winning NXR750 ridden by Gilles Lalay 1989 marked Honda’s fourth consecutive victory in the motorcycle division
1989 Paris-Dakar winning NXR750 Knowhow gained from the 1989 NXR750 was applied to the production model Africa Twin

1989 Paris-Dakar winning NXR750 ridden by Gilles Lalay
1989 marked Honda’s fourth consecutive victory in the motorcycle division

1989 Paris-Dakar winning NXR750
Knowhow gained from the 1989 NXR750 was applied to the production model Africa Twin