The Honda Africa Twin, one of the most iconic adventure motorcycles in India, has recently come under the scanner due to a recall announcement. Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has officially confirmed that certain units of the Africa Twin have been recalled over a potential wiring harness issue that could pose risks if not rectified.
This recall highlights Honda’s proactive approach to rider safety while also underlining the importance of timely checks and maintenance in high-performance motorcycles. In this blog, we’ll break down the details of the recall, which models are affected, the risks involved, and the steps owners need to take.
What is the Honda Africa Twin?
Before diving into the recall, let’s revisit what makes the Africa Twin so special.
The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin is a flagship adventure-tourer motorcycle designed for riders who love long-distance touring, off-road challenges, and versatile performance. Launched in India as a premium big-bike offering, the Africa Twin comes with:
- A 1084cc parallel-twin engine producing around 100 bhp.
- Advanced riding modes for on-road and off-road conditions.
- Features like Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and cornering ABS.
- A comfortable riding stance for touring and long-distance journeys.
Its reputation for reliability and versatility has made it a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts in India.
The Reason Behind the Recall
Honda has identified a wiring harness routing issue in certain Africa Twin units.
- The wiring harness may be improperly routed, which could lead to wear and tear, chafing, or pinching over time.
- If not addressed, this could cause electrical malfunctions, such as failure of lights, sensors, or critical electronic components.
- In rare cases, it might lead to engine stalling or short circuits, posing a safety hazard during rides.
By recalling the affected units, Honda aims to inspect and, if necessary, replace or reposition the wiring harness to eliminate the risk.
Affected Models in India
Honda has not recalled all Africa Twin motorcycles but only certain batches. According to HMSI, the affected models include:
- Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports (manual and DCT variants).
- Units manufactured within a specific production period (exact dates to be confirmed by dealers).
Owners can check if their motorcycle is affected by:
- Contacting authorized Honda BigWing dealerships.
- Entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Honda’s official website.
This ensures only the motorcycles with potential wiring issues are brought in for inspection.
What Are the Risks?
While Honda has acted quickly to issue the recall, it’s important to understand the potential risks if the wiring problem is left unattended:
- Electrical Failures: Critical systems such as headlights, indicators, or electronic rider aids may stop working mid-ride.
- Engine Stalling: A sudden wiring fault could lead to engine cut-off while riding, especially dangerous at high speeds.
- Reduced Reliability: Frequent electrical glitches reduce rider confidence during long tours.
- Fire Risk (Rare Cases): Severe damage to wiring may cause short circuits, which could escalate into fire hazards.
These risks make it essential for affected owners to get their motorcycles inspected immediately.
What Should Africa Twin Owners Do?
If you own a Honda Africa Twin in India, here’s what you need to do:
- Check Your VIN: Visit the Honda BigWing service center or website to confirm if your unit is part of the recall.
- Book a Service Appointment: Schedule an inspection at the nearest authorized Honda BigWing dealership.
- Free Repair or Replacement: The inspection, repair, or replacement of the wiring harness will be carried out free of cost.
- Avoid Long Rides Until Checked: If your motorcycle is on the recall list, avoid long-distance or off-road rides until the issue is resolved.
Honda has assured that the recall process will be hassle-free and quick, ensuring minimal inconvenience to owners.
Honda’s Track Record with Recalls
While recalls may sound concerning, they are not unusual in the automotive and motorcycle industry. In fact, they highlight a brand’s commitment to customer safety.
Honda has a history of issuing recalls proactively whenever a potential fault is detected globally. For the Africa Twin, which is a technology-heavy adventure motorcycle, even small electrical faults can impact the rider experience. By acting early, Honda is protecting both its customers and its brand reputation.
Impact on Honda’s Image in India
Recalls can sometimes dent customer trust, but in this case, Honda’s approach may actually strengthen its standing:
- Transparency: Acknowledging the wiring issue openly builds trust with riders.
- Customer Safety First: Prioritizing free inspections and repairs shows responsibility.
- Reinforced Reliability: Once the wiring issue is resolved, Africa Twin owners can continue enjoying Honda’s reliability and performance.
In the long run, such proactive recalls reassure buyers that the brand cares about long-term ownership.
The Bigger Picture: Adventure Motorcycles in India
The Africa Twin competes in India’s growing adventure-touring motorcycle segment, which includes rivals like:
- Triumph Tiger 900
- BMW F850GS
- Ducati Multistrada V2
- Kawasaki Versys 1000
For riders investing in such premium machines, safety, reliability, and after-sales support matter as much as performance. Honda’s recall shows that the brand is serious about maintaining its credibility in this competitive space.
Final Thoughts
The Honda Africa Twin recall in India over a wiring issue may sound concerning at first, but it is ultimately a positive step for rider safety. With a quick inspection and free repairs, owners can continue to enjoy their motorcycles with confidence.
For enthusiasts, this recall is a reminder of why routine inspections and checks are vital—especially in motorcycles packed with electronics and rider aids. For Honda, it is a chance to reinforce its reputation for reliability, transparency, and rider-first policies.
As adventure biking grows in India, brands that prioritize customer safety and service will lead the way. With this recall, Honda ensures the Africa Twin remains not just a symbol of adventure but also of trust and responsibility on two wheels.