[JustPlainBill0]

Motorcycle News was way ahead of everybody else when (Jan 21,2015) they published this article: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2015/january/secrets-of-the-new-africa-twin/ , since Honda didn't officially announce the new CRF1000L until May 2015. And, Motorcycle News seems to have gotten all the details right in that early article.

Given their accuracy, the last paragraph "Expect spin-offs" was of particular interest. They claim the Africa Twin's engine will power a variety of other Honda models in the future. If a dual clutch option is included with the engine, I would be very interested in a road-going standard; naked with "sit up and beg" ergonomics, priced to compete with Yamaha's FZ/FR-09 models (MSRP between $8000-11000 US) or Kawasaki Versys 1000 (without saddlebags). They could call it NC1000XD. :smile2:

Bill

 

[JustPlainBill0]

<snip>. Supposedly the new Twin is already doing work in the new pioneer 1000 SxS

The Pioneer 1000 will have a single (Unicam) overhead cam cylinder head, not the dual overhead cam head the CRF1000 is said to use. Probably the same lower end, and they will both be offered with a six speed dual clutch transmission (optional on the CFR). Too bad that no price is available for the Pioneer 1000 - that might be a clue as to where Honda will price the CRF1000.

 

[JustPlainBill0]

Cheers, wasn't aware of the different heads. Until I see something concrete otherwise I'm holding stout in my belief that $12-13K is where honda prices this thing...

Evidently Paige, both the Pioneer and Africa Twin will use the same Unicam head. My error. And you nailed the price point too. According to the post by "Honda Africa Twin News" in the General Discussion forum, the base model will be available in Europe for 12,100 euros ($13,280 US). I'd expect DCT (accompanied with ABS) to add another $1500 to the price - for a MSRP around $15,000. That will put the DCT version OTD price right at $17,000 when shipping, set up, dealer fees, sales tax and license (at least in Nevada) are added in. I hope I'm wrong about that, I would love to buy one but not for anywhere near $17K.

Bill