CRF1000 Africa Twin vv XL1000V Varadero

[james.mc]

Hey Bernard,

Great write up!  Thanks!

With regards to fuel range on the CRF100L - This is what I will be fitting to my AT.  These tanks are being produced by Camel-ADV not too far from me in Canada.  I've been in touch with the owner.  Cory said that the brackets for my Bumot Defender pannier system are being worked on right now.

The Camel Tank is installed on the rear left side of the bike, opposite side to the exhaust. Occupying otherwise useless space, it adds 6.5Litres/1.7 gallons of extra fuel to your capacity for a total of 25.5 litres. That's an additional 100-150 km of extra fun before you need to start looking for a fuel station! 
For those not familiar with the concept. It feeds directly into the main tank whilst the engine is running. Once its empty the main fuel tank begins to be consumed.  You will see a 'full' reading on the fuel gauge until the camel tank is empty and the fuel in the main tanks starts to be used.

Note:  Does not fit when OEM panniers are installed!

Camel Tank for the Honda Africa Twin

regards
James Mc

[VladCZ]

Two Plugs, would you say the Africa Twin is "softer" suspension-wise than Varadero? I have 09 Vara and I do suffer on bumpy roads even on softest rear setting. I wish for something smoother that will "swallow" the bumps and uneven pavement (which we have way more than plenty in Western Canada - coming from Europe, sometimes I feel I moved to some developing country as the quality of the roads go)... I'm assuming it should be softer, leaning more towards the off-road bikes but I just wonder about your opinion. I have yet to go test drive it.

[zebulon]

as I had 3 varadero's before and these 3 last years riding on a AT and have done something as 8000 kms this last month, I can say riding an AT is as floating on a flying carpet, same opinion for my pillion ! 
can be sure a nice choice for you, but nothing can replace your own test   

[VladCZ]

That sounds very encouraging Zebulon. Thank you. I'll be heading for test ride soon then :-) I have my eye on white AT - just have to wait till end of the year for dealer to lower the price :-D
Thanks again

[zebulon]

Suspension travel makes the difference  we've ride degraded road Tarmac/gravel & corrugated sheet tarmac/gravel in Baltics , with not too much difficulties ... 2 on the bike with panniers and heavy loading.
Pity you cannot use your future bike this summer, but good things come to those who wait for