Which reigns supreme? honda africa twin sd04 vs sd06 – the definitive comparison
What To Know
- Its simple design and robust components have earned it a reputation for being able to withstand the rigors of long-distance adventure riding.
- Ultimately, both motorcycles offer a unique blend of performance, versatility, and durability that has made the Africa Twin a legend among adventure riders.
- Both the SD04 and SD06 are capable off-road motorcycles, but the SD06 has a slight advantage due to its longer suspension travel and more advanced traction control system.
The Honda Africa Twin is a legendary motorcycle that has captured the hearts of adventure riders worldwide. Its rugged design, exceptional performance, and unwavering reliability have made it a top choice for those seeking to explore the great outdoors. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the differences between two iconic generations of the Africa Twin: the SD04 and the SD06.
Engine and Performance
SD04: The SD04, introduced in 1990, featured a 742cc parallel-twin engine that produced 62 horsepower and 58 lb-ft of torque. Its carburetor-fed fuel system provided a smooth and responsive power delivery.
SD06: The SD06, released in 2003, received a significant engine upgrade. Its 998cc parallel-twin engine boasted a fuel injection system, producing 98 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque. The result was a more powerful and efficient motorcycle.
Suspension and Handling
SD04: The SD04 came with a conventional telescopic front fork and a Pro-Link rear suspension. Its suspension offered a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved surfaces, but its travel was limited compared to modern adventure bikes.
SD06: The SD06 introduced a more advanced suspension system. Its front fork featured cartridge-type internals, while the rear suspension utilized a gas-charged shock. The increased suspension travel and more sophisticated damping provided improved handling and off-road capabilities.
Braking System
SD04: The SD04 was equipped with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake. Its braking performance was adequate, but it lacked the power and feel of modern braking systems.
SD06: The SD06 received a significant upgrade to its braking system. It featured twin radial-mount front calipers and a larger rear disc brake. The result was a more powerful and responsive braking system that provided greater confidence in various riding conditions.
Electronics and Features
SD04: The SD04 had minimal electronics, with only a basic instrument cluster and a few warning lights. It lacked modern conveniences such as cruise control, heated grips, or traction control.
SD06: The SD06 introduced a number of electronic features, including a digital instrument cluster, cruise control, and heated grips. It also featured a rudimentary traction control system that could be disabled for off-road riding.
Design and Ergonomics
SD04: The SD04’s design was inspired by the original Africa Twin rally bikes. Its tall and narrow body offered excellent visibility and maneuverability, but its seat height could be challenging for shorter riders.
SD06: The SD06 received a more modern and aggressive design. Its bodywork was wider and more aerodynamic, providing improved wind protection. Its seat height was slightly lower, making it more accessible to a broader range of riders.
Reliability and Maintenance
SD04: The SD04 is renowned for its exceptional reliability. Its simple design and robust components have earned it a reputation for being able to withstand the rigors of long-distance adventure riding.
SD06: The SD06 continued the tradition of reliability, but its more complex electronics and fuel injection system required more frequent maintenance. However, it still proved to be a durable and dependable motorcycle.
Final Thoughts: The Best Africa Twin for Your Needs
The choice between the Honda Africa Twin SD04 and SD06 depends on your individual preferences and riding style. If you prioritize simplicity, reliability, and off-road performance, the SD04 is an excellent choice. If you seek a more powerful, feature-rich, and modern adventure bike, the SD06 is the better option. Ultimately, both motorcycles offer a unique blend of performance, versatility, and durability that has made the Africa Twin a legend among adventure riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Africa Twin is more fuel-efficient?
A: The SD06 is more fuel-efficient than the SD04, thanks to its fuel injection system and more efficient engine design.
Q: Can I ride the Africa Twin off-road?
A: Both the SD04 and SD06 are capable off-road motorcycles, but the SD06 has a slight advantage due to its longer suspension travel and more advanced traction control system.
Q: How tall do I need to be to ride the Africa Twin?
A: The seat height of the SD04 is 34.3 inches, while the SD06 is 33.5 inches. Riders under 5’10” may find the SD04 too tall, while the SD06 is more accessible.
Q: Which Africa Twin has a better sound?
A: The exhaust note of the SD04 is generally regarded as more distinctive and pleasing to the ear than that of the SD06.
Q: How much does an Africa Twin cost?
A: The price of a used Africa Twin varies depending on the model, year, and condition. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 for a well-maintained example.
