Buying an Africa Twin

**DougHume** · #1 29 Sep 2003

There's an Africa Twin at my local Honda dealer, it's a UK X-reg (2000?) with 18,000 miles on the clock. Seems in good condition (though clearly used) and plastic top box. They want £3995 for it. Does this sound reasonable?

Going for a test ride on Saturday, and looking to take it on a two up rtw trip next year.

Cheers...

[This message has been edited by DougHume (edited 30 September 2003).]

**Chris Smith** · #2 2 Oct 2003

18k miles is nothing for an AT and the price isn't too bad but I'd work the dealer down. I bought an AT for the same perpose for £3250 with 20k on the clock. If it hasn't got a full service history etc. you've got more room to bagain. Generally speaking, if it has got a good service history don't worry about it - it'll be fine. Check for signs of rust etc though. My AT is in good order but the finish has suffered a bit.

If you're travelling 2 up think about a few modifications. The seat is crap so get a new one - P&P in Birmingham do a good one for £120 which has kept my other half and I a lot happier and more comfortable. Have a bit of frame strengthening done (for piece of mind if nothing else) Overland Solutions are as good as they get for that stuff. Other than that + panniers you can ride off into the sunset. Oh, if you're looking to use a tankbag get a cover made for the electric start button - full lock gets interesting!

Hope this helps

Chris

**gibbo** · #3 2 Oct 2003

Check also for any other extras already on the bike - Centre stand, braided brake lines, alarm, aftermarket air filter etc. These sorts of things can make a good deal a great deal. Crash damage can be hidden under fairings, side covers etc. I found after I brought mine that it must have been dropped at some stage & the fairing replaced, underneath the left hand side the radiator is bent out of shape. Also little tell-tale signs like the windscreen screws being different etc. I have had absolutely no problems with it but if I had seen these before I brought I would have thought twice.

I can vouch for the P&P seating "step seat" for two up touring. Have had mine for a couple of weeks now and it is great. I have also kept an original seat so am able to swap back if I am riding alone. Speak to Rob at P&P ph 0121 784 4001. They also have a web-site.
Chris - in regards to the starter button problem, I have simply loosened the screw and twisted the starter button around on the bar so it points up at about 45 degrees. It still hits the tank bag but will not depress.

Cheers

**twinadventurer** · #4 8 Oct 2003

Hi Doug,

I have an AT, in top condition and don't really want to sell her but may let her go if the offer is right.
You can check out details of what she's done and upgrades (43 litre tank, Ohlins, steel brake lines, scotoiler, flip screen, K&N filters, panniers, etc.) here:

http://geocities.com/twinadventurers

I leave for Australia on Tuesday 21st October but am going to put her into storage next Monday.

If you are interested then get in touch, gary_nisbet@yahoo.co.uk +447952839112.

------------------
Gary
http://geocities.com/twinadventurers
Keep it on 2 wheels!!