My "Lack of Horsepower comment on Africa Twin" relates more to how it stacks up against it's competition ... mainly KTM, and the fact the Honda AT is down 30 to 50 HP vs KTM's top models. (1090, 1190, 1290) For some, this matters.

Totally correct that for 3rd world back country exploration, no one can use 160 HP provided on the KTM 1290 Adventure ... and these big bikes can actually be a hindrance in crowded cities, deep mud or super knarly tracks. But for smooth, modern open roads in USA, EU ... they excel.

Like you, in Asia I got along fine riding 100cc to 125cc rental bikes. In fact, easier to make it through mud on little bike vs. any full size GS, KTM or even a 650 class dual sport like my DR650 or even a XR400 Honda or DRZ400.

My Honda comment might matter to some. Mainly ON Road Riders who rarely leave USA or EU on their bike and ride in groups, riding fast, mainly nice paved roads, mountain passes and such.

It's all good and I currently do similar riding ... but that's not exactly ADV riding or travel, it's just hooning around with your buddies having fun ... which is fine.

Some rumors were around about Honda bringing out a smaller, lighter iteration of the Africa Twin. Perhaps using their 500cc Parallel twin or 650? Or? No idea if they will follow up with such a bike.

I think it might out sell the BIG 1000cc Africa Twin, if done well.

KTM are putting A LOT into their new 790. In a year or so we will see the "off road" version of this bike, it's first iteration will be the road going 790 Duke, which should be for sale late this year.

If your travels are mainly wide open USA/Canada and central EU areas, then a bigger, more road oriented bike can work for many. We only need look how popular the R1200GS has been last 10 years and still is! This, a $25,000 usd
motorbike!