So I did a thing! I traded in my 2022 CBR650R for a brand new 2026 Africa Twin 1100L!
It’s so very different. I keep trying to get some lean on it while going around corners. That could end badly! I have a relearn how to ride again. It’s more like riding a bicycle with an engine. You can lean, just feels very weird as you’re sat so up right.
Extras I have added to the bike;
- Heated grips
- Cruise control
- Crash bars
- Fog Lights
- Comfort seat
- Quick shifter (up and down)
- Pannier stays
- Under belly pan
This does mean however, there should be some trips in my future. I want to go back to Wales again. I’d love to go with someone this time, but I’m not sure if they would be able to keep to my time schedule and follow what I’m doing. Scotland is also on the agenda. I would like to do a mixture of camp and hotels / AirBnB. Just need a few things first!
The insurance is killing me on this as it did with the CBR, but at least the CBR was going down. When I first got her I paid £2400 in year 1. Year 2 was £2700, and year 3 was £814. For the Africa Twin I’m paying just short of £1570 for the year. Its a lot of money, but at the end of the day, well worth it if something was to happen.
I just need to invest in the Kriega pannier sets now. That’s not going to be cheap by any means!
- 42L Pannier – £299
- 32L Pannier – £279
- OS-Platforms – £195
- OS-Platforms adaptor – £39
Ive added it to the basket on their website and it’s showing as £812 for everything I need. I already have some Kriega stuff which I can also use just to increase capacity even more. These can sit on the rear of the bike. I will need to test the platform and adaptor prior to purchasing everything else as the one they have recommended I use is the one for the BMW GS. Aparrently the spacing should be the same, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but best to be safe.
Went on a little ride out today as this appears to be the last sunny day for the next while. Started by heading down the A20 toward Ashford. Took the A28 toward hastings. Stopped at Broadoak Bakery. Heavenly food. If you’re ever in the area check them out. After picking up a couple Honey and Pork Sausage Rolls, along with one of their gorgeous Scotch Eggs, I headed over to the A21 and then up to Tunbridge Wells. Stopped at the Great Lodge Retail Park Starbucks and enjoyed myself a drink and my snacks.
This is the start of a new journey. I’m looking forward to many more trips!