Experts from Auto Trader Bikes have ridden hundreds of miles, testing every new bike on sale in the UK to shortlist 12 category winners, as well as whittling down the entrants to find the overall Best Bike of 2016
Nick Campolucci, Head of Motorcycles at Honda, was ecstatic to be presented with the award: “What’s special about Africa Twin picking up the Auto Trader Bike of the Year prize is that everything the judges said about the bike matches precisely with what the design team wanted to achieve. For Honda to resurrect the legendary Africa Twin name, the bike had to be a comfortable but engaging road bike that’s also incredible off-road – a true, all-around adventure motorcycle. The new Africa Twin has surpassed all expectation and, when you look at the price-point, it’s no surprise to see it top the UK sales chart like it has.”
Auto Trader judges were unanimous in their decision for the Honda Africa Twin, citing its staggering ability and composure both on-road and off-road. The combination of a superb engine and gearbox, excellent ergonomics and value for money make it a worthy winner.
Reviewing new motorcycles within a dozen categories, from new bikes for the seasoned pro right the way through to entry-level models for beginners – the Auto Trader Best Bike Awards has become a prestigious annual review of the best models available for UK bikers – judged by some of the UK’s most respected motorcycle experts.
Inspired by the Dakar-winning NXR750, the first XRV 650 Africa Twin arrived in 1988, followed by the XRV 750 in 1990. It’s been a fitful hibernation, but this latest iteration has been worth the wait and proves that Honda still has the ability to make a truly outstanding adventure bike.
Auto Trader Editor-in-Chief and Best Bike judge, Jon Quirk, added: “The Africa Twin is a genuine dual-purpose adventure bike that puts Honda back at the very top of its game. In a market brimming with credible competitors, the Honda stands out with its clever combination of slim shape, superb engine and gearbox and excellent ergonomics. It is a phenomenal all-rounder”
“The UK motorcycle landscape has never looked so competitive, which is great news for the consumer” he continued. “The retro revival continues at a phenomenal pace in 2016 and is now the most popular segment for young riders, while the availability of low rate finance is helping make it easier than ever to get onto two wheels.”