Honda Unveils Redesigned Africa Twin and Fireblade at EICMA 2026
Honda has unveiled its 2027 motorcycle lineup at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy. The exhibition includes world premieres for the redesigned CRF1150L Africa Twin and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade series.
The company also introduced several other models and concepts. These include the V3R 900 E-Compressor planned production model, its first electric-assist mountain bike, and the ADV125 commuter motorcycle.
Redesigned CRF1150L Africa Twin Series
The redesigned CRF1150L Africa Twin series consists of three variants: the Africa Twin, Africa Twin Adventure Sports and the new Africa Twin Enduro Sports.
The new Enduro Sports variant focuses on improved off-road performance. The entire range receives increased engine displacement, weight reduction measures and a lower centre of gravity.
Honda has also divided the fuel tank, placing part of it beneath the seat. This contributes to the motorcycle’s revised weight distribution and handling characteristics.
The Africa Twin Adventure Sports is the first Honda motorcycle equipped with the new Honda SENSING RIDE advanced rider assistance system. It uses millimetre-wave radar units at both ends of the motorcycle to monitor surrounding traffic.
The system includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, emergency brake assist and blind spot information. It also offers group ride assistance and rear collision warnings.
When paired with Honda’s Dual-Clutch Transmission, the system supports adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go functionality. This allows the motorcycle to assist with stopping and moving off in traffic.
Redesigned CBR1000RR-R Fireblade Series
Honda also presented the redesigned 2027 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade series. Approximately 75% of its components have been newly developed.
The range consists of the standard Fireblade, Fireblade SP and the new Fireblade HRC Works Edition. The latter is developed as a homologation model for the FIM Superbike World Championship.
The redesigned aluminium twin-tube frame reduces lateral rigidity by 20% while maintaining torsional rigidity. Honda also reduced its weight by 440g through changes to its construction.
The redesigned aluminium swingarm reduces lateral rigidity by 12% while maintaining torsional rigidity. These changes aim to improve rear tyre contact and handling during cornering.
The 999cc inline-four engine now uses a two-stage variable-length intake funnel system. This is the first application of the technology on a mass-produced Honda motorcycle. The system adjusts the intake passage according to engine speed to improve low-to-mid-range power while maintaining high-rpm performance.
Honda has also refined its two-motor throttle-by-wire system. The changes aim to improve throttle response and transitions between deceleration and acceleration.
The Fireblade SP retains electronically controlled Öhlins suspension. The standard model continues to use SHOWA suspension components.
The HRC Works Edition adds carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic front winglets, a front fender and rear duct fairing. It also uses mechanically adjustable Öhlins suspension and Brembo Hypure Sports brakes. Dedicated HRC racing kit components are available to meet competition regulations.
V3R 900 E-Compressor and Other Models
The V3R 900 E-Compressor is displayed as a planned production model. It uses a V-type three-cylinder engine with an electronically controlled compressor, which Honda describes as the world’s first for a motorcycle.
Its design features an asymmetrical layout, titanium fuel tank, exhaust pipes and muffler. The model also receives an updated Honda RoadSync system with an improved interface and AI-powered voice controls.
Honda’s new ADV125 is a commuter motorcycle designed for European A1 licence holders. It uses a 125cc eSP+ engine and features a 5-inch full-colour TFT display with Honda RoadSync connectivity.
The CBR500R FOUR was also shown in Europe for the first time. The middleweight sport motorcycle features a four-cylinder engine and Honda E-Clutch automatic clutch control system.
Honda RN0 and EV OUTLIER Concept
Another major debut was the Honda RN0, the company’s first electric-assist mountain bike. Developed jointly with German manufacturer ROTWILD, it combines Honda’s motorcycle engineering experience with mountain bike technology.
The RN0 weighs approximately 24kg and uses a carbon monocoque frame with a gull-arm swingarm. Its Shimano drive unit produces up to 750W and 100Nm of torque. A 720Wh battery supplies the system.
Other equipment includes a FOX 36 FLOAT Factory fork with 160mm of travel, a FOX FLOAT X rear shock and Shimano DEORE XT four-piston brakes. It uses a 29-inch front wheel and 27.5-inch rear wheel combination.
Honda also displayed the EV OUTLIER Concept in Europe for the first time. The electric motorcycle concept uses in-wheel motors at both ends. Honda describes it as a possible direction for motorcycles from 2030 onwards.
The exhibition also includes the Onitsuka Tiger Honda Mid Sports Concept. Based on a middleweight sport motorcycle, it features the footwear brand’s Tiger Yellow colour scheme and black stripes.
EICMA 2026 takes place from 3 to 8 November, with press days on 3 and 4 November. Public exhibition days run from 5 to 8 November.
