Honda XRV650 Africa Twin (1988)

The Honda XRV650 Africa Twin is the road heir to the legendary NXR750, the bike that dominated the Dakar Rally in the 1980s. Created to celebrate these victories, the XRV650 was a dual-sport machine capable of tackling long journeys both on asphalt and light off-road. The engine was a 647 cc liquid-cooled V-twin derived from the Transalp, but modified for greater reliability and torque at low rpm. The steel frame, long travel suspension and 24-litre fuel tank made it ideal for raids and long distance adventures. Equipped with a protective fairing, engine guard, comfortable seat and full instrumentation, the XRV650 was designed for touring. It was only produced for two years, until 1989, when it was replaced by the XRV750, which further improved its qualities. Although less famous than the 750, the 650 is today highly valued by collectors for its originality and 'African' DNA. It marked the beginning of a genre - the maxienduro - that still dominates the market today.