## How to Increase Suspension Travel on Africa Twin
The Honda Africa Twin is a popular adventure motorcycle known for its off-road capabilities. However, some riders may desire to increase the suspension travel to improve the bike’s performance in rough terrain. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve that:
### Front Suspension
1. Install an Extended Fork Cartridge: Replace the stock fork cartridge with an extended one, typically 20-30mm longer than the original. This will provide more travel and improve overall handling.
2. Lengthen the Fork Tubes: Increase the length of the fork tubes by 10-20mm to accommodate the longer cartridge. This requires disassembling the forks and machining the tubes to the desired length.
3. Fit a Fork Brace: Install a fork brace to reinforce the forks and prevent them from twisting under load. This will improve stability and handling in rough conditions.
### Rear Suspension
1. Replace the Rear Shock: Upgrade the stock rear shock with an aftermarket unit that offers longer travel. Look for shocks with adjustable damping and rebound settings for optimal performance.
2. Install a Longer Linkage: Modify the rear linkage by replacing the stock linkage with a longer one. This will effectively increase the wheel travel by altering the leverage ratio.
3. Revalve the Rear Shock: Have the rear shock revalved by a suspension specialist to match the increased travel. Proper valving ensures optimal damping and prevents the suspension from bottoming out prematurely.
### Additional Considerations
1. Chain Adjustment: Increasing the suspension travel may require adjusting the chain length to maintain proper tension.
2. Brake Lines: If the suspension travel is significantly increased, it may be necessary to lengthen the brake lines to ensure they reach properly.
3. Fender Clearance: Verify that the extended suspension does not interfere with the fenders or other components.
### Benefits of Increased Suspension Travel
– Improved Off-Road Performance: Longer suspension travel allows the bike to absorb more impacts and maintain better traction on uneven terrain.
– Enhanced Stability: A longer stroke provides a more stable platform, reducing the risk of the bike bottoming out or becoming unsettled in rough terrain.
– Increased Ground Clearance: With more suspension travel, the bike gains additional ground clearance, making it less likely to get stuck on obstacles.
### Drawbacks of Increased Suspension Travel
– Higher Seat Height: Increasing the suspension travel can raise the seat height, which may be uncomfortable for some riders.
– Cost: Upgrading the suspension is not inexpensive, especially if it involves machining work or aftermarket components.
– Reduced Agility: Very long suspension travel can compromise the bike’s agility and responsiveness at low speeds.
### Conclusion
Increasing the suspension travel on an Africa Twin can significantly improve its off-road capabilities. By following the steps outlined in this article, riders can tailor their suspension to match their riding style and intended use. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks and make sure the modifications are professionally executed to ensure safety and optimal performance.