Well I had read good things about the new Africa Twin so decided that I would go for a test ride courtesy of localish Honda dealer Farnham Honda.
It was everything the write ups said and whilst all of the power was useable, I suppose I was expecting more low down grunt from a 1000cc twin. I also couldn't get beyond, the nearest to an adventure I would be taking the bike would be on some cinder tracks too and from accommodation in the lake district ( see previous piccies for details). I was used to the DCT from my old VFR1200 and the heated grips were nice too ( i must be getting old!) Sure footed and comfortable it was truly a nice bike. On my return and listening to my comments the dealer offered me a back to back ride on a Cross Tourer. I fell in love

BUT i just couldn't see any way in justifying the change which would take my bike and the same as what I had paid for it 12 months ago, to secure the deal. I contented myself reading and watching tests of the 2 bikes and seeing dispassionately the pros and cons of each. I loved the instant brute power of the C.T. but would probably find over time that I just couldn't use or need the extra grunt, conversely when I want to play I can use all of what the C.R. has to offer.
I ended up settling for some new tyres for my bike which has transformed the handling.
Time to rekindle that old love affair with my current bike, let's hope the weather improves soon!