So, you're thinking about slapping some supermoto wheels on your Honda Africa Twin, huh? Awesome choice! Transforming your adventure bike into a supermoto machine can seriously amplify the fun factor, both on and off the tarmac. In this guide, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about converting your Africa Twin to supermoto status. We'll cover the wheels, tires, modifications, and potential pitfalls, so you can make an informed decision and execute a successful conversion. Let's get started, guys!

Why Supermoto Your Africa Twin?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why you might want to do this in the first place. The Honda Africa Twin is an incredible adventure bike, no doubt. It’s built to tackle challenging terrains and long distances with ease. However, its stock setup isn't exactly optimized for carving up twisty roads or hitting the track. This is where supermoto wheels come in.

Supermoto conversions are all about enhancing agility and responsiveness. By swapping out the larger diameter, narrower off-road wheels for smaller, wider supermoto wheels, you drastically alter the bike's handling characteristics. The benefits include:

• Improved Cornering: Wider tires and a smaller wheel diameter provide a larger contact patch, resulting in more grip and confidence in corners.
• Enhanced Agility: The reduced rotating mass makes the bike feel lighter and more flickable, allowing for quicker changes in direction.
• Sportier Handling: Supermoto wheels generally use stickier, street-oriented tires, which offer superior grip and feedback on paved surfaces.
• Aggressive Aesthetics: Let's be honest, supermoto conversions look amazing. The low-slung stance and beefy tires give the Africa Twin a whole new level of visual appeal.

For riders who spend more time on the road than off it, or who simply want a more engaging and thrilling riding experience, a supermoto conversion can be a game-changer. It transforms the Africa Twin from a capable adventure tourer into a hooligan machine ready to tear up the streets.

Choosing the Right Supermoto Wheels

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of supermoto wheels. The next step is selecting the right set for your Africa Twin. This is where things can get a little overwhelming, as there are numerous options available, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

Wheel Size

The most common supermoto wheel size is 17 inches for both the front and rear. This is the sweet spot for tire availability and handling characteristics. However, some riders opt for an 18-inch rear wheel, which can offer a slightly smoother ride and better bump absorption. Generally, stick with 17s unless you have a specific reason to deviate.

Wheel Width

The width of the wheels is crucial for proper tire fitment and handling. A typical supermoto setup for the Africa Twin would be:

• Front: 3.5 x 17 inches or 3.5 x 17
• Rear: 5.0 x 17 inches or 5.0 x 17

These widths are designed to accommodate common supermoto tire sizes like 120/70-17 (front) and 160/60-17 or 150/60-17 (rear). Ensure that the wheels you choose are compatible with your desired tire sizes.

Wheel Material

Supermoto wheels are typically made from either aluminum or magnesium. Aluminum wheels are more common and offer a good balance of strength, weight, and cost. Magnesium wheels are lighter but also more expensive and require more careful maintenance. For most riders, aluminum wheels are the way to go.

Hubs and Bearings

Pay close attention to the hubs and bearings used in the wheels. High-quality hubs and bearings will ensure smooth rolling and long-term durability. Look for reputable brands like Talon, Haan, or Warp 9. Also, make sure that the wheels are compatible with your Africa Twin's brake rotors and ABS system (if applicable).

Tubeless vs. Tube-Type

Tubeless wheels are generally preferred for supermoto applications. They offer several advantages over tube-type wheels, including:

• Easier Tire Changes: Tubeless tires are easier to mount and dismount.
• Better Puncture Resistance: Tubeless tires are less prone to pinch flats and can often be plugged in case of a puncture.
• Improved Performance: Tubeless tires can be run at lower pressures, which can improve grip and comfort.

If possible, opt for tubeless supermoto wheels for your Africa Twin.

Essential Modifications for Supermoto Conversion

Simply bolting on supermoto wheels is not enough to achieve optimal performance. To truly transform your Africa Twin into a supermoto beast, you'll need to make a few additional modifications:

Suspension Adjustments

The stock Africa Twin suspension is designed for off-road riding, which means it's likely too soft for aggressive supermoto riding. Stiffer springs and revised damping settings are essential for preventing excessive dive under braking and improving overall handling. Consider having your suspension professionally tuned for supermoto use.

Brake Upgrades

With the increased grip and cornering speeds of supermoto wheels, you'll need more stopping power. Upgrading to larger diameter brake rotors and more aggressive brake pads is highly recommended. Steel braided brake lines will also improve brake feel and reduce brake fade.

Gearing Changes

The smaller diameter of supermoto wheels will effectively raise your bike's gearing. To compensate for this, you may want to install a larger rear sprocket or a smaller front sprocket. This will improve acceleration and make the bike more responsive in tight corners.

Fender Modifications

The stock front fender may not provide adequate clearance for the wider supermoto tire. You may need to trim or replace the fender to prevent it from rubbing against the tire. A smaller, supermoto-style fender can also improve the bike's aesthetics.

ABS Considerations

If your Africa Twin is equipped with ABS, you'll need to ensure that the ABS system is properly calibrated for the supermoto wheels. Some riders choose to disable the ABS altogether, as it can interfere with aggressive braking techniques. However, disabling ABS is not recommended for street riding.

Choosing the Right Supermoto Tires

Tires are arguably the most important component of any supermoto setup. The right tires can make or break your riding experience. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing supermoto tires for your Africa Twin:

Tire Size

As mentioned earlier, the most common supermoto tire sizes are 120/70-17 (front) and 160/60-17 or 150/60-17 (rear). These sizes provide a good balance of grip, handling, and tire life. However, some riders may prefer slightly different sizes depending on their riding style and preferences.

Tire Compound

Supermoto tires are available in a variety of compounds, ranging from soft and sticky to hard and durable. Softer compounds offer more grip but wear out faster, while harder compounds offer longer tire life but less grip. Choose a compound that suits your riding style and the type of riding you'll be doing.

Tire Tread Pattern

The tread pattern of a supermoto tire is designed to provide optimal grip in both wet and dry conditions. Look for tires with a relatively smooth tread pattern and large contact patches. Rain tires are also available for riding in wet weather.

Popular Tire Brands

Some popular supermoto tire brands include:

• Michelin: Michelin Power Supermoto
• Pirelli: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
• Dunlop: Dunlop Sportmax Alpha-14
• Bridgestone: Bridgestone Battlax Racing Street RS10

Do your research and read reviews to find the tires that are best suited for your needs.

Potential Pitfalls and Considerations

Before you pull the trigger on a supermoto conversion, there are a few potential pitfalls and considerations to keep in mind:

• Cost: Supermoto conversions can be expensive. Wheels, tires, suspension modifications, and brake upgrades can quickly add up.
• Ride Quality: Supermoto wheels and tires can make the ride harsher, especially on rough roads. Be prepared for a less comfortable ride.
• Off-Road Capability: Supermoto wheels will significantly reduce your Africa Twin's off-road capabilities. If you plan on doing any serious off-road riding, you'll need to switch back to your stock wheels.
• ABS Issues: As mentioned earlier, the ABS system may not function properly with supermoto wheels. You may need to disable the ABS or recalibrate it.
• Legality: In some areas, supermoto conversions may not be street legal. Check your local laws and regulations before making any modifications.

Conclusion: Is Supermoto Conversion Right for You?

So, is converting your Honda Africa Twin to supermoto worth it? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're primarily a street rider who enjoys carving up twisty roads, then a supermoto conversion can be a fantastic upgrade. It will transform your Africa Twin into a more agile, responsive, and thrilling machine.

However, if you frequently ride off-road or prioritize comfort and long-distance touring, then a supermoto conversion may not be the best choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, do your research, and make an informed decision. Happy riding, guys!