Tamiya 16042 - 1:6 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 1:6 scale plastic model kit

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin brought back a name steeped in Dakar Rally legend. Tamiya 16042 reproduces the bike in large 1:6 scale using completely new tooling created in 2017. The finished model measures 390 × 158 × 255 mm.

This is one of the most elaborate motorcycle kits in the Tamiya catalogue. It makes extensive use of metal axles and screw fittings, so assembly largely follows the authentic procedure used to build the real machine. The 998 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine is reproduced together with its air filter housing and radiator, while the ignition leads, throttle cable and brake lines are made from vinyl tubing.

Front and rear suspension remain movable – the rear shock absorber has a coil spring and a metal axle, and the front fork tubes are supplemented with metal parts. The spoked wheels are assembled from separate spokes and rims, which makes them far easier to paint. The headlights are multi-part assemblies combining metallic-finished and clear components, and the screen is secured with a screw. The kit also includes parts for an optional centre stand and the pedal of the DCT version.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues
• Numerous metal axles and screw fittings providing an authentic assembly procedure
• 998 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine with reproduced air filter housing and radiator
• Ignition leads, throttle cable and brake lines made from vinyl tubing
• Synthetic rubber tyres with realistic tread
• Metallic-finished muffler and exhaust components
• Metallic-finished emblem for the fairing
• Multi-part headlights (metallic-finished and clear components) and clear lens parts
• Movable rear shock absorber (coil spring and metal axle) plus working front and rear suspension
• Front fork tubes with metal components
• Screen secured with a screw
• Spoked wheels assembled from separate spokes and rims (easier painting)
• Parts for an optional centre stand and the DCT version pedal
• Clear display stand
• Waterslide decals for two paint schemes: Pearl Glare White (Tricolor) and Victory Red
• Masking sheet for the tank and fairings
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:6
• Catalogue number: 16042
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Model size: 390 × 158 × 255 mm
• Tooling: new, 2017
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

Note: The kit does not include cement, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Assembly:

Modern tooling and Tamiya's characteristic parts fit keep this kit approachable even for less experienced modellers, despite its elaborate construction. Many components are joined with metal axles and screws, much as on a real motorcycle – all it takes is a suitable screwdriver and an unhurried pace. The spoked wheels, built up from separate spokes and rims, are conveniently painted before final assembly; this is one of the design solutions that makes a clean finish far easier to achieve here. It is also worth planning the painting of the engine and frame in advance, as access becomes limited once the fairings are in place.

The model can be finished in one of two schemes: Pearl Glare White (Tricolor) or Victory Red. The included masking sheet for the tank and fairings helps to reproduce the colour separations precisely, particularly on the tricolour scheme. Applying the decals over a gloss coat is recommended, as it prevents decal silvering; the finished model can then be sealed with a clear coat of the desired sheen. Metallic-finished parts – the muffler, exhaust components and the fairing emblem – can be left as supplied, or airbrushed with chrome-like or metallic paints (e.g. Alclad, AK Xtreme Metal) if a different metal tone is preferred. The drive chain in this kit is reproduced as a moulded part; a movable link-by-link chain set, Tamiya 12674, is available separately as an aftermarket addition.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Precision screwdriver for the screw fittings
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel), including metallic shades
• Gloss clear coat for the decals and a final clear coat
• A wash to accentuate engine and suspension detail
• Optional: an airbrush for the large surfaces of the fairings and tank

About the motorcycle – Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin:

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin was launched in 2015 as a 2016 model, reviving a name known from the 1988 XRV650 Africa Twin – a machine derived directly from the NXR750 rally bike that won the Dakar Rally.

Power comes from a 998 cc liquid-cooled four-stroke parallel-twin producing, in European specification, around 95 hp at 7,500 rpm and 98 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The bike is built around a semi-double cradle frame, and its off-road character is underlined by a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear. Riders can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox and the automatic DCT.

The machine is equipped with HSTC traction control and ABS, and with an 18-litre fuel tank and a kerb weight of 232 kg it is a genuinely versatile touring enduro. The Africa Twin quickly became one of the most popular offerings in the adventure class, combining rally heritage with long-distance comfort.

Original specifications (Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin):

• Launch: 2015 (2016 model year)
• Engine: liquid-cooled four-stroke parallel-twin
• Displacement: 998 cc
• Power: approx. 95 hp at 7,500 rpm (European specification)
• Torque: 98 Nm at 6,000 rpm
• Gearbox: 6-speed manual or automatic DCT
• Frame: semi-double cradle
• Wheels: 21" front, 18" rear
• Fuel tank: 18 l
• Kerb weight: 232 kg
• Equipment: HSTC traction control, ABS

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of the Japanese model industry. The company originally traded in timber and produced wooden models, releasing its first plastic model kit in 1960. The brand is known for exceptionally precise injection moulds and outstanding parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The large 1:6 motorcycle kits are among the most spectacular entries in the catalogue, combining detailed mechanicals, metal parts and working assemblies. Beyond plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling supplies: paints, cements, tools and brushes. Today the company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.