SPARK GHO1702 Slip-On Exhaust Review for Africa Twin (2020+): Worth the Upgrade?
The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has built its reputation on reliability, versatility, and adventure-ready performance. But even the most capable machines can be improved—and one of the most common upgrades among adventure riders is replacing the stock exhaust system. In this review, we dive into the SPARK GHO1702 "Fighter" Slip-On Exhaust, a titanium EU-homologated exhaust designed specifically for the Africa Twin (2020+). Is it worth the upgrade? Let’s find out.
Overview of the SPARK GHO1702 Slip-On Exhaust
The SPARK GHO1702 is a premium slip-on exhaust system crafted from lightweight titanium. Engineered for performance and street-legal compliance, it’s part of SPARK's “Fighter” series and comes with EU homologation, making it fully road-legal across Europe.
Key features include:
- Material: Lightweight titanium
- Design: Slip-on fitment, no cutting or welding required
- Sound: Deeper, throatier tone while remaining within legal decibel limits
- Weight Reduction: Significantly lighter than the OEM exhaust
- Approval: Euro 5 compliant (street legal)
Performance Enhancement
One of the biggest reasons riders opt for a slip-on exhaust is performance. While the SPARK GHO1702 doesn't make massive horsepower gains alone, it does improve throttle response, mid-range torque, and overall ride dynamics. The titanium construction also aids in weight reduction, making the bike feel more nimble off-road and easier to handle during long-distance touring.
Pairing it with a high-performance collector, like the SPARK Racing Collector, can further unlock performance potential, especially when tuned properly.
Sound Quality
Riders often underestimate the impact of sound on the riding experience. The SPARK "Fighter" delivers a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note compared to the stock system, without being obnoxious or illegal. It strikes a perfect balance between sporty and refined—especially appreciated during long highway stretches or urban rides.
If you’re after a slightly different tonal profile, the SPARK "Dakar" Slip-On Exhaust is another excellent EU-homologated option with a distinct rally-inspired tone.
Installation and Fitment
The SPARK GHO1702 is designed for plug-and-play installation on the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin (2020+). No cutting, welding, or ECU remapping is required, although remapping can help maximize performance gains when paired with other exhaust components.
Included in the box:
- Slip-on exhaust with titanium body
- Mounting hardware
- EU homologation certificate
- Installation instructions
Build Quality and Design
SPARK is known for its racing heritage and premium manufacturing. The GHO1702 “Fighter” model reflects this legacy with high-quality welds, a brushed titanium finish, and a design that complements the Africa Twin’s rugged aesthetics. Despite being a performance part, it fits in seamlessly with the bike’s factory lines.
For full adventure touring protection, consider pairing this exhaust with the Barkbusters Handguard Kit to safeguard your controls during off-road adventures.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
If you're looking to:
- Improve the sound and aesthetics of your Africa Twin
- Reduce weight and slightly boost performance
- Stay compliant with EU road regulations
- Avoid a full exhaust system replacement
Then the SPARK GHO1702 Slip-On Exhaust is absolutely worth the investment. It’s an ideal entry point into performance upgrades and one of the most refined slip-ons available for the Africa Twin platform.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the SPARK GHO1702 Slip-On Exhaust “Fighter” (Titanium, EU homologated) for the Honda Africa Twin (2020+) from 2WheelsHero, a trusted supplier of premium motorcycle parts and accessories.
Buy the SPARK GHO1702 Exhaust here
Final Thoughts
The SPARK GHO1702 Slip-On Exhaust is more than just a cosmetic or sound upgrade. It enhances ride quality, adds personality to your machine, and does so while meeting legal noise and emission requirements. For riders who demand premium components and real-world performance, this titanium slip-on is a smart and stylish choice.