Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 have similar specifications. They both have a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of around 1000cc. However, the Africa Twin has a slightly higher engine power of 102 HP compared to the V-Strom's 107 HP. The Africa Twin also has a higher torque of 105 Nm compared to the V-Strom's 100 Nm. Both motorcycles have an electric starter and use a chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the Africa Twin has an upside-down telescopic fork from Showa in the front with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The suspension on the V-Strom is also an upside-down telescopic fork, but from Kayaba, with a smaller diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 160 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 160 mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. The Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm, while the V-Strom has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 109 mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front. The Africa Twin offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The V-Strom also has ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The V-Strom has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. Both motorcycles have a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575 mm, while the V-Strom has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1555 mm. The Africa Twin has a seat height of 850 mm, while the V-Strom has a slightly higher seat height of 855 mm. The Africa Twin has a kerb weight of 226 kg with ABS, while the V-Strom has a slightly higher kerb weight of 236 kg with ABS. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 18-20 liters.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the V-Strom has a great V2 engine that is completely convincing in practice, good wind protection, pleasant seating comfort, and great long-distance capability.

In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. The V-Strom has deficits in the equipment, with some details from the XT version being missed.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced rider assistance systems, while the V-Strom offers a comfortable riding experience and a great V2 engine. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.