BMW F 850 GS 2018 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

The BMW F 850 GS 2018 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 are both enduro motorcycles that offer excellent performance and versatility for off-road adventures.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853cc. It delivers a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 also features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine but with a larger displacement of 1084cc. It produces a higher power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions at the rear. The BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a front suspension diameter of 43mm and a travel of 204mm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a front suspension diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. In terms of rear suspension travel, the BMW offers 219mm of travel, while the Honda provides 220mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 offers additional adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound, providing riders with more customization options.

BMW F 850 GS 2018

Both motorcycles have steel frames, but the BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 features a double cradle frame type. The rake and trail measurements are similar for both bikes, with the BMW having a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 126mm, while the Honda has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm.

In terms of braking systems, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW F 850 GS 2018 offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 provides additional features like riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a slightly larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches compared to the 17 inches of the BMW F 850 GS 2018. The wheelbase of the BMW is 1593mm, while the Honda has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1575mm. The seat height of the BMW is 860mm, while the Honda offers a slightly lower seat height of 850mm. The kerb weight of both motorcycles is similar, with the BMW weighing 229kg and the Honda weighing 226kg. The fuel tank capacity of the BMW is 15 liters, while the Honda has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 offers a superior engine, adequate braking system, very good seating position, easy handling, extensive range of accessories, riding modes, traction control, and is off-road capable. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 boasts a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT option, a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield perfect for off-roading.

However, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 does have a few weaknesses, including a disc that is positioned too low and sound that could be better. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 also has some weaknesses, such as a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear and handguards that are not very robust for off-road use. Additionally, the windshield on the Honda offers manageable protection.

In conclusion, both the BMW F 850 GS 2018 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of engine performance, electronic features, ergonomics, and off-road capabilities.