Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. The BMW GS Adventure, on the other hand, features a boxer engine with the same number of cylinders and a displacement of 1254cc. It delivers a higher power output of 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin comes with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The BMW GS Adventure features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

When it comes to the chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. The Honda Africa Twin has a double cradle frame with a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm. The BMW GS Adventure has a load-bearing engine frame with a slightly steeper rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Honda Africa Twin features a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the BMW GS Adventure has a 19-inch front tire diameter and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The rear tire width is 150mm for the Honda and 170mm for the BMW. The wheelbase is 1575mm for the Honda and 1504mm for the BMW.

In terms of rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, riding modes, and ride-by-wire technology. The Honda Africa Twin also has cornering ABS, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. The BMW GS Adventure adds anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and electronically adjustable suspension to its list of advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda Africa Twin has a seat height of 850mm, which can be adjusted up to 870mm. It has a kerb weight of 236kg and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The BMW GS Adventure has a slightly higher seat height of 890mm, which can be adjusted up to 910mm. It has a higher kerb weight of 268kg but compensates with a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature LED headlights. The Honda Africa Twin has a touch-screen color display, while the BMW GS Adventure adds cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen to its list of equipment.

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and wonderfully functioning DCT. It also offers good ergonomics and long-distance capability, making it suitable for off-roading. The BMW GS Adventure, on the other hand, is praised for its practical details for frequent riders, gigantic range, low fuel consumption, and good wind and weather protection. It offers great ride comfort, a powerful engine, and a great connectivity app. It also has great headlights and ergonomics for tall people.

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin's handguards are not very robust for off-road use, and it has a flood of switches on the left handlebar. The windshield also offers only manageable protection. The BMW GS Adventure's high weight can strain maneuvering, and its gearshifts can be somewhat stiff at low revs. Additionally, some may find its appearance jagged with little elegance.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a high-torque engine and sophisticated electronic driving aids, while the BMW provides practical details, great ride comfort, and a powerful engine. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.