Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is equipped with an in-line engine that has a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The engine is started electrically and the power is transmitted to the wheels through a chain transmission. The bike has a displacement of 1084 ccm and features a double cradle steel frame. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork 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 bike has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1574 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight of the bike is 226 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 is equipped with a V-type engine that has a bore of 105 mm and a stroke of 72 mm. It produces 150 HP of power and 127 Nm of torque. The engine is started electrically and the power is transmitted to the wheels through a chain transmission. The bike has a displacement of 1252 ccm and features a double cradle aluminum frame. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47 mm and a travel of 191 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191 mm. The bike has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1585 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight of the bike is 258 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional). It also has a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and is capable of long-distance riding. The windscreen of the Africa Twin is also good for off-road use. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 has a sporty powerplant, a comfortable seating position, and good pillion suitability. It also features extensive electronics, an original HD pannier system, and provides good wind protection. The Pan America also comes with cornering ABS and cornering TC as standard, and has the option for a seat lowering when stationary. It also has good off-road characteristics.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. Its handguards are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics of the Africa Twin are also not ideal for standing riding. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 tends to generate engine heat in city mode, and it does not have a quickshifter available.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. They have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of performance, features, and riding experience.