Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It delivers a powerful 102 HP and 105 Nm of torque. The engine is started electrically and the power is transmitted through a chain transmission. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 also features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc. It produces 95 HP and 88 Nm of torque, making it slightly less powerful than the Africa Twin. The engine is also started electrically and power is transmitted through a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is equipped with Showa forks with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a Showa monoshock and a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 features WP forks with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension also consists of a swing arm with a WP monoshock and a travel of 200mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 features a steel frame with a double cradle design. It has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.1 degrees and a trail of 107.8mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front for effective stopping power. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 also offers cornering ABS and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1575mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850mm to 870mm. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 has the same tire dimensions as the Africa Twin. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1509mm and a slightly lower seat height that can be adjusted from 840mm to 860mm. The fuel tank capacity is slightly larger at 20 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles are equipped with LED headlights. However, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 offers additional features such as connectivity and a TFT display, providing a more modern and advanced user experience.

KTM 790 Adventure 2023

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 offers a high-torque 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 rides. The windshield is also perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 has a rev-happy engine with impressive power, low fuel consumption, excellent traction control regulation, and effective wind protection with a wide range of settings. It also offers logical controls, agile handling, precise ride, effective brakes, comfortable on-road ergonomics, and a well-dosed clutch.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear to use. The handguards are also not very robust for off-road use and the windshield offers manageable protection. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 has a sporty Quickshifter+ that is only available at an extra cost. The chassis adjustment range is also not too wide and the handlebar position is too low for off-road riding.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced features, while the 790 Adventure provides a more agile and precise riding experience with excellent fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.