KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The KTM 1090 Adventure model year 2018 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT model year 2020 are both powerful enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1090 Adventure is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1050ccm, producing 125 horsepower and 109 Nm of torque. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT features an in-line twin engine with a displacement of 1084ccm, delivering 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter and a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, the KTM 1090 Adventure is equipped with WP suspension components, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT features Showa suspension components. The front suspension on the Honda has a larger diameter and offers more travel compared to the KTM, providing better off-road performance.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

When it comes to the chassis, the KTM 1090 Adventure has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a steel frame. The KTM has a slightly larger rake and trail, which contributes to its agile and safe handling.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, ensuring reliable stopping power. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models are equipped with ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT offers additional features such as cornering ABS, ride by wire, anti-wheelie control, and a more sophisticated electronic package overall.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a larger fuel tank capacity and is slightly heavier compared to the KTM 1090 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 850mm and similar rear tire dimensions. However, the Honda has larger front and rear tire diameters, which can provide better off-road capability.

In terms of equipment, the KTM 1090 Adventure has an adjustable windshield, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT features LED headlights and a touchscreen color display.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure offers a very powerful engine with a wide rev range, performance modes, adjustable ergonomics, and a comparatively low price. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT, on the other hand, has a powerful engine, a wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic driving aids, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability.

However, the KTM 1090 Adventure has some weaknesses, including outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures and a suspension fork that is not adjustable. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar, a higher weight, and a higher price.

Overall, both motorcycles have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and priorities.