Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 are both popular enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda Africa Twin has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 75.1 mm, producing 95 HP and 98 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a displacement of 998 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW GS Adventure has a boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, producing 125 HP and 125 Nm of torque. It has a prop shaft transmission and a displacement of 1170 ccm.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

Both motorcycles have a steel frame and double disk front brakes. The Honda Africa Twin has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension. The BMW GS Adventure has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1575 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 232 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the BMW GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1510 mm, a seat height of 910 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 260 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

The Honda Africa Twin is known for its comfortable but not boring ride, with a pleasant and perfectly dimensioned engine. Its seat height is slightly lower than the BMW GS Adventure, making it more suitable for riders with a height of 175 cm and above. On the other hand, the BMW GS Adventure is praised for being easy to ride, with a 33-liter tank that provides a longer range. Its ergonomics and brakes are also highly regarded.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014

However, the Honda Africa Twin has some weaknesses. Its suspension elements are well-suited for off-road riding but are too comfortably tuned at high speeds. The traction control can be annoying off-road as it needs to be readjusted after every short break. On the other hand, the BMW GS Adventure does not have any specific weaknesses mentioned.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a comfortable ride and a well-dimensioned engine, while the BMW GS Adventure is known for its easy handling and larger fuel tank capacity. Riders should consider their preferences and riding style when choosing between these two models.