Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs. Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017
Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
Overview - Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a combination of on-road and off-road capabilities. While they have some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, there are also notable differences in their technical specifications and strengths.
Starting with the engine and drive train, both motorcycles have an inline 2-cylinder engine. However, the Africa Twin has a larger displacement of 998cc compared to the Versys' 649cc. This results in the Africa Twin having a higher engine power of 95 HP and torque of 98 Nm, while the Versys has 69 HP and 64 Nm respectively. The Africa Twin also has a slightly larger bore and stroke, which may contribute to its higher power output.
In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Africa Twin offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the Versys only has rebound adjustment. This gives the Africa Twin an advantage in terms of fine-tuning the suspension to suit different riding conditions.
Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017
When it comes to chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame, providing durability and stability. The Africa Twin has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575mm compared to the Versys' 1415mm. This may contribute to the Africa Twin's stability at higher speeds and off-road maneuverability. However, the Versys has a lower seat height of 840mm compared to the Africa Twin's 850mm, making it more accessible for riders with shorter inseams.
In terms of braking, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. The Africa Twin has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the Versys' 17 inches, which may contribute to better off-road performance and stability. The Versys, on the other hand, has a wider rear tire width of 160mm compared to the Africa Twin's 150mm.
When it comes to weight, the Versys is lighter with a kerb weight of 216kg compared to the Africa Twin's 232kg. This may contribute to the Versys' agile and light-footed handling, as mentioned in its strengths. However, the Africa Twin has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters compared to the Versys' 21 liters, which may result in a longer range between refueling.
Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin is praised for its comfortable yet engaging riding experience, perfectly dimensioned engine, and a seat height that may be more suitable for taller riders. On the other hand, the Versys is commended for its great travel comfort, pleasant and comfortable chassis, easy-to-use nature, touring-ready seating position, and agile handling.
In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin's suspension may be too comfortably tuned at high speeds, and its traction control may require frequent readjustments off-road. The Versys, on the other hand, may experience vibrations in the footpegs, have less responsive behavior during transitions, and lack the ability to deactivate the ABS. Additionally, the Versys' weight is somewhat high compared to the Africa Twin.
Overall, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine, greater adjustability in suspension, and a larger fuel tank capacity. The Versys, on the other hand, provides great travel comfort, a comfortable chassis, and agile handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.
Technical Specifications Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 compared to Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017
Still sensational. It scores with the familiar Honda virtues, but never gets stale. A motorbike that goes with you through thick and thin and doesn't tire even on extra-long tours. Very robust off-road, also copes with really tough passages without any problems. Still the benchmark for touring enduros in 2017.
Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
The 2019 model year Kawasaki Versys presented itself as a comfortable, stable yet lively touring machine. The motorbike is versatile and offers high utility value. It is a fully-fledged touring machine that is a pleasure to ride on extended tours. The bike offers a terrific price/performance ratio.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin vs Kawasaki Versys 650
There are a few key differences between a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and a Kawasaki Versys 650 2020. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 is about 48% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 there are more Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 13 compared to 11. It takes less time to sell a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin with 91 days compared to 137 days for a Kawasaki Versys 650. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 47 reviews for the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin and 39 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 650 since model year 2007. The first review for the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin was published on 12/05/2015 and now has more than 13,600 views. This compares to more than 3,900 views for the first review on Kawasaki Versys 650 published on 25/07/2006.
