Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer off-road capabilities and are designed for adventure riding. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine performance, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 has a larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the BMW F 850 GS 2022's 853cc engine. The Honda also has a higher engine power of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm, while the BMW has 95 HP and 92 Nm of torque. This gives the Honda a slight advantage in terms of power and acceleration.

Both motorcycles feature an in-line engine configuration and use a chain transmission. They also have a similar suspension setup with upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. However, the Honda has a larger front fork diameter of 45mm compared to the BMW's 43mm. The Honda also has slightly longer suspension travel at the front and rear, which can provide better off-road performance.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame, which can provide better rigidity and stability. The Honda has a double cradle frame, which is also sturdy but may not offer the same level of rigidity.

When it comes to rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 has a more advanced set of rider aids, including riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW F 850 GS 2022 only has ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. However, the BMW has a slightly smaller 17-inch rear tire diameter compared to the Honda's 18-inch. The BMW also has a longer wheelbase of 1593mm compared to the Honda's 1575mm. The seat height of the BMW is slightly higher at 860mm compared to the Honda's 850mm. The Honda is also heavier with a kerb weight of 250kg compared to the BMW's 229kg. However, the Honda has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters compared to the BMW's 15 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT, a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield with a good adjustment range and semi-active suspension that is close to perfection.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 has good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use, good seat comfort, and a great connectivity solution.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The BMW F 850 GS 2022 has vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, front damping that is too lax, a fork that is not adjustable, a ponderous feel, and a front brake that could do with more bite.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers more power, advanced rider aids, and a larger fuel tank capacity, while the BMW offers good wind protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, and practical features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.