Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
Overview - Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles.
The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 is equipped with a 1084cc in-line engine that delivers 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. It features an electric starter and a chain transmission. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle design. The front brakes are double disk. The Africa Twin comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The seat height is adjustable from 850mm to 870mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 226kg. It has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters, providing a range of 383km. Additional equipment includes Bluetooth, connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.
On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a 1254cc boxer engine that delivers 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It also features an electric starter but has a prop shaft transmission. The front suspension is a telelever with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The frame is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine design. The front brakes are double disk. The R 1250 GS Adventure comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, and ride by wire. It has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The seat height is adjustable from 890mm to 910mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 268kg. It has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of 631km. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022
In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a powerful engine and sophisticated electronic driving aids. It also offers the option of a DCT transmission, which is known for its smooth and seamless gear shifts. The touch-screen color display is user-friendly and provides easy access to various settings and information. The bike has good ergonomics, making it comfortable for long-distance rides. The windshield is effective in off-road conditions, providing adequate protection.
On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high-torque engine that delivers strong acceleration from low revs. Its low center of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability, making it easier to handle in various riding conditions. The bike is equipped with practical details for frequent riders, such as cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and a heated seat. It has a gigantic range of 600km and remarkably low fuel consumption. The wind and weather protection is excellent, and the ride comfort is top-notch. The powerful engine and great electronics contribute to a confident feeling in the saddle. The display is easy to read, and the bike offers practical riding aids. The ergonomics are particularly suitable for tall riders.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The operating concept of the electronics on the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 is not very clear and intuitive, which may require some time to get used to. The handguards are not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics of the Africa Twin are not ideal for standing riding, which may be a disadvantage for off-road enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high weight, which may make it less maneuverable in certain situations. The gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy, affecting the overall riding experience. The bike has a jagged appearance with little elegance, which may not appeal to riders looking for a more stylish design. Additionally, the R 1250 GS Adventure is high-priced when fully equipped, which may be a deterrent for some buyers.
In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a powerful engine, sophisticated electronics, and good ergonomics, while the R 1250 GS Adventure provides a high-torque engine, practical details, and excellent ride comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
Technical Specifications Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 compared to BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

For me, the Africa Twin is a touring enduro as a touring enduro should be. This was already true of the predecessor model and did not change with the increase in displacement and power. Because the latter remained manageable at 102 hp, and Honda even managed to shed a few kilos compared to the CRF1000L. So it remained versatile, functioning just as well on the motorway as off-road. The chassis absorbs almost all bumps, the engine remains sovereign in every situation, ergonomics and seating comfort are exemplary. A motorbike for all days as well as for the big trip - wherever that may be.
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The big GS Adventure is and remains a great motorbike for any terrain - even for tight corners. The low centre of gravity of the boxer engine, the longitudinally mounted crankshaft, the upright seating position and the powerful but easily controllable torque from far below are simply a force. Although the Adventure version has a higher seat with more weight, which is a decisive hindrance when turning or manoeuvring, in terms of performance the engine also has so much punch in the big GS Adventure that you can let it rip. The BMW's braking system is stable and excellently controllable, and the equipment and electronics can be upgraded considerably - as long as you tick the boxes on the order list. Of course, this pushes up the price, but the many fans of the fat GS Adventure obviously don't mind.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin vs BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
There are a few key differences between a Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is about 67% higher. Compared to BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 there are less Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 4 compared to 47. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure with 64 days compared to 82 days for the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin. Since model year 2020 1000PS.de editors have written 28 reviews for the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and 30 reviews for the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure since model year 2019. The first review for the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin was published on 9/23/2019 and now has more than 109,400 views. This compares to more than 43,300 views for the first review on BMW R 1250 GS Adventure published on 11/6/2018.