Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 are both enduro motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of either 75.1 mm (CRF1000L) or 81.5 mm (CRF1100L). The engine power has been increased from 95 HP in the CRF1000L to 102 HP in the CRF1100L, and the torque has also been increased from 98 Nm to 105 Nm. Both models have an electric starter and a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both models have an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock absorber. The brand of the suspension is Showa for both models, and they both have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings.

The chassis of both models is made of steel, and they both have double disk front brakes. The advanced rider assistance systems include ABS and traction control for both models. However, the CRF1100L also has additional features such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly shorter in the CRF1100L at 1574 mm compared to 1575 mm in the CRF1000L. The seat height is the same for both models at 850 mm, but it can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is slightly lighter in the CRF1100L at 226 kg compared to 232 kg in the CRF1000L. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters.

The strengths of the CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 include its comfortable yet engaging ride, a well-sized engine that provides a pleasant experience, and a seat height that works well for riders around 175 cm in height.

On the other hand, the strengths of the CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 include a more powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. The windshield is also noted to be good for off-road riding.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

In terms of weaknesses, the CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 has suspension elements that are too comfortably tuned at high speeds and traction control that needs to be readjusted after every short break when riding off-road.

The CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has weaknesses in its operating concept of the electronics, which is not very clear and intuitive. The handguards are not very robust for off-road use, the windshield offers only manageable protection, and the ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding.

Overall, the CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 offers improvements in terms of engine power, electronic features, and overall functionality compared to the CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017. However, there are still some areas where further improvements could be made.