Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2022

When comparing the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022, there are several factors to consider.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both motorcycles have an in-line engine with two cylinders. However, the Africa Twin has a larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the F 850 GS's 853cc. The Africa Twin also has a higher power output of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm, while the F 850 GS has 95 HP and 92 Nm of torque. Both bikes have an electric starter and chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Africa Twin has a larger front fork diameter of 45mm compared to the F 850 GS's 43mm. The Africa Twin also has a longer front suspension travel of 230mm, while the F 850 GS has 204mm. However, the F 850 GS has a slightly longer rear suspension travel of 219mm compared to the Africa Twin's 220mm. The Africa Twin offers adjustable compression, preload, and rebound on the rear suspension, while the F 850 GS only offers preload and rebound adjustment.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the Africa Twin has a double cradle frame type, while the F 850 GS has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type. Both bikes have a similar rake angle, with the Africa Twin at 62.5 degrees and the F 850 GS at 62 degrees. The F 850 GS has a longer trail measurement of 126mm compared to the Africa Twin's 113mm.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Africa Twin comes equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The F 850 GS only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. However, the Africa Twin has an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the F 850 GS has a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Africa Twin has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1575mm compared to the F 850 GS's 1593mm. The Africa Twin also has a lower seat height of 850mm compared to the F 850 GS's 860mm. The Africa Twin has a higher kerb weight of 236kg with ABS, while the F 850 GS weighs 229kg with ABS. The Africa Twin also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters compared to the F 850 GS's 15 liters.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin 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 that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the F 850 GS 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, the Africa Twin does have some weaknesses, including handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a flood of switches on the left handlebar, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. The F 850 GS has its own weaknesses, including 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.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 have their own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of performance, features, and riding experience.