Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and features.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, both bikes have an inline, 2-cylinder engine. The Honda Africa Twin has a displacement of 1084cc, while the Husqvarna Norden has a slightly smaller displacement of 889cc. In terms of power, the Honda Africa Twin produces 102 HP, while the Husqvarna Norden offers 105 HP. The torque output is 105 Nm for the Honda and 100 Nm for the Husqvarna. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The Honda Africa Twin uses Showa suspension with a 45mm diameter and offers 230mm of travel. The Husqvarna Norden, on the other hand, uses WP suspension with a larger 48mm diameter and provides 240mm of travel. Both bikes have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the front suspension. At the rear, both bikes have swing arm suspension with a monoshock. The Honda Africa Twin has a Showa monoshock with 220mm of travel, while the Husqvarna Norden has a WP monoshock with the same travel distance. Both bikes also offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the rear suspension.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of the chassis, the Honda Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design. It has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm. The Husqvarna Norden, on the other hand, has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.2 degrees and a trail of 106.9mm.

Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front and offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Honda Africa Twin also includes additional features like cruise control and anti-wheelie assistance.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width with an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The Honda Africa Twin has a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters, offering a range of 506km and a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km. The Husqvarna Norden, on the other hand, has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 19 liters, offering a range of 422km and a combined fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes offer modern features such as LED headlights, TFT displays, and connectivity options. The Honda Africa Twin also includes Bluetooth and has a high-quality overall impression. The Husqvarna Norden offers additional features like LED daytime running lights and a quickshifter.

Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bike. The Honda Africa Twin has a very good chassis, both mechanically and electronically, making it a superior touring bike. The optional DCT transmission adds to its versatility. It also offers high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, providing a pleasant and comfortable ride. The engine is flawless with great response and a linear torque curve. The Husqvarna Norden, on the other hand, offers a high-quality and fully adjustable chassis, providing great comfort in the saddle. It also has improved off-road capabilities and comes with top-of-the-range equipment as standard. The engine is powerful yet smooth-running, and the bike has an agile geometry. Both bikes have good fuel consumption figures and a high-quality appearance and finish.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda Africa Twin's wind protection is too good in hot conditions, limiting airflow even in the lowest position of the wind shield. The operation of the numerous switches may seem complex, and the seat may feel too soft after a long day of riding. The Husqvarna Norden has a seat height of 874mm, which may be critical for shorter riders. It also lacks a USB slot in the cockpit and the standard soft luggage is not top quality.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a versatile and practical touring experience, while the Husqvarna Norden provides improved off-road capabilities and top-of-the-range equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's specific preferences and needs.