Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

In terms of engine specifications, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 features an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It has an engine power of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1084 ccm.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is equipped with a V-type engine with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It has a higher engine power of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm. The starter is also electric and the transmission is chain-driven. Similar to the Honda, it has 2 cylinders but a higher displacement of 1301 ccm.

Both bikes have upside-down telescopic fork front suspension, with the Honda featuring a Showa brand and a diameter of 45 mm, while the KTM has a WP brand and a diameter of 48 mm. The front suspension travel is 230 mm for the Honda and 220 mm for the KTM. Both suspensions offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

For the rear suspension, both bikes have swing arm suspension with a monoshock. The Honda uses a Showa brand with a travel of 220 mm and offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The KTM also uses a WP brand with the same travel and adjustment options.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has a steel frame with a double cradle type. It has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021, on the other hand, has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular type. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm.

Both bikes have double disk front brakes, providing reliable stopping power. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes are equipped with ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Honda also offers additional features such as cruise control and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Honda has a slightly larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches compared to the KTM's 17 inches. Both bikes have a similar wheelbase, with the Honda measuring 1575 mm and the KTM measuring 1577 mm. The seat height is higher on the KTM at 880 mm compared to the Honda's 850 mm. The Honda also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters, providing a longer range of 506 km compared to the KTM's 23 liters and range of 403 km. The combined fuel consumption is lower for the Honda at 4.9 l/100km compared to the KTM's 5.7 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes are equipped with LED headlights and a TFT display. The Honda also offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the KTM offers additional features such as cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is praised for its very good chassis, both mechanical and electronic. The option for a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) makes it a superior touring bike. It also has high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, good wind protection, and a high-quality overall impression. The engine is described as flawless with great response and a linear torque curve. The bike offers accessible handling and a pleasant ride, making it a versatile choice.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is praised for its robust overall impression and high-quality, practical chassis. It has a great seat for endurance in the saddle and is equipped with sporty and high-quality components. The engine is powerful yet easy to control, and it offers practical riding aids.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is criticized for its wind protection being too good in the heat, with even the lowest position of the wind shield hardly allowing any wind through. The operation of the numerous switches is described as complex, even after two days of testing. The seat also seems a bit too soft after a long day of riding.

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is criticized for lacking individual features in the basic equipment, considering its high price. The controls are also described as fiddly.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 offer impressive performance and features. The Honda excels in terms of its chassis and electronic ride aids, while the KTM offers a robust overall impression and powerful engine. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and priorities.