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

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both popular models in the adventure motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, there are also significant differences that set them apart.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853cc, producing 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 features a larger inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc, delivering 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. This gives the Honda a slight advantage in terms of power output.

Both motorcycles feature a chain drive transmission and have a similar number of cylinders. However, the BMW F 850 GS has a smaller bore and stroke compared to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT, which may affect the overall performance and characteristics of the engine.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic front fork and a rear swingarm with a monoshock. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension to their preferences. The BMW F 850 GS, on the other hand, only offers preload and rebound adjustments.

When it comes to chassis, both motorcycles feature a steel frame. However, the BMW F 850 GS has a tubular frame with the engine acting as a load-bearing component, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a double cradle frame. The Honda's chassis design may provide better stability and handling characteristics.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual-disc front brakes. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT offers more advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, throttle-by-wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. The BMW F 850 GS, on the other hand, only offers ABS as a rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire and a 150mm wide rear tire. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has an 18-inch rear tire compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 17-inch rear tire. The Honda also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters, compared to the BMW's 15-liter capacity. The Honda is slightly heavier, weighing 248 kg compared to the BMW's 229 kg.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 offers good wind and weather protection, a well-designed operating concept, practical equipment, and user-friendly operation and ease of riding in daily use. It also has comfortable seats and an excellent connectivity solution. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 boasts a powerful engine, a fantastic semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic riding aids, a color touchscreen display, good ergonomics, long-distance touring capability, and almost "too good" wind protection.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 experiences vibrations at higher rev ranges, has a dull engine, a stiff and quick gear lever, inadequate front damping, non-adjustable forks, a sense of weight, and a front brake that could be more effective. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020, on the other hand, has a confusing array of buttons on the left handlebar, a heavy weight, and a higher price tag, although it may be justified.

Overall, both the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on the rider's preferences, intended usage, and budget.