Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both popular adventure motorcycles that offer impressive performance and features.

Starting with the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022, it boasts a powerful inline engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It delivers 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, providing excellent acceleration and a linear torque curve. The bike features a steel frame with a double cradle design, offering a sturdy and reliable chassis. The suspension setup includes a telescopic fork at the front with 45mm diameter and 230mm travel, and a monoshock rear suspension with 220mm travel. The bike comes equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and cruise control. It also features a range of convenient equipment like Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports has a fuel capacity of 24.8 liters, providing a range of 506 km. It weighs 238 kg (with ABS) and has a seat height ranging from 850 mm to 870 mm.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It delivers a higher power output of 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque, providing strong acceleration and impressive low-end torque. The bike features a steel frame with a motor load-bearing design, ensuring a low center of gravity and excellent maneuverability. The suspension setup includes a telelever front suspension with 37mm diameter and 210mm travel, and a monoshock rear suspension with 220mm travel. The bike comes equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and electronically adjustable suspension. It also features practical features like cornering lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a larger fuel capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of 631 km. It weighs 268 kg (with ABS) and has a seat height ranging from 890 mm to 910 mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports offers a high-quality chassis, both mechanically and electronically. The optional DCT transmission makes it a superior touring bike, and it also boasts practical and high-quality electronic riding aids. The bike provides good wind protection and has an overall impression of high quality. The engine delivers excellent response and a linear torque curve, making it enjoyable to ride. The bike is versatile and offers a pleasant riding experience.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs. Its low center of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability, and it offers practical details for frequent riders. The bike has a huge range of 600 km and remarkably low fuel consumption. It provides good wind and weather protection and offers great riding comfort. The powerful engine and excellent electronic system, along with an easy-to-read display, inspire confidence. The bike also offers practical riding aids and excellent ergonomics for taller riders.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports has overly good wind protection in hot weather, and even the lowest position of the windscreen restricts airflow. The operation through the numerous switches may seem complex, even after two days of testing. The seat may also feel too soft after a long day of riding.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a high weight, making it slightly cumbersome at low speeds. The gear changes at low revs can be somewhat awkward, and the bike has an irregular appearance with limited elegance. The price is also high, especially when considering all the additional equipment.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are impressive adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a versatile and enjoyable riding experience, while the BMW provides a powerful engine and excellent electronic systems. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and priorities.