BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

The BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and versatility for various riding conditions.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 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 features a larger inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc, delivering 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric start and chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles are equipped with a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure offers a front suspension travel of 230mm and a rear suspension travel of 215mm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports provides a front suspension travel of 230mm and a rear suspension travel of 220mm. The Honda model also offers adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the rear suspension, providing greater customization options.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of chassis, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure features a steel frame with a tubular design that supports the engine, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports utilizes a dual-cradle steel frame. Both motorcycles have a rake angle of 62 degrees, providing stability and agility in off-road conditions. The BMW model has a trail of 124.6mm, while the Honda model has a slightly shorter trail of 113mm.

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure does not specify the type of brakes, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports features dual disc brakes with ABS for curve stability. Both motorcycles offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and multiple riding modes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles feature a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm width rear tire. However, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a 17-inch rear tire diameter, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports has an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The BMW model has a longer wheelbase of 1593mm compared to the Honda model's 1575mm. The seat height of the BMW model is 875mm, while the Honda model offers a slightly lower seat height of 850mm. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a curb weight of 244kg, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports weighs slightly less at 238kg. Both motorcycles have a generous fuel tank capacity, with the BMW model offering 23 liters and the Honda model offering 24.8 liters.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure is praised for its smooth and refined engine, top-notch ergonomics and comfort, suitability for touring and off-road riding, and overall technical maturity. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports is praised for its excellent chassis, both mechanical and electronic, superior touring capabilities with the optional DCT transmission, practical and high-quality electronic rider aids, good wind protection, high-quality overall impression, impeccable engine with great response and linear torque curve, accessible handling, and enjoyable riding experience. The Honda model is also praised for its versatility.

As for weaknesses, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure is criticized for its high price with additional equipment, lack of emotional connection from the engine, non-adjustable fork, and relatively high weight. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports is criticized for its overly effective wind protection in hot conditions, complex operation through numerous switches, even after a few days of testing, and a seat that may feel too soft after a long day of riding.

Overall, both the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 offer impressive performance, advanced features, and versatility for enduro riding. The choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, priorities, and budget considerations.