Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both popular choices in the adventure motorcycle segment. They have several similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, but also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It delivers a power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. On the other hand, the KTM Adventure R features a slightly smaller inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc. It produces a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 88 Nm. While both engines offer good performance, the Africa Twin has a slight advantage in terms of power and torque.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the Africa Twin is equipped with Showa suspension components, while the Adventure R uses WP suspension. The Africa Twin has a front fork diameter of 45mm and offers a travel of 230mm, while the Adventure R has a larger front fork diameter of 48mm and offers a travel of 240mm. The rear suspension travel is also the same for both bikes at 220mm. Overall, both motorcycles offer excellent suspension capabilities for off-road riding.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

When it comes to chassis, the Africa Twin features a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Adventure R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The Africa Twin has a rake angle of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, while the Adventure R has a slightly steeper rake angle of 63.7 degrees and a trail of 110.4mm. Both chassis are well-designed and provide stability and maneuverability in various riding conditions.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual-disc brakes at the front. The Africa Twin and Adventure R both offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, traction control, and cruise control. However, the Africa Twin also features additional systems like ABS for curves and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The Africa Twin has a front tire width of 150mm, while the Adventure R has a slightly wider front tire width of 90mm. The Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575mm, while the Adventure R has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528mm. The seat height is higher on the Adventure R at 880mm compared to the Africa Twin's 850mm. The Adventure R also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, while the Africa Twin has a capacity of 18.8 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin offers a high torque engine, sophisticated electronic riding aids, excellent functioning DCT, color touchscreen, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield suitable for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Adventure R boasts a high-quality chassis that allows for a wide range of usage, an engine with excellent performance and power, an easy-to-read display, a practical rally electronics package, and stability and maneuverability for both off-road and daily road use.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Africa Twin's handguards are not very robust for off-road use, it has a flood of switches on the left handlebar, and the windshield offers controllable protection. The Adventure R does not come with a standard gear lever, the indicator switch is a bit complicated, and the seat can be slightly uncomfortable on long trips compared to the standard model.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin excels in terms of power, torque, and electronic features, while the Adventure R offers a high-quality chassis and versatility for various riding conditions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended usage.