BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 are both popular choices in the adventure motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 features a Boxer type engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It has a shaft drive transmission and is equipped with a 2-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 has an inline engine with a displacement of 998cc, producing 95 HP of power and 98 Nm of torque. It has a chain drive transmission and also comes with a 2-cylinder configuration. While both bikes offer decent power and torque, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a slight advantage in terms of performance.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is equipped with a Telelever front suspension and a single swingarm rear suspension with a monoshock. It offers pre-load adjustment for both front and rear suspension. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 features a telescopic front fork and a swingarm rear suspension with a monoshock. It also offers compression, pre-load, and recovery adjustment for both front and rear suspension. Both bikes provide a comfortable and stable ride, with the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offering electronic suspension adjustment as an additional feature.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of chassis, both bikes have a steel frame construction, providing durability and stability. They also come with dual disc front brakes for efficient stopping power. However, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 offers additional advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and cruise control. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016, on the other hand, features ABS and traction control as its advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1504mm, a seat height of 890mm (adjustable up to 910mm), and a curb weight of 268kg (with ABS). It also has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, a wheelbase of 1575mm, a seat height of 850mm (adjustable up to 870mm), and a curb weight of 232kg (with ABS). It has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 offers practical details for frequent users, a large fuel tank for extended range, incredibly low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great riding comfort, a powerful engine, excellent connectivity features, an easy-to-read display, a comfortable seating position for both rider and passenger, practical riding aids, large headlights, great ergonomics for tall riders, and easy handling. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 is extremely enjoyable to ride, accelerates well, handles excellently, performs well off-road, and is suitable for long-distance travel. It also offers the unique feature of a dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a high weight during maneuvers, slightly stiff gear changes at low RPMs, and a somewhat bulky appearance. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 does not have a spectacular engine performance.

Overall, both the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2016 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offers more advanced features and a more powerful engine, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin provides a unique dual-clutch transmission option. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.