Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. KTM 890 Adventure 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 are both popular adventure motorcycles that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, both models have an inline twin-cylinder engine and chain transmission. The Honda Africa Twin has a displacement of 1084cc, while the KTM Adventure has a slightly smaller displacement of 889cc. The Africa Twin produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque, while the Adventure offers 105 HP of power and 100 Nm of torque.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. The Africa Twin is equipped with Showa suspension components, with a 45mm diameter fork and 230mm of travel at the front, and 220mm of travel at the rear. The Adventure, on the other hand, features WP suspension components, with a 48mm diameter fork and 200mm of travel at the front, and 200mm of travel at the rear.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of chassis, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Adventure features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular structure and engine as a load-bearing element. The rake angle of the Africa Twin is 62.5 degrees, while the Adventure has a slightly steeper rake angle of 63.7 degrees.

Both motorcycles are equipped with dual-disc front brakes for reliable stopping power. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models offer ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie control.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Africa Twin has a 21-inch front tire, a 150mm wide rear tire, an 18-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1575mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The Adventure has the same tire sizes and seat height, but a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528mm and a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

KTM 890 Adventure 2021

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin offers a high torque engine, sophisticated electronic aids, an optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) with excellent performance, a color touchscreen display, good ergonomics, and the ability to cover long distances. It also has a windshield that is perfect for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Adventure boasts a super motor with linear power delivery and superior performance, well-controlled brakes, comprehensive electronics, good ergonomics for both seated and standing riding, a low seat height suitable for shorter riders, and a gear lever that enhances the fun of riding. Its low center of gravity also contributes to excellent handling.

As for weaknesses, the Africa Twin has a cluttered handlebar with unclear button layout, less robust handguards for off-road use, and a windshield that provides only reasonable protection. The Adventure, on the other hand, has a pricing policy for extras, non-adjustable telescopic fork at the front, and important components like quickshifter and cruise control not included as standard.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin excels in terms of torque, electronic aids, and long-distance touring capabilities, while the Adventure offers superior power delivery, well-controlled brakes, and a low center of gravity for excellent handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.