Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2021 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, both the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 have in-line engines. However, the Versys has a larger displacement of 1043ccm compared to the Africa Twin's 1084ccm. The Versys also has more power with 120 HP compared to the Africa Twin's 102 HP. The torque is slightly higher on the Africa Twin with 105 Nm compared to the Versys' 102 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Africa Twin has a longer travel distance for both the front and rear suspension, with 230mm and 220mm respectively, compared to the Versys' 150mm and 152mm. Both motorcycles have adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the Versys has an aluminum frame, while the Africa Twin has a steel frame. The Versys has a slightly steeper rake angle of 63 degrees compared to the Africa Twin's 62.5 degrees. The trail is also shorter on the Versys at 106mm compared to the Africa Twin's 113mm.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2021

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Versys does not specify the type of brakes, while the Africa Twin has double disk brakes with cornering ABS. Both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and ride by wire. The Africa Twin also has additional features like riding modes, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Versys has a smaller front tire diameter of 17 inches compared to the Africa Twin's 21 inches. The rear tire width is also wider on the Versys at 180mm compared to the Africa Twin's 150mm. The Africa Twin has a larger rear tire diameter at 18 inches compared to the Versys' 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer on the Africa Twin at 1575mm compared to the Versys' 1520mm. The seat height is also slightly higher on the Africa Twin at 850mm compared to the Versys' 840mm. The Africa Twin is lighter with a kerb weight of 226kg compared to the Versys' 257kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of over 18 liters, with the Versys having a larger capacity of 21 liters.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of equipment, the Versys has additional features like heated grips, cornering lights, and LED headlights. The Africa Twin only specifies LED headlights.

In terms of strengths, the Versys offers a very comfortable seating position, a cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine, a full electronics package, an adjustable windshield, superb electronically adjustable Showa suspension, a well-controlled braking system, and a distinctive look. On the other hand, the Africa Twin offers a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield perfect for off-roading.

In terms of weaknesses, the Versys' windshield is not adjustable with one hand. The Africa Twin has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, and a windshield that offers manageable protection.