BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254ccm, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It has a prop shaft transmission and features a 2-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is equipped with an in-line engine with a displacement of 1084ccm, producing 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and also features a 2-cylinder configuration.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock absorber and a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock absorber and a travel of 220mm.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a load-bearing engine frame type, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a double cradle frame type. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. In terms of assistance systems, both motorcycles are equipped with ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 also has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and electronically adjustable suspension. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The front tire width is not specified, but the rear tire width is 170mm. It has a wheelbase of 1504mm and a seat height ranging from 890mm to 910mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 268kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The front tire width is not specified, but the rear tire width is 150mm. It has a wheelbase of 1575mm and a seat height ranging from 850mm to 870mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 248kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 also has additional features such as cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 does not specify any additional equipment features.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is praised for its high-torque engine, low center of gravity for maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders, long range, low consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, powerful engine, great electronics, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall people. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is praised for its powerful engine, wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic driving aids, touchscreen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is criticized for its high weight, somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs, jagged appearance with little elegance, and high price with full equipment. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is criticized for its confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar, weight, and high price.

Overall, both the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers a high-torque engine and practical details, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 offers a powerful engine and sophisticated electronic driving aids. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.