Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. Gas Gas ES 700 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Gas Gas ES 700 2023 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and characteristics.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 is equipped with a 1084cc, 2-cylinder engine that produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Gas Gas ES 700 2023 has a smaller 692.7cc, 1-cylinder engine that generates 74.7 horsepower and 73.5 Nm of torque. While the Honda Africa Twin has a more powerful engine, the Gas Gas ES 700 offers a lower total weight and a well-controllable power delivery.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin features a 45mm diameter front suspension with 230mm of travel, while the Gas Gas ES 700 has a slightly larger 48mm diameter front suspension with 250mm of travel. Both bikes have rear suspensions with 220mm and 250mm of travel respectively. The Honda Africa Twin uses Showa suspension at the rear, while the Gas Gas ES 700 utilizes WP suspension.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

When it comes to the chassis, the Honda Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Gas Gas ES 700 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The Honda Africa Twin has a seat height of 850mm, while the Gas Gas ES 700 has a higher seat height of 935mm.

In terms of brakes, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with double disk brakes at the front, while the Gas Gas ES 700 has a single disk brake at the front. Both bikes feature ABS and cornering ABS as part of their advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of fuel capacity and range, the Honda Africa Twin has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters and a range of 383km, while the Gas Gas ES 700 has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 13.5 liters and a range of 313km. However, the Gas Gas ES 700 has a slightly lower combined fuel consumption of 4.3 l/100km compared to the Honda Africa Twin's 4.9 l/100km.

Both motorcycles offer advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, traction control, and ABS. However, the Honda Africa Twin also includes additional features like ride by wire, cruise control, and anti-wheelie control.

Gas Gas ES 700 2023

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin stands out with its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional). It also offers a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. Additionally, its windshield is well-suited for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Gas Gas ES 700 excels in its low total weight, well-controllable power delivery, and stability even at high speeds and on asphalt. It also provides plenty of freedom of movement in the saddle for active riding and comes with a comprehensive electronics package for an enduro bike.

However, the Honda Africa Twin does have some weaknesses. The operating concept of its electronics is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. Additionally, its windshield offers only manageable protection, and its ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding. As for the Gas Gas ES 700, it has a very puristic instrumentation and its chassis seems a bit wooden, lacking the best feedback from the tires. Its active ergonomics also demand the rider's fitness on long passages.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Gas Gas ES 700 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and advanced features, while the Gas Gas ES 700 provides a lighter weight and better maneuverability in difficult terrain. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended usage.