BMW R 1300 GS 2024 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The BMW R 1300 GS model year 2024 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT model year 2020 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles.

The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers an impressive 145 HP of power and 149 Nm of torque. This engine provides breathtakingly good response behavior and very good traction. The motorbike also has very stable handling, yet it remains agile and cornering-friendly. The suspension consists of a Telelever front suspension with 190 mm of travel and a Paralever rear suspension with 200 mm of travel and preload adjustment. The chassis is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine frame. The motorbike is equipped with double disk brakes at the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, combined brake system, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The front tire has a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1518 mm and the seat height is 850 mm. The motorbike has a kerb weight of 237 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters. Additional equipment includes LED headlights and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 features an in-line engine that produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The engine is also electrically started and is paired with a chain transmission. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 230 mm of travel and a swing arm rear suspension with 220 mm of travel and compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The chassis is made of steel and has a double cradle frame. The motorbike has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm. It is equipped with double disk brakes at the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The front tire has a diameter of 21 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 150 mm and a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1575 mm and the seat height is 850 mm. The motorbike has a kerb weight of 248 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters. Additional equipment includes LED headlights.

BMW R 1300 GS 2024

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 offers a powerful engine with excellent response behavior and traction. It also has very stable handling while remaining agile and cornering-friendly. The motorbike has a practical configuration with a wide range of ergonomic customization options. The handguards provide good wind protection and the motorbike can be equipped with a radar cruise control system. The operating concept is understandable and the display is easy to read. The brakes are powerful and the gearbox is precise. Despite its high torque, the motorbike has accessible driving behavior. Additionally, it features a well-functioning and unobtrusively integrated emergency call system.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 boasts a powerful engine and a wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis. It also has sophisticated electronic driving aids and a touchscreen color display. The motorbike offers good ergonomics and is suitable for long-distance rides. The wind protection is almost "too good".

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 does not allow for every desired configuration and sometimes unnecessary extras have to be selected. The suspension, although working at a high level, does not offer flawless response behavior or a wide adjustment range. The front collision warning system can trigger annoying false alarms in rough everyday driving. With a very sporty riding style, a slight rolling motion can be felt in the vehicle. The motorbike may appear a little too compact for tall riders, especially from the rear. Additionally, the ABS system gives too much feedback into the brake lever during sporty riding.

Similarly, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar and is relatively heavy. The price may also be considered a weakness, although it may be justified considering the features and capabilities of the motorbike.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a powerful and responsive engine, stable handling, and practical configuration options. The Honda, on the other hand, provides a powerful engine, a sophisticated chassis, and advanced electronic driving aids. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.