Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features.

Starting with the engine, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 is equipped with a powerful 1084cc in-line twin engine that produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 features a slightly smaller 888cc in-line triple engine that delivers 95.2 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque. Both engines provide ample power for off-road adventures, but the Honda has a higher torque output, which can be beneficial in challenging terrain.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature high-quality Showa suspension components. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm in the front, while the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 also has a 45mm upside-down telescopic fork with a travel of 240mm. In the rear, the Honda has a swing arm suspension with a Showa monoshock and a travel of 220mm, while the Triumph has a swing arm suspension with a Showa monoshock and a travel of 230mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune their ride for different terrains and preferences.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles feature steel frames that provide stability and durability. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 has a double cradle frame, while the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 has a tubular frame. The Honda has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, while the Triumph has a slightly steeper rake of 65.6 degrees and a longer trail of 145.8mm. These differences in chassis geometry can affect the handling characteristics of the motorcycles, with the Triumph potentially offering more stability at higher speeds and in straight-line riding, while the Honda may be more agile and maneuverable in off-road conditions.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disc brakes in the front for reliable stopping power. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. Similarly, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 features riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. While the Triumph does not have anti-wheelie control, it does come with a quickshifter with blipper as standard, allowing for seamless gear changes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have similar front and rear tire sizes, with a 21-inch diameter in the front and a 150mm width in the rear. However, the Honda has an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the Triumph has a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Honda has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575mm compared to the Triumph's 1551mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 850mm, which can be adjusted up to 870mm. The Triumph has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, while the Honda has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights for improved visibility. The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 offers additional features such as LED daytime running lights, a heated seat, and a TFT display, which provides a more modern and customizable user interface.

Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, wonderfully functioning DCT, touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 is commended for its three-cylinder engine full of character, practical off-road performance, comfortable suspension elements, quickshifter with blipper as standard, generous standard equipment (including heated seats for rider and pillion), good ergonomics, good wind and weather protection, and long-distance capability.

In terms of weaknesses, both motorcycles have handguards that are not very robust for off-road use and a flood of switches on the left handlebar. Additionally, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 has a windshield that offers manageable protection, while the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 has an overall large and ponderous appearance.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 are capable and feature-packed enduro motorcycles. The Honda offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced rider assistance systems, while the Triumph stands out with its unique three-cylinder engine, practical off-road performance, and generous standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.