Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 are both formidable enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 is equipped with a 1084cc in-line twin-cylinder engine that delivers 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-cylinder engine that produces 95.2 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque. Both engines provide ample power for off-road adventures, but the Honda Africa Twin has a slight advantage in terms of horsepower and torque.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock at the rear. The Honda Africa Twin's front suspension has a travel of 230mm, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro offers slightly more with 240mm of travel. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a longer rear suspension travel of 220mm compared to the Tiger Rally Pro's 230mm. Overall, both motorcycles offer capable suspension systems for tackling rough terrains.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

When it comes to the chassis, the Honda Africa Twin features a steel double cradle frame, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro has a tubular steel frame. The Honda Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro has a 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 Honda Africa Twin offering a slightly more stable and balanced ride.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Honda Africa Twin comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and traction control, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro offers similar features with the addition of ride modes and ride-by-wire technology. Both motorcycles provide reliable braking performance and safety features for off-road adventures.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. However, the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro has a slightly smaller rear tire diameter of 17 inches compared to the Honda Africa Twin's 18 inches. The Honda Africa Twin has a longer wheelbase of 1574mm compared to the Tiger Rally Pro's 1551mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 850mm, which can be adjusted up to 870mm. The Triumph Tiger Rally Pro has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, while the Honda Africa Twin has a slightly smaller capacity of 18.8 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights and TFT displays. The Honda Africa Twin also offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro features LED daytime running lights and heated seats for both the rider and pillion. These additional features on the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro provide added comfort and convenience for long-distance rides.

Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin stands out with its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) option. The Triumph Tiger Rally Pro, on the other hand, boasts a three-cylinder engine full of character, practical off-road performance, comfortable suspension elements, and a quickshifter with blipper as standard. Both motorcycles offer good ergonomics, wind and weather protection, and long-distance capability.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin's operating concept of the electronics is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The windshield on the Africa Twin offers manageable protection, and its ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding. The Triumph Tiger Rally Pro also has less robust handguards for off-road use and a flood of switches on the left handlebar. Additionally, it has an overall large and ponderous appearance.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2021 are both capable and impressive enduro motorcycles. The Honda Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced rider assistance systems, while the Triumph Tiger Rally Pro provides a unique three-cylinder engine character and generous standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.