Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles.

In terms of engine specifications, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT has a V-type engine with a bore of 100 mm and a stroke of 66 mm. It produces slightly higher power at 107 HP but slightly lower torque at 100 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT features a Kayaba upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 160 mm. The rear suspension is also a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 160 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound, although the rear suspension of the Suzuki V-Strom does not have compression adjustment.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design. It has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm. The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT, on the other hand, has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.7 degrees and a slightly shorter trail of 109 mm.

Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front and ABS as part of their advanced rider assistance systems. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin also features riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie assistance. The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT, on the other hand, only has ABS and traction control as part of its advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The rear tire width is 150 mm. It has a wheelbase of 1574 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 226 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT has a slightly smaller front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The rear tire width is also 150 mm. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1555 mm and the same seat height of 850 mm. However, it is heavier with a kerb weight, including ABS, of 247 kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is good for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT has a powerful engine, wonderful ergonomics, good wind and weather protection, extensive accessories as standard, good initial tire equipment, long-distance capability, and a successful retro look.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. Its handguards are not very robust for off-road use and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics are also not ideal for standing riding. The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT, on the other hand, has a high weight, ABS that cannot be switched off, and no quickshifter.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 are capable and powerful enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between them would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.