Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 75.1 mm. It has a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 98 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. The bike has two cylinders and a displacement of 998 ccm. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure has a V-type engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm. It has a higher power output of 125 HP and a torque of 109 Nm. The starter and transmission are the same as the Honda. The KTM also has two cylinders but a larger displacement of 1050 ccm.

Both bikes have similar suspension systems, with upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock in the rear. However, the Honda uses Showa suspension components while the KTM uses WP components.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

In terms of chassis, the Honda has a steel frame while the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame.

Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front, but the Honda uses Nissin brakes while the KTM uses Brembo brakes.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS and traction control. However, the KTM also has riding modes, allowing the rider to adjust the bike's performance to different riding conditions.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, while the KTM has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. Both bikes have a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Honda has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575 mm compared to the KTM's 1560 mm. The seat height is the same for both bikes at 850 mm. The Honda has a dry weight of 212 kg and a kerb weight of 232 kg, while the KTM has a dry weight of 205 kg and a kerb weight of 228 kg. The fuel tank capacity is higher for the KTM at 23 liters compared to the Honda's 18.8 liters.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

In terms of strengths, the Honda offers a comfortable riding experience with a pleasant and well-sized engine. The seat height is also slightly lower, making it more accessible for riders of average height. On the other hand, the KTM offers a very powerful and refined engine with a wide rev range. It also has performance modes, allowing the rider to customize the bike's performance. The KTM has adjustable ergonomics, a height-adjustable windshield, and a comparatively low weight, making it agile and safe to handle. Additionally, the KTM is priced lower compared to the Honda.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda's suspension elements are too comfortably tuned at high speeds, which may not be ideal for off-road riding. The traction control also needs to be readjusted after every short break, which can be annoying. The KTM's optics may seem outdated compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures, and its suspension fork is not adjustable.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 offer a range of features and capabilities for enduro riding, but they have their own strengths and weaknesses that riders should consider based on their preferences and riding style.