Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. The Honda Africa Twin is equipped with an in-line engine, while the Suzuki V-Strom features a V-type engine. Both bikes have a displacement of over 1000cc, with the Africa Twin at 1084cc and the V-Strom at 1037cc. The Africa Twin has a slightly higher engine power of 102 HP compared to the V-Strom's 107 HP. However, the V-Strom has a slightly higher torque of 100 Nm compared to the Africa Twin's 105 Nm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks on the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock on the rear. The Africa Twin's front suspension is provided by Showa, while the V-Strom's front suspension is from Kayaba. The Africa Twin has a larger front suspension diameter of 45mm compared to the V-Strom's 43mm. However, the V-Strom has a slightly longer front suspension travel of 170mm compared to the Africa Twin's 230mm. Both bikes offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. Both bikes have a similar rake angle of 62.5 degrees, but the V-Strom has a longer trail of 126mm compared to the Africa Twin's 113mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

Both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes on the front. The Africa Twin comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The V-Strom also offers ABS, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. However, the V-Strom has a slightly smaller 17-inch rear tire diameter compared to the Africa Twin's 18-inch. The V-Strom also has a longer wheelbase of 1595mm compared to the Africa Twin's 1574mm. The seat height of the V-Strom is higher at 880mm compared to the Africa Twin's 850mm. The V-Strom is also heavier with a kerb weight of 252kg compared to the Africa Twin's 226kg. Both bikes have a similar fuel tank capacity, with the V-Strom at 20 liters and the Africa Twin at 18.8 liters. The range and combined fuel consumption are also similar for both bikes.

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with LED headlights and TFT displays. The Africa Twin also offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the V-Strom does not mention this feature.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023

In terms of strengths, the 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 V-Strom has a powerful motor, a high-quality electronics package, excellent ergonomics, a very good gravel mode, off-road ABS, intuitive operation of the electronics, long-distance comfort, and a successful retro look.

In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a windshield that offers manageable protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding. The V-Strom's weaknesses include its high weight and the fact that the suspension travel could be greater.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a powerful engine, advanced electronics, and good ergonomics, while the V-Strom provides a powerful motor, high-quality electronics, and excellent ergonomics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.