Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports has a larger displacement with 1084cc compared to the Suzuki V-Strom's 776cc. This results in the Africa Twin having more power with 102HP compared to the V-Strom's 83HP. The Africa Twin also has a higher torque at 105Nm compared to the V-Strom's 78Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Africa Twin has a slightly longer front suspension travel at 230mm compared to the V-Strom's 220mm. Both bikes offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the front and rear suspension.

In terms of chassis, both bikes have steel frames. The Africa Twin has a slightly steeper rake at 62.5 degrees compared to the V-Strom's 62 degrees. The trail is also slightly different with the Africa Twin at 113mm and the V-Strom at 114mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

For brakes, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The Africa Twin also offers cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and anti-wheelie. The V-Strom offers a shift assistant with blipper in addition to the other features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. The Africa Twin has an 18-inch rear tire diameter while the V-Strom has a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase is similar with the Africa Twin at 1575mm and the V-Strom at 1570mm. The seat height is slightly higher on the V-Strom at 855mm compared to the Africa Twin's 850mm. The Africa Twin is heavier with a kerb weight of 238kg compared to the V-Strom's 230kg. The Africa Twin also has a larger fuel tank capacity at 24.8 liters compared to the V-Strom's 20 liters. The range is also higher on the Africa Twin at 506km compared to the V-Strom's 454km. Both bikes have a combined fuel consumption of around 4.4-4.9 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes have LED headlights and TFT displays. The Africa Twin also offers Bluetooth and connectivity while the V-Strom offers an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin has a very good chassis, both mechanically and electronically. It also offers the option for a DCT transmission, making it a superior touring bike. The electronic ride aids are of high quality and practical. The Africa Twin also offers good wind protection and has a high-quality overall impression. The engine is flawless with great response and a linear torque curve. The handling is accessible and the ride is very pleasant. Overall, it is a versatile bike.

Suzuki V-Strom 800DE 2023

On the other hand, the V-Strom has a powerful engine with good low-end torque. The chassis is fully adjustable and it offers manageable and clever electronic features. The quickshifter up/down is a standard feature and the bike has a dynamic design in cool colors.

In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin's wind protection may be too good in hot conditions, as even the lowest position of the wind shield hardly lets any wind through. The operation of the numerous switches may also seem complex, even after 2 days of testing. The seat may feel a bit too soft after a long day of riding.

The V-Strom has an acute knee angle for riders with long legs and the footrests may drag early. The windshield can only be adjusted with tools, which may be inconvenient. The V-Strom is also heavier than many competitors.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE 2023 offer their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin has a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced rider assistance systems. It also offers a DCT option and has a higher fuel tank capacity. The V-Strom has a powerful engine with good low-end torque and a fully adjustable chassis. It also has a quickshifter up/down as a standard feature. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.