BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have their own unique features and characteristics that set them apart.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853cc. It produces a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 also has an in-line, 2-cylinder engine but with a larger displacement of 1084cc. It delivers a higher power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. This gives the Honda Africa Twin a slight advantage in terms of power and torque.

Both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a larger diameter of 45mm compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 43mm. This may result in slightly better handling and stability for the Honda. In terms of travel, the Honda Africa Twin offers 230mm of travel for the front suspension, while the BMW F 850 GS provides 204mm. The rear suspension on both motorcycles is a swing arm with a monoshock, but the Honda Africa Twin offers slightly more travel at 220mm compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 219mm. The Honda Africa Twin also has the advantage of having adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the rear suspension, giving riders more customization options.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the BMW F 850 GS features a tubular, load-bearing engine frame, while the Honda Africa Twin has a double cradle frame. The BMW F 850 GS has a slightly steeper rake angle of 62 degrees compared to the Honda Africa Twin's 62.5 degrees. The trail measurement on the BMW F 850 GS is 126mm, while the Honda Africa Twin has a shorter trail of 113mm. These differences in chassis design and geometry may result in slightly different handling characteristics for each motorcycle.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes for the front, providing reliable stopping power. The Honda Africa Twin, however, offers more advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW F 850 GS only has ABS as its advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a larger 18-inch rear tire diameter compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 17-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase of the BMW F 850 GS is slightly longer at 1593mm, while the Honda Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575mm. The seat height of the Honda Africa Twin is slightly lower at 850mm compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 860mm. The Honda Africa Twin also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters, providing a longer range compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 15-liter fuel tank. However, the Honda Africa Twin is also heavier, with a kerb weight of 248kg compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 229kg.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 offers good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also provides good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 boasts a powerful engine, a wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a touchscreen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also provides almost "too good" wind protection.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The BMW F 850 GS 2022 experiences vibrations in the upper rev range, has a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that may be too lax. The fork is also not adjustable, and it may have a ponderous feel. The front brake could also benefit from more bite. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar, is heavier in weight, and may have a higher price, although it may be justified.

In conclusion, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both capable and powerful enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and characteristics. The BMW F 850 GS offers good everyday usability and practicality, while the Honda Africa Twin provides a more powerful engine and advanced electronic aids. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.