Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 are both popular enduro motorcycles, but they have some notable differences in their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 features an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It has a power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. The transmission is chain-driven, and it has a displacement of 1084 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 has a boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It has a higher power output of 125 HP and torque of 125 Nm. The transmission is a prop shaft, and it has a displacement of 1170 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014, on the other hand, has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm suspension at the rear. Both motorcycles have a steel frame, with the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 having a double cradle frame type, while the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 has a twin-tube load-bearing engine frame type.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 also offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014, on the other hand, only has riding modes as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1574 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 226 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1510 mm and a higher seat height of 910 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 260 kg, and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 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 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 is praised for being easy to ride, having a 33-liter tank for longer trips, good ergonomics, and reliable brakes.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. The handguards are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers only manageable protection. The ergonomics are also not ideal for standing riding. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 does not have any specific weaknesses mentioned.

Overall, both motorcycles have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 excels in terms of its powerful engine and advanced electronic driving aids, while the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2014 is praised for its ease of use and larger fuel tank capacity. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.