Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features. Let's compare these two models based on their technical specifications and strengths and weaknesses.

In terms of engine and drive train, both motorcycles have an in-line engine configuration with two cylinders. The Honda Africa Twin has a larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the KTM Adventure's 799cc. The Africa Twin also has a higher engine power of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm, while the Adventure offers 95 HP and 88 Nm of torque. Both bikes have an electric starter and use a chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the Africa Twin features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm in the front, and a Showa monoshock with a travel of 220mm in the rear. On the other hand, the Adventure is equipped with a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 200mm in the front, and a WP monoshock with a travel of 200mm in the rear. The Africa Twin offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the Adventure only has preload adjustment.

In terms of chassis, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Adventure features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. The Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, while the Adventure has a slightly steeper rake of 64.1 degrees and a trail of 107.8mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

Both motorcycles have double disc brakes in the front, providing effective stopping power. The Africa Twin and the Adventure both come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The Africa Twin also offers additional features like cornering ABS, cruise control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The Adventure has the same tire specifications. The Africa Twin has a longer wheelbase of 1574mm compared to the Adventure's 1509mm. The seat height of the Africa Twin is adjustable from 850mm to 870mm, while the Adventure has a slightly lower seat height range of 840mm to 860mm. The Adventure has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a longer range of 476km, compared to the Africa Twin's 18.8-liter tank and range of 383km. The combined fuel consumption of the Adventure is also lower at 4.2 l/100km, compared to the Africa Twin's 4.9 l/100km.

Both motorcycles come equipped with modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and TFT displays.

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin offers a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). It also has good ergonomics and is capable of long-distance riding. The windshield of the Africa Twin is also suitable for off-road use.

KTM 790 Adventure 2023

On the other hand, the Adventure boasts a rev-happy engine with impressive power and low fuel consumption. It has excellent traction control regulation and effective wind protection with a wide range of settings. The Adventure also offers logical controls, agile handling, precise ride, and effective brakes. It provides comfortable on-road ergonomics and a well-dosed clutch.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Africa Twin's operating concept of the electronics is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The windshield of the Africa Twin also offers manageable protection, and its ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding.

The Adventure's weaknesses include the fact that the sporty Quickshifter+ is only available at an extra cost. The chassis adjustment range is not too wide, and the handlebar position is too low for off-road riding.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of electronic driving aids, while the Adventure has a more fuel-efficient engine and offers excellent traction control regulation. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.