Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. KTM 890 Adventure 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023, it features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, making it a powerful option for off-road adventures. The Africa Twin also comes with a chain transmission and an electric starter.

In terms of suspension, the Africa Twin is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front, branded by Showa. It has a diameter of 45mm and offers a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock, also provided by Showa. It has a travel of 220mm and can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

The frame of the Africa Twin is made of steel and has a double cradle design. It has a rake of 62.5 degrees, which contributes to its stability and handling. The braking system includes double disk brakes at the front.

The Africa Twin is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It also features a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150mm rear tire width, a 1574mm wheelbase, and a seat height of 850mm. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

Some of the strengths of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 include its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, the option for a wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield that offers decent off-road protection.

However, the Africa Twin also has some weaknesses. The operating concept of the electronics is not very clear and intuitive, the handguards are not very robust for off-road use, the windshield offers manageable protection, and the ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding.

Now, let's move on to the KTM 890 Adventure 2022. It features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc. It produces 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque, making it a proven and confident option for off-road adventures. Similar to the Africa Twin, the 890 Adventure has a chain transmission and an electric starter.

In terms of suspension, the 890 Adventure is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front, branded by WP. It has a diameter of 48mm and offers a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock, also provided by WP. It has a travel of 200mm and can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

KTM 890 Adventure 2022

The frame of the 890 Adventure is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular, load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 63.7 degrees, which contributes to its stability and handling. The braking system includes double disk brakes at the front.

The 890 Adventure is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. It features a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150mm rear tire width, a 1528mm wheelbase, and a seat height of 850mm. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters.

Some of the strengths of the KTM 890 Adventure 2022 include its proven and confident engine, comparatively low weight, improved chassis, more comfortable seat, combination of riding modes and ABS setting, and an excellently working quickshifter. Additionally, the fact that it is made in Austria may be seen as a strength for some riders.

However, the 890 Adventure also has some weaknesses. The windshield is not adjustable, there is too little suspension travel for hard terrain, and many useful extras come at an extra cost.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a powerful engine, sophisticated electronics, and good ergonomics, while the 890 Adventure boasts a proven engine, low weight, and improved chassis. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences to determine which motorcycle is the best fit for their adventures.