Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2020

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both popular enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda Africa Twin has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 75.1 mm. It produces 95 horsepower and 98 Nm of torque. The BMW R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a boxer engine with a larger bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It offers a more powerful engine with 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the Honda Africa Twin has a chain transmission while the BMW R 1250 GS has a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The BMW R 1250 GS has a telelever front suspension and a single swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

Both motorcycles have steel frames and double disk front brakes. They also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. However, the BMW R 1250 GS offers additional features like anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1575 mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850 mm to 870 mm. The kerb weight of the Honda Africa Twin with ABS is 232 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525 mm and the same adjustable seat height as the Honda Africa Twin. The kerb weight of the BMW R 1250 GS with ABS is higher at 249 kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin is known for its comfortable ride and perfectly dimensioned engine. It also has a slightly lower seat height compared to the BMW R 1250 GS, making it more suitable for riders with a height of 175 cm or taller. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is praised for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, and comfortable seating position that is suitable for long distances. It also offers stable braking performance, good weather protection, a color TFT display as standard, and LED headlights.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin's suspension elements are tuned more for off-road riding and can feel too comfortable at high speeds. Its traction control can also be annoying off-road as it needs to be readjusted after every short break. The BMW R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list. It is also criticized for its jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a comfortable ride and a well-balanced engine, while the BMW R 1250 GS boasts a more powerful engine and additional features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.