Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin has an inline, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 998cc. It produces 95 horsepower and 98 Nm of torque. The BMW R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It offers a higher power output of 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and offer smooth transmission options - the Africa Twin has a chain drive while the R 1250 GS has a prop shaft drive.

In terms of suspension, the Africa Twin features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a telelever front suspension and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

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

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

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin is known for its reliable engine, comfortable seating position, well-tuned chassis, good looks, and good brakes. It also offers an optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) and performance modes. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, is praised for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, and standard features such as a color TFT display and LED headlights.

However, the Africa Twin does have some weaknesses, including not quite optimal wind protection, the lack of cruise control, and the inability to switch off the ABS on the front wheel. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list. Some also find its appearance to be jagged with little elegance.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 have their own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities when choosing between these two enduro motorcycles.