Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT model year 2020 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin model year 2023 have many similarities in terms of their technical specifications. Both motorcycles have an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. They both produce 102 HP of engine power and 105 Nm of torque. The starter is electric, and the transmission is chain-driven. They have the same number of cylinders and displacement, with 1084 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both models feature an upside-down telescopic fork with a 45 mm diameter and 230 mm of travel in the front. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock from Showa, offering 220 mm of travel. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

Both motorcycles have a steel frame with a double cradle design. The rake is 62.5 degrees, and the trail is 113 mm. The front brakes are double disk type.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models are equipped with ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 also comes with cruise control, which is not available in the Adventure Sports DCT 2020 model.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with an 18-inch diameter. The wheelbase is 1575 mm for the Adventure Sports DCT 2020 and 1574 mm for the Africa Twin 2023. The seat height is 850 mm, but it can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 248 kg for the Adventure Sports DCT 2020 and 226 kg for the Africa Twin 2023. The fuel tank capacity is 24.8 l for the Adventure Sports DCT 2020 and 18.8 l for the Africa Twin 2023.

In terms of equipment, both models are equipped with LED headlights. However, the Africa Twin 2023 also comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a TFT display, offering additional features compared to the Adventure Sports DCT 2020.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

Now, let's compare the strengths and weaknesses of each model. The Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a powerful engine, a wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a touchscreen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also provides almost "too good" wind protection. However, it has a confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar, is heavy, and has a higher price.

On the other hand, the Africa Twin 2023 also has a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield suitable for off-road use. However, it has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, less robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that offers manageable protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 are powerful and capable motorcycles with similar technical specifications. The Adventure Sports DCT 2020 offers additional features such as a semi-active chassis and a larger fuel tank capacity, while the Africa Twin 2023 comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a TFT display. Both models have their strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and riding styles.