BMW F 800 GS 2008 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

BMW F 800 GS 2008

BMW F 800 GS 2008

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

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Overview - BMW F 800 GS 2008 vs Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

The BMW F 800 GS model year 2008 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin model year 2018 are both enduro motorcycles that offer off-road capabilities. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin has a slight advantage with 95 HP compared to the BMW F 800 GS's 85 HP. This extra power can be beneficial for tackling more challenging terrains or for riders who prefer a more powerful ride.

Both motorcycles have a chain transmission and are equipped with 2-cylinder engines. However, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin has a larger displacement of 998cc compared to the BMW F 800 GS's 798cc. This larger displacement can result in improved torque and overall performance.

BMW F 800 GS 2008

BMW F 800 GS 2008

When it comes to dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a similar wheelbase of around 1575-1578mm. The seat height is also the same at 850mm, which can provide a comfortable riding position for most riders. However, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters compared to the BMW F 800 GS's 16 liters. This can be advantageous for riders who plan on taking longer trips without frequent refueling stops.

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 800 GS 2008 has a lower price compared to the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018. It also offers positive ride comfort and is beginner-friendly, making it a suitable choice for riders who are new to off-road riding. Additionally, the BMW F 800 GS 2008 has a relatively low weight and offers a relatively luxurious riding experience.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 has a reliable engine and a comfortable seating position. It also has a well-tuned chassis, good looks, and good brakes. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 also offers optional features such as a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and performance modes, which can enhance the riding experience for those who prefer more customization options.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW F 800 GS 2008 has an annoying background noise in the high rev range, which can be bothersome for some riders. It also does not offer optional extras that are available on the larger GS models.

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018, on the other hand, has some drawbacks such as not quite optimal wind protection and the absence of cruise control. Additionally, the ABS on the front wheel cannot be switched off, which may limit the control and maneuverability in certain off-road situations.

In conclusion, while both the BMW F 800 GS 2008 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 are capable enduro motorcycles, they have their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW F 800 GS 2008 offers a lower price and beginner-friendly features, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 boasts a more powerful engine and additional customization options. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW F 800 GS 2008 compared to Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

BMW F 800 GS 2008
Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

Engine and Drive Train

Engine powerEngine power85 HPEngine power95 HP
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement798 ccmDisplacement998 ccm

Dimensions and Weights

WheelbaseWheelbase1,578 mmWheelbase1,575 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height850 mmSeat Height850 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity16 lFuel Tank Capacity18.8 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW F 800 GS 2008

BMW F 800 GS 2008

For us, the 800 GS is not a small GS, but a GS for non-BMW fans. So in principle it combines the virtues of the 1200 without its quirks, as newcomers would say.

Low price

positive ride comfort

beginner-friendly

low weight

relatively luxurious.

Annoying background noise in the (necessary) high rev range

no optional extras of the big GS

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

The new Africa Twin has come exactly as fans expected: Well controllable, unagitated and a wonderful travelling companion. The fact that it also looks extremely good was a pleasant bonus. So there is no reason to fundamentally change the Africa Twin, what was good remains good on the new one - and much has been improved. Thanks to Ride by Wire, you can now also enjoy performance modes on the Africa Twin, and the traction control can be adjusted 7-fold (instead of 3-fold previously) and switched off. The optional DCT is still a big hit and a lot of fun, but it also costs a lot.

Reliable engine

comfortable seating position

well-tuned chassis

good looks

good brakes

optional DCT

performance modes

not quite optimal wind protection

no cruise control

ABS on front wheel cannot be switched off

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW F 800 GS vs Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

There are a few key differences between a BMW F 800 GS 2008 and a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 is about 65% higher. A BMW F 800 GS 2008 experiences a loss of 490 GBP in one year of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 730 GBP for a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018. Compared to Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 there are less BMW F 800 GS 2008 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 5 compared to 10. It takes less time to sell a BMW F 800 GS with 47 days compared to 99 days for a Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin. Since model year 2008 1000PS.de editors have written 22 reviews for the BMW F 800 GS and 47 reviews for the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin since model year 2015. The first review for the BMW F 800 GS was published on 07/11/2007 and now has more than 32,600 views. This compares to more than 13,600 views for the first review on Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin published on 12/05/2015.

Price BMW F 800 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

Model year
Current average market prices

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