Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with impressive specifications and features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084 ccm. It produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021, on the other hand, has a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm. It delivers a higher power output of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45 mm at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear. The front suspension offers a travel of 230 mm and can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension provides a travel of 220 mm and also has adjustable settings. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm at the front and a WP monoshock at the rear. Both suspensions offer a travel of 200 mm and can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a steel frame with a double cradle design and a rake of 62.5 degrees. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design and a rake of 65.3 degrees.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 does not specify the brand of the brakes, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has high-quality brakes with cornering ABS.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1574 mm and a seat height of 850 mm, which can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 226 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height of 849 mm, which can be adjusted up to 869 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is higher at 243 kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer modern features. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 includes Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers additional features such as cornering lights and an adjustable windscreen. Both motorcycles have clear and well-structured instrumentation, with the KTM having a larger 7-inch display.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 stands out for its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and the option for a DCT transmission. It also offers a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. The windshield is also beneficial for off-road riding. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 impresses with its sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable seating position, and good brakes with cornering ABS. It also has a comprehensive electronics package and a large, well-structured instrumentation with a 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has an operating concept for its electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. The handguards are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers only manageable protection. The ergonomics are not ideal for standing riding. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a turn-in behavior in bends that is somewhat sluggish. The package design and pricing policy may also be considered opaque, and the dashboards and switches do not feel very high quality.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a powerful engine, sophisticated electronics, and good ergonomics, while the KTM impresses with its sporty performance, comfortable seating position, and comprehensive electronics package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.