Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. KTM 890 Adventure R 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both bikes have an inline, 2-cylinder engine. The Honda Africa Twin has a larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the KTM Adventure R's 889cc. In terms of power, the Honda Africa Twin produces 102 HP, while the KTM Adventure R generates 105 HP. The torque figures are also slightly different, with the Honda Africa Twin offering 105 Nm compared to the KTM Adventure R's 100 Nm. Both bikes feature electric starters and chain transmissions.

Moving on to the suspension, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with a Showa upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension consists of a Showa monoshock with a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the KTM Adventure R features a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a larger diameter of 48mm and a travel of 240mm. The rear suspension is also a WP monoshock with the same travel of 240mm. Both bikes offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of the chassis, the Honda Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design and a rake of 62.5 degrees. The KTM Adventure R, on the other hand, has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design and a slightly steeper rake of 63.7 degrees.

When it comes to brakes, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Honda Africa Twin and the KTM Adventure R also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. Additionally, the Honda Africa Twin offers cruise control and anti-wheelie assistance, while the KTM Adventure R offers traction control depending on lean angle.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width with an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The Honda Africa Twin has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575mm compared to the KTM Adventure R's 1528mm. The seat height is also higher on the KTM Adventure R at 880mm compared to the Honda Africa Twin's 850mm. The fuel tank capacity is larger on the Honda Africa Twin at 24.8 liters, providing a range of 506km, while the KTM Adventure R has a smaller 20-liter fuel tank with a range of 444km. The combined fuel consumption is slightly lower on the KTM Adventure R at 4.5 l/100km compared to the Honda Africa Twin's 4.9 l/100km.

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 offers a very good chassis, both mechanically and electronically, making it a superior touring bike. The optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) adds to its versatility. The bike also features high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, excellent wind protection, and an overall high-quality impression. The engine delivers great response and a linear torque curve, while the handling is accessible and the ride is pleasant.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2022

On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 excels in off-road capabilities with its chassis and offers harmonious ergonomics, especially for tall riders. The bike has agile handling, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also comes with cornering ABS, including an off-road mode, as standard. The brakes are finely controllable, and the traction control adjusts depending on the lean angle.

However, both bikes have some weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has wind protection that may be too good in hot weather, and the operation via the numerous switches may seem complex. The seat also feels a bit too soft after a long day of riding. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, and the seat height may be challenging for shorter riders. The wind and weather protection is also moderate, and some useful features, such as the Quickshifter+, come at an extra cost.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a superior touring experience with its DCT option and high-quality ride aids, while the KTM Adventure R excels in off-road capabilities and agile handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.