BMW F900GS vs Triumph Tiger 900 RP vs Honda Africa Twin Comparison

In our extensive Adventure Bike Road Comparison 2024, a total of 10 new adventure bikes took to the start, including the BMW R 1300 GS and F 900 GS. In the Lower Austrian foothills around the Pfaffensattel, we encountered all the conditions that adventure riders face on-road tours. From undulating tracks to grippy spirited riding asphalt, everything was included. Seven testers spent three days with the bikes and now share their impressions of the 100 PS-class adventure bikes.

To keep everyone up to date, here's a brief overview of the key technical data. The BMW F 900 GS features a pure twin-cylinder engine with 105 hp at 8500 rpm. It weighs 223.5 kilograms and has a seat height of 870 millimeters. On board is the optional Enduro Pro suspension. The USD fork is fully adjustable, and the monoshock is adjustable in both preload and rebound. Additionally, the F 900 GS has lean-sensitive traction control and switchable cornering ABS at the rear wheel. The BMW also offers an optional quickshifter with blipper.

The Tiger 900 features a pure triple engine with 108 hp at 9500 rpm. It weighs 229 kilograms and has a seat height ranging from 850 to 870 millimeters. The Triumph is equipped with a fully adjustable USD fork and a monoshock suspension, which is adjustable in preload and rebound. Additionally, it includes an adjustable windscreen and a quickshifter with blipper.

The Africa Twin features a pure twin-cylinder engine with a 270° crank pin offset. This engine delivers 102 horsepower at 7500 RPM. The Honda weighs 233.5 kg and has a seat height ranging from 850 to 870 mm. It also boasts a fully electronically adjustable chassis. Additionally, it includes lean-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS, which can be disabled at the rear wheel. The Honda comes with an adjustable windscreen and an optional quickshifter.

The BMW F 900 GS surprises in the current mid-range adventure bike segment, especially with its punchy twin-cylinder engine. While earlier models like the F 850 GS were considered functional but emotionally lacking everyday and touring machines, the F 900 GS impresses with a noticeable sporty character. The 105 hp engine scores with linear, precise power delivery and provides surprising riding pleasure, which is particularly thrilling in combination with the throaty sound – especially when paired with an Akrapovič exhaust. However, at high revs, minor weaknesses become apparent as the power slightly tapers off. Nevertheless, testers praise the engine as a successful blend of sporty punch and good controllability, making the BMW a dynamic and versatile choice for adventure and touring purposes.

In contrast, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro relies on its signature three-cylinder engine, which cleverly combines the advantages of a twin and a four-cylinder. The engine is revvy and sporty with its 108 horsepower, but it requires higher revs to unleash its full potential. The punch from low revs is somewhat less compared to classic twins, but the engine offers significant reserves in the upper range. Its throttle response is silky smooth and precise, making it a versatile choice for both relaxed touring and sporty riding. The crankpin offset additionally ensures a noticeably grunty, elastic responsiveness that the testers particularly appreciate. The Triumph thus combines riding comfort and dynamics in a successful balance.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, on the other hand, relies on its commanding twin-cylinder engine, which impresses with massive torque and a thumping response from low revs. The engine exudes enormous reliability and calmness, making it particularly suitable for leisurely touring riders and adventurous off-road use. The direct throttle response conveys a sense of control and precision, always instilling confidence in the rider to master even challenging routes with ease. However, the long gearing slightly dampens the sporty riding pleasure, as the engine feels sluggish in the higher rev range. Nevertheless, the Africa Twin convinces with its pronounced versatility and the harmonious blend of grunt, comfort, and modern technology.

The BMW F 900 GS, with its optional quickshifter and blipper, offers a modern and sporty shifting support that clearly enhances the riding experience. In practice, the quickshifter impresses with its seamless function, regardless of the rev range, which particularly emphasizes the sporty character of the F 900 GS. However, testers criticize the tactile feel of the shift lever, describing it as somewhat "doughy," requiring more effort than some competitors. Despite these minor weaknesses, the system works reliably and ensures smooth gear changes that increase riding comfort. Without the quickshifter, the gearbox might seem less impressive, but overall, it fulfills its role well.

In contrast, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro sets the standard in the middleweight class with its standard quickshifter. Testers describe the shifting system as particularly precise and smooth. Gear changes are almost effortless; the shift lever only needs a light tap, and the gears "snugly fit" in without any clunking or searching for neutral. The shifting behavior is described as "deluxe" and "best in class," which not only impresses functionally but also regularly puts a smile on the rider's face. The Tiger's quickshifter is thus one of the clear highlights of the motorcycle and significantly contributes to its high-quality and dynamic riding feel.

In the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, the shifting work takes on a more traditional approach, as the tested model is not equipped with a quickshifter and blipper. Nevertheless, the standard gearbox operates with exceptional precision and reliability, which is typical of Honda quality. The testers praise the "incredible precision" of the gearbox and its pleasant, straightforward handling. However, it becomes evident that the absence of a quickshifter is noticeable in today's times, especially for riders accustomed to modern shift assistance. The testers recommend retrofitting the optional quickshifter to further enhance the riding experience.

The BMW F 900 GS demonstrates clear differences in the suspension between the standard version and the optional Enduro Pro suspension. While the standard suspension is tuned on the softer side, primarily aimed at touring comfort, it reaches its limits during spirited riding. However, with the upgraded suspension, the BMW impresses with versatility and performance. The long suspension travel provides ample reserves for both sporty and off-road riding, delivering good feedback. A critical note is that the suspension tends to "dive" slightly under braking, which somewhat limits the dynamic character. On the positive side, the extensive adjustment options for rebound and compression as well as the preload make the suspension suitable for a wide range of demands, highlighting the adventure potential of the BMW.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro scores with an outstanding stock suspension that excels both on the road and off-road. Despite the long suspension travel designed for off-road capability, the suspension works precisely without being spongy. It absorbs bumps sensitively while remaining stable, even during spirited riding. Testers particularly praise its versatility: the suspension offers comfort on rough roads, responds firmly enough for dynamic cornering, and can be individually adjusted if necessary. Triumph succeeds here in delivering a balanced setup that ideally combines riding comfort and sportiness, setting benchmarks in the mid-range class.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, in the tested variant, benefits from its optional semi-active EERA suspension, which stands out due to its adaptability. The system allows for the adjustment of preload and damping according to load and riding mode, noticeably enhancing comfort on long tours. The semi-active suspension absorbs bumps with ease, giving the rider the sensation of "floating over the road." At the same time, it remains a compromise between comfort and sportiness: while it doesn't offer the firmest performance for very dynamic riding, it performs well and ensures stability. The standard suspension, on the other hand, is more focused on touring comfort and limits the maximum lean angle in tight corners.

The BMW F 900 GS impresses with its agility and sportiness in riding performance, which is particularly noticeable compared to previous generations. Despite the knobby tires fitted – in this case, the Karoo 4 – the BMW demonstrates surprising stability and precision on the road, inspiring confidence. Testers praise the light handling, balanced tipping point, and dynamic setup, which allows for sporty riding without feeling twitchy. In the various riding modes, especially in Dynamic and Enduro mode, the F 900 GS offers a lot of freedom and provides riders with a high level of control and enjoyment. This makes the BMW a versatile adventure bike, capable of both sporty riding and controlled adventures on unpaved paths.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro impresses with a successful blend of stability and versatility, with its large 21-inch front wheel and long suspension travel clearly geared towards off-road use. Despite this setup, the Tiger remains surprisingly nimble in its riding performance, offering plenty of security even in hairpins and fast corner combinations. The ergonomic design with a wide handlebar and narrow tank provides ample room for movement, which aids in handling. However, the Triumph shows slight weaknesses in tight radii and hairpins: Here, a tester wishes for a somewhat more agile steering behavior, partly due to the large front wheel. Overall, the Tiger 900 remains a versatile machine that can be ridden both leisurely and sportily, although it is not the most agile in terms of handling compared to others.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin showcases itself as a confident all-rounder in riding performance, steering through curves with precision and reliability. Agility and handling are at a high level, yet the Africa Twin feels somewhat too composed compared to its competitors. While it can be comfortably and safely hustled through various curve radii, some testers miss a certain sporty precision or the "edges" that could offer a more emotional riding experience. Especially in sporty riding, the Honda appears less dynamic, which is due to its comfort focus and slightly heavier handling. Nevertheless, the Africa Twin impresses with its reliable, everyday riding capability, designed for a wide range of applications.

The BMW F 900 GS features a streamlined and functional electronics system that emphasizes the bike's sporty orientation. The riding modes are easily accessible and offer clear distinctions, which is particularly advantageous for off-road riders when it comes to traction control and ABS. Playful elements such as disabling traction control or wheelie functions expand the range of use, making the BMW a versatile machine for sporty and adventurous riders. The operation of the electronics is described as intuitive and straightforward, with the switches and display blending seamlessly into the BMW's typical high-quality craftsmanship. Even though the electronics do not belong to the absolute high-end class, they fulfill their purpose confidently and impress with their user-friendliness.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro scores with a large, easily readable 7-inch TFT display and high-quality controls. However, the processing power slightly lags: booting up the system takes too long, and there are slight delays when switching riding modes. While the display's presentation is described as functional and clear, testers criticize the playful animations that unnecessarily slow down the user interface. Despite this criticism, the electronics of the Tiger remain accessible and easy to use. The tactile feel of the controls and the craftsmanship are of a high standard, meeting the machine's premium claim. Overall, the Tiger 900 offers a convincing package, even if there is room for improvement in detail.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin sets clear upper-class accents with its extensive electronic equipment, although it offers a steeper learning curve. While the possibilities of the riding modes are impressively diverse and provide noticeable differences, the operating logic requires more intensive familiarization. The cumbersome menu navigation, especially when deactivating functions like the rear-wheel ABS, is particularly criticized. At the same time, the Africa Twin stands out with features like the touchscreen and the integration of Apple CarPlay – a unique selling point in this class that enhances travel comfort. The feel of the controls, the material quality, and the workmanship are typically Honda at the highest level. Once you become familiar with the more complex operation, you benefit from one of the most comprehensive and modern electronic packages in the segment.

The BMW F 900 GS shows both strengths and weaknesses in terms of touring capability. While the ergonomics suit sport-oriented riders and also support off-road use well, the motorcycle offers limited comfort for long tours. The low wind protection and the hard seat become noticeable on long distances and significantly reduce comfort. However, for shorter, sporty tours or off-road adventures, the BMW proves to be suitable. Those who focus specifically on travel purposes should invest in a larger windshield or alternatively consider models like the BMW F 850 GS, which are more geared towards comfortable long-distance travel. Overall, the F 900 GS fulfills its role as a sporty and ambitious adventure bike, but it doesn't quite match the competition in classic touring capability.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro offers a significantly more balanced package for touring. Testers consistently describe the seating position as comfortable, with a good knee angle and ergonomic design suitable for longer journeys. The wind protection proves to be adequate, even at higher speeds, and can be easily adjusted with one hand—a practical feature. Additionally, the comfort for both rider and pillion makes two-up touring effortlessly possible. The combination of a refined engine, comfortable suspension, and good features makes the Tiger 900 Rally Pro one of the most versatile adventure bikes in the comparison. Despite minor criticisms regarding the display performance, the Triumph provides everything needed for a relaxed yet dynamic journey.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin clearly stands out as the most comfortable bike in the test field. The ergonomically designed seating position and the generously sized, adjustable windscreen ensure relaxed riding over hundreds of kilometers. The comfortable seating position is particularly highlighted, which, while slightly compromising sportiness, offers the highest level of comfort. The larger, manually adjustable windscreen significantly improves wind and weather protection compared to previous models. Additionally, the option to mount further accessories such as a taller windscreen makes the Africa Twin an ideal companion for long-distance riders. There is minor criticism regarding the manual adjustment of the windscreen, which is somewhat cumbersome, but this hardly detracts from the otherwise excellent travel experience.

The BMW F 900 GS demonstrates a successful balance in braking performance between sportiness and everyday usability. The Brembo braking system decelerates reliably without being overly aggressive, which is especially appreciated on long tours or when riding two-up. Testers praise the modulation and the confidence the brakes instill—even during spirited riding. The ability to deactivate the rear-wheel ABS is also mentioned as a plus, even though it wasn't needed during the road test. Overall, the brakes on the F 900 GS offer a solid and dependable package that complements the bike's versatile orientation without standing out for extreme sharpness.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro sets the sportiest accents in terms of brakes in comparison. The installed Brembo Stylema systems deliver impressive braking performance, which is particularly exciting during spirited riding. The brakes allow for late trail braking without the suspension diving too much, highlighting the sporty character of the Tiger. At the same time, the braking effect remains well-modulated, even on unpaved roads, where it doesn't act too aggressively. This versatility is particularly emphasized by the testers, as it performs reliably both on the road and off-road. For sporty riders, the Tiger's brakes convey a high level of control and safety, significantly enhancing the riding experience.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin features a rather understated yet solid braking package that perfectly complements the bike's balanced character. The brakes decelerate reliably and are well-modulated, without developing a sporty sharpness. Especially off-road, the less aggressive setup pays off, as the brakes do not bite too hard, allowing for controlled deceleration. On the road, they also fulfill their purpose satisfactorily, even if they show slightly less bite compared to sportier competitors. The early-responding emergency brake assistant is criticized, as its automatic hazard light activation is perceived as disruptive during spirited riding. Overall, the brakes of the Africa Twin fit ideally with its calm, comfort-oriented design.

The BMW F 900 GS positions itself as a distinctly sporty adventure bike, particularly appealing to solo riders who frequently venture off-road. Testers praise the successful combination of nimble handling, firm suspension, and the revvy engine, which provides plenty of riding pleasure. The F 900 GS especially showcases its strengths off-road and is seen as a worthy successor to the earlier 800 GS. However, compromises must be made regarding touring suitability: wind protection and the hard seat limit comfort on long journeys, especially for two-up riding. The necessity to retrofit comfort features and high-quality accessories at an additional cost is also noted critically. Nevertheless, the BMW impresses with its sporty character and off-road capability, making it an attractive choice for off-road-oriented riders.

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro is described by testers as an exceptionally well-rounded package that perfectly balances sportiness, comfort, and touring capability. It impresses both on the road with precise handling and stable performance, and off-road. The comfort for both rider and pillion, combined with the high-quality features and well-thought-out control concept, makes the Tiger one of the most versatile adventure bikes on the market. Testers emphasize the high fun factor, the refined engine, and the confident braking performance, which make long-distance riding both enjoyable and sporty. Although the price of the Rally Pro version is high, the extensive equipment is considered justified. Overall, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro represents an almost perfect touring motorcycle, showing hardly any weaknesses.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin scores with its universal orientation and high reliability. Testers praise its confident character, which allows for both relaxed touring and off-road adventures without pushing the bike to its limits. The comfortable ergonomics, solid long-distance comfort, and Honda-typical build quality are particularly highlighted. The extensive electronic features and the high fun factor complete the overall package. Criticism is only found in its somewhat less sporty performance and the need to engage more intensively with the infotainment system. Nevertheless, the Africa Twin remains a loyal companion, offering both experienced tour riders and travel newcomers a high level of safety and riding pleasure.

In summary, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro impresses with its perfect balance of sportiness, comfort, and versatility, making it the strongest overall package. The BMW F 900 GS scores with sportiness and off-road capability, but shows some compromises in comfort and features. The Honda Africa Twin convinces with its universal character, comfort, and reliability, but remains slightly less dynamic than its competitors. All three motorcycles fulfill their roles as adventure bikes in different yet successful ways.

For those of you interested in the SPIDI gear worn during the test, here is a detailed list in the following lines.

Amelie & McGregor:

• Net H2Out Jacket & Crossmaster H2Out Pants: Summer jacket with mesh sections and a removable membrane for flexibility in various weather conditions. The Crossmaster pants feature ventilation openings on the thighs.
• Seamless Compression Shirt & Leggings: Seamless functional underwear for high comfort under protective clothing.
• Back Protector (Warrior Lady for Amelie, Compact Warrior 510 for Gregor): Provides individual back protection with Velcro adjustments.
• SPIDI NEO-S LADY Shoes (Amelie) and SPIDI X-GT Gloves (Gregor): Comfortable touring gear.

Ewald:

• SPIDI Frontier Jacket & Pants: Flexible, lightweight summer clothing with large ventilation openings, but without waterproofing.
• X-GT Gloves, Compression Wear, Compact Warrior 510 Protector & Warrior Chest: Protection and comfort for long tours.

Arlo & Poky:

• Super Net Tex Jacket & Protectors (Compact Warrior 510 & Warrior Chest): Lightweight protective layer with protectors attached directly to the body for optimal fit.
• Patrick: Enduro Pro Jacket (with removable sleeves); Valentin: 3L Shell H2Out Jacket (waterproof, with ventilation openings).

Vauli:

• Tech Armor Tex Jacket & SoftShell Mission-T Jacket: The Tech Armor carries protectors directly on the body, complemented by the warming and flexible Mission-T Softshell Jacket.
• Crossmaster H2Out Pants with large ventilation openings.
• Compression Wear & G-Warrior Gloves: Protection and comfort for long rides.

All testers wore seamless functional underwear for high comfort and a pleasant body feel.

In this test, the entire crew opted for the new HJC RPHA 91 Carbon. This helmet presents itself as a high-quality flip-up helmet, particularly excelling with its low weight compared to the regular RPHA 91. Notably, the large field of vision provides excellent all-around visibility—a real advantage both in urban traffic and on longer tours. The ventilation systems work flawlessly, and the washable, antibacterial lining significantly contributes to wearing comfort, especially in warmer temperatures. The helmet naturally meets the ECE 22.06 standard, providing a current safety standard, while the homologation as both a jet and full-face helmet promises flexibility and versatility.

On the BMW F 900 GS, we used the Hepco & Becker EPIC 6 Tank Bag. It securely and accessibly held our essential items (water bottle, wallet, documents, GoPro, etc.). The Hepco & Becker EPIC 6 Tank Bag impresses with its shape stability, ensured by high-density EVA foams. The tank bag not only features lockable zippers and a sturdy carrying handle but also water-repellent outer material that protects it in bad weather. For rides in heavy rain, a weather protection cover is included, which can be pulled over the tank bag. Inside, a mesh pocket in the lid offers additional storage options, while reflective details on the outside enhance visibility in traffic. The waterproof inner lining and practical loops for attaching optional accessories like map or smartphone pockets complement the thoughtful design. The pre-mounted threaded plate allows for easy installation without drilling and fits on basic tank rings as well as sport and mini racks.