KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the technical specifications, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 is equipped with an in-line engine with a bore of 90.7 mm and a stroke of 68.8 mm. It has a power output of 105 HP and a torque of 100 Nm. The bike features an electric starter and a chain transmission. It has a displacement of 889 ccm and is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork with a 48 mm diameter and a travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 240 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular, load-bearing engine type. The front brakes are double disk type. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. It has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1528 mm, and the seat height is 880 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters, and the combined fuel consumption is 4.5 l/100km. The bike is equipped with connectivity, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is also equipped with an in-line engine but has a larger bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It has a power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. The bike features an electric starter and a chain transmission. It has a displacement of 1084 ccm and is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork with a 45 mm diameter and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle type. The front brakes are double disk type. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1574 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters, and the combined fuel consumption is 4.9 l/100km. The bike is equipped with Bluetooth, connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has an off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall pilots), agile handling, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also comes with cornering ABS including an off-road mode as standard, finely controllable brakes, and traction control depending on the lean angle.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. The windshield is also good for off-road riding.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, and the seat height can be challenging for small riders. Additionally, useful features such as Quickshifter+ come at an extra cost. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a windshield that offers manageable protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding.

In conclusion, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more off-road focused experience with its agile handling and comprehensive electronics package, while the Honda provides a more comfortable and long-distance capable ride with its sophisticated electronic driving aids and good ergonomics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.