KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both popular enduro motorcycles, each with their own unique features and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is equipped with a V2 engine that delivers an impressive 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 features an in-line engine that produces 95 HP of power and 98 Nm of torque. The KTM offers more power and torque, making it a more powerful and dynamic option.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock at the rear. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a front suspension from WP with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has a front suspension from Showa with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 252 mm. The KTM offers a slightly larger front suspension diameter, which may provide better stability and handling.

When it comes to chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, which is known for its strength and durability. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has a steel frame. Both frames are reliable, but the chromium-molybdenum frame of the KTM may offer better rigidity and stability.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of brakes, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is equipped with double disk brakes from Brembo at the front, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has double disk brakes from Nissin. Both motorcycles have good braking performance, providing reliable stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offers a more comprehensive package. It includes suspension that is electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 also has ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control, but lacks features such as electronically adjustable suspension and cruise control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, and a seat height ranging from 849 mm to 869 mm. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, a wheelbase of 1580 mm, and a seat height ranging from 900 mm to 920 mm. The KTM has a slightly smaller front tire diameter and a lower seat height, which may make it more accessible for shorter riders.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature LED headlights. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 also includes cornering lights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 does not have these additional features.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is known for its sporty and powerful V2 engine, playful handling, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 is praised for its powerful and unagitated engine, comfortable chassis, comfortable seating position, superb looks, good brakes, large fuel tank, performance modes, and optional DCT.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a gearshift assistant that comes at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has less optimal wind protection, no cruise control, a high saddle that may be difficult for smaller riders to climb, and the ABS on the front wheel cannot be switched off.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. The KTM offers more power, a more advanced electronics package, and a slightly lower seat height, while the Honda offers a comfortable chassis, a large fuel tank, and optional DCT. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.