Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. BMW R 1300 GS 2024

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences in their specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and has an electric starter. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1300cc. It delivers a higher power output of 145 HP and torque of 149 Nm. The engine is equipped with a prop shaft transmission and also has an electric starter.

In terms of suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and offers a travel of 220 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a telelever front suspension with a travel of 190 mm and a paralever rear suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension can be adjusted for preload.

Both motorcycles have steel frames, but the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a double cradle frame, while the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a load-bearing engine frame. The rake and trail measurements are also slightly different, with the Honda having a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm, and the BMW having a rake of 63.8 degrees and a trail of 112 mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It also has additional features like Bluetooth, connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 also has advanced rider assistance systems including ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, combined brake system, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It is equipped with LED headlights and a TFT display as well.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 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, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 226 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 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 1518 mm, the same seat height of 850 mm, a slightly higher kerb weight (with ABS) of 237 kg, and a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 19 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is praised for its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional). It also offers a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. The windshield is also appreciated for its off-road performance.

BMW R 1300 GS 2024

On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 is praised for its powerful engine with excellent response behavior and very good traction. It offers stable handling while still being agile and cornering-friendly. The motorbike has a practical configuration with a wide range of ergonomic customization options. The handguards provide surprisingly good wind protection, and the radar cruise control is well-integrated. The operating concept is understandable, and the display is easy to read. The brakes are powerful, and the gearbox is precise. The motorbike also has an emergency call system that is well-functioning and unobtrusively integrated.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has an operating concept for the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. The handguards are not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics are also not ideal for standing riding.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has limitations in terms of configuration options, as some unnecessary extras may need to be selected. The suspension, while working at a high level, does not offer flawless response behavior or a wide adjustment range. The front collision warning system can trigger annoying false alarms in rough everyday driving. A slight rolling motion can be experienced with a very sporty riding style, and the motorbike may appear too compact for tall riders, especially from the rear. The ABS system also gives too much feedback into the brake lever during sporty riding.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a sophisticated electronic package and good ergonomics, while the BMW impresses with its powerful engine and practical configuration options. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.