Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, providing high-torque performance. The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018, on the other hand, features a V-twin, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1037cc. It delivers 101 horsepower and 101 Nm of torque, offering a powerful performance.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a larger front fork diameter of 45mm compared to the 43mm on the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018. The travel distance of the front suspension is also greater on the Honda, with 230mm compared to 160mm on the Suzuki.

When it comes to chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. Both frames provide stability and durability, but the aluminum frame of the Suzuki may offer a slight weight advantage.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and traction control. The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 also has ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters compared to the 18.8 liters on the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020. The seat height is the same for both motorcycles at 850mm. The Honda weighs slightly less with a kerb weight of 226kg compared to 232kg for the Suzuki.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional). It also has a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. The windshield on the Honda is also perfect for off-roading.

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018

On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 has a powerful engine, good brakes with ABS, and a combined brake system. It also features traction control, a stable and comfortable chassis, and good wind protection. The Suzuki is highly suitable for touring and comes with complete instruments including a gear indicator. It also has a 12-volt socket in the cockpit area, hand protectors, and an engine guard as standard. Additionally, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 is available at a more favorable price compared to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear. The handguards on the Honda are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield only offers manageable protection.

The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018, on the other hand, has a noticeable set-up torque when braking in curves, which may affect the handling in certain situations.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 offer a range of features and capabilities that make them suitable for enduro riding. The Honda excels in terms of engine performance, electronic driving aids, and off-road capability, while the Suzuki offers a powerful engine, good brakes, and a comfortable touring experience at a more affordable price.