Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022

The Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Husqvarna Norden 901 has a bore of 90.7 mm and a stroke of 68.8 mm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. The Husqvarna Norden 901 has a slightly higher engine power of 105 HP compared to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT's 102 HP. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a higher torque of 105 Nm compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901's 100 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions. The Husqvarna Norden 901 has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 889 ccm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT also has 2 cylinders but a larger displacement of 1084 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspensions with monoshocks in the rear. However, the Husqvarna Norden 901 features WP suspension components, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT features Showa suspension components. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has slightly larger front fork diameter and travel, with 45 mm and 230 mm respectively, compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901's 43 mm and 220 mm. The rear suspension travel is also slightly higher for the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT at 220 mm compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901's 215 mm.

Husqvarna Norden 901 2022

In terms of chassis, the Husqvarna Norden 901 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a steel frame. The Husqvarna Norden 901 has a slightly steeper rake of 64.2 degrees compared to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT's 62.5 degrees. The trail is also slightly smaller for the Husqvarna Norden 901 at 106.9 mm compared to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT's 113 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes and advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT also features cruise control and anti-wheelie assistance, which are not present in the Husqvarna Norden 901.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have 21-inch front tires and 18-inch rear tires with a width of 150 mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1574 mm compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901's 1513 mm. The seat height is also slightly lower for the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT at 850 mm compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901's 854 mm. Both motorcycles have similar fuel tank capacities, with the Husqvarna Norden 901 at 19 liters and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT at 18.8 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights and TFT displays. The Husqvarna Norden 901 also features connectivity and LED daytime running lights, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT features Bluetooth connectivity.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022

In terms of strengths, the Husqvarna Norden 901 has a great engine with high practicality and a linear rev range. It also has a high-quality electronics package and offers a high level of travel comfort. The chassis is pleasantly tuned and the motorcycle has a tough and reliable character, making it suitable for long tours. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a high-torque engine and sophisticated electronic driving aids. The DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) is also highly praised for its functionality. The motorcycle has good ergonomics and is capable of long-distance riding. The windshield is also well-suited for off-roading.

In terms of weaknesses, the Husqvarna Norden 901 has an issue with unpleasant heat development in the calf area at low speeds. It also has unsteady engine running after a cold start and a low flywheel mass, which can cause the engine to die off. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has less robust standard handguards for off-road use and an electronic operating concept that requires familiarization and close examination due to the flood of switches. The windshield on the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT also offers manageable protection.

In conclusion, both the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Husqvarna Norden 901 offers a great engine and high-quality electronics, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT has a high-torque engine and sophisticated electronic driving aids. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.