BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It has an engine power of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is a prop shaft. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 features an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It has an engine power of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is a chain. Similar to the BMW, it also has 2 cylinders but with a smaller displacement of 1084 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. It can also be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a load-bearing engine frame type with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a double cradle frame type with a slightly smaller rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles are equipped with ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. Additionally, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and cornering lights. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has an additional anti-wheelie system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm, which can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 249 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575 mm and the same seat height and adjustment range as the BMW. The kerb weight with ABS is 248 kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

In terms of equipment, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has LED headlights.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort and ergonomics, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis that can accommodate every route. It is also described as easy to ride. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a powerful engine, a wonderfully functioning semi-active chassis, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a touchscreen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It is praised for its wind protection.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is criticized for its rough overall appearance and somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is criticized for its confusing flood of buttons on the left handlebar, its weight, and its price, although it may be justified.