Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 vs. KTM 890 Adventure 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both motorcycles have inline twin-cylinder engines. The Honda Africa Twin has a slightly larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the KTM Adventure's 889cc. The Africa Twin produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, while the Adventure generates 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm at the front. The rear suspension consists of a Showa monoshock with a travel of 220mm. The suspension on the Adventure is provided by WP, with a 48mm upside-down telescopic fork and a 200mm travel at the front, and a monoshock with a 200mm travel at the rear. The Africa Twin offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments on the rear suspension.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022

The chassis of the Africa Twin is made of steel and has a double cradle frame type, while the Adventure features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. Both motorcycles have a similar rake angle, with the Africa Twin at 62.5 degrees and the Adventure at 63.7 degrees.

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disc brakes at the front. The Africa Twin offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Adventure also has ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control, but lacks features such as cruise control and anti-wheelie as standard.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter with a 150mm width. The Africa Twin has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1575mm compared to the Adventure's 1528mm. Both bikes have a seat height of 850mm, but the Africa Twin has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters compared to the Adventure's 20 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin offers a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield with a good adjustment range and semi-active suspension that is close to perfection.

KTM 890 Adventure 2021

On the other hand, the Adventure has a super engine with linear and extremely superior power delivery, very finely controlled brakes, comprehensive electronics, good ergonomics for both sitting and standing riding, and a low seat height that suits shorter riders. It also has a quickshifter that is an absolute dream and doubles the riding fun, as well as a low center of gravity that creates great handling.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Africa Twin's operating concept for the electronics is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The Adventure's weaknesses include a pricing policy for extras and a telescopic fork at the front that is not adjustable. Additionally, important components like the quickshifter and cruise control are not included as standard.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin excels in terms of its high-torque engine, electronic driving aids, DCT, and semi-active suspension, while the Adventure stands out with its powerful engine, finely controlled brakes, comprehensive electronics, and low center of gravity. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.